Plants

2462 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Species Interactions Shape Nitrogen Utilization Characteristics and Influence Soil Quality in Jujube–Alfalfa Intercropping System

by Hang Qiao, Hui Cheng, Tiantian Li, Wenxia Fan, Yaru Zhao, Zhengjun Cui, Jinbin Wang, Qingqing Yang, Chengze Jia, Wei Zhang, Guodong Chen and Sumei Wan

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2048; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132048 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

Intercropping legumes offers a sustainable approach to enhance resource efficiency and yields, yet the effects of different legume densities and nitrogen addition levels on soil quality within such systems remain unclear. We conducted a comparative analysis of crop yield, nitrogen use efficiency, and [...] Read more.

Intercropping legumes offers a sustainable approach to enhance resource efficiency and yields, yet the effects of different legume densities and nitrogen addition levels on soil quality within such systems remain unclear. We conducted a comparative analysis of crop yield, nitrogen use efficiency, and soil quality between intercropping and monoculture systems, and further examined the effects of four planting densities (D1: 210 kg ha⁻¹, six rows; D2: 280 kg ha⁻¹, eight rows; D3: 350 kg ha⁻¹, ten rows) and four nitrogen application levels (N0: 0 kg ha⁻¹; N1: 80 kg ha⁻¹; N2: 160 kg ha⁻¹; N3: 240 kg ha⁻¹) within a jujube–alfalfa (Ziziphus jujuba Mill. and Medicago sativa L. respectively) intercropping system. The results showed that intercropping significantly enhanced land productivity within the agricultural system, with the highest yields (alfalfa: 13790 kg ha⁻¹; jujube: 3825 kg ha⁻¹) achieved at an alfalfa planting density of 280 kg ha⁻¹. While the intercropping systems generally improved productivity, an alfalfa planting density of 350 kg ha⁻¹ resulted in an actual yield loss due to excessive nutrient competition at higher densities. As the planting density of alfalfa increased, its competitive ratio declined, whereas the competitive ratio of jujube trees increased. Compared to monocropping systems, intercropping systems demonstrated a clear trend of enhanced nitrogen utilization efficiency and improved soil quality, particularly at an alfalfa planting density of 280 kg ha⁻¹. At an alfalfa density of 280 kg ha⁻¹, the intercropping system exhibited increases of 15.13% in nitrogen use efficiency (NUE), 46.60% in nitrogen partial factor productivity (NPFP), and 32.74% in nitrogen nutrition index (NNI), as well as improvements in soil quality of 19.53% at a depth of 0–20 cm and 15.59% at a depth of 20–40 cm, compared to the monoculture system. Further analysis revealed that nitrogen utilization efficiency initially increased and then decreased with a rising competitive ratio of alfalfa. Accordingly, soil quality was improved along with the enhanced nitrogen utilization efficiency. Thus, at an alfalfa planting density of 280 kg ha⁻¹, resource use efficiency and soil quality were maximized as a result of optimal interspecific competitiveness and the highest nitrogen use efficiency, with minimal influence from the application of nitrogen fertilizer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nutrient Efficiency in Crop Production: Physiological Strategies to Enhance Yields)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

2808 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unveiling the Pharmacognostic Potential of Peucedanum ostruthium (L.) W.D.J. Koch: A Comparative Study of Rhizome and Leaf Essential Oils

by Cristina Danna, Andrea Mainetti, Souda Belaid, Erminia La Camera, Domenico Trombetta, Laura Cornara and Antonella Smeriglio

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2047; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132047 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

Peucedanum ostruthium (L.) W.D.J. Koch (Apiaceae) is a perennial herb native to alpine regions that is renowned in traditional medicine. This study provided a pharmacognostic evaluation, comparing the EOs obtained from its rhizomes and leaves (REO and LEO, respectively). A micromorphological analysis, which [...] Read more.

Peucedanum ostruthium (L.) W.D.J. Koch (Apiaceae) is a perennial herb native to alpine regions that is renowned in traditional medicine. This study provided a pharmacognostic evaluation, comparing the EOs obtained from its rhizomes and leaves (REO and LEO, respectively). A micromorphological analysis, which was carried out using fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy, revealed terpenoid-rich secretory ducts in both organs. The EOs were extracted by hydrodistillation and characterized by gas chromatography, coupled with flame ionization detection and mass spectrometry (GC-FID and GC-MS), revealing distinct chemical profiles. REO was dominated by monoterpenes (80.08%), especially D-limonene (29.13%), sabinene (19.77%), and α-phellandrene (12.02%), while LEO was sesquiterpene-rich (81.15%), with β-caryophyllene (21.78%), β-selinene (14.09%), and germacrene D (10.43%) as the major compounds. The in vitro assays demonstrated that both EOs exhibit significant antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, with LEO consistently outperforming REO across all tests. However, neither EO showed antimicrobial effects against common bacterial or fungal strains. This may have been due to the absence of polar antimicrobial constituents, such as coumarins, which are poorly recovered by hydrodistillation. To fully exploit the therapeutic potential of P. ostruthium, especially its antimicrobial properties, future studies should aim to develop integrated formulations combining volatile and non-volatile fractions, preserving the complete plant complex and broadening bioactivity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Isolation and Characterization of Bioactive Compounds from Medicinal Plants)

583 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Soil Drenching with Wood Distillate Modifies the Nutritional Properties of Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) Seeds by Increasing the Protein Content and Inducing Targeted Changes in the Proteomic Profile

by Rossana De Salvo, Riccardo Fedeli, Alfonso Carleo, Luca Bini, Stefano Loppi and Laura Bianchi

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2046; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132046 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

The production of food with a naturally enriched protein content is a strategic response to the growing global demand for sustainable protein sources. Wood distillate (WD), a by-product of the pyrolysis of woody biomass, has previously been shown to increase the protein concentration [...] Read more.

