Disclosed herein are nucleic acid molecules isolated from coffee (Coffea
spp.) comprising sequences that encodes various sucrose metabolizing
enzymes, along with their encoded proteins. Specifically, sucrose
synthase, sucrose phosphate synthase and sucrose phosphatase enzymes and
their encoding polynucleotides from coffee are disclosed. Also disclosed
are methods for using these polynucleotides for gene regulation and
manipulation of the sugar profile of coffee plants, to influence flavor,
aroma, and other features of coffee beans.