Plants

16 pages, 1983 KB

Open AccessArticle

Key Genomic Regions of Rice Cultivar GuiHeFeng and Its Derivatives Revealed by Genome-Wide Analysis

by Yu-Zhi Chen, Xin-Yu Hao, Yue-Xiong Zhang, Zeng-Feng Ma, Chi Liu, Xiao-Long Zhou, Min-Yi Wei, Bao-Xiang Qin, Yong Yan and Da-Hui Huang

Plants 2026, 15(3), 520; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030520 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 425

Abstract

Rice is a widely cultivated staple crop that serves as the primary source of carbohydrates for more than half of the global population. Elite parents with superior agronomic traits play a crucial role in rice breeding systems. In this study, we performed whole-genome [...] Read more.

Rice is a widely cultivated staple crop that serves as the primary source of carbohydrates for more than half of the global population. Elite parents with superior agronomic traits play a crucial role in rice breeding systems. In this study, we performed whole-genome resequencing of the rice cultivar GuiHeFeng and its nine derivative lines, identifying a total of 6,633,507 high-quality single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs). The percentage of GuiHeFeng traceable blocks (GTBs) in the nine derivatives ranged from 48.94% to 63.2%. Based on the SNP analysis, we found 1310 key GuiHeFeng traceable blocks (kGTBs), which were derived from GuiHeFeng and present in all nine derivatives. Moreover, 375 selective sweeps (SSWs) were identified, of which 20 were also located within the kGTBs. These 20 SSWs were regarded as key genomic regions (kGRs) for rice breeding. After the association test, 20 alleles including 17 genes were identified on the kGTBs, and 38 significant genes were found within the key genomic regions. This research identifies the genomic segments and agronomically important genes/QTLs that will serve as essential targets for genomic selection in rice breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Next-Generation Plant Breeding: Integrating Genomics Tools and Marker-Assisted Selection)

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12 pages, 4080 KB

Open AccessArticle

VviAMT4;1 Is a High-Affinity Ammonium Transporter in Table Grape

by Huilin Xiao, Matthew Shi, Yanwen Tang, Rui Yuan, Zhizhong Song and Meiling Tang

Plants 2026, 15(3), 519; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030519 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 343

Abstract

Ammonium transporters (AMTs) are a class of membrane-associated proteins that play crucial roles in the uptake and transport of ammonium (NH₄⁺ or NH₃). In this study, an ammonium transporter-encoding gene VviAMT4;1 was isolated and identified from table grape ‘Yanpu [...] Read more.

Ammonium transporters (AMTs) are a class of membrane-associated proteins that play crucial roles in the uptake and transport of ammonium (NH₄⁺ or NH₃). In this study, an ammonium transporter-encoding gene VviAMT4;1 was isolated and identified from table grape ‘Yanpu No.2’. Notably, the expression level of VviAMT4;1 varied significantly across different organs or tissues of ‘Yanpu No.2’, and the highest expression level was detected in the roots of both tissue-cultured seedlings and 5-year-old mature trees. Expression of VviAMT4;1 was significantly up-regulated under NH₄⁺ depletion throughout the whole of tissue-cultured seedlings. Yeast mutant functional complementation indicates that the recombinant strain pYES2-VviAMT4;1/31019b restored growth under different pH conditions. ¹⁵N isotope-labeled uptake kinetics analysis demonstrated that VviAMT4;1 is a typical high-affinity ammonium transporter, with a Kₘ value of 49.58 ± 4.66 μmol·L⁻¹ and a Vₘₐₓ value of 3.29 μmoles·min⁻¹·μg⁻¹ cells. Moreover, VviAMT4;1 can mediate the weak uptake and utilization of methyl amine (MeA⁺) in yeast cells. The VviAMT4;1-mediated NH₄⁺ uptake process may suffer from feedback inhibition by endogenous NH₄⁺ enrichment. This study provides insights into understanding the molecular mechanisms of N transport and utilization in fruit trees. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insights and Regulation of Plant Growth and Metabolism)

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15 pages, 6035 KB

Open AccessArticle

Forest Attributes and Soil Moisture Availability Drive Ecosystem Multifunctionality of Forests in Eastern Tibetan Plateau, China

by Ming Ni, Peng Luo, Hao Yang, Honglin Li, Yue Cheng and Yu Huang

Plants 2026, 15(3), 518; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030518 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 470

Abstract

Forests deliver multiple essential ecosystem functions, and most natural forests occur in highly heterogeneous environments and span different developmental stages. Despite this complexity, the relative influences of biotic and environmental drivers on ecosystem multifunctionality (EMF) remain insufficiently understood across temporal and spatial scales. [...] Read more.

Forests deliver multiple essential ecosystem functions, and most natural forests occur in highly heterogeneous environments and span different developmental stages. Despite this complexity, the relative influences of biotic and environmental drivers on ecosystem multifunctionality (EMF) remain insufficiently understood across temporal and spatial scales. Here, we surveyed forests along elevational (1800–3500 m) and successional (early to late) gradients on the eastern Tibetan Plateau, quantify how climate, soil properties, and forest attributes (diversity, stand structure, and functional traits) regulate EMF. EMF was constructed from eight indicators representing nutrient cycling, plant productivity, and water conservation. Further, we assessed variation in biodiversity effects, including selection and complementarity effects. We found that soil moisture, functional diversity, and the coefficient of variation in stand diameter exert significant positive effects on EMF, whereas species richness—the most commonly used diversity metric—shows no significant effect. Mean annual temperature and soil bulk density, by contrast, have significant negative effects. The strengths of both selection and complementarity effects vary along elevational and successional gradients, with complementarity effects becoming markedly stronger at higher elevations. Overall, our findings reveal the mechanisms through which climate, soil properties, and forest attributes jointly regulate EMF, underscoring the pivotal roles of plant functional diversity and structural heterogeneity in sustaining the multifunctionality of subalpine forests. Results provide a robust empirical foundation for improving natural forest EMF and restoration management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Ecology)

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15 pages, 2477 KB

Open AccessArticle

Unveiling the Physiological Basis of Cold Tolerance in Maize: Root Architecture, Photosynthetic Stability, and POD-Mediated Defense Under Delayed Chilling Stress

by Zhen Wang, Qi Jia, Baolin Zhang, Bo Ming, Lanfang Bai, Fugui Wang, Yongqiang Wang, Shengnan Yu, Runhou Zou and Zhigang Wang

Plants 2026, 15(3), 517; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030517 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 461

Abstract

Delayed chilling stress is a frequent meteorological disaster in the spring maize-growing region of Northern China. Understanding the physiological responses and key characteristics of cold-tolerant maize varieties under such stress is crucial for their selection and utilization. This study compared the physiological and [...] Read more.