The production of food with a naturally enriched protein content is a strategic response to the growing global demand for sustainable protein sources. Wood distillate (WD), a by-product of the pyrolysis of woody biomass, has previously been shown to increase the protein concentration and bioavailability in chickpea seeds. Here, we evaluated the effect of 0.5% (v/v) WD soil drenching on chickpea productivity, nutritional profile, and proteomic pattern. WD treatment significantly improved the yield by increasing plant biomass (+144%), number of pods and seeds (+148% and +147%), and seed size (diameter: +6%; weight: +25%). Nutritional analyses revealed elevated levels of soluble proteins (+15%), starch (+11%), fructose (+135%), and polyphenols (+14%) and a greater antioxidant capacity (25%), alongside a reduction in glucose content, albeit not statistically significant, suggesting an unchanged or even lowered glycemic index. Although their concentration decreased, Ca (−31%), K (−12%), P (−5%), and Zn (−14%) in WD-treated plants remained within normal ranges. To preliminary assess the quality and safety of the protein enrichment, a differential proteomic analysis was performed on coarse flours from individual seeds. Despite the higher protein content, the overall protein profiles of the WD-treated seeds showed limited variation, with only a few storage proteins, identified as legumin and vicilin-like isoforms, being differentially abundant. These findings indicate a general protein concentration increase without a major alteration in the proteoform composition or differential protein synthesis. Overall, WD emerged as a promising and sustainable biostimulant for chickpea cultivation, capable of enhancing both yield and nutritional value, while maintaining the proteomic integrity and, bona fide, food safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bio-Based Solutions for Sustainable Plant Systems)

1278 KiB

Open AccessArticle

High Ratio of Manure Substitution Enhanced Soil Organic Carbon Storage via Increasing Particulate Organic Carbon and Nutrient Availability

by Xiaoyu Hao, Xingzhu Ma, Lei Sun, Shuangquan Liu, Jinghong Ji, Baoku Zhou, Yue Zhao, Yu Zheng, Enjun Kuang, Yitian Liu and Shicheng Zhao

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2045; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132045 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

Replacing partial chemical fertilizers with organic fertilizer can increase organic carbon input, change soil nutrient stoichiometry and microbial metabolism, and then affect soil organic carbon (SOC) storage. A 6-year field experiment was used to explore the mechanism of SOC storage under different ratios [...] Read more.

Replacing partial chemical fertilizers with organic fertilizer can increase organic carbon input, change soil nutrient stoichiometry and microbial metabolism, and then affect soil organic carbon (SOC) storage. A 6-year field experiment was used to explore the mechanism of SOC storage under different ratios of manure substitution in northeast China, with treatments including chemical fertilizer application alone (nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, NPK) and replacing 1/4 (1/4M), 2/4 (2/4M), 3/4 (3/4M), and 4/4 (4/4M) of chemical fertilizer N with manure N. Soil nutrients, enzymatic activity, and SOC fractions were analyzed to evaluate the effect of different manure substitution ratios on SOC storage. A high ratio of manure substitution (>1/4) significantly increased soil total N, total P, total K, and available nutrients (NO₃⁻-N, available P, and available K), and the 4/4M greatly decreased the C/N ratio compared to the NPK. Manure incorporation increased microbial biomass carbon (MBC) by 18.3–53.0%. Treatments with 50%, 75%, and 100% manure substitution (2/4M, 3/4M, and 4/4M) enhanced bacterial necromass carbon (BNC), fungal necromass carbon (FNC), and total microbial necromass carbon (MNC) by 31.9–63.5%, 25.5–107.1%, and 27.4–94.2%, respectively, compared to the NPK treatment. Notably, the increase in FNC was greater than that of BNC as the manure substitution ratio increased. The increasing manure substitution significantly enhanced particulate organic C (POC) and total SOC but did not affect mineral-associated organic C (MAOC). High soil N and P supplies decreased leucine aminopeptidases (LAPs) and alkaline phosphatase activities but increased the activity ratio of β-glucosidase (BG)/(N-acetyl-glucosaminidase (NAG) + LAP). Treatments with 25% manure substitution (1/4M) maintained maize and soybean yield, but with increasing manure rate, the maize yield decreased gradually. Overall, the high ratio of manure substitution enhanced SOC storage via increasing POC and MNC, and decreasing the decomposition potential of manure C and soil C resulting from low N- and P-requiring enzyme activities under high nutrient supplies. This study provides empirical evidence that the rational substitution of chemical fertilizers with manure is an effective measure to improve the availability of nutrients, and its effect on increasing crop yields still needs to be continuously observed, which is still a beneficial choice for enhancing black soil fertility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Soil Fertility and Plant Nutrition for Improved Crop Production)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

4614 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Phosphorylation of Plant Ferredoxin-like Protein Is Required for Intensifying PAMP-Triggered Immunity in Arabidopsis thaliana

by Tzu-Yi Chen, Rui-Wen Gong, Bo-Wei Chen and Yi-Hsien Lin

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2044; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132044 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

The immune response triggered when plant cell surface receptors recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) is known as PAMP-triggered immunity (PTI). Several studies have demonstrated that extracellular plant ferredoxin-like protein (PFLP) can enhance PTI signaling, thereby conferring resistance to bacterial diseases in various plants. [...] Read more.

