Journal Description
Plants
Plants
is an international, scientific, peer-reviewed, open access journal on plant science published semimonthly online by MDPI. The Australian Society of Plant Scientists (ASPS), the Spanish Phytopathological Society (SEF), the Spanish Society of Plant Physiology (SEFV), the Spanish Society of Horticultural Sciences (SECH) and the Italian Society of Phytotherapy (S.I.Fit.) are affiliated with Plants and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), PubMed, PMC, PubAg, AGRIS, CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q1 (Plant Sciences) / CiteScore - Q1 (Plant Science)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 15.3 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.8 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
Impact Factor:
4.5 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
4.8 (2022)
Latest Articles
Plant Biostimulants Enhance Tomato Resilience to Salinity Stress: Insights from Two Greek Landraces
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1404; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101404 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Salinity, one of the major abiotic stresses in plants, significantly hampers germination, photosynthesis, biomass production, nutrient balance, and yield of staple crops. To mitigate the impact of such stress without compromising yield and quality, sustainable agronomic practices are required. Among these practices, seaweed
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Salinity, one of the major abiotic stresses in plants, significantly hampers germination, photosynthesis, biomass production, nutrient balance, and yield of staple crops. To mitigate the impact of such stress without compromising yield and quality, sustainable agronomic practices are required. Among these practices, seaweed extracts (SWEs) and microbial biostimulants (PGRBs) have emerged as important categories of plant biostimulants (PBs). This research aimed at elucidating the effects on growth, yield, quality, and nutrient status of two Greek tomato landraces (‘Tomataki’ and ‘Thessaloniki’) following treatments with the Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extract ‘Algastar’ and the PGPB ‘Nitrostim’ formulation. Plants were subjected to bi-weekly applications of biostimulants and supplied with two nutrient solutions: 0.5 mM (control) and 30 mM NaCl. The results revealed that the different mode(s) of action of the two PBs impacted the tolerance of the different landraces, since ‘Tomataki’ was benefited only from the SWE application while ‘Thessaloniki’ showed significant increase in fruit numbers and average fruit weight with the application of both PBs at 0.5 and 30 mM NaCl in the root zone. In conclusion, the stress induced by salinity can be mitigated by increasing tomato tolerance through the application of PBs, a sustainable tool for productivity enhancement, which aligns well with the strategy of the European Green Deal.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Sustainable Development of Horticulture in a Changing Climate Scenario)
Open AccessArticle
Deficit Irrigation Effects on Cotton Growth Cycle and Preliminary Optimization of Irrigation Strategies in Arid Environment
by
Meiwei Lin, Lei Wang, Gaoqiang Lv, Chen Gao, Yuhao Zhao, Xin Li, Liang He and Weihong Sun
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1403; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101403 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
With the changing global climate, drought stress will pose a considerable challenge to the sustainable development of agriculture in arid regions. The objective of this study was to explore the resistance and water demand of cotton plants to water stress during the flowering
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With the changing global climate, drought stress will pose a considerable challenge to the sustainable development of agriculture in arid regions. The objective of this study was to explore the resistance and water demand of cotton plants to water stress during the flowering and boll setting stage. The experimental plot was in Huaxing Farm of Changji city. The plots were irrigated, respectively, at 100% (as the control), 90%, 85% and 80% of the general irrigation amount in the local area. The relationship between the various measured indexes and final yield under different deficit irrigation (DI) treatments was studied. The results showed that deficit irrigation impacted the growth and development processes of cotton during the flowering and boll setting stage. There was a high negative correlation (R2 > 0.95) between the maximum leaf area index and yield. Similarly, there was a high correlation between malondialdehyde content and yield. Meanwhile, 90% of the local cotton irrigation contributed to water saving and even increasing cotton yield. Furthermore, based on the results, the study made an initial optimization to the local irrigation scheme by utilizing the DSSAT model. It was found that changing the irrigation interval to 12 days during the stage could further enhance cotton yield and conserve resources.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Managing and Regulating Plant (Vegetation)–Environment (Soil-Affected Land, Coastal Zone and Arid Areas) Interactions for a Better Eco-Environment and Sustainable Productivity)
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Open AccessArticle
The Impacts of Planting Patterns Combined with Irrigation Management Practices on Watermelon Growth, Photosynthesis, and Yield
by
Xiaolin Qiang, Zhaojun Sun, Xingqiang Li, Siqi Li, Zhao Yu, Jun He, Qian Li, Lei Han and Ling He
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1402; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101402 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
(1) Background: Crop yields in China’s arid and semi-arid regions are limited by water shortages. Exploring the interactions and resource utilization among agroforestry species is key to maintaining diversified agricultural production. (2) Objective: An apple–watermelon agroforestry system and watermelon sole-cropping system were