Delayed chilling stress is a frequent meteorological disaster in the spring maize-growing region of Northern China. Understanding the physiological responses and key characteristics of cold-tolerant maize varieties under such stress is crucial for their selection and utilization. This study compared the physiological and biochemical responses of a cold-tolerant variety (XY335) and a conventional variety (KH8) to simulated delayed chilling stress induced by early field sowing. Results showed that the emergence percentage and emergence uniformity of the cold-tolerant variety were 9.6% and 2.8% higher than those of the conventional variety, respectively. Under chilling stress, the root diameter of the cold-tolerant variety remained stable, while root length decreased by 24.5%. In contrast, the conventional variety exhibited the opposite response. Growth of the cold-tolerant variety slowed during stress but accelerated significantly after temperature recovery, achieving 1–2 more leaf ages than the conventional variety. The SPAD value (chlorophyll content) of the cold-tolerant variety was less affected, remaining 14.3% higher than the conventional variety, thereby maintaining higher photosynthetic efficiency. The enhanced stress tolerance of XY335 correlated with a robust antioxidant system: leaf peroxidase (POD) activity was 60.7% higher, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content was 42.4% lower compared to KH8. In summary, under delayed chilling stress, the cold-tolerant variety ensured higher emergence and seedling uniformity by reducing coleoptile length, maintained root diameter and absorption capacity by shortening root length, preserved chlorophyll synthesis and photosynthetic performance under the protection of a POD-dominated enzyme system, and employed a “standby mode” with compensatory leaf growth to ensure adequate dry matter accumulation and yield formation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Responses to Abiotic Stresses)

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35 pages, 945 KB

Open AccessReview

Bacillus as Premier Biocontrol Agents: Mechanistic Insights, Strategic Application, and Future Regulatory Landscapes in Sustainable Agriculture

by Eduardo Hernández-Amador, David Tomás Montesdeoca-Flores and Juan Cristo Luis-Jorge

Plants 2026, 15(3), 516; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030516 - 6 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1052

Abstract

Agricultural productivity currently faces challenges such as soil fertility issues, climatic instability, pests and diseases, and anthropization. This drives a shift towards sustainable agricultural practices, including biopreparations—products derived from living organisms or their metabolites that serve as biofertilizers, biopesticides, biostimulants, or biodegradation agents. [...] Read more.

Agricultural productivity currently faces challenges such as soil fertility issues, climatic instability, pests and diseases, and anthropization. This drives a shift towards sustainable agricultural practices, including biopreparations—products derived from living organisms or their metabolites that serve as biofertilizers, biopesticides, biostimulants, or biodegradation agents. Among these, the genus Bacillus is a primary candidate for sustainable agriculture; however, this review primarily covers rhizosphere-isolated organisms referred to as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria. Bacillus strains possess a suite of direct and indirect mechanisms to promote plant development and biocontrol, as well as to tolerate various abiotic stresses. This review aims to describe all the mechanisms attributed to strains of this genus and their impact on different crops to promote plant growth, hormonal regulation (indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), abscisic acid (ABA), and ethylene), tolerance to abiotic stresses such as drought, heavy metals, salinity and heat stress, as well as resistance to pests and diseases. Furthermore, this work analyzes quantitative data regarding yield improvements and the environmental variables that influence the consistency of Bacillus performance in the field. Finally, to provide a balanced perspective, the review incorporates future directions in research on biosafety and risk assessment frameworks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biostimulants for Plant Mitigation of Abiotic Stresses in Plants)

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18 pages, 29541 KB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Performance of Distribution Shifts Between Endangered Coniferous and Broad-Leaved Tree Species in Subtropical China Under Climate Change

by Jie Miao, Yan Xu, David Kay Ferguson and Yong Yang

Plants 2026, 15(3), 515; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030515 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 530

Abstract

Global warming has become one of the most serious threats to biodiversity. However, the responses of endangered tree species in subtropical regions to climate change and their potential distribution shifts remain elusive. In this study, we selected nine rare and endangered tree species [...] Read more.

Global warming has become one of the most serious threats to biodiversity. However, the responses of endangered tree species in subtropical regions to climate change and their potential distribution shifts remain elusive. In this study, we selected nine rare and endangered tree species in the subtropical forests of China encompassing both coniferous and broad-leaved groups, and conducted an assessment of their suitable distribution patterns and spatial shifts under current and future climate scenarios (SSP126, SSP370, and SSP585). For this we utilized an optimized MaxEnt model integrating multidimensional environmental variables including climate, soil, and topography. The results show that the model has high predictive accuracy after parameter optimization, with mean AUC values exceeding 0.98 for both broad-leaved and coniferous tree species. Our analysis of environmental factors indicates clear differences in distribution-limiting factors between the two functional groups. Broad-leaved species are primarily constrained by temperature-related variables, particularly the mean temperature of the coldest quarter (Bio11) and the mean diurnal range (Bio2), whereas coniferous species are more sensitive to moisture conditions, with the precipitation of the driest quarter (Bio17) as the key limiting factor for their potential distributions. Under current climatic conditions, highly suitable habitats for both functional groups are mainly concentrated in the middle and lower reaches of the Yangtze River. Under future climate scenarios, broad-leaved species are in general expected to expand in marginal areas, while coniferous species show pronounced scenario dependence, with significant contractions occurring under certain scenarios and time periods. Despite the evident changes at distribution margins, the overall shifts in the centroids of potential distributions for both functional groups will be limited, with core suitable areas remaining relatively stable. This study reveals differences in the spatial response patterns between conifers and broad-leaved trees, and provides a scientific basis for the development of differentiated conservation strategies and the identification of conservation priority areas under climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Taxonomy, Biogeography, Ecology, Conservation and Utilization of Gymnosperms)

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25 pages, 4770 KB

Open AccessArticle

Combined SMRT and Illumina RNA Sequencing Reveals the Alternative Splicing-Mediated Regulation of Anthocyanin Accumulation in Potato (Solanum tuberosum L.)

by Minmin Bao, Zhitao Li, Jinyong Zhu, Xiaoqiang Qiu, Yuanming Li, Zhenzhen Bi, Panfeng Yao, Zhen Liu and Yuhui Liu

Plants 2026, 15(3), 514; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030514 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1051

Abstract

Anthocyanins, as natural pigments with high nutritional value, have been extensively studied in terms of their biosynthetic pathways. However, the specific impact of alternative splicing (AS) on anthocyanin biosynthesis in potatoes and its potential regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. This study analyzed full-length transcriptome [...] Read more.

Anthocyanins, as natural pigments with high nutritional value, have been extensively studied in terms of their biosynthetic pathways. However, the specific impact of alternative splicing (AS) on anthocyanin biosynthesis in potatoes and its potential regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. This study analyzed full-length transcriptome (SMRT) and Illumina RNA-seq datasets from three developmental stages of multiple potato (Solanum tuberosum L.) cultivars. After RNA-seq correction, numerous AS events were identified in both white and colored samples. To dissect the regulatory role of AS in anthocyanin biosynthesis, we further analyzed the AS patterns of anthocyanin biosynthesis-related structural genes and transcription factors (TFs). Through this targeted analysis, we found that a subset of these structural genes and TFs exhibited AS, generating functionally diverse transcript variants. Among these, the candidate gene StB3-like (Soltu.DM.04G010530), a B3 family TF associated with anthocyanin synthesis, was selected for preliminary functional validation. This gene produced three alternatively spliced transcripts (StB3-like-1, -2, -3). Transient co-expression with StAN1 (Soltu.DM.10G020850) in tobacco showed that StB3-like-2 and StB3-like-3 significantly increased anthocyanin accumulation, whereas StB3-like-1 had no effect. These results confirm that different transcripts produced by the alternative splicing of the same gene differentially regulate anthocyanin accumulation in a StAN1-dependent manner, laying the groundwork for further investigation into the role of alternative splicing in potato anthocyanin accumulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Progress in Exploring Plant Metabolic Pathways: Unraveling the Complexity of Plant Biochemistry)

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13 pages, 587 KB

Open AccessArticle

Allelopathic Potential of Newly Emerged Invasive Plant Cirsium vulgare (Asteraceae) in Yunnan Province of China

by Fengping Zheng, Che Zhan, Kexin Yang, Qiurui Li, Zhijie Wang, Gaofeng Xu, David Roy Clements, Bin Yao, Guimei Jin, Shaosong Yang, Fudou Zhang, Michael Denny Day and Shicai Shen

Plants 2026, 15(3), 513; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030513 - 6 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 474

Abstract

Cirsium vulgare (Asteraceae) is a newly emerged invasive species in Yunnan Province, China, and its phytotoxic potential has not yet been studied. This study was conducted to explore potential allelopathic effects of C. vulgare and to identify its flavonoid and phenolic acid compounds. [...] Read more.

