Transcription of four genes related to papaya fruit softening was studied by qPCR. Effect of three postharvest treatments on transcription of the genes was compared. Polygalacturonase and endoxylanase were negatively correlated with fruit firmness. Evaluated pectinesterase and expansin did not correlate with fruit pulp firmness. 1-MCP might delay softening by inhibiting polygalacturonase and endoxylanase genes.