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(1) Background: Crop yields in China’s arid and semi-arid regions are limited by water shortages. Exploring the interactions and resource utilization among agroforestry species is key to maintaining diversified agricultural production. (2) Objective: An apple–watermelon agroforestry system and watermelon sole-cropping system were compared to quantify how resource availability (light, water) and watermelon performance (leaf photosynthetic rate, growth, and yield) change with irrigation strategies. (3) Methods: A three-year apple and watermelon field experiment was conducted in a young apple orchard in the arid area of central Ningxia to test the effect of light competition and irrigation systems on light environment, leaf photosynthetic rate, plant growth, and yield in watermelon. The experiment encompassed two planting patterns: (i) apple–watermelon agroforestry (AF) and watermelon sole-cropping (SC) and (ii) three irrigation quotas (W1: 105 mm, W2: 210 mm, and W3: 315 mm). (4) Results: The results show that the agroforestry planting pattern extended the growth period of watermelon and increased the leaf area index. Mean daily shade intensity increased by 16.02% from 2020 to 2022. The land equivalent ratio (LER) was > 1 in 2021 and 2022. The SWC, leaf photosynthetic rate, LAI, and yield of watermelon in an agroforestry planting pattern were lower than when in a sole-cropping planting pattern. However, under the W1 irrigation strategy, the total soluble solids of the agroforestry planting pattern were 2.27% higher than those of the sole-cropping pattern, and the yield of the agroforestry planting pattern was 2.59% higher than that of the sole-cropping pattern. Under the W3 irrigation strategy, the average watermelon weight in the agroforestry planting pattern was 2.85% higher than that of the sole-cropping pattern. A path analysis showed that the agroforestry planting pattern can increase the yield by increasing soil water content, which is different from the sole-cropping pattern. (5) Conclusions: The results confirm that the apple–watermelon agroforestry planting pattern reduced watermelon yields. However, the LER of the agroforestry system was greater than 1.0. It is reasonable to plant watermelons in young apple forests.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Physiology and Metabolism)
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Open AccessArticle
Exogenous Cytokinin 4PU-30 Modulates the Response of Wheat and Einkorn Seedlings to Ultraviolet B Radiation
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Elisaveta Kirova, Irina Moskova, Vasilissa Manova, Yana Koycheva, Zoia Tsekova, Denitsa Borisova, Hristo Nikolov, Ventzeslav Dimitrov, Iskren Sergiev and Konstantina Kocheva
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1401; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101401 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Abiotic stress is responsible for a significant reduction in crop plant productivity worldwide. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a natural component of sunlight and a permanent environmental stimulus. This study investigated the distinct responses of young wheat and einkorn plants to excessive UV-B radiation
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Abiotic stress is responsible for a significant reduction in crop plant productivity worldwide. Ultraviolet (UV) radiation is a natural component of sunlight and a permanent environmental stimulus. This study investigated the distinct responses of young wheat and einkorn plants to excessive UV-B radiation (180 min at λmax 312 nm) following foliar pretreatment with 1 µM synthetic cytokinin 4PU-30. Results demonstrated that UV radiation significantly amplified hydrogen peroxide levels in both wheat and einkorn, with einkorn exhibiting a more pronounced increase compared to wheat. This elevation indicated the induction of oxidative stress by UV radiation in the two genotypes. Intensified antioxidant enzyme activities and the increased accumulation of typical stress markers and non-enzyme protectants were evidenced. Transcriptional activity of genes encoding the key antioxidant enzymes POX, GST, CAT, and SOD was also investigated to shed some light on their genetic regulation in both wheat and einkorn seedlings. Our results suggested a role for POX1 and POX7 genes in the UV-B tolerance of the two wheat species as well as a cytokinin-stimulated UV-B stress response in einkorn involving the upregulation of the tau subfamily gene GSTU6. Based on all our findings, it could be concluded that 4PU-30 had the potential of alleviating oxidative stress by attenuating the symptoms of superfluous UV-B illumination in the two examined plant species.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stresses in Cereals)
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Open AccessReview
Recent Advances in Studies of Genomic DNA Methylation and its Involvement in Regulating Drought Stress Response in Crops
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Youfang Fan, Chao Sun, Kan Yan, Pengcheng Li, Ingo Hein, Eleanor M. Gilroy, Philip Kear, Zhenzhen Bi, Panfeng Yao, Zhen Liu, Yuhui Liu and Jiangping Bai
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1400; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101400 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
As global arid conditions worsen and groundwater resources diminish, drought stress has emerged as a critical impediment to plant growth and development globally, notably causing declines in crop yields and even the extinction of certain cultivated species. Numerous studies on drought resistance have
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As global arid conditions worsen and groundwater resources diminish, drought stress has emerged as a critical impediment to plant growth and development globally, notably causing declines in crop yields and even the extinction of certain cultivated species. Numerous studies on drought resistance have demonstrated that DNA methylation dynamically interacts with plant responses to drought stress by modulating gene expression and developmental processes. However, the precise mechanisms underlying these interactions remain elusive. This article consolidates the latest research on the role of DNA methylation in plant responses to drought stress across various species, focusing on methods of methylation detection, mechanisms of methylation pattern alteration (including DNA de novo methylation, DNA maintenance methylation, and DNA demethylation), and overall responses to drought conditions. While many studies have observed significant shifts in genome-wide or gene promoter methylation levels in drought-stressed plants, the identification of specific genes and pathways involved remains limited. This review aims to furnish a reference for detailed research into plant responses to drought stress through epigenetic approaches, striving to identify drought resistance genes regulated by DNA methylation, specific signaling pathways, and their molecular mechanisms of action.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drought Responses and Adaptation Mechanisms in Plants)