Cirsium vulgare (Asteraceae) is a newly emerged invasive species in Yunnan Province, China, and its phytotoxic potential has not yet been studied. This study was conducted to explore potential allelopathic effects of C. vulgare and to identify its flavonoid and phenolic acid compounds. Four aqueous extracts (roots, stems, leaves, and flower/fruit heads) of C. vulgare exhibited high inhibitory activity against the germination and seedling growth of Bidens pilosa and Digitaria sanguinalis. The inhibition rates of germination rate, germination index, root length, shoot length, and biomass of both species increased significantly with increasing concentrations, with B. pilosa being more inhibited than D. sanguinalis. Extracts from leaves and flower/fruit heads yielded the strongest inhibition, followed by stem extracts, with the lowest impact from root extracts. Flavonoids (65.41%) and phenolic acids (23.1%) collectively comprised 88.51% of all identified compounds. Thirty-eight flavonoid compounds and thirty phenolic acid compounds were selected for further analysis, representing 53.97% and 71.91% of the total content of flavonoids and phenolic acids, respectively. Many of the flavonoids and phenolic acids identified have been previously reported as known allelochemicals with possible allelopathic effects. This was the first study to show that the allelopathic potential of C. vulgare may aid its invasion and expansion. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Invasive Alien Plant Species: From Phytochemical Diversity to Ecological Management, 2nd Edition)

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20 pages, 4111 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Identification and Characterization of the Maize ZmGT14 Gene Family Reveals ZmGT14-36 as a Drought-Responsive Gene Interacting with UGT85A2

by Minghao Sun, Yunlong Li, Sinan Li, Erna Wu, Yue Yin, Yan Sun, Shujun Li, Yuyang Duan, Xin Li, Quan Cai and Jianguo Zhang

Plants 2026, 15(3), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030512 - 6 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 524

Abstract

Drought stress significantly disrupts plant water balance and cell wall integrity, thereby inhibiting growth and development. The Glycosyltransferase 14 (GT14) family plays a pivotal role in cell wall biosynthesis and environmental stress responses; however, the mechanisms underlying its involvement in the drought response [...] Read more.

Drought stress significantly disrupts plant water balance and cell wall integrity, thereby inhibiting growth and development. The Glycosyltransferase 14 (GT14) family plays a pivotal role in cell wall biosynthesis and environmental stress responses; however, the mechanisms underlying its involvement in the drought response of maize (Zea mays L.) remain elusive. In this study, we identified 42 ZmGT14 members distributed across 10 chromosomes by genome-wide analysis. Phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, and conserved motif analyses indicated high intra-subfamily conservation. Promoter analysis revealed that ZmGT14 genes are enriched with various stress-responsive elements, including ABRE, DRE, and MBS. Transcriptomic profiling and RT-qPCR verification demonstrated that the expression of ZmGT14-36 increased by approximately 30-fold within 36 h of drought treatment. Further screening and point-to-point Yeast Two-Hybrid (Y2H) assays identified that ZmGT14-36 physically interacts with UGT85A2, a protein associated with redox homeostasis. These findings provide preliminary evidence that ZmGT14-36 may participate in the drought resistance response in maize. Collectively, our study elucidates the molecular evolutionary characteristics of the ZmGT14 family and provides a key candidate gene for the molecular breeding of drought-tolerant maize varieties. Full article

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

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22 pages, 3590 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Sethoxydim Herbicide on the Physiological Parameters, Photosynthetic Enzymes and Antioxidant System in Foxtail Millet

by Lizhi Li, Tao Jing, Xikai Lin, Yue Zhuang, Yiru Wang, Dan Liu, Huiling Du and Xiaorui Li

Plants 2026, 15(3), 511; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030511 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 468

Abstract

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) possesses characteristics such as strong stress tolerance and high yield. However, weeds compete with foxtail millet, leading to reduced crop yield, degraded quality, and even the promotion of pest and disease spread. Chemical weed control is currently [...] Read more.

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica L.) possesses characteristics such as strong stress tolerance and high yield. However, weeds compete with foxtail millet, leading to reduced crop yield, degraded quality, and even the promotion of pest and disease spread. Chemical weed control is currently the most practical and feasible method for preventing weed damage in foxtail millet production, but herbicides can harm the main crop, resulting in reduced yield. To investigate the effects of sethoxydim on the growth and development of foxtail millet, this experiment adopted a pot design, setting four concentration gradients for foliar spraying: 0.75, 1.5 (recommended dosage), 3 and 6 L of active ingredient per hectare (L ai ha⁻¹). Sethoxydim treatment hindered electron transport in photosynthesis, leading to a decrease in adenosine triphosphate synthesis and consequently a decline in the photosynthetic parameters of both photosystem I and photosystem II. Meanwhile, the activities and related gene expression of phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPC), NADP-malate dehydrogenase (NADP-MDH) and pyruvate phosphate dikinase (PPDK) all showed a decreasing trend. In contrast, the activities and related gene expression of NADP-malic enzyme (NADP-ME) and ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (Rubisco); the contents of soluble protein and soluble sugar; and the activities of antioxidant enzymes including malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT), along with their related gene expression, exhibited a trend of first increasing and then decreasing, reaching their peak at a dosage of 1.5 L ai ha⁻¹ (T2 treatment group). Meanwhile, the continuous rise in O₂^·⁻ and H₂O₂ contents indicated enhanced accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in plants under herbicide stress. These results show that at the recommended dosage, although sethoxydim causes certain damage to foxtail millet, the plant can maintain certain photosynthetic functions and physiological stability through self-regulation and gradually return to normal. Full article

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

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26 pages, 2567 KB

Open AccessArticle

Adaptive Plasticity of Phytochelatin Synthase Under Chromium Stress and Sulfur Availability in Scenedesmus acutus

by Michele Ferrari, Matteo Marieschi, Roberta Ruotolo, Radiana Cozza and Anna Torelli

Plants 2026, 15(3), 510; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030510 - 6 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Phytochelatin synthases (PCSs) are pivotal enzymes in heavy metal detoxification, yet also implicated in sulfur homeostasis and redox regulation. In this study, we report the molecular and functional characterization of the PCS gene from the green alga Scenedesmus acutus (SaPCS), comparing [...] Read more.

Phytochelatin synthases (PCSs) are pivotal enzymes in heavy metal detoxification, yet also implicated in sulfur homeostasis and redox regulation. In this study, we report the molecular and functional characterization of the PCS gene from the green alga Scenedesmus acutus (SaPCS), comparing wild-type and chromium-tolerant strains of this microalga. RT-qPCR, immunoblotting and mass spectrometry analyses revealed that SaPCS expression and protein abundance are primarily regulated by sulfur availability rather than by chromium stress. Two protein isoforms (~70 kDa full-length and ~34 kDa truncated) were detected, both more abundant in the chromium-tolerant strain than the wild-type and responsive to sulfur availability. Furthermore, three alternatively spliced transcript variants (SaPCSa, SaPCSb, SaPCSc) lacking the C-terminal domain coding region but retaining a functional or partially disrupted N-terminal catalytic domain were identified, contributing to the post-transcriptional diversification of PCSs. Mass spectrometry analyses showed negligible phytochelatin production in response to chromium treatment, indicating that detoxification of this metal in S. acutus relies mainly on glutathione (GSH) conjugation and the ascorbate–GSH antioxidant cycle. Overall, these results suggest that SaPCS may promote chromium tolerance by modulating sulfur and redox metabolism rather than by driving phytochelatin accumulation, highlighting the remarkable functional plasticity of PCSs in algal stress responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal Tolerance in Plants and Algae—2nd Edition)

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Graphical abstract

19 pages, 8946 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the WOX Family Reveals Potential Roles in Stem Development of Euphorbia hirta

by Qianyi Lyu, Shutong Chen, Xin Wang, Yuan Yuan, Hongrui Zhang, Wanqi Liang, Han Cheng and Zhi Deng

Plants 2026, 15(3), 509; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030509 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 481

Abstract

The homeobox transcription factor (TF) superfamily includes the WUSCHEL-RELATED HOMEOBOX (WOX) family, which plays a critical role in adaptive plant growth. Specifically, WOX regulates stem growth in plants, with stems serving as the structural framework for laticifers in Euphorbia hirta. However, the [...] Read more.