The immune response triggered when plant cell surface receptors recognize pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs) is known as PAMP-triggered immunity (PTI). Several studies have demonstrated that extracellular plant ferredoxin-like protein (PFLP) can enhance PTI signaling, thereby conferring resistance to bacterial diseases in various plants. The C-terminal casein kinase II (CK2) phosphorylation region of PFLP is essential for strengthening PTI. However, whether phosphorylation at this site directly enhances PTI signaling and consequently increases plant disease resistance remains unclear. To investigate this, site-directed mutagenesis was used to generate PFLPT90A, a non-phosphorylatable mutant, and PFLPT90D, a phospho-mimetic mutant, for functional analysis. Based on the experimental results, none of the recombinant proteins were able to enhance the hypersensitive response induced by the HrpN protein or increase resistance to the soft rot pathogen Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum ECC17. These findings suggest that phosphorylation at the T90 residue might be essential for PFLP-mediated enhancement of plant immune responses, implying that this post-translational modification is likely required for its disease resistance function in planta. To further explore the relationship between PFLP phosphorylation and endogenous CK2, the Arabidopsis insertion mutant cka2 and the complemented line CKA2R were analyzed under treatment with flg22_Pst from Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato. The effects of PFLP on the hypersensitive response, rapid oxidative burst, callose deposition, and susceptibility to soft rot confirmed that CK2 is required for these immune responses. Furthermore, expression analysis of PTI-related genes FRK1 and WRKY22/29 in the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway demonstrated that CK2 is necessary for PFLP to enhance flg22_Pst-induced immune signaling. Taken together, these findings suggest that PFLP enhances A. thaliana resistance to bacterial soft rot primarily by promoting the MAPK signaling pathway triggered by PAMP recognition, with CK2-mediated phosphorylation being essential for its function. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Immunity and Disease Resistance Mechanisms)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

7206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Mosaic Evolution of Membrane Transporters in Galdieriales

by Claudia Ciniglia, Antonino Pollio, Elio Pozzuoli, Marzia Licata, Nunzia Nappi, Seth J. Davis and Manuela Iovinella

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2043; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132043 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

Membrane transporters are vital for solute movement and localisation across cellular compartments, particularly in extremophilic organisms such as Galdieriales. These red algae thrive in geothermal and metal-rich environments, where adaptive transporter systems contribute to their metabolic flexibility. While inventories of transporter genes in [...] Read more.

Membrane transporters are vital for solute movement and localisation across cellular compartments, particularly in extremophilic organisms such as Galdieriales. These red algae thrive in geothermal and metal-rich environments, where adaptive transporter systems contribute to their metabolic flexibility. While inventories of transporter genes in the species Galdieria sulphuraria have previously been compiled, their phylogenetic origins remain incompletely resolved. Here, we conduct a comparative phylogenetic analysis of three transporter families—Major Facilitator Superfamily (MFS). Amino acid–Polyamine–Organocation (APC) and the natural resistance–associated macrophage protein (Nramp)—selected from overexpressed transcripts in G. sulphuraria strain SAG 107.79. Using sequences from six Galdieriales species and orthologs from diverse taxa, we reconstructed maximum likelihood trees to assess conservation and potential horizontal gene transfer (HGT). The MFS subfamilies revealed contrasting patterns: sugar porters (SPs) exhibited polyphyly and fungal affinity, suggesting multiple HGT events, while phosphate:H⁺ symporters (PHSs) formed a coherent monophyletic group. APC sequences were exclusive in G. sulphuraria and extremophilic prokaryotes, indicating a likely prokaryotic origin. In contrast, Nramp transporters were broadly conserved across eukaryotes and prokaryotes, showing no signs of recent HGT. Together, these findings highlight the mosaic evolutionary history of membrane transporters in Galdieriales, shaped by a combination of vertical inheritance and taxon-specific gene acquisition events, and provide new insight into the genomic strategies underpinning environmental resilience in red algae. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Molecular Biology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

2290 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Identification and Quantification of Anthocyanins in Various Organs of Potato Varieties (Solanum tuberosum L.) as Potential Visual Selection Markers During Breeding

by Irina V. Kim, Muhammad A. Nawaz, Dmitry I. Volkov, Aleksey G. Klykov, Mayya P. Razgonova and Kirill S. Golokhvast

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2042; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132042 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

Phenolic compounds, which are a large group of plant pigments, are recognized as important antioxidants. The potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), particularly the pigmented varieties, could be a source of natural anthocyanins for producing dietary foods. In this study, we analyzed forty potato [...] Read more.