Open AccessArticle
Canopy Architectural Characteristics of Ten New Olive (Olea europaea L.) Genotypes and Their Potential for Cultivation in Super-High-Density Orchards
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Marina Bufacchi, Franco Famiani, Valentina Passeri, Andrea Domesi, Adolfo Rosati and Andrea Paoletti
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1399; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101399 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
In recent years, there has been growing interest in olive genotypes (Olea europaea L.) suitable for super-high-density (SHD1200 trees/hectare) orchards. To date, only a few cultivars are considered fitting for such cultivation system. In this study, the first results on the architectural
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In recent years, there has been growing interest in olive genotypes (Olea europaea L.) suitable for super-high-density (SHD1200 trees/hectare) orchards. To date, only a few cultivars are considered fitting for such cultivation system. In this study, the first results on the architectural characteristics of the canopy of ten new olive genotypes are presented. Their suitability for SHD orchards was evaluated and compared with the cultivar ‘Arbequina’, which is considered suitable for SHD olive orchards and, for this reason, was used as the control. Several canopy measurements were taken, and some architectural parameters, such as branching frequency, branching density, and branch diameter/stem diameter ratio were calculated. The branching frequency value was greater than 0.20 in ‘Arbequina’ and in only four of the genotypes. The branching density in five genotypes was similar to ‘Arbequina’. ‘Arbequina’ had the lowest value for the branch diameter/stem diameter ratio, and only three genotypes had similar values. These initial results showed that only one genotype has all canopy architectural characteristics comparable to those of the cv. ‘Arbequina’. Further studies are needed to evaluate the production traits of these new genotypes and complete their characterization.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Update on the Olive Tree Cultivation: Sustainable Innovative Techniques and Mitigation Strategies against Climate Change)
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Open AccessArticle
First Evidence of Thalassochory in the Ficus Genus: Seed Dispersal Using the Kuroshio Oceanic Current
by
Shin-Hung Pan, Ying-Hsuan Sun, Hsy-Yu Tzeng, Lillian Jennifer Rodriguez and Anthony Bain
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1398; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101398 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Aim: Plants distributed between southern Taiwan and the north of the Philippines are spread among numerous small islands in an area crossed by the powerful Kuroshio current. Oceanic currents can be effective seed-dispersal agents for coastal plant species. Moreover, the Luzon Strait is
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Aim: Plants distributed between southern Taiwan and the north of the Philippines are spread among numerous small islands in an area crossed by the powerful Kuroshio current. Oceanic currents can be effective seed-dispersal agents for coastal plant species. Moreover, the Luzon Strait is an area prone to tropical cyclones. The aim of this study is to look at the dispersal capability of an endangered coastal plant species, the Mearns fig (Ficus pedunculosa var. mearnsii), using both experimental and population genetics methods. Location: Southern Taiwan, the Philippines, and the islands between Luzon and Taiwan Island. Methods: This study combined two types of analysis, i.e., buoyancy experiments on syconia and double digest restriction-associated DNA sequencing (ddRAD), to analyze the population genetics of the Mearns fig. Results: We first discovered that mature Mearns fig syconia could float in seawater. They have a mean float duration of 10 days to a maximum of 21 days. Germination rates varied significantly between Mearns fig seeds that had undergone different durations of flotation treatment. Population genetic analysis shows a high degree of inbreeding among various Mearns fig populations. Moreover, no isolation by distance was found between the populations and individuals. Main conclusions: From our analysis of the genetic structure of the Mearns fig populations, we can clearly highlight the effect of the Kuroshio oceanic current on the seed dispersal of this fig tree. Comprehensive analysis has shown that Mearns fig seeds are still viable before the mature syconium sinks into the seawater, and so they could use the Kuroshio Current to float to the current population locations in Taiwan.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Plant Ecology)
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Open AccessArticle
Comprehensive Evaluation and Selection of 192 Maize Accessions from Different Sources
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Mengting Hu, Huijuan Tian, Kaizhi Yang, Shuqi Ding, Ying Hao, Ruohang Xu, Fulai Zhang, Hong Liu and Dan Zhang
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1397; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101397 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
In the period 2022–2023, an analysis of fourteen phenotypic traits was conducted across 192 maize accessions in the Aral region of Xinjiang. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index was employed to quantify the phenotypic diversity among the accessions. Subsequently, a comprehensive evaluation of the index