The homeobox transcription factor (TF) superfamily includes the WUSCHEL-RELATED HOMEOBOX (WOX) family, which plays a critical role in adaptive plant growth. Specifically, WOX regulates stem growth in plants, with stems serving as the structural framework for laticifers in Euphorbia hirta. However, the number of WOX gene family members in the E. hirta genome has not been reported. In this study, we identified 14 EhWOX genes in E. hirta and characterized their physicochemical properties, chromosomal locations, phylogenetic relationships, conserved motifs, gene structures, promoter cis elements, gene ontology (GO) enrichment, tissue-specific expression patterns, and subcellular localization. Chromosomal mapping indicated their distribution across nine chromosomes. Phylogenetic analysis classified these genes into three evolutionary clades. Promoter cis-element analysis identified abundant light-responsive, hormone-responsive, and stress-responsive elements. GO enrichment suggested their broad involvement in diverse biological processes. Additionally, RNA-seq revealed high expression levels of EhWOX4-6 and EhWOX14 in stems. Furthermore, RT-qPCR confirmed tissue-specific expression in stems. Moreover, experimental evidence confirmed the subcellular localization and autoactivation capability of some WOX proteins that may be involved in stem development. Overall, this study provides a comprehensive characterization of the candidate EhWOX genes and provides a foundational resource for future functional investigations into their possible roles in stem and laticifer biology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Bioinformatics in Plant Science)

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13 pages, 2498 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Seed Wings Optimize the Regulation of Temperature and Light on Smith Fir Seed Germination Timing

by Yanyan Li, Ziling Yang, Qian Yan, Guoyan Wang, Songlin Shi, Jingji Li and Peihao Peng

Plants 2026, 15(3), 508; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030508 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 471

Abstract

Seed wings are widely recognized for facilitating dispersal and influencing germination in angiosperms, but their functional role in gymnosperm germination is poorly understood. To assess the effect of seed wings on the germination ecology of Smith fir (Abies georgei var. smithii), [...] Read more.

Seed wings are widely recognized for facilitating dispersal and influencing germination in angiosperms, but their functional role in gymnosperm germination is poorly understood. To assess the effect of seed wings on the germination ecology of Smith fir (Abies georgei var. smithii), we evaluated the germination of three seed treatments—intact seeds, mixed seeds (de-winged seeds mixed with detached wings), and de-winged seeds—under varying light and temperature conditions. Results showed that de-winged seeds achieved a final germination percentage of 48.5 ± 5.0%, which was significantly higher than that of intact seeds (26.0 ± 2.4%) and mixed seeds (32.5 ± 3.5%) (p < 0.001), confirming that seed wings significantly inhibit germination. There was no significant difference between intact and mixed seeds, and both were significantly lower than de-winged seeds (p < 0.001), suggesting that germination inhibition is likely mediated by chemical inhibitors in the wings rather than mechanical restriction. Optimal germination occurred at 15/2 °C–25/5 °C, while light significantly enhanced germination under cold conditions (5/1 °C), indicating conditional dormancy. These findings suggest that seed wings optimize the regulation of germination timing by imposing chemical inhibition that, combined with conditional dormancy, delays germination until favorable spring conditions, reflecting an adaptive strategy to seasonal environmental cues in subalpine ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological and Ecological Responses of Arctic and Alpine Plants to Climate Change)

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34 pages, 10038 KB

Open AccessReview

Unraveling Advances in Rice Male Sterility Systems: From Genetic Basis to Hybrid Breeding Innovation

by Wei Liu, Jinlong Ni, Changkai Ma, Jianbo Yang, Shimei Wang and Deze Xu

Plants 2026, 15(3), 507; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030507 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 846

Abstract

Heterosis is a landmark innovation in modern agriculture, which has been widely exploited to boost crop productivity. As a staple food for over half of the global population, rice depends heavily on heterosis for yield improvement. Notably, hybrid rice has made remarkable contributions [...] Read more.

Heterosis is a landmark innovation in modern agriculture, which has been widely exploited to boost crop productivity. As a staple food for over half of the global population, rice depends heavily on heterosis for yield improvement. Notably, hybrid rice has made remarkable contributions to global food security over the past several decades. Male sterility serves as the fundamental basis for efficient hybrid rice breeding, with cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) and genic male sterility (GMS) as the core systems employed in practical production. CMS, induced by mitochondrial genes, can be restored to fertility by nuclear restorer genes, thereby forming the essential genetic basis for the three-line hybrid rice system. GMS, mainly regulated by the nuclear genome, includes dominant and recessive nuclear sterility. Specifically, recessive environment-sensitive genic male sterility (EGMS) has facilitated the development of the two-line hybrid rice system for commercial hybrid seed production. The third-generation hybrid rice technology (TGHRT) is a transgenic approach developed for propagating stable recessive GMS lines. This review comprehensively summarizes the latest advances in rice male sterility systems, focusing on their genetic classification, origin, and molecular mechanisms. It further analyzes their application status, inherent limitations, future research directions, and development trends in hybrid rice production, aiming to deepen our understanding of the innovation and optimization of hybrid rice breeding technologies. Full article

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

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29 pages, 2961 KB

Open AccessReview

Ubiquitin-Mediated Proteolysis as a Regulator of the Plant Defense-Growth Balance

by Matheus França Gonçalves, Aline Köhn Carneiro, Rodrigo de Miranda Otero and Adriana Silva Hemerly

Plants 2026, 15(3), 506; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030506 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 597

Abstract

To survive in challenging environments, plants must rapidly activate immune responses while maintaining developmental plasticity and reproductive success. This requires continuous negotiation of limited energy and metabolic resources between growth, development, and defense. Ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis has emerged as a versatile regulatory mechanism that [...] Read more.

To survive in challenging environments, plants must rapidly activate immune responses while maintaining developmental plasticity and reproductive success. This requires continuous negotiation of limited energy and metabolic resources between growth, development, and defense. Ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis has emerged as a versatile regulatory mechanism that may integrate immune responses with plant developmental programs. In this review, we summarize accumulating evidence that ubiquitination shapes immune responses at multiple regulatory levels. Many of these immune-regulatory mechanisms depend on ubiquitin-dependent pathways that also govern developmental processes and cell cycle regulation. This overlap points to shared molecular nodes that integrate defense with growth. This functional overlap provides a mechanistic basis for growth–defense trade-offs and highlights how plants optimize fitness under stress conditions. Together, these findings position ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis as a unifying regulatory framework through which plants integrate immune responses with developmental programs and cell cycle control. This coordination helps maintain resilience and productivity in a fluctuating environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Regulation of Plant Stress Responses)

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19 pages, 1870 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mycorrhizal Inoculation Enhances Drought Resilience in Citrus Seedlings of Two Cultivars by Modulating Gas Exchange and Hormonal Signaling

by Josefa María Navarro, Asunción Morte and Juan Gabriel Pérez-Pérez

Plants 2026, 15(3), 505; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030505 - 6 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Water scarcity and climate variability threaten citrus production in semi-arid regions, requiring strategies to improve drought resilience. This study evaluated the physiological and hormonal responses of two citrus cultivars, alemow (Citrus macrophylla Wester) and ‘Cleopatra’ mandarin (Citrus reshni Hort. [...] Read more.