Phenolic compounds, which are a large group of plant pigments, are recognized as important antioxidants. The potato (Solanum tuberosum L.), particularly the pigmented varieties, could be a source of natural anthocyanins for producing dietary foods. In this study, we analyzed forty potato specimens from our germplasm collection and breeding nurseries using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and second-order mass spectrometry to identify anthocyanins. We found seven main anthocyanins in potato tubers: delphinidin-3-glucoside, delphinidin-3-rhamnosyl-5-glucoside, petunidin-3-glucoside, malvidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-glucoside, cyanidin-3-rhamnosyl-5-glucoside, and pelargonidin-3-glucoside. Two anthocyanins were found in potato inflorescences: peonidin-3-coumaroyl glucoside and cyanidin-3-coumaroyl glucoside. On average, varieties from the group with red-purple inflorescences contained 187.6 mg/kg of anthocyanins. Genotypes with white corollas had an anthocyanin content below 0.5 mg/kg or between 1.3 and 3.6 mg/kg. Two potato varieties, Vasilek (605.2 mg/kg) and Fioletovyi (501.1 mg/kg), with blue-purple corollas, had the highest total anthocyanin content. Studying the anthocyanin profile of leaves allowed us to identify eleven anthocyanins. The highest anthocyanin content (331.3 mg/kg) was found in varieties with purple or blue-purple tubers, while the lowest content (an average of 15.1 mg/kg) was found in varieties with yellow or cream tubers. Genotypes with purple and blue-purple tuber skin had an average anthocyanin content of 190.7 mg/kg. The group with yellow and cream tubers had an insignificant anthocyanin content (1.2 mg/kg). Varieties from the group with pink tubers had an average anthocyanin content of 43.2 mg/kg. Thus, this study identified diagnostic traits that could be used to assess the morphological characteristics of potato genotypes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization and Conservation of Vegetable Genetic Resources)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

4337 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimized Extraction, Comprehensive Chemical Profiling, and Antioxidant Evaluation of Volatile Oils from Wurfbainia villosa (Lour.) Škorničk. & A.D.Poulsen Leaves

by Yuancong Gu, Bangyu Lv, Xingrui Nian, Xinrui Xie and Xinhe Yang

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2041; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132041 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study employed cellulase-assisted hydrodistillation (cellulase-HD) to extract volatile oils from Wurfbainia villosa (Lour.) Škorničk. & A.D.Poulsen (W. villosa) leaves, with process optimization conducted via the response surface methodology (RSM). The optimized extraction parameters were as follows: enzyme dosage 2.2%, enzymatic hydrolysis temperature [...] Read more.

This study employed cellulase-assisted hydrodistillation (cellulase-HD) to extract volatile oils from Wurfbainia villosa (Lour.) Škorničk. & A.D.Poulsen (W. villosa) leaves, with process optimization conducted via the response surface methodology (RSM). The optimized extraction parameters were as follows: enzyme dosage 2.2%, enzymatic hydrolysis temperature 49 °C, hydrolysis duration 73 min, and material/liquid ratio (1:10.7 mg/mL). Under these optimal conditions, the volatile oil yield reached 0.772%, representing a 31.29% increase compared to conventional hydrodistillation (HD). GC-MS analysis identified 54 and 49 volatile compounds in cellulase-HD and HD extracts, respectively, with 39 shared components. The cellulase-HD extract was predominantly composed of γ-terpinene (14.981%), limonene (13.352%), β-phellandrene (10.634%), 4-terpineol (10.145%), and α-terpineol (8.085%). In contrast, the HD extract showed higher contents of β-phellandrene (41.881%), followed by β-myrcene (8.656%) and limonene (8.444%). Notably, cellulase pretreatment significantly increased the yield of oxygenated compounds. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis (OPLS-DA) revealed substantial compositional differences between the two extraction methods, with key differential components including fenchol, borneol, and γ-elemene. Antioxidant activity assessment demonstrated superior free radical scavenging capacity in cellulase-HD extracts. Structure–activity relationship analysis identified seven compounds with DPPH radical scavenging rates >50%, particularly, epi-bicyclosesquiphellandrene (71.51%) and γ-elemene (78.91%). Furthermore, thirteen components, including isopinocamphone (66.58%) and α-terpineol (66.95%), exhibited ABTS radical scavenging rates above 50%. This study provides theoretical and technical foundations for the extraction and functional development of volatile oils from W. villosa leaves. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemistry)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

4520 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Drivers of Trace Element Variability in Hypnum cupressiforme Hedw.: A Cross-Regional Moss Biomonitoring Study in Georgia and the Republic of Moldova

by Omari Chaligava, Inga Zinicovscaia and Liliana Cepoi

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2040; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132040 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the influence of environmental variables on the elemental composition of Hypnum cupressiforme Hedw. mosses in Georgia and the Republic of Moldova, within moss biomonitoring studies aimed at analyzing atmospheric deposition patterns. Moss samples of Hypnum cupressiforme, characterized by a [...] Read more.

This study investigates the influence of environmental variables on the elemental composition of Hypnum cupressiforme Hedw. mosses in Georgia and the Republic of Moldova, within moss biomonitoring studies aimed at analyzing atmospheric deposition patterns. Moss samples of Hypnum cupressiforme, characterized by a cosmopolitan distribution and a wide range of habitats, were collected from diverse geographical and climatic zones and analyzed for Al, Ba, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni, Pb, Sr, V, and Zn. Statistical methods (Spearman correlations, PCA, Kruskal–Wallis tests) were applied to evaluate interactions between elemental concentrations and factors such as topography, climate, land cover, etc. Results revealed strong correlations among lithogenic elements (Al, Co, Cr, Fe, Ni, and V), indicating natural weathering sources, while Cu exhibited potential anthropogenic origins in the Republic of Moldova. Elevated Cd and Pb levels in Georgian high-altitude regions were linked to wet deposition and steep slopes, whereas Moldovan samples showed higher Sr and Zn concentrations, likely driven by soil erosion in carbonate chernozems. The study highlights geogenic and climatic influences on element accumulation by moss, offering insights into the effectiveness of moss biomonitoring across heterogeneous landscapes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Urban Forests, Parks, and Plants as Biomonitoring Pools for Air Pollution)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