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In the period 2022–2023, an analysis of fourteen phenotypic traits was conducted across 192 maize accessions in the Aral region of Xinjiang. The Shannon–Wiener diversity index was employed to quantify the phenotypic diversity among the accessions. Subsequently, a comprehensive evaluation of the index was performed utilizing correlation analysis, principal component analysis (PCA) and cluster analysis. The results highlighted significant findings: (1) A pronounced diversity was evident across the 192 maize accessions, accompanied by complex interrelationships among the traits. (2) The 14 phenotypic traits were transformed into 3 independent indicators through principal component analysis: spike factor, leaf width factor, and number of spikes per plant. (3) The 192 materials were divided into three groups using cluster analysis. The phenotypes in Group III exhibited the best performance, followed by those in Group I, and finally Group II. The selection of the three groups can vary depending on the breeding objectives. This study analysed the diversity of phenotypic traits in maize germplasm resources. Maize germplasm was categorised based on similar phenotypes. These findings provide theoretical insights for the study of maize accessions under analogous climatic conditions in Alar City, which lay the groundwork for the efficient utilization of existing germplasm as well as the development and selection of new varieties.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant Genetic Resources)
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Open AccessReview
Health Benefits of the Alkaloids from Lobeira (Solanum lycocarpum St. Hill): A Comprehensive Review
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Felipe Tecchio Borsoi, Glaucia Maria Pastore and Henrique Silvano Arruda
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1396; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101396 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Solanum is the largest genus within the Solanaceae family and has garnered considerable attention in chemical and biological investigations over the past 30 years. In this context, lobeira or “fruta-do-lobo” (Solanum lycocarpum St. Hill), a species predominantly found in the Brazilian Cerrado,
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Solanum is the largest genus within the Solanaceae family and has garnered considerable attention in chemical and biological investigations over the past 30 years. In this context, lobeira or “fruta-do-lobo” (Solanum lycocarpum St. Hill), a species predominantly found in the Brazilian Cerrado, stands out. Beyond the interesting nutritional composition of the fruits, various parts of the lobeira plant have been used in folk medicine as hypoglycemic, sedative, diuretic, antiepileptic, and antispasmodic agents. These health-beneficial effects have been correlated with various bioactive compounds found in the plant, particularly alkaloids. In this review, we summarize the alkaloid composition of the lobeira plant and its biological activities that have been reported in the scientific literature in the last decades. The compiled data showed that lobeira plants and fruits contain a wide range of alkaloids, with steroidal glycoalkaloid solamargine and solasonine being the major ones. These alkaloids, but not limited to them, contribute to different biological activities verified in alkaloid-rich extracts/fractions from the lobeira, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antigenotoxic, antidiabetic, antinociceptive, and antiparasitic effects. Despite the encouraging results, additional research, especially toxicological, pre-clinical, and clinical trials, is essential to validate these human health benefits and ensure consumers’ safety and well-being.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Alkaloids: Chemical Structures with Pharmaceutical Potential)
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Open AccessArticle
Nanotechnology in Agriculture: Manganese Ferrite Nanoparticles as a Micronutrient Fertilizer for Wheat
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Xiwei Huang, Xin Wang, Xingxing Liu, Liping Cheng, Jianqing Pan and Xiaoe Yang
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1395; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101395 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Limited research has focused on nanoparticle (NP) applications’ impact on edible wheat parts in a field environment. Here, we studied the nutritional quality of edible parts of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) with a field experiment by spraying MnFe2O4 nanoparticles.
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Limited research has focused on nanoparticle (NP) applications’ impact on edible wheat parts in a field environment. Here, we studied the nutritional quality of edible parts of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) with a field experiment by spraying MnFe2O4 nanoparticles. Wheat was foliar sprayed with 0, 25, 50, and 100 mg/L composite manganese ferrite (MnFe2O4) NPs during 220 d of a growth period. Ionic controls were prepared using the conventional counterparts (MnSO4·H2O and FeSO4·7H2O) to compare with the 100 mg/L MnFe2O4 NPs. After three consecutive foliar applications, nanoparticles demonstrated a substantial elevation in grain yield and harvest index, exhibiting a noteworthy increase to 5.0 ± 0.12 t/ha and 0.46 ± 0.001 in the 100 mg/L NP dose, respectively, concomitant with a 14% enhancement in the grain number per spike. Fe, Mn, and Ca content in grain increased to 77 ± 2.7 mg/kg, 119 ± 2.8 mg/kg, and 0.32 ± 7.9 g/kg in the 100 mg/L NPs, respectively. Compared to the ion treatment, the 100 mg/L NP treatments notably boosts wheat grain crude protein content (from 13 ± 0.79% to 15 ± 0.58%) and effectively lowers PA/Fe levels (from 11 ± 0.7 to 9.3 ± 0.5), thereby improving Fe bioavailability. The VSM results exhibited a slight superparamagnetic behavior, whereas the grains and stems exhibited diamagnetic behavior. The results indicate that the nanomaterial did not accumulate in the grains, suggesting its suitability as an Fe and Mn-rich fertilizer in agriculture. Above all, the foliar application of nanocomposites increased the concentrations of Fe, Mn, and Ca in wheat grains, accompanied by a significant enhancement in grain yield. Therefore, the research results indicate that the foliar application of MnFe2O4 NPs can positively regulate wheat grains’ nutritional quality and yield.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)