Water scarcity and climate variability threaten citrus production in semi-arid regions, requiring strategies to improve drought resilience. This study evaluated the physiological and hormonal responses of two citrus cultivars, alemow (Citrus macrophylla Wester) and ‘Cleopatra’ mandarin (Citrus reshni Hort. Ex Tanaka), inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi (Rhizophagus irregularis + Funneliformis mosseae) and subjected to drought stress imposed by progressive soil drying (water withholding) and quantified by volumetric soil water content (θ_v) classes: >0.20 cm³ cm⁻³ (well-watered), 0.05–0.20 cm³ cm⁻³ (moderate drought), and <0.05 cm³ cm⁻³ (severe drought). Gas exchange, plant water status, and abscisic acid (ABA) dynamics were monitored to assess cultivar-specific effects of AM symbiosis. Under well-watered conditions, +AM plants exhibited higher photosynthetic rates than non-inoculated plants, with a stronger response in Macrophylla. During drought, contrasting patterns emerged: +AM Macrophylla maintained higher stomatal conductance and photosynthesis, with foliar ABA increasing only under severe stress, suggesting that non-hormonal mechanisms support gas exchange. In Cleopatra, AM inoculation was associated with higher root-derived ABA and earlier stomatal closure, suggesting a more conservative water-use strategy under soil drying conditions; however, the benefits were limited to moderate stress and decreased beyond a stomatal conductance threshold. These findings reveal that AM symbiosis enhances drought resilience through contrasting mechanisms: hydraulic stabilization predominates in Macrophylla, whereas hormonal (ABA-mediated) regulation drives the response in Cleopatra. This cultivar-dependent modulation highlights the importance of developing AM-based strategies adapted to each cultivar for effective citrus drought management. Combining AM inoculation with irrigation-saving practices could improve water productivity and support climate-smart citrus production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Drought Responses and Adaptation Mechanisms in Plants, 2nd Edition)

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17 pages, 1710 KB

Open AccessArticle

From Agro-Waste to Therapeutic Potential: Spasmolytic Mechanisms of Vaccinium myrtillus L. Leaf Extract on Isolated Rat Ileum

by Nemanja Kitić, Katarina Šavikin, Dušanka Kitić, Miloš Jovanović, Milica Randjelović, Jelena Živković, Bojana Miladinović, Nada Ćujić Nikolić, Nenad Stojiljković and Suzana Branković

Plants 2026, 15(3), 504; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030504 - 6 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Bilberry (Vacciniummyrtillus L., Ericaceae) is chiefly valued as an edible plant for its berries, widely consumed as a functional food, whereas the leaves, as agro-waste, remain an underutilized natural source of bioactives. The traditional use of V. myrtillus leaves is well [...] Read more.

Bilberry (Vacciniummyrtillus L., Ericaceae) is chiefly valued as an edible plant for its berries, widely consumed as a functional food, whereas the leaves, as agro-waste, remain an underutilized natural source of bioactives. The traditional use of V. myrtillus leaves is well documented, particularly for managing diabetes and gastrointestinal disorders. However, their potential spasmolytic activity, which could support such uses, remains unexplored. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the spasmolytic potential of V. myrtillus leaf extract on the gastrointestinal tract and to elucidate its underlying mechanism of action. The spray-dried 50% hydroethanolic extract of V. myrtillus leaves, obtained by double percolation, was analyzed using HPLC-DAD. The analysis revealed phenolic acids, with chlorogenic acid as the major compound, and flavonoids, predominantly isoquercitrin. Spasmolytic activity was tested on isolated rat ileum, and the mechanism of action was monitored using models of spontaneous contractions and acetylcholine-, histamine-, CaCl₂⁻, Bay K8644-, L-NAME-, ODQ-, apamin-, BaCl₂⁻, charybdotoxin-, glibenclamide-, TRAM-34-, and quinine-modified contractions. The extract’s activity on isolated ileum strips is primarily mediated via Ca²⁺ channels, cGMP, histamine, and NO pathways. Overall, this study affirms V. myrtillus leaves as a valuable source of phenolic compounds with potential for treating spasmodic gastrointestinal disorders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products of Medicinal Plants: Isolation, Purification and Bioactivity Evaluation)

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18 pages, 2398 KB

Open AccessArticle

Water Availability and Leaf Microstructures Jointly Regulate Dew Absorption in Plants with Different Ecotypes

by Qilong Qiu, Yingying Xu, Jiahe Miao, Yunze Zhao, Hong Jiang, Yingtan Wu and Jinyue Ma

Plants 2026, 15(3), 503; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030503 - 5 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Dew formation occurs frequently and in substantial amounts, serving as an important water source with significant ecological implications for plant growth. Although previous studies have demonstrated that dew can supplement leaf water, quantitative evidence of leaf dew absorption under different dew intensities remains [...] Read more.

Dew formation occurs frequently and in substantial amounts, serving as an important water source with significant ecological implications for plant growth. Although previous studies have demonstrated that dew can supplement leaf water, quantitative evidence of leaf dew absorption under different dew intensities remains limited. In this study, a stable isotope tracer experiment was conducted to quantify dew absorption under varying dew amounts and to analyze absorption rates and influencing factors across different plant species. Results showed that all four species were capable of absorbing dew, mainly due to specialized leaf surface morphology and microstructures. At a dew intensity of 0.1 mm, Tillandsia ionantha, whose leaves are densely covered with shield-like trichomes, exhibited an extremely high dew absorption rate of 92%. In contrast, the leaf surface of purple shamrock (Oxalis triangularis ‘Purpurea’) is covered with abundant hydrophobic trichomes that strongly restrict dew entry, resulting in a very low absorption rate of only 1.43%. Dew absorption varied markedly among species under different dew amounts. Under dew intensities of 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 mm, T. ionantha showed consistently high absorption rates of 92%, 89.60%, and 71.74%, respectively, whereas Epipremnum aureum exhibited much lower rates of 3.72%, 6.15%, and 2.45%. Moreover, under a dew intensity of 0.2 mm, dew absorbed by E. aureum leaves could be transported to the roots, indicating internal redistribution of foliar-absorbed water. Overall, dew represents an important supplementary water source for plants, and interspecific differences in leaf surface morphology and microstructures lead to substantial variation in dew absorption capacity. These findings provide experimental evidence for understanding species-specific strategies of dew utilization and have implications for the efficient use of dew as a water resource. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Ecology)

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23 pages, 1465 KB

Open AccessArticle

Sodium Selenate Under Moderate Salinity Stress Enhances Selenium Concentration and Antioxidant Activity in Dill (Anethum graveolens L.) Across PFAL and Greenhouse Systems

by Cosimo M. Profico, Saeid Hazrati, Andrea Ertani and Silvana Nicola

Plants 2026, 15(3), 502; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030502 - 5 Feb 2026

Viewed by 510

Abstract

Enhancing selenium (Se) content of aromatic plants addresses micronutrient deficiencies affecting billions. Plants are the primary dietary Se source, so biofortification can enhance Se intake. This study examined the effects of Se biofortification with sodium selenate (5 μM Na₂SeO₄) [...] Read more.

Enhancing selenium (Se) content of aromatic plants addresses micronutrient deficiencies affecting billions. Plants are the primary dietary Se source, so biofortification can enhance Se intake. This study examined the effects of Se biofortification with sodium selenate (5 μM Na₂SeO₄) and moderate salinity stress (10 mM sodium chloride NaCl) on dill (Anethum graveolens L.) grown in a Plant Factory with Artificial Lighting using Nutrient Film Technique (NFT-PFAL) or Floating System (FS-PFAL), and in a Greenhouse with FS (FS-GH). Se biofortification and moderate salinity stress did not affect dill yield in any hydroponic system. Plants under combined Se biofortification and salinity stress (Se + NaCl) showed increased Se concentration in leaves of 31.78 mg kg⁻¹, 33.12 mg kg⁻¹, and 23.32 mg kg⁻¹ in NFT-PFAL, FS-PFAL, and FS-GH, respectively, compared to Se alone. Total phenolics content in leaves increased under Se biofortification with salinity stress across all systems, showing 159.57%, 223.13%, and 82.64% increases over control in NFT-PFAL, FS-PFAL, and FS-GH. Oxidative stress enzymes increased in response to Se, NaCl, and combined treatments across systems. FS-GH showed highest ascorbate peroxidase and guaiacol peroxidase activities, while PFAL systems showed lower but comparable activities. This study demonstrates that combining Se biofortification with moderate salinity stress in hydroponic systems can enhance plant functionality and human nutrition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic New Trends and Innovations in Medicinal and Aromatic Plants, and Specialty Crops)

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15 pages, 1617 KB

Open AccessArticle

Metabolomic Profiling of Endophytic Fungi and the Host Plant Annona jahnii Saff. Reveals Shared and Analogous Compounds

by Luciana Araújo Xavier, Cecília Maria Bezerra de Araújo, Gilmar Prado de Sousa, Eduardo Jorge Pilau, Carla Porto, Antonia Queiroz Lima de Souza, Edineide Cristina Alexandre de Souza, Adriana Flach and Luiz Antonio Mendonça Alves da Costa

Plants 2026, 15(3), 501; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030501 - 5 Feb 2026

Viewed by 686

Abstract

Endophytic fungi are a viable option for obtaining metabolites identical or analogous to those produced by the host plant. However, research on the ability of these microorganisms to biosynthesize these metabolites is still scarce, although important to enable their use for this purpose, [...] Read more.

Endophytic fungi are a viable option for obtaining metabolites identical or analogous to those produced by the host plant. However, research on the ability of these microorganisms to biosynthesize these metabolites is still scarce, although important to enable their use for this purpose, contributing to the preservation of the host plant. The metabolomic study of fungal (Penicillium sumatraense, Penicillium miczynskii, Penicillium osmophilum, and Penicillium chermesinum) and plant extracts was carried out using UHPLC/ESI-MS/MS analyses combined with exploratory analysis by Molecular Networking (MN). Antioxidant activity by the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical method was performed on fungal and plant extracts. The exploratory analysis by MN showed 75 MS features that were detected in the fungi and the host plant; of these, four compounds were putatively identified. The analysis showed 539 MS features with structural similarity to both biological matrices. Fungal extracts showed more promising antioxidant activities when compared to the plant extract. UHPLC combined with Molecular Networking proved to be a powerful strategy to guide the identification of microorganisms capable of biosynthesizing metabolites produced by the host plant. The strategy allowed for an early and efficient evaluation of crude extracts and provided unprecedented information regarding the chemical profile of A. jahnii and its endophytic fungi. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mass Spectrometry-Based Approaches in Natural Products Research)

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33 pages, 10036 KB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Synergistic Modulation of Nitrogen and Chemical Regulation: Balancing Photosynthesis and Lodging Resistance for High-Efficiency Maize Production Under Dense Planting

by Xiaoming Liu, Yao Meng, Ling Dong, Yubo Hao, Yang Yu, Guoyi Lv, Yubo Jiang, Yiteng Zhang, Chunrong Qian and Wanrong Gu

Plants 2026, 15(3), 500; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030500 - 5 Feb 2026

Viewed by 310

Abstract

While increasing planting density is a viable strategy for enhancing maize yield, it concurrently elevates the risks of lodging and accelerated leaf senescence due to intensified inter-plant competition, which can ultimately compromise yield stability. A field experiment was conducted in Heilongjiang Province and [...] Read more.

While increasing planting density is a viable strategy for enhancing maize yield, it concurrently elevates the risks of lodging and accelerated leaf senescence due to intensified inter-plant competition, which can ultimately compromise yield stability. A field experiment was conducted in Heilongjiang Province and the study investigated two maize cultivars, JNK728 (Jingnongke 728) and SD5 (Saide 5), under high-density planting conditions (90,000 plants ha⁻¹). The treatments were arranged in a factorial design, incorporating four nitrogen levels (0, 120, 240, and 360 kg N ha⁻¹) in combination with the presence or absence of a chemical regulator (30% diethyl aminoethyl hexanoate · ethephon), with water serving as the control. Results demonstrated that the integration of 240 kg N ha⁻¹ with chemical regulation significantly enhanced photosynthetic capacity—elevating chlorophyll content (SPAD), net photosynthetic rate (Pn), and activities of ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase/oxygenase (RuBPCase) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxylase (PEPCase)—while improving canopy structure through increased leaf area index (LAI) and optimized light distribution. This strategy also reinforced lodging resistance by optimizing plant morphology (reducing plant height and center of gravity), strengthening basal internodes (increasing stem diameter, dry weight per unit length, and mechanical strength), and promoting accumulation of stem structural components (cellulose, hemicellulose, lignin). Additionally, it facilitated post-anthesis nitrogen translocation to grains and up-regulated key nitrogen metabolism enzymes (glutamate synthetase-GS, glutamate dehydrogenase-GDH, and glutamate-pyruvate transaminase-GPT), thereby boosting nitrogen use efficiency. In contrast, excessive nitrogen (360 kg N ha⁻¹) suppressed these benefits and increased lodging. Consequently, the combined application of 240 kg N ha⁻¹ with chemical regulation achieved the highest yield, proving an effective approach for synergistically enhancing photosynthesis, lodging resistance, and nitrogen utilization in high-density maize systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological Ecology and Regulation of High-Yield Maize Cultivation)

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21 pages, 2166 KB

Open AccessArticle

High-Purity Isolation of Polyphosphate-Rich Stabilisomes Defines Their Conserved Chemical Architecture in Thermophilic Cyanobacteria

by Chenyu Wang, Chuyuan Zhou, Xiaohua Song, Jingyun Yin, Mengmeng Wang and Liuyan Yang

Plants 2026, 15(3), 499; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030499 - 5 Feb 2026

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 558

Abstract

Thermophilic cyanobacteria are key models for thermotolerance and a promising source of thermophilic bioresources. Yet the subcellular basis of their stress resilience remains poorly resolved. Here, we focus on intracellular polyphosphate (polyP)-rich granules, termed “stabilisomes,” which have been implicated in stress adaptation. The [...] Read more.

Thermophilic cyanobacteria are key models for thermotolerance and a promising source of thermophilic bioresources. Yet the subcellular basis of their stress resilience remains poorly resolved. Here, we focus on intracellular polyphosphate (polyP)-rich granules, termed “stabilisomes,” which have been implicated in stress adaptation. The lack of a high-purity, structure-preserving isolation method has been a major technical bottleneck hindering the elucidation of this resilience mechanism. This study describes a robust, structure-preserving purification strategy, boosting the granule-to-protein yield by over 10,000-fold compared with conventional methods. The specificity and structural integrity of this method are supported by the specific enrichment of complex proteomic (937 proteins) and metabolomic (1076 metabolites) signatures. Building on this, subsequent quantitative analysis across cyanobacteria at 7 hot spring sampling sites revealed a conserved core chemical composition dominated by polyphosphate (~21–36%), proteins (~10–20%), amino acids (~7–18%), and lipid components (~12–21%). The variability in abundance across species suggests a dynamic adjustment of these stabilizing components consistent with specific micro-environmental conditions. This work provides a robust bioseparation platform for prokaryotic organelles, offering a critical tool for investigating cyanobacterial resilience and developing novel biomaterials. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Resilient Plants and Algae: New Environmental Challenges and Innovative Technological Approaches)

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12 pages, 3011 KB

Open AccessArticle

Changes in Growth and Polyphenol Content of the Rare Plant Persicaria chinensis Cultivated in a Greenhouse During the Growth Period

by Daeho Choi, Yong-Woo Park, Jungmok Kang and Hwayong Lee

Plants 2026, 15(3), 498; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030498 - 5 Feb 2026

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Abstract

The growth characteristics and changes in major polyphenol content of the rare plant Persicaria chinensis cultivated under greenhouse conditions were investigated to evaluate its potential for large-scale cultivation and industrial use. The fresh and dry weights of the leaves and stems were measured [...] Read more.

The growth characteristics and changes in major polyphenol content of the rare plant Persicaria chinensis cultivated under greenhouse conditions were investigated to evaluate its potential for large-scale cultivation and industrial use. The fresh and dry weights of the leaves and stems were measured monthly from May to October, and the corilagin, ellagic acid, geraniin, and neochlorogenic acid contents were analyzed. Leaf fresh and dry weights peaked in June (11.73 ± 4.74 g and 3.02 ± 1.22 g, respectively) and increased again in August thereafter, and subsequently decreased, whereas stem fresh and dry weights continuously increased throughout the cultivation period, reaching 20.06 ± 3.88 g and 7.68 ± 1.55 g, respectively, in October. The polyphenol content in leaves was generally highest in June and then declined. In September, the contents of corilagin and ellagic acid showed marked increases, reaching 10.34 ± 4.13 mg/g and 7.26 ± 3.78 mg/g, respectively. In the stems, the polyphenol content was lower than that in the leaves and showed a decreasing trend after the early cultivation stage. Correlation analysis revealed weak relationships between biomass and polyphenol content in the leaves, whereas strong positive correlations among polyphenols and negative correlations between stem growth and polyphenol content were observed in the stems. These results demonstrate that stable greenhouse cultivation of P. chinensis and the accumulation of functional compounds are feasible and provide fundamental information for the development of cultivation strategies, including appropriate fertilization and environmental management, aimed at functional raw material production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Analysis of Phenolic Compounds and Antioxidant Capacity in Native Plants: Characterization and Biological Effects)

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21 pages, 3294 KB

Open AccessArticle

Silicon Modulates the Chloroplast Proteome to Enhance Drought Tolerance in Soybean

by Amandeep Kaur, Saroj Kumar Sah, Kambham Raja Reddy and Jiaxu Li

Plants 2026, 15(3), 497; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030497 - 5 Feb 2026

Viewed by 1416

Abstract

Soybeans are highly susceptible to drought stress, which significantly impairs their growth and yield. Silicon (Si) supplementation has emerged as a promising strategy to mitigate drought-induced damage in plants. We investigated changes in the physiological and chloroplast proteomes in soybeans under drought stress, [...] Read more.

Soybeans are highly susceptible to drought stress, which significantly impairs their growth and yield. Silicon (Si) supplementation has emerged as a promising strategy to mitigate drought-induced damage in plants. We investigated changes in the physiological and chloroplast proteomes in soybeans under drought stress, both with and without Si supplementation. Soybean plants were grown under controlled conditions and subjected to drought stress. The treatments included Si application (sodium silicate), sodium chloride control, and water control. Chloroplast proteins were extracted from control and Si-treated plants and analyzed using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. Plants treated with Si showed improved drought tolerance, exhibiting reduced leaf rolling and wilting, while the control plants experienced significant wilting under drought conditions. Photosynthetic performance, measured by quantum efficiency of photosystem II and chlorophyll content, was better maintained in Si-supplemented plants under drought. However, stomatal conductance and transpiration were similarly reduced across all drought treatments. We detected 15 Si-responsive protein spots corresponding to 13 unique chloroplast proteins that were differentially expressed in response to Si supplementation. These identified proteins include those involved in photosynthesis, such as Rubisco activase isoforms, oxygen-evolving enhancer proteins, and PsbP domain-containing protein, as well as stress response proteins like dehydrin and 20 kDa chaperonin. Si treatment upregulated Rubisco activase isoforms, oxygen-evolving enhancer proteins, PsbP domain-containing protein, and 20 kDa chaperonin, which are typically reduced under drought. Si treatment maintained a higher glutamine synthetase level under drought stress. Gene ontology and KEGG pathway analyses revealed that Si-modulated proteins are associated with photosynthesis, energy metabolism, and nitrogen metabolism under drought stress. Our findings demonstrate that Si supplementation alleviates drought stress in soybean by preserving chloroplast function and enhancing the expression of photosynthetic proteins and enzymes, as well as key stress-responsive proteins. This research provides insights into the molecular mechanisms of Si-induced drought tolerance in soybeans and highlights potential targets for developing drought-resilient soybean cultivars. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Soybean Research: From Genetics to Climate Resilience and Sustainable Production)

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6 pages, 194 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Time Travel Within the History of Ethnobotany

by Raivo Kalle and Renata Sõukand

Plants 2026, 15(3), 496; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030496 - 5 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Currently, science is increasingly being influenced by artificial intelligence (AI) [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Historical Ethnobotany: Interpreting the Old Records—2nd Edition)

11 pages, 1100 KB

Open AccessCommunication

Extremely Low Frequency Radiation Enhances Soybean Chlorophyll Index and Nutrient Use Efficiency Under Suboptimal Conditions

by Fernanda Miotti, Rodrigo Lemos Lovato, Luzo Dantas Júnior, Adriana Sturion Lorenzi, Tiago Tezotto and Ricardo Ferraz de Oliveira

Plants 2026, 15(3), 495; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030495 - 5 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Management practices that optimize physiological responses of crops can be applied in agriculture to achieve higher productivity in challenging environments limited by nutrient availability. Extremely Low Frequency (ELF), a type of non-ionizing radiation in the range of 0.3 to 300 Hz, interacts with [...] Read more.

Management practices that optimize physiological responses of crops can be applied in agriculture to achieve higher productivity in challenging environments limited by nutrient availability. Extremely Low Frequency (ELF), a type of non-ionizing radiation in the range of 0.3 to 300 Hz, interacts with biological systems and has potential applications in sustainable agriculture. This study evaluates the effects of ELF on morphophysiological parameters of soybean plants during the vegetative stage. Plants grown under controlled conditions were subjected to ELF treatments—Control, TA (which increases interatomic spacing), and TB (which decreases interatomic spacing)—in combination with three nutrient solution strengths (50%, 75%, and 100% of the Hoagland solution). Chlorophyll index, root and shoot length, and dry mass were measured at the end of experiment. ELF treatment significantly enhanced chlorophyll index, with treatment TB showing the greatest increase. This may suggest improved nutrient assimilation of key nutrients such as nitrogen and magnesium, which are critical for chlorophyll synthesis. These findings demonstrate the potential of ELF treatment to enhance plant physiological performance, even under nutrient-limited conditions. When combined with nutrient solutions, ELF exposure may promote plant health and growth by increasing chlorophyll index and may improve nutrient uptake. This approach represents a promising and sustainable strategy to boost crop productivity and resource use efficiency in agricultural systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Plant Physiology and Metabolism)

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17 pages, 1921 KB

Open AccessArticle

Stomatal Features, Specific Leaf Area and Water Relations in Three Pistachio Cultivars

by Sara Álvarez, Lidia Núñez and José Manuel Mirás-Avalos

Plants 2026, 15(3), 494; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030494 - 5 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Stomatal traits are determinants of plant water relations and may differ among cultivars within a given species. These features have been rarely studied in tree crops, such as pistachio (Pistacia vera L.), the cultivation of which is expanding in several Mediterranean countries [...] Read more.

Stomatal traits are determinants of plant water relations and may differ among cultivars within a given species. These features have been rarely studied in tree crops, such as pistachio (Pistacia vera L.), the cultivation of which is expanding in several Mediterranean countries due to its economics revenues. Therefore, this study aims at characterizing several stomata features (length, width, surface, and density) in three pistachio cultivars (Golden Hills, Lost Hills, and Kerman) growing in Central Spain. In addition, the relationships between these traits and gas exchange and stem water potential (Ψ_s) measurements were explored over the 2025 growing season. Kerman trees had more negative Ψ_s values than the other cultivars when atmospheric demand was high, which translated into lower stomatal conductance and net photosynthesis values. This coincided with lower stomatal density and specific leaf area in Kerman. However, stomata were bigger in Kerman than in the other cultivars. When compared over the course of the day, stomatal conductance in the abaxial leaf surface was, approximately, 70% greater than that observed on the adaxial side of the leaves in the three cultivars. These findings provide relevant insights for understanding the regulation of water relations in this species, which may serve for planning new plantations. Full article

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

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21 pages, 1310 KB

Open AccessArticle

Spring Warming Impact on the Reproductive and Vegetative Phenology and Biomass of Two Olive Cultivars in Argentina

by Leila M. Hamze, Peter S. Searles, Maria Agustina Iglesias and M. Cecilia Rousseaux

Plants 2026, 15(3), 493; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030493 - 5 Feb 2026

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Abstract

Olive cultivation in warm regions is likely to be vulnerable to the expected temperature increases associated with climate change. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of experimental warming at the end of late winter and spring on the timing [...] Read more.

Olive cultivation in warm regions is likely to be vulnerable to the expected temperature increases associated with climate change. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the effects of experimental warming at the end of late winter and spring on the timing of phenological stages, the duration of developmental periods, plant growth, and biomass production. The experiment was conducted in control (T0) and warmed (+4 °C, T+) open-top chambers (OTCs) during 2018 and 2019 using two olive cultivars (‘Arbequina’, ‘Coratina’) in northwest Argentina. Warming generally led to statistically significant earlier inflorescence development, flowering, fruit set, and pit hardening, with the responses being more pronounced as the spring progressed. Earlier vegetative bud opening occurred due to warming in 2018, but not in 2019. Additionally, no differences in shoot elongation or aboveground biomass were observed due to warming at the end of spring in either 2018 or 2019. Fruit set was reduced by warming, particularly in ‘Coratina’. Overall, the experimental results show that reproductive development is more sensitive to warming than vegetative growth in young olive trees. Further studies should be conducted in a larger number of olive cultivars and regions to improve our ability to predict responses to global warming. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Water Stress and Climate Warming on Crop Growth, Physiology and Yield)

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20 pages, 3541 KB

Open AccessArticle

Habitat and Canopy Position Influence Leaf Traits and Trait-Associations of a Large-Sized Leguminous Herb (Crotalaria spectabilis)

by Cheng Wang, Ji-Yuan Liu, Xin-Yue Jin, Meng-Ting Wang, Duo-Qi Zhou and Ye Tao

Plants 2026, 15(3), 492; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030492 - 5 Feb 2026

Viewed by 421

Abstract

C. spectabilis (Crotalaria spectabilis), a large leguminous herb species, is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions, and it has important ecological and economic values. However, the ecological adaptation of the major leaf functional traits of the species across different habitats [...] Read more.

C. spectabilis (Crotalaria spectabilis), a large leguminous herb species, is widely distributed in tropical and subtropical regions, and it has important ecological and economic values. However, the ecological adaptation of the major leaf functional traits of the species across different habitats and canopy positions remains poorly understood. To address this gap, we sampled leaves from the upper, middle, and lower canopy positions in two common habitats—forest understory and exposed land—and quantified key leaf traits as well as trait–trait relationships to assess differences. The results showed that irradiance and air temperature were significantly lower in the understory than in exposed land, whereas soil moisture and relative humidity were higher, indicating that habitat exerted a stronger influence on leaf traits than canopy position. Canopy position also significantly affected most traits and showed significant interactions with habitat. In exposed land, middle plants exhibited higher individual leaf dry mass (180.049 ± 68.480 mg), larger vein diameter (1.692 ± 0.288 mm), and longer petioles (5.406 ± 0.940 mm). These traits were accompanied by a higher morphology-based leaf dry matter accumulation rate and greater stability of the leaf-trait network, reflecting an adaptive strategy characterized by increased structural investment. In contrast, understory middle leaves were generally longer (13.361 ± 2.714 cm) and wider (7.005 ± 1.464 cm), along with lower photosynthate accumulation rates and weaker trait-network stability, indicating a strategy that enhances light-use efficiency under low-light conditions. In both habitats, leaves from the middle canopy position generally exhibited the highest values for most measured traits. Overall, leaf traits of C. spectabilis and their interrelationships showed considerable plasticity in response to external environmental pressures, primarily differences in light availability. However, from a practical production perspective, minimizing shading is recommended to maximize its ecological benefits. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Ecology)

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19 pages, 1592 KB

Open AccessArticle

Utilizing Tea Plant Synomones to Attract Encarsia smithi for Suppressing Aleurocanthus spiniferus in Tea Plantations

by Yiqi Wu, Shanjie Han, Peizhen Fan, Huoxiang Ye, Yanjun Cheng, Yue’er Liang, Xinqiang Zheng, Jianliang Lu and Baoyu Han

Plants 2026, 15(3), 491; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants15030491 - 5 Feb 2026

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Abstract

The citrus spiny whitefly, Aleurocanthus spiniferus Quaintance (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), is an important pest of tea, Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze (Theales: Theaceae). Parasitic wasp, Encarsia smithi Silvestri (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), is one of the dominant natural enemies of the whitefly. Generally, the whitefly produces four [...] Read more.

The citrus spiny whitefly, Aleurocanthus spiniferus Quaintance (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae), is an important pest of tea, Camellia sinensis (L.) Kuntze (Theales: Theaceae). Parasitic wasp, Encarsia smithi Silvestri (Hymenoptera: Aphelinidae), is one of the dominant natural enemies of the whitefly. Generally, the whitefly produces four generations per year in Chinese tea plant growing areas. The wasp adult stages are basically synchronized with the nymphal stages of the whitefly. In an indoor Y-tube olfactometer bioassay, odors from both whitefly-pierced tea leaves and adjacent intact tea leaves significantly attracted the wasps, with elevated amounts of trans-2-hexenal and methyl salicylate (MeSA) detected from these two types of tea leaves. A four-arm olfactometer bioassay verified that these two compounds and their binary blends significantly attracted the wasps. Bud green sticky boards baited with trans-2-hexenal (10⁻² g mL⁻¹), MeSA (10⁻² g mL⁻¹), and five blends of trans-2-hexenal and MeSA (1:1, 2:1, 3:1, 4:1 and 5:1, respectively, v/v) at 10⁻² g mL⁻¹ in hexane solutions captured significantly more wasps than did the un-baited boards, with the 3:1 blend catching the highest number of wasps. To enhance whitefly parasitism by the wasps, from early April to early August, the Attractant 2 lures (each holding a total mass of 80 mg of the 3:1 blend) were hung on tea branches and refreshed every 30 days. Deployment of the controlled release synomone-based attractant lures resulted in 2–3 fold higher parasitism rates by the wasps in the treated plots/sections than those in the CK plots/sections during both the peak periods of whitefly pupae of generation 2 from late July to early August and generation 3 in late August. This study demonstrated that herbivore-induced tea volatiles can be formulated as a synomone-based lure for controlling the whitefly through attracting E. smithi in tea plantations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Protection and Biotic Interactions)

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Plants, Volume 15, Issue 3 (February-1 2026) – 180 articles

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