1610 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Status of Cephalanthera longifolia Populations in Lithuania Derived from a Single-Census Study

by Laurynas Taura and Zigmantas Gudžinskas

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2039; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132039 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

The study of plant demography is important for identifying ongoing population processes and trends. While single-census studies have limited ability to capture long-term dynamics, they are crucial for establishing baseline data on the status of plant populations. In 2022, four populations of Cephalanthera [...] Read more.

The study of plant demography is important for identifying ongoing population processes and trends. While single-census studies have limited ability to capture long-term dynamics, they are crucial for establishing baseline data on the status of plant populations. In 2022, four populations of Cephalanthera longifolia (Orchidaceae) in Lithuania were studied using a standardised sampling plot method. Within each population, 20 plots were established along a transect. All plant species within each plot were recorded, and their coverage was estimated. Additionally, the height of the plants, the cover of plant debris, and the amount of bare soil in the sampling plot were assessed. Vegetative individuals of C. longifolia were dominant across all populations, comprising between 58.7% and 85.1% of all individuals. Combining data from all populations revealed that vegetative individuals accounted for 71.8% of the total population, while generative individuals accounted for the remaining 28.2%. The mean density of individuals in the studied populations ranged from 3.8 ± 2.3 to 11.1 ± 4.3 individuals per square metre. A comparison of plant traits (plant height, inflorescence length, number of flowers in inflorescence, number of fruits set, and number of leaves) was performed between populations. Increased cover of plant debris was found to have the strongest negative effect on the number of individuals. We believe that the demographic type of a population (dynamic, normal or regressive) should be assessed in the context of the life cycle of certain species and their ecological traits, rather than mechanistically. Under reduced light availability, most individuals remained in a vegetative state. Therefore, the ratio of generative to vegetative individuals reflects current habitat conditions rather than long-term population trends. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Ecology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

5334 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Full-Length Transcriptome Sequencing of Pinus massoniana Under Simulated Monochamus alternatus Feeding Highlights bHLH Transcription Factor Involved in Defense Response

by Quanmin Wen, Yajie Cui, Tian Xu, Yadi Deng, Dejun Hao and Ruixu Chen

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2038; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132038 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

Background: Pinus massoniana is a significant lipid-producing tree species in China and a susceptible host for both the pine wood nematode and its insect vector, Monochamus alternatus. The basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) family of transcription factors play a crucial role in responding to [...] Read more.

Background: Pinus massoniana is a significant lipid-producing tree species in China and a susceptible host for both the pine wood nematode and its insect vector, Monochamus alternatus. The basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) family of transcription factors play a crucial role in responding to both biotic and abiotic stresses. However, the role of bHLH in terpene-induced defense in P. massoniana remains poorly studied. Results: Transcriptome sequencing using DNA Nanoball Sequencing (DNBSEQ) and PacBio Sequel platforms was performed, revealing differences in gene expression in P. massoniana branch under the simulated feeding treatment of methyl jasmonate (MeJA) spraying. Fifteen bHLH genes were cloned and analyzed, among which eight highly upregulated PmbHLH genes showed similar temporal expression after MeJA treatment and M. alternatus adult feeding. Five highly upregulated bHLH genes with nuclear localization were highly expressed in P. massoniana after M. alternatus feeding and interacted with the promoter of the terpene synthase gene Pm TPS (−)-α-pinene, confirming their involvement in the defense response of P. massoniana against the M. alternatus adult feeding. Conclusions: Our results unveil the temporal changes and the regulation of the induced defense system in P. massoniana mediated by both MeJA signaling and M. alternatus feeding treatment. The potential application for transgenic experiments and the breeding of resistant species in the future were discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Molecular Biology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

921 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Physiological Performance and Grain Yield Components of Common Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) Cultivated Under Different N Rates

by Jorge González-Villagra, Jaime Solano, Kevin Ávila, Jaime Tranamil-Manquein, Ricardo Tighe-Neira, Alejandra Ribera-Fonseca and Claudio Inostroza-Blancheteau

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2037; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132037 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moech) is a “gluten-free” pseudocereal with high-quality proteins and human health properties, increasing its cultivation worldwide. However, the role of nitrogen (N) in plant growth and yield components has received little attention in buckwheat. This study evaluated N’s effect [...] Read more.

Buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moech) is a “gluten-free” pseudocereal with high-quality proteins and human health properties, increasing its cultivation worldwide. However, the role of nitrogen (N) in plant growth and yield components has received little attention in buckwheat. This study evaluated N’s effect on plant traits, photosynthetic performance, and grain yield components in buckwheat under field conditions. For this, Buckwheat cv. “Mancan” seeds were sown using five N rates: 0, 30, 45, 60, and 90 kg N ha⁻¹. Then, physiological performance and grain yield components were evaluated at harvest. Our study revealed that buckwheat plants subjected to 0 and 30 kg N ha⁻¹ showed the greatest chlorophyll fluorescence a parameters including maximum quantum yield of PSII (Fv′/Fm′), effective quantum yield of PSII (ФPSII), and electron transport rate (ETR) among N treatments; meanwhile, at higher N rates (60 and 90 kg N ha⁻¹), these parameters decayed. Similarly, plants treated with 90 kg N ha⁻¹ showed the lowest CO₂ assimilation among N treatments. In general, stomatal conductance (g_s), transpiration (E), and intrinsic water use efficiency (WUE_i) showed no significant changes among N treatments, with the exception of 30 kg N ha⁻¹, which exhibited the highest WUE_i. Concerning plant traits, plants grown under 60 and 90 kg N ha⁻¹ exhibited the greatest plant height, number of branches, shoot biomass, and internode per plant among N treatments. By contrast, 30 kg N ha⁻¹ showed the highest grain number, yield per plant, and grain yield among N treatments in F. esculentum plants. Based on the physiological and productive parameters, F. esculentum seems to have a low N requirement, exhibiting better results under the lowest N rates (30 kg N ha⁻¹). Therefore, F. esculentum could be considered as an alternative for gluten-free food production with low N requirements in agricultural systems of southern Chile. Nonetheless, more studies are required to understand the effect of N biochemical and molecular regulation on plant traits and grain yield components in buckwheat. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Crop Physiology and Crop Production)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

1916 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Novel Transcription Factor BnaA01.KAN3 Is Involved in the Regulation of Anthocyanin Accumulation Under Phosphorus Starvation

by Li He, Shan Peng, Ruihua Lin, Jiahui Zhang, Peng Cui, Yi Gan and Hongbo Liu

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2036; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132036 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

The investigation of phosphorus metabolism and regulatory mechanisms is conducive to maintaining stable production of crops within a low-phosphorus environment. In phosphorus signal transduction, a few phosphorus starvation response (PHR) transcription factors were identified to bind to the characteristic cis-element, namely the [...] Read more.

The investigation of phosphorus metabolism and regulatory mechanisms is conducive to maintaining stable production of crops within a low-phosphorus environment. In phosphorus signal transduction, a few phosphorus starvation response (PHR) transcription factors were identified to bind to the characteristic cis-element, namely the PHR1 binding sequence (P1BS). While the molecular function of the PHR transcription factor has been intensively elucidated, here, we explore a novel transcription factor, BnaA01.KAN3, that undergoes specific binding to the P1BS by yeast one-hybrid and electrophoretic mobility shift assays, and its expression is induced with low-phosphorus stress. BnaA01.KAN3 possessed transcriptional activation and was located in the nucleus. The spatiotemporal expression pattern of BnaA01.KAN3 exhibited tissue specificity in developmental seed, and its expression level was especially high 25–30 days after pollination. Regarding the phenotype analysis, the independent heterologous overexpression lines of BnaA01.KAN3 in Arabidopsis thaliana exhibited not only significantly longer taproots but also an increased number of lateral roots compared to that of the wild type undergoing low-phosphorus treatment, while no differences were seen under normal phosphorus conditions. Furthermore, these lines showed higher anthocyanin and inorganic phosphorus contents with normal and low-phosphorus treatment, suggesting that BnaA01.KAN3 could enhance phosphorus uptake or remobilization to cope with low-phosphorus stress. In summary, this study characterized the transcription factor BnaA01.KAN3 that modulates low-phosphate adaptation and seed development, providing insights for improving phosphorus use efficiency and yield traits in Brassica napus. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Genetics and Breeding of Oilseed Crops—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

6077 KiB

Open AccessReview

Evolutionary and Structural Analysis of the Aquaporin Gene Family in Rice

by Tao Tong, Fanrong Zeng, Shuzhen Ye, Zhijuan Ji, Yanli Wang, Zhong-Hua Chen and Younan Ouyang

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2035; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132035 - 3 Jul 2025

Abstract

Aquaporins in rice (Oryza sativa L.) represent a pivotal class of transmembrane channel proteins that mediate the bidirectional transport of water and small solutes, which have critical functions in cellular osmoregulation and ion homeostasis maintenance. Their evolutionary diversity and functional plasticity constitute [...] Read more.

Aquaporins in rice (Oryza sativa L.) represent a pivotal class of transmembrane channel proteins that mediate the bidirectional transport of water and small solutes, which have critical functions in cellular osmoregulation and ion homeostasis maintenance. Their evolutionary diversity and functional plasticity constitute fundamental mechanisms underlying the adaptive responses to diversified environmental challenges. This review systematically summarizes rice AQPs’ evolutionary origins, structural characteristics, and spatiotemporal expression patterns under both physiological and stress conditions, highlighting the high conservation of their key functional domains across evolution and their environment-driven functional diversification. The molecular mechanisms governing AQPs in water utilization, nutrient uptake, and stress responses are unraveled. Furthermore, the potential of precision gene editing and multi-omics integration is discussed to decipher the intricate relationships between AQP evolutionary history, environmental adaptability, and functional specialization, thereby providing a theoretical basis for advancing crop stress resistance and high-quality breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cell Physiology and Stress Adaptation of Crops)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 3569 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of a Soil Cyanobacteria Consortium-Based Bioinoculant on Tomato Growth, Yield, and Fruit Quality

by Zineb Hakkoum, Farah Minaoui, Zakaria Tazart, Amer Chabili, Mountasser Douma, Khadija Mouhri and Mohammed Loudiki

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2034; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132034 - 2 Jul 2025

Abstract

Cyanobacteria-based bioinoculants represent a sustainable solution for enhancing soil fertility and crop productivity. This research assessed the biofertilizing potential of two indigenous nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria strains (Nostoc punctiforme Har. and Anabaena cylindrica Lemmerm.) on tomato growth and yield. A greenhouse experiment was conducted [...] Read more.