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Open AccessArticle
Management of Secondary Metabolite Synthesis and Biomass in Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) Microgreens Using Different Continuous-Spectrum LED Lights
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Mohammad Reza Fayezizadeh, Naser Alemzadeh Ansari, Mohammad Mahmoodi Sourestani, Masayuki Fujita and Mirza Hasanuzzaman
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1394; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101394 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Different LED light spectra (LS) are absorbed by different plant photoreceptors and can control biomass and plant secondary metabolite synthesis. In this study, the effects of continuous-spectrum LED lights (red, blue, white, red + blue, and 12 h blue + 12 h red)
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Different LED light spectra (LS) are absorbed by different plant photoreceptors and can control biomass and plant secondary metabolite synthesis. In this study, the effects of continuous-spectrum LED lights (red, blue, white, red + blue, and 12 h blue + 12 h red) on the production value, antioxidant compounds, and biomass of basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) microgreens (Red Rubin, Violeto, and Kapoor cultivars and the Ablagh genotype) were investigated. The results showed significant effects of LS on cultivar (Cv) and the interaction of LS and Cv on the studied traits. The highest quantitys of chlorophyll a, total chlorophyll, and nitrate were obtained in Violeto under blue lighting. Red lighting enhanced starch synthesis in Red Rubin and flavonoids in the Violeto Cv. The highest biomass (4.54 kg m−2) was observed in the Ablagh genotype and the highest carbohydrate synthesis in Violeto Cv in the red + blue treatment. The highest anthocyanin content (26.33 mg 100 g−1 FW) was observed for Red Rubin Cv under 12 h blue + 12 h red light. The greatest antioxidant capacity (83.57% inhibition), the highest levels of phenolic compounds (2027.25 mg GA 100 g−1 FW), vitamin C (405.76 mg 100 g−1 FW), proline, antioxidant potential composite index (APCI), and the greatest production values were obtained for the Ablagh genotype under blue lighting. Taken together, the experiment findings indicate that growing the Ablagh genotype under continuous blue lighting can increase the antioxidant capacity, phenolic compounds, and vitamin C and that this LED light spectrum can be used as a practical method to produce basil microgreens with high nutritional health value.
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(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Plant Physiology and Metabolism)
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CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Knockout of the Lycopene ε-Cyclase for Efficient Astaxanthin Production in the Green Microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
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Jacob Sebastian Kneip, Niklas Kniepkamp, Junhwan Jang, Maria Grazia Mortaro, EonSeon Jin, Olaf Kruse and Thomas Baier
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1393; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101393 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Carotenoids are valuable pigments naturally occurring in all photosynthetic plants and microalgae as well as in selected fungi, bacteria, and archaea. Green microalgae developed a complex carotenoid profile suitable for efficient light harvesting and light protection and harbor great capacity for carotenoid production
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Carotenoids are valuable pigments naturally occurring in all photosynthetic plants and microalgae as well as in selected fungi, bacteria, and archaea. Green microalgae developed a complex carotenoid profile suitable for efficient light harvesting and light protection and harbor great capacity for carotenoid production through the substantial power of the endogenous 2-C-methyl-D-erythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway. Previous works established successful genome editing and induced significant changes in the cellular carotenoid content in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. This study employs a tailored carotenoid pathway for engineered bioproduction of the valuable ketocarotenoid astaxanthin. Functional knockout of lycopene ε-cyclase (LCYE) and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ)-based integration of donor DNA at the target site inhibit the accumulation of α-carotene and consequently lutein and loroxanthin, abundant carotenoids in C. reinhardtii without changes in cellular fitness. PCR-based screening indicated that 4 of 96 regenerated candidate lines carried (partial) integrations of donor DNA and increased ß-carotene as well as derived carotenoid contents. Iterative overexpression of CrBKT, PacrtB, and CrCHYB resulted in a 2.3-fold increase in astaxanthin accumulation in mutant ΔLCYE#3 (1.8 mg/L) compared to the parental strain UVM4, which demonstrates the potential of genome editing for the design of a green cell factory for astaxanthin bioproduction.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microalgae Photobiology, Biotechnology, and Bioproduction)
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Open AccessArticle
Contributions of γ-Aminobutyric Acid (GABA) Receptors for the Activities of Pectis brevipedunculata Essential Oil against Drosophila suzukii and Pollinator Bees
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Sabrina Helena da Cruz Araujo, Javier Guillermo Mantilla-Afanador, Thiago Svacina, Tarciza Fernandes Nascimento, Aldilene da Silva Lima, Marcos Bispo Pinheiro Camara, Luis Oswaldo Viteri Jumbo, Gil Rodrigues dos Santos, Cláudia Quintino da Rocha and Eugênio Eduardo de Oliveira
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1392; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101392 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
The γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors play pivotal roles in the transmission of neuronal information in the nervous system of insects, which has led these proteins to be targeted by synthetic and natural products. Here, we assessed the insecticidal potential of the essential oil
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The γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptors play pivotal roles in the transmission of neuronal information in the nervous system of insects, which has led these proteins to be targeted by synthetic and natural products. Here, we assessed the insecticidal potential of the essential oil of Pectis brevipedunculata (Gardner) Sch. Bip., a neotropical Asteraceae plant used in traditional medicine, for controlling Drosophila suzukii (Matsumura) adults by feeding exposure. By using in silico approaches, we disentangle the contribution of GABA receptors and other potential neuronal targets (e.g., acetylcholinesterase, glutathione-S-transferases) in insects that may explain the essential oil differential activities against D. suzukii and two essential pollinator bees (Apis mellifera Linnaeus and Partamona helleri Friese). Neral (26.7%) and geranial (33.9%) were the main essential oil components which killed D. suzukii with an estimated median lethal concentration (LC50) of 2.25 µL/mL. Both pollinator forager bee species, which would likely contact this compound in the field, were more tolerant to the essential oil and did not have their diet consumptions affected by the essential oil. Based on the molecular predictions for the three potential targets and the essential oil main components, a higher affinity of interaction with the GABA receptors of D. suzukii (geranial −6.2 kcal/mol; neral −5.8 kcal/mol) in relation to A. mellifera (geranial −5.2 kcal/mol; neral −4.9 kcal/mol) would contribute to explaining the difference in toxicities observed in the bioassays. Collectively, our findings indicated the involvement of GABA receptors in the potential of P. brevipedunculata essential oil as an alternative tool for controlling D. suzukii.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Green Insect Control: The Potential Impact of Plant Essential Oils)
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Open AccessArticle
The Synergistic Production Effect of Water and Nitrogen on Winter Wheat in Southern Xinjiang
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Qingyuan Lei, Wanghai Tao, Shudong Lin, Lijun Su, Mingjiang Deng, Quanjiu Wang, Fan Yang, Tao Zhu and Liang Ma
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1391; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101391 - 17 May 2024
Abstract
Water and nitrogen management are crucial for food security and the efficient use of water and fertilizer, especially in arid regions. Three irrigation levels, namely, 80% crop water requirement (ETC) (W1), 100% ETC (W2), and 120% ETC (W3),
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Water and nitrogen management are crucial for food security and the efficient use of water and fertilizer, especially in arid regions. Three irrigation levels, namely, 80% crop water requirement (ETC) (W1), 100% ETC (W2), and 120% ETC (W3), and three nitrogen application levels, namely, 0 kg/ha (N1), 207 kg/ha (N2), and 276 kg/ha (N3), were used as the experimental treatments, and a control group, denoted as CK, was created. The results show that the maximum height achieved was 82.16 cm under W3N3. There was a single-peak variation trend throughout the growth stages of SPAD. It peaked at 58.44 under W3N3 and then at 27.9 under W2N2. The net photosynthetic and transpiration rates displayed bimodal peaks and the phenomenon of a “photosynthetic midday depression”. And the prominent peaks in leaf water use efficiency occurred at 14:00 and 18:00, alongside noteworthy enhancements observed under the W3 treatment. Water and nitrogen and their interactions significantly affected the dry matter (DM) of winter wheat, with the spike accounting for the highest percentage. The W2N2 treatment demonstrated superior effectiveness in enhancing winter wheat water use efficiency, offering the potential to decrease irrigation requirements by 20% and nitrogen application by 25%. Moreover, the maximum PFPN attained under W2N2 reached 60.13, representing a noteworthy 35.25% increase compared to the control group (CK), but the HI of the W2N2 treatment only reached 0.56. The highest HI was achieved with W3N2 (0.73), and the nitrogen application of 207 kg/ha was more conducive to obtaining a higher HI. The highest yield was achieved under W3N3 (13.599 t/ha), followed by W2N2 (12.447 t/ha), and the spike proportion exceeded 60% with W2N2, and its production cost and economic benefit ratio of under 0.31 were superior to those for other treatments. Multiple regression analysis revealed that the maximum yield reached 12.944 t/ha with an irrigation amount of 3420.1 m3/ha and a nitrogen application of 251.92 kg/ha. Overall, our study suggests using an optimal water–nitrogen combination, specifically an irrigation level of 2829 m3/ha and a nitrogen application rate of 207 kg/ha, leading to increased winter wheat yields and economic benefits. These research results provide a pragmatic technique for improving winter wheat production in southern Xinjiang.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management and Efficient Utilization of Water and Fertilizer in Field Crops II)
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Open AccessArticle
Identification and Functional Verification of the Glycosyltransferase Gene Family Involved in Flavonoid Synthesis in Rubus chingii Hu
by
Yujie Shi, Zhen Chen, Mingkai Shen, Qianfan Li, Shunli Wang, Jingyong Jiang and Wei Zeng
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1390; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101390 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Glycosylation is catalyzed by UDP-glycosyltransferase (UGT) and plays an important role in enriching the diversity of flavonoids. Rubus plants contain a lot of natural flavonoid glycosides, which are important plants with a homology of medicine and food. However, information about the
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Glycosylation is catalyzed by UDP-glycosyltransferase (UGT) and plays an important role in enriching the diversity of flavonoids. Rubus plants contain a lot of natural flavonoid glycosides, which are important plants with a homology of medicine and food. However, information about the Rubus UGT gene family is very limited. In this study, we carried out genome-wide analysis and identified the 172, 121, 130, 121 UGT genes in R. chingii, R. corchorifolius, R. idaeus, and R. occidentalis, respectively, and divided them into 18 groups. The analysis of the protein motif and gene structure showed that there were structural and functional conservations in the same group, but there were differences among different groups. Gene replication analysis showed that raspberry and dicotyledons had a higher homology. The expansion of the UGTs gene family was mainly driven by tandem replication events, and experienced purified selection during the long evolution of the raspberry. Cis-acting element analysis showed that they were related to plant growth and development, hormone regulation, and stress response. In addition, according to a comprehensive analysis of the co-expression network constructed by transcriptome data and phylogenetic homology, RchUGT169 was identified as a flavonoid glucosyltransferase. Through the transient expression in tobacco, it was verified that RchUGT169 could catalyze the conversion of kaempferol and quercetin to the corresponding flavonoid glycosides. In conclusion, this research enriched the understanding of the diversity of UGTs in Rubus and determined that RcUGT169 can catalyze flavonoids.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive and Functional Compounds in Plant Fruits, Flowers and Seeds: Biosynthesis and Regulation)
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Ascent and Attachment in Pea Plants: A Matter of Iteration
by
Silvia Guerra, Giovanni Bruno, Andrea Spoto, Anna Panzeri, Qiuran Wang, Bianca Bonato, Valentina Simonetti and Umberto Castiello
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1389; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101389 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Pea plants (Pisum sativum L.) can perceive the presence of potential supports in the environment and flexibly adapt their behavior to clasp them. How pea plants control and perfect this behavior during growth remains unexplored. Here, we attempt to fill this gap
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Pea plants (Pisum sativum L.) can perceive the presence of potential supports in the environment and flexibly adapt their behavior to clasp them. How pea plants control and perfect this behavior during growth remains unexplored. Here, we attempt to fill this gap by studying the movement of the apex and the tendrils at different leaves using three-dimensional (3D) kinematical analysis. We hypothesized that plants accumulate information and resources through the circumnutation movements of each leaf. Information generates the kinematical coordinates for the final launch towards the potential support. Results suggest that developing a functional approach to grasp movement may involve an interactive trial and error process based on continuous cross-talk across leaves. This internal communication provides evidence that plants adopt plastic responses in a way that optimally corresponds to support search scenarios.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Behavioral Ecology)
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Effect of Rootstock Genotype and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal (AMF) Species on Early Colonization of Apple
by
Chris Cook, David Huskey, Mark Mazzola and Tracey Somera
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1388; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101388 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
The effect of plant cultivar on the degree of mycorrhization and the benefits mediated by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been documented in many crops. In apple, a wide variety of rootstocks are commercially available; however, it is not clear whether some rootstock
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The effect of plant cultivar on the degree of mycorrhization and the benefits mediated by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) have been documented in many crops. In apple, a wide variety of rootstocks are commercially available; however, it is not clear whether some rootstock genotypes are more susceptible to mycorrhization than others and/or whether AMF species identity influences rootstock compatibility. This study addresses these questions by directly testing the ability/efficacy of four different AMF species (Rhizophagus irregularis, Septoglomus deserticola, Claroideoglomus claroideum or Claroideoglomus etunicatum) to colonize a variety of commercially available Geneva apple rootstock genotypes (G.11, G.41, G.210, G.969, and G.890). Briefly, micropropagated plantlets were inoculated with individual species of AMF or were not inoculated. The effects of the rootstock genotype/AMF interaction on mycorrhization, plant growth, and/or leaf nutrient concentrations were assessed. We found that both rootstock genotype and the identity of the AMF are significant sources of variation affecting the percentage of colonization. However, these factors largely operate independently in terms of the extent of root colonization. Among the AMF tested, C. etunicatum and R. irregularis represented the most compatible fungal partners, regardless of apple rootstock genotype. Among the rootstocks tested, semi-dwarfing rootstocks appeared to have an advantage over dwarfing rootstocks in regard to establishing and maintaining associations with AMF. Nutrient uptake and plant growth outcomes were also influenced in a rootstock genotype/AMF species-specific manner. Our findings suggest that matching host genetics with compatible AMF species has the potential to enhance agricultural practices in nursery and orchard systems.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mycorrhizal and Endophytic Fungi as a Tool for Sustainable Environments)
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Physiological and Agronomical Response of Coffee to Different Nitrogen Forms with and without Water Stress
by
Victor Hugo Ramirez-Builes, Jürgen Küsters, Ellen Thiele and Juan Carlos Lopez-Ruiz
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1387; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101387 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Nitrogen (N) is the most important nutrient in coffee, with a direct impact on productivity, quality, and sustainability. N uptake by the roots is dominated by ammonium (NH4+) and nitrates (NO3−), along with some organic forms at