Cyanobacteria-based bioinoculants represent a sustainable solution for enhancing soil fertility and crop productivity. This research assessed the biofertilizing potential of two indigenous nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria strains (Nostoc punctiforme Har. and Anabaena cylindrica Lemmerm.) on tomato growth and yield. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to study their effects on soil properties, plant growth and physiology, and fruit yield/quality. The strains were applied individually, as a consortium, or combined with organic or mineral fertilizers at half the standard dose (50%). All bioinoculants improved soil fertility, plant growth, and fruit yield/quality compared to the control. The most significant improvement was observed in the consortium amended with 50% of conventional fertilizer (compost or NPK), compared with individual strains. Correlation analysis revealed strong positive associations between photosynthetic pigments, plant productivity, and fruit biochemical traits, indicating coordinated physiological responses under the applied treatments. The results demonstrated that the consortium of diazotrophic terrestrial cyanobacteria possesses tomato biofertilizer properties that can be efficiently used in crop production. These findings suggest that such formulations offer a cost-effective approach to tomato cultivation and present a sustainable alternative for integrated and optimized fertilizer management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Plant Biostimulants for Agricultural Sustainability: Progress and Challenges)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2762 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Highly Efficient Regeneration of Bombax ceiba via De Novo Organogenesis from Hypocotyl and Bud Explants

by Yamei Li, Qionghai Jiang, Lisha Cha, Fei Lin, Fenling Tang, Yong Kang, Guangsui Yang, Surong Huang, Yuhua Guo and Junmei Yin

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2033; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132033 - 2 Jul 2025

Abstract

Bombax ceiba is an important medicinal and ornamental tree widely distributed in tropical and subtropical areas. However, its seeds lose viability rapidly after harvest, which has created hurdles in large-scale propagation. Here, we describe the development of a rapid and efficient de novo [...] Read more.

Bombax ceiba is an important medicinal and ornamental tree widely distributed in tropical and subtropical areas. However, its seeds lose viability rapidly after harvest, which has created hurdles in large-scale propagation. Here, we describe the development of a rapid and efficient de novo organogenesis system for Bombax ceiba, incorporating both indirect and direct regeneration pathways. The optimal basal medium used throughout the protocol was ½ MS supplemented with 30 g/L glucose, with all cultures maintained at 26–28 °C. For the indirect pathway, callus was induced from both ends of each hypocotyl on basal medium supplemented with 0.2 mg·L⁻¹ 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 0.5 mg·L⁻¹ 6-Benzylaminopurine (6-BA) under dark conditions. The induced calluses were subsequently differentiated into adventitious shoots on basal media containing 0.5 mg·L⁻¹ Indole-3-butyric acid (IBA), 0.15 mg·L⁻¹ Kinetin (KIN), and 1 mg·L⁻¹ 6-BA under a 16 h photoperiod, resulting in a callus induction rate of 140% and a differentiation rate of 51%. For the direct regeneration pathway, shoot buds cultured on medium with 0.5 mg·L⁻¹ IBA and 1 mg·L⁻¹ 6-BA achieved a 100% sprouting rate with a regeneration coefficient of approximately 3.2. The regenerated adventitious shoots rooted successfully on medium supplemented with 0.5 mg·L⁻¹ Naphthylacetic acid (NAA) and were acclimatized under greenhouse conditions to produce viable plantlets. This regeneration system efficiently utilizes sterile seedling explants, is not limited by seasonal or environmental factors, and significantly improves the propagation efficiency of Bombax ceiba. These optimized micropropagation methods also provide a robust platform for future genetic transformation studies using hypocotyls and shoot buds as explants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue In Vitro Regeneration and Clonal Propagation in Horticultural Science: Innovations and Applications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1341 KiB

Open AccessReview

Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Traditional Medicinal Plants for Urolithiasis: A Scoping Review

by Brenda Pacheco-Hernández, Teresa Ayora-Talavera, Julia Cano-Sosa, Lilia G. Noriega, Neith Aracely Pacheco-López, Juan M. Vargas-Morales, Isabel Medina-Vera, Martha Guevara-Cruz, Rodolfo Chim-Aké, Ana Ligia Gutiérrez-Solis, Roberto Lugo and Azalia Avila-Nava

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2032; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132032 - 2 Jul 2025

Abstract

Urolithiasis (UL) is the presence of stones in the kidneys or urinary tract; its prevalence has increased worldwide. Thus, strategies have been sought to reduce it and one of them is the use of medicinal plants due to their accessibility, low cost, and [...] Read more.