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Nitrogen (N) is the most important nutrient in coffee, with a direct impact on productivity, quality, and sustainability. N uptake by the roots is dominated by ammonium (NH4+) and nitrates (NO3−), along with some organic forms at a lower proportion. From the perspective of mineral fertilizer, the most common N sources are urea, ammonium (AM), ammonium nitrates (AN), and nitrates; an appropriate understanding of the right balance between N forms in coffee nutrition would contribute to more sustainable coffee production through the better N management of this important crop. The aim of this research was to evaluate the influences of different NH4-N/NO3-N ratios in coffee from a physiological and agronomical perspective, and their interaction with soil water levels. Over a period of 5 years, three trials were conducted under controlled conditions in a greenhouse with different growing media (quartz sand) and organic soil, with and without water stress, while one trial was conducted under field conditions. N forms and water levels directly influence physiological responses in coffee, including photosynthesis (Ps), chlorophyll content, dry biomass accumulation (DW), nutrient uptake, and productivity. In all of the trials, the plants group in soils with N ratios of 50% NH4-N/50% NO3-N, and 25% NH4-N/75% NO3-N showed better responses to water stress, as well as a higher Ps, a higher chlorophyll content, a higher N and cation uptake, higher DW accumulation, and higher productivity. The soil pH was significantly influenced by the N forms: the higher the NO3−-N share, the lower the acidification level. The results allow us to conclude that the combination of 50% NH4-N/50% NO3-N and 25% NH4-N/75% NO3-N N forms in coffee improves the resistance capacity of the coffee to water stress, improves productivity, reduces the soil acidification level, and improves ion balance and nutrient uptake.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Nitrogen in Plant Growth and Development)
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RsRbohD1 Plays a Significant Role in ROS Production during Radish Pithiness Development
by
Qiong Gong, Chaonan Wang, Weiqiang Fan, Shuiling Li, Hong Zhang, Zhiyin Huang, Xiaohui Liu, Ziyun Ma, Yong Wang and Bin Zhang
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1386; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101386 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Pithiness is one of the physiological diseases of radishes, which is accompanied by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during the sponging of parenchyma tissue in the fleshy roots. A respiratory burst oxidase homolog (Rboh, also known as NADPH oxidase) is a
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Pithiness is one of the physiological diseases of radishes, which is accompanied by the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) during the sponging of parenchyma tissue in the fleshy roots. A respiratory burst oxidase homolog (Rboh, also known as NADPH oxidase) is a key enzyme that catalyzes the production of ROS in plants. To understand the role of Rboh genes in radish pithiness, herein, 10 RsRboh gene families were identified in the genome of Raphanus sativus using Blastp and Hmmer searching methods and were subjected to basic functional analyses such as phylogenetic tree construction, chromosomal localization, conserved structural domain analysis, and promoter element prediction. The expression profiles of RsRbohs in five stages (Pithiness grade = 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, respectively) of radish pithiness were analyzed. The results showed that 10 RsRbohs expressed different levels during the development of radish pithiness. Except for RsRbohB and RsRbohE, the expression of other members increased and reached the peak at the P2 (Pithiness grade = 2) stage, among which RsRbohD1 showed the highest transcripts. Then, the expression of 40 genes related to RsRbohD1 and pithiness were analyzed. These results can provide a theoretical basis for improving pithiness tolerance in radishes.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Growth and Development of Vegetable Crops)
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Bulk Segregant Analysis Sequencing and RNA-Seq Analyses Reveal Candidate Genes Associated with Sepal Color Phenotype of Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.)
by
Benqi Wang, Xia Chen, Shuping Huang, Jie Tan, Hongyuan Zhang, Junliang Wang, Rong Chen and Min Zhang
Plants 2024, 13(10), 1385; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101385 - 16 May 2024
Abstract
Eggplant is a highly significant vegetable crop and extensively cultivated worldwide. Sepal color is considered one of the major commercial traits of eggplant. Eggplant sepals develop from petals, and sepals have the ability to change color by accumulating anthocyanins, but whether the eggplants
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Eggplant is a highly significant vegetable crop and extensively cultivated worldwide. Sepal color is considered one of the major commercial traits of eggplant. Eggplant sepals develop from petals, and sepals have the ability to change color by accumulating anthocyanins, but whether the eggplants in sepal and their biosynthetic pathways are the same as those in petals is not known. To date, little is known about the underlying mechanisms of sepal color formation. In this study, we performed bulked segregant analysis and transcriptome sequencing using eggplant sepals and obtained 1,452,898 SNPs and 182,543 InDel markers, respectively, as well as 123.65 Gb of clean data using transcriptome sequencing. Through marker screening, the genes regulating eggplant sepals were localized to an interval of 2.6 cM on chromosome 10 by bulked segregant analysis sequencing and transcriptome sequencing and co-analysis, combined with screening of molecular markers by capillary electrophoresis. Eight possible candidate genes were then screened to further interpret the regulatory incentives for the eggplant sepal color.
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(This article belongs to the Section Plant Genetics, Genomics and Biotechnology)
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