Urolithiasis (UL) is the presence of stones in the kidneys or urinary tract; its prevalence has increased worldwide. Thus, strategies have been sought to reduce it and one of them is the use of medicinal plants due to their accessibility, low cost, and cultural traditions. Studies on traditional medicinal plants in UL mainly documented results of litholytic and urinary parameters. Although, stone formation is related to oxidative stress and inflammation, and only a few studies are focused on these types of biomarkers. Thus, the aim of the present review was to summarize studies showing the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of traditional medicinal plants used in UL management. We performed a scoping review; the database sources used were MEDLINE/PubMed, Google Scholar, SpringerLink, Scielo and Redalyc. From a total of 184 studies screened, six were included from China (2), India (3), and Corea (1). These studies have shown the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of traditional medicinal plants, including Glechoma longituba (G. longituba), Bergenia ligulate (B. ligulate), Lygodium japonicum (L. japonicum), Citrus limon (C. limon), Xanthium strumarium (X. strumarium) and Tribulus terrestris (T. terrestris). They have also described their molecular mechanism of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects through the activation of antioxidant genes induced by Nrf2 or by suppressing the inflammatory gene expression by the inhibition of NFκ-B. These effects could be modulated by their bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and terpenes, present in these plants. This review summarizes the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of traditional medicinal plants and highlights their molecular mechanisms of action and main bioactive compounds. This evidence may be used in biotechnology and synthetic biology areas for the development of new products from plant-derived compounds to reduce the high recurrence rates of UL. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovations in Isolation and Characterization of Bioactive Compounds from Medicinal Plants)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 23697 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Salt Tolerance in Maize: A Combined Transcriptome and Metabolome Analysis

by Shaoqi Ren, Tianhang Bai, Yaqi Ma, Yingjie Zhao, Jiabin Ci, Xuejiao Ren, Zhenyuan Zang, Chengqian Ma, Ruyi Xiong, Xinyao Song, Wei Yang and Weiguang Yang

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2031; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132031 - 2 Jul 2025

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important food crops. Salt stress can hinder crop growth and development, but the molecular mechanisms underlying maize’s response to salt tolerance remain unclear. In this study, we conducted comparative transcriptome, metabolome, and physiological [...] Read more.

Maize (Zea mays L.) is one of the most important food crops. Salt stress can hinder crop growth and development, but the molecular mechanisms underlying maize’s response to salt tolerance remain unclear. In this study, we conducted comparative transcriptome, metabolome, and physiological analyses of a salt-tolerant maize inbred line (J1285) subjected to different NaCl concentrations during the seedling stage. The results demonstrated that, with increasing salt concentration, seedling growth parameters and antioxidant enzyme activities (SOD, POD, CAT) exhibited initially increases before subsequently decreasing, peaking at 50–150 mmol/L. Transcriptome data analysis revealed that the experimental groups subjected to 50, 100, 150, and 200 mmol/L treatments had 375, 1043, 2504, and 2328 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) compared to the control group, respectively. Additionally, through GO and KEGG analysis, we found that the DEGs were primarily enriched in the MAPK signaling pathway and plant hormone signal transduction, especially the abscisic acid (ABA) signaling pathway, both of which play instrumental roles in orchestrating the maize response to salt-induced stress. Transcription factors involved in the salt stress response, including WRKY, TIFY, bZIP, and bHLH, were identified. Metabolomic data analysis revealed that the experimental groups subjected to 50, 100, 150 and 200 mmol/L treatments had 44, 335, 278, and 550 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) compared to the control group, respectively. The DEMs were mainly enriched in metabolic pathways and the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. Transcriptomics and metabolomics combined analysis were performed on J1285 seedling leaves, and it was found that the co-enrichment pathways included starch and sucrose metabolism, linoleic acid metabolism, α-linolenic acid metabolism, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis pathway, etc. Collectively, these results will aid in identifying resistance genes and elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying salt tolerance for maize. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Genetics, Genomics and Biotechnology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 1995 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genetic and Morphological Variation Among Populations of Duckweed Species in Thailand

by Athita Senayai, Yosapol Harnvanichvech, Srunya Vajrodaya, Tokitaka Oyama and Ekaphan Kraichak

Plants 2025, 14(13), 2030; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14132030 - 2 Jul 2025

Abstract

Duckweeds have emerged as frontier plants in research, food, and bioenergy applications. Consistency in genetic and morphological traits within species is therefore crucial for their effective use. Thailand hosts diverse duckweed populations with representatives from four of the five genera and at least [...] Read more.

Duckweeds have emerged as frontier plants in research, food, and bioenergy applications. Consistency in genetic and morphological traits within species is therefore crucial for their effective use. Thailand hosts diverse duckweed populations with representatives from four of the five genera and at least four species recorded. However, the extent of genetic and morphological variation within these species in Thailand remains unclear. Here, we investigated the genetic and morphological variation in four duckweed species—Landoltia punctata, Lemna aequinoctialis, Spirodela polyrhiza, and Wolffia globosa—collected from 26 sites across Thailand. Using the multilocus sequence typing approach based on three chloroplast genes (rbcL, atpF–atpH, and psbK–psbI), we show that genetic variation in duckweed is distinct at both inter-species and intra-species levels. Among these four species, Lemna aequinoctialis exhibits the highest genetic variation, forming four distinct phylogenetic clusters. This is followed by Spirodela polyrhiza, Wolffia globosa, and Landoltia punctata. In addition, we observe that morphological variation, particularly frond aspect ratio, varies significantly among clusters but remains consistent within each cluster of each species. These findings suggest that duckweed populations in Thailand exhibit substantial genetic variation at the intraspecific level, which is closely associated with frond morphological variation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Duckweed: Research Meets Applications—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Description

Plants

Latest Articles

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Highly Accessed Articles

Latest Books

E-Mail Alert

News

Topics

Conferences

Special Issues

Topical Collections

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI