Plants

32 pages, 6024 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Forest Orchids under Future Climate Scenarios: Habitat Suitability Modelling to Inform Conservation Strategies

by Antonio Pica, Daniele Vela and Sara Magrini

Plants 2024, 13(13), 1810; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13131810 - 30 Jun 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2544

Orchidaceae is one of the largest and most diverse families of flowering plants in the world but also one of the most threatened. Climate change is a global driver of plant distribution and may be the cause of their disappearance in some regions. [...] Read more.

Orchidaceae is one of the largest and most diverse families of flowering plants in the world but also one of the most threatened. Climate change is a global driver of plant distribution and may be the cause of their disappearance in some regions. Forest orchids are associated with specific biotic and abiotic environmental factors, that influence their local presence/absence. Changes in these conditions can lead to significant differences in species distribution. We studied three forest orchids belonging to different genera (Cephalanthera, Epipactis and Limodorum) for their potential current and future distribution in a protected area (PA) of the Northern Apennines. A Habitat Suitability Model was constructed for each species based on presence-only data and the Maximum Entropy algorithm (MaxEnt) was used for the modelling. Climatic, edaphic, topographic, anthropogenic and land cover variables were used as environmental predictors and processed in the model. The aim is to identify the environmental factors that most influence the current species distribution and the areas that are likely to contain habitats suitable for providing refuge for forest orchids and ensuring their survival under future scenarios. This will allow PA authorities to decide whether to invest more resources in conserving areas that are potential refuges for threatened species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Responses of Plants and Plant Communities to Environmental Changes in Mountain Areas)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1916 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Impacts of Drought on Photosynthesis in Major Food Crops and the Related Mechanisms of Plant Responses to Drought

by Meiyu Qiao, Conghao Hong, Yongjuan Jiao, Sijia Hou and Hongbo Gao

Plants 2024, 13(13), 1808; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13131808 - 30 Jun 2024

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 6436

Abstract

Drought stress is one of the most critical threats to crop productivity and global food security. This review addresses the multiple effects of drought on the process of photosynthesis in major food crops. Affecting both light-dependent and light-independent reactions, drought leads to severe [...] Read more.

Drought stress is one of the most critical threats to crop productivity and global food security. This review addresses the multiple effects of drought on the process of photosynthesis in major food crops. Affecting both light-dependent and light-independent reactions, drought leads to severe damage to photosystems and blocks the electron transport chain. Plants face a CO₂ shortage provoked by stomatal closure, which triggers photorespiration; not only does it reduce carbon fixation efficiency, but it also causes lower overall photosynthetic output. Drought-induced oxidative stress generates reactive oxygen species (ROS) that damage cellular structures, including chloroplasts, further impairing photosynthetic productivity. Plants have evolved a variety of adaptive strategies to alleviate these effects. Non-photochemical quenching (NPQ) mechanisms help dissipate excess light energy as heat, protecting the photosynthetic apparatus under drought conditions. Alternative electron pathways, such as cyclical electron transmission and chloroplast respiration, maintain energy balance and prevent over-reduction of the electron transport chain. Hormones, especially abscisic acid (ABA), ethylene, and cytokinin, modulate stomatal conductance, chlorophyll content, and osmotic adjustment, further increasing the tolerance to drought. Structural adjustments, such as leaf reordering and altered root architecture, also strengthen tolerance. Understanding these complex interactions and adaptive strategies is essential for developing drought-resistant crop varieties and ensuring agricultural sustainability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanism of Drought and Salinity Tolerance in Crops)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 4744 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Essential Oils on Biological Characteristics and Potential Molecular Targets in Spodoptera frugiperda

by Júlia A. C. Oliveira, Letícia A. Fernandes, Karolina G. Figueiredo, Eduardo J. A. Corrêa, Leonardo H. F. Lima, Dejane S. Alves, Suzan K. V. Bertolucci and Geraldo A. Carvalho

Plants 2024, 13(13), 1801; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13131801 - 29 Jun 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1417

Abstract

Spodoptera frugiperda control methods have proved to be inefficient, which justifies the search for new control measures. In this search for botanical insecticides for controlling S. frugiperda, the following were evaluated: (i) the toxicity of essential oils (EOs) from Cinnamodendron dinisii, [...] Read more.

Spodoptera frugiperda control methods have proved to be inefficient, which justifies the search for new control measures. In this search for botanical insecticides for controlling S. frugiperda, the following were evaluated: (i) the toxicity of essential oils (EOs) from Cinnamodendron dinisii, Eugenia uniflora, and Melaleuca armillaris; (ii) the effect of EOs on life table parameters against S. frugiperda; (iii) the chemical characterization of EOs; and (iv) the in silico interaction of the chemical constituents present in the three EOs with the molecular targets of S. frugiperda. The EO from E. uniflora had the lowest LD₅₀ (1.19 µg of EO/caterpillar). The major compounds bicyclogermacrene (18.64%) in C. dinisii and terpinolene (57.75%) in M. armillaris are highly predicted to interact with the octopamine receptor (OctpR). The compound 1,8-cineole (21.81%) in M. armillaris interacts mainly with a tolerant methoprene receptor (MET) and curzerene (41.22%) in E. uniflora, which acts on the OctpR receptor. Minor compounds, such as nerolidol in C. dinisii and β-elemene in E. uniflora, are highly ranked for multiple targets: AChE, MET, OctpR, and 5-HT1. It was concluded that the EO from E. uniflora negatively affects several biological parameters of S. frugiperda development and is promising as an active ingredient in formulations for controlling this insect pest. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Topics in Botanical Biopesticides—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 1186 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

When Size Matters: New Insights on How Seed Size Can Contribute to the Early Stages of Plant Development

by Alessandra Boccaccini, Sara Cimini, Hira Kazmi, Andrea Lepri, Chiara Longo, Riccardo Lorrai and Paola Vittorioso

Plants 2024, 13(13), 1793; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13131793 - 28 Jun 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2396

Abstract

The seed habit is the most complex and successful method of sexual reproduction in vascular plants. It represents a remarkable moment in the evolution of plants that afterward spread on land. In particular, seed size had a pivotal role in evolutionary success and [...] Read more.

The seed habit is the most complex and successful method of sexual reproduction in vascular plants. It represents a remarkable moment in the evolution of plants that afterward spread on land. In particular, seed size had a pivotal role in evolutionary success and agronomic traits, especially in the field of crop domestication. Given that crop seeds constitute one of the primary products for consumption, it follows that seed size represents a fundamental determinant of crop yield. This adaptative feature is strictly controlled by genetic traits from both maternal and zygotic tissues, although seed development and growth are also affected by environmental cues. Despite being a highly exploited topic for both basic and applied research, there are still many issues to be elucidated for developmental biology as well as for agronomic science. This review addresses a number of open questions related to cues that influence seed growth and size and how they influence seed germination. Moreover, new insights on the genetic–molecular control of this adaptive trait are presented. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Molecular Basis of Plant Developmental Diversity)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1075 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Significance and Applications of the Thermo-Acidophilic Microalga Galdieria sulphuraria (Cyanidiophytina, Rhodophyta)

by Berhan Retta, Manuela Iovinella and Claudia Ciniglia

Plants 2024, 13(13), 1786; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13131786 - 27 Jun 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3144

Abstract

Galdieria sulphuraria is a thermo-acidophilic microalga belonging to the Cyanidiophyceae (Rhodophyta) class. It thrives in extreme environments, such as geothermal sulphuric springs, with low pH, high temperatures, and high salinity. This microalga utilises various growth modes, including autotrophic, heterotrophic, and mixotrophic, enabling it [...] Read more.

Galdieria sulphuraria is a thermo-acidophilic microalga belonging to the Cyanidiophyceae (Rhodophyta) class. It thrives in extreme environments, such as geothermal sulphuric springs, with low pH, high temperatures, and high salinity. This microalga utilises various growth modes, including autotrophic, heterotrophic, and mixotrophic, enabling it to exploit diverse organic carbon sources. Remarkably, G. sulphuraria survives and produces a range of bioactive compounds in these harsh conditions. Moreover, it plays a significant role in environmental remediation by removing nutrients, pathogens, and heavy metals from various wastewater sources. It can also recover rare earth elements from mining wastewater and electronic waste. This review article explores the diverse applications and significant contributions of G. sulphuraria. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiology and Evolution of Microalgae under Extreme Environments)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 6668 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

CaMAPK1 Plays a Vital Role in the Regulation of Resistance to Ralstonia solanacearum Infection and Tolerance to Heat Stress

by Lanping Shi, Wei Shi, Zhengkun Qiu, Shuangshuang Yan, Zhiqin Liu and Bihao Cao

Plants 2024, 13(13), 1775; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13131775 - 27 Jun 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1331

Abstract

As an important member of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, MAPKs play an important role in plant defense response against biotic and abiotic stresses; however, the involvement of the majority of the MAPK family members against Ralstonia solanacearum and heat stress (HS) remains [...] Read more.

As an important member of mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades, MAPKs play an important role in plant defense response against biotic and abiotic stresses; however, the involvement of the majority of the MAPK family members against Ralstonia solanacearum and heat stress (HS) remains poorly understood. In the present study, CaMAPK1 was identified from the genome of pepper and its function against R. solanacearum and HS was analyzed. The transcript accumulations of CaMAPK1 and the activities of its native promoter were both significantly induced by R. solanacearum inoculation, HS, and the application of exogenous hormones, including SA, MeJA, and ABA. Transient expression of CaMAPK1 showed that CaMAPK1 can be targeted throughout the whole cells in Nicotiana benthamiana and triggered chlorosis and hypersensitive response-like cell death in pepper leaves, accompanied by the accumulation of H₂O₂, and the up-regulations of hormones- and H₂O₂-associated marker genes. The knock-down of CaMAPK1 enhanced the susceptibility to R. solanacearum partially by down-regulating the expression of hormones- and H₂O₂-related genes and impairing the thermotolerance of pepper probably by attenuating CaHSFA2 and CaHSP70-1 transcripts. Taken together, our results revealed that CaMAPK1 is regulated by SA, JA, and ABA signaling and coordinates responses to R. solanacearum infection and HS in pepper. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant–Microbe Interaction)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1398 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Improved Protoplast Production Protocol for Fungal Transformations Mediated by CRISPR/Cas9 in Botrytis cinerea Non-Sporulating Isolates

by Víctor Coca-Ruiz, Nuria Cabrera-Gómez, Isidro G. Collado and Josefina Aleu

Plants 2024, 13(13), 1754; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13131754 - 25 Jun 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 3342

Abstract

Botrytis cinerea is a necrotrophic fungus that causes considerable economic losses in commercial crops. Fungi of the genus Botrytis exhibit great morphological and genetic variability, ranging from non-sporogenic and non-infective isolates to highly virulent sporogenic ones. There is growing interest in the different [...] Read more.

Botrytis cinerea is a necrotrophic fungus that causes considerable economic losses in commercial crops. Fungi of the genus Botrytis exhibit great morphological and genetic variability, ranging from non-sporogenic and non-infective isolates to highly virulent sporogenic ones. There is growing interest in the different isolates in terms of their methodological applications aimed at gaining a deeper understanding of the biology of these fungal species for more efficient control of the infections they cause. This article describes an improvement in the protoplast production protocol from non-sporogenic isolates, resulting in viable protoplasts with regenerating capacity. The method improvements consist of a two-day incubation period with mycelium plugs and orbital shaking. Special mention is made of our preference for the VinoTaste Pro enzyme in the KC buffer as a replacement for Glucanex, as it enhances the efficacy of protoplast isolation in B459 and B371 isolates. The methodology described here has proven to be very useful for biotechnological applications such as genetic transformations mediated by the CRISPR/Cas9 tool. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 10363 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Influence of Climate Change on the Distribution of Hibiscus mutabilis in China: MaxEnt Model-Based Prediction

by Lu Zhang, Beibei Jiang, Yu Meng, Yin Jia, Qian Xu and Yuanzhi Pan

Plants 2024, 13(13), 1744; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13131744 - 24 Jun 2024

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1658

Abstract

Our study utilized 374 geographical distribution records of H. mutabilis and 19 bioclimatic factors, employing the MaxEnt model and the Geographic Information System (ArcGIS). The key environmental variables influencing the suitable distribution areas of H. mutabilis were analyzed through the comprehensive contribution rate, [...] Read more.

Our study utilized 374 geographical distribution records of H. mutabilis and 19 bioclimatic factors, employing the MaxEnt model and the Geographic Information System (ArcGIS). The key environmental variables influencing the suitable distribution areas of H. mutabilis were analyzed through the comprehensive contribution rate, permutation importance, and Pearson correlation coefficient. Based on this analysis, the contemporary and future suitable distribution areas and their extents were predicted. The results indicate that the key limiting factor affecting the suitable distribution areas of H. mutabilis is the precipitation of the driest month (bio14), with secondary factors being annual precipitation (bio12), annual mean temperature (bio1), and annual temperature range (bio7). Under contemporary climate conditions, the total suitable area for H. mutabilis is approximately 2,076,600 km², primarily concentrated in the tropical and subtropical regions of southeastern China. Under low-to-medium-emission scenarios (SSP1-2.6, SSP2-4.5), the total suitable area of H. mutabilis shows a trend of first decreasing and then increasing compared to the current scenario. In contrast, under high-emission scenarios (SSP5-8.5), it exhibits a trend of first increasing and then decreasing. The spatial pattern changes indicate that the retention rate of suitable areas for H. mutabilis ranges from 95.28% to 99.28%, with the distribution centers primarily located in Hunan and Guizhou provinces, showing an overall migration trend towards the west and north. These findings suggest that H. mutabilis possesses a certain level of adaptability to climate change. However, it is crucial to consider regional drought and sudden drought events in practical cultivation and introduction processes. The results of our study provide a scientific basis for the rational cultivation management, conservation, and utilization of germplasm resources of H. mutabilis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Responses to a Changing Climate: Ecological and Evolutionary Perspectives)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 3153 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Wheat Fusarium Head Blight Automatic Non-Destructive Detection Based on Multi-Scale Imaging: A Technical Perspective

by Guoqing Feng, Ying Gu, Cheng Wang, Yanan Zhou, Shuo Huang and Bin Luo

Plants 2024, 13(13), 1722; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13131722 - 21 Jun 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1820

Abstract

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a major threat to global wheat production. Recent reviews of wheat FHB focused on pathology or comprehensive prevention and lacked a summary of advanced detection techniques. Unlike traditional detection and management methods, wheat FHB detection based on various [...] Read more.

Fusarium head blight (FHB) is a major threat to global wheat production. Recent reviews of wheat FHB focused on pathology or comprehensive prevention and lacked a summary of advanced detection techniques. Unlike traditional detection and management methods, wheat FHB detection based on various imaging technologies has the obvious advantages of a high degree of automation and efficiency. With the rapid development of computer vision and deep learning technology, the number of related research has grown explosively in recent years. This review begins with an overview of wheat FHB epidemic mechanisms and changes in the characteristics of infected wheat. On this basis, the imaging scales are divided into microscopic, medium, submacroscopic, and macroscopic scales. Then, we outline the recent relevant articles, algorithms, and methodologies about wheat FHB from disease detection to qualitative analysis and summarize the potential difficulties in the practicalization of the corresponding technology. This paper could provide researchers with more targeted technical support and breakthrough directions. Additionally, this paper provides an overview of the ideal application mode of the FHB detection technologies based on multi-scale imaging and then examines the development trend of the all-scale detection system, which paved the way for the fusion of non-destructive detection technologies of wheat FHB based on multi-scale imaging. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Modeling)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2198 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Increasing Hybrid Rice Yield, Water Productivity, and Nitrogen Use Efficiency: Optimization Strategies for Irrigation and Fertilizer Management

by Haijun Zhu, Xiaoe He, Xuehua Wang and Pan Long

Plants 2024, 13(12), 1717; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13121717 - 20 Jun 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2320

Abstract

Water and fertilizer are crucial in rice growth, with irrigation and fertilizer management exhibiting synergies. In a two-year field study conducted in Yiyang City, Hunan Province, we examined the impact of three irrigation strategies—wet-shallow irrigation (W1), flooding irrigation (W2), and the “thin, shallow, [...] Read more.

Water and fertilizer are crucial in rice growth, with irrigation and fertilizer management exhibiting synergies. In a two-year field study conducted in Yiyang City, Hunan Province, we examined the impact of three irrigation strategies—wet-shallow irrigation (W1), flooding irrigation (W2), and the “thin, shallow, wet, dry irrigation” method (W3)—in combination with distinct fertilizer treatments (labeled F1, F2, F3, and F4, with nitrogen application rates of 0, 180, 225, and 270 kg ha⁻¹, respectively) on rice yield generation and water–fertilizer utilization patterns. The study employed Hybrid Rice Xin Xiang Liang you 1751 (XXLY1751) and Yue Liang you Mei Xiang Xin Zhan (YLYMXXZ) as representative rice cultivars. Key findings from the research include water, fertilizer, variety, and year treatments, which all significantly influenced the yield components of rice. Compared to W2, W1 in 2022 reduced the amount of irrigation water by 35.2%, resulting in a 42.0~42.8% increase in irrigation water productivity and a 25.7~25.9% increase in total water productivity. In 2023, similar improvements were seen. Specifically, compared with other treatments, the W1F3 treatment increased nitrogen uptake and harvest index by 1.4–7.7% and 5.9–7.7%, respectively. Phosphorus and potassium uptake also improved. The W1 treatment enhanced the uptake, accumulation, and translocation of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium nutrients throughout the rice growth cycle, increasing nutrient levels in the grains. When paired with the F3 fertilization approach, W1 treatment boosted yields and improved nutrient use efficiency. Consequently, combining W1 and F3 treatment emerged as this study’s optimal water–fertilizer management approach. By harnessing the combined effects of water and fertilizer management, we can ensure efficient resource utilization and maximize the productive potential of rice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Strategies to Improve Water-Use Efficiency in Plant Production)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2524 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Silicon Dioxide Nanoparticles-Based Amelioration of Cd Toxicity by Regulating Antioxidant Activity and Photosynthetic Parameters in a Line Developed from Wild Rice

by Humera Ashraf, Fozia Ghouri, Jiabin Liang, Weiwei Xia, Zhiming Zheng, Muhammad Qasim Shahid and Xuelin Fu

Plants 2024, 13(12), 1715; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13121715 - 20 Jun 2024

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1755

Abstract

An extremely hazardous heavy metal called cadmium (Cd) is frequently released into the soil, causing a considerable reduction in plant productivity and safety. In an effort to reduce the toxicity of Cd, silicon dioxide nanoparticles were chosen because of their capability to react [...] Read more.

An extremely hazardous heavy metal called cadmium (Cd) is frequently released into the soil, causing a considerable reduction in plant productivity and safety. In an effort to reduce the toxicity of Cd, silicon dioxide nanoparticles were chosen because of their capability to react with metallic substances and decrease their adsorption. This study examines the processes that underlie the stress caused by Cd and how SiO₂NPs may be able to lessen it through modifying antioxidant defense, oxidative stress, and photosynthesis. A 100 μM concentration of Cd stress was applied to the hydroponically grown wild rice line, and 50 μM of silicon dioxide nanoparticles (SiO₂NPs) was given. The study depicted that when 50 μM SiO₂NPs was applied, there was a significant decrease in Cd uptake in both roots and shoots by 30.2% and 15.8% under 100 μM Cd stress, respectively. The results illustrated that Cd had a detrimental effect on carotenoid and chlorophyll levels and other growth-related traits. Additionally, it increased the levels of ROS in plants, which reduced the antioxidant capability by 18.8% (SOD), 39.2% (POD), 32.6% (CAT), and 25.01% (GR) in wild rice. Nevertheless, the addition of silicon dioxide nanoparticles reduced oxidative damage and the overall amount of Cd uptake, which lessened the toxicity caused by Cd. Reduced formation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), including MDA and H₂O₂, and an increased defense system of antioxidants in the plants provided evidence for this. Moreover, SiO₂NPs enhanced the Cd resistance, upregulated the genes related to antioxidants and silicon, and reduced metal transporters’ expression levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stresses in Cereals)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 6001 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Overexpression of Abscisic Acid Biosynthesis Gene OsNCED3 Enhances Survival Rate and Tolerance to Alkaline Stress in Rice Seedlings

by Zhonghui Feng, Yang Xu, Zhiming Xie, Yaqiong Yang, Guanru Lu, Yangyang Jin, Mingming Wang, Miao Liu, Haoyu Yang, Weiqiang Li and Zhengwei Liang

Plants 2024, 13(12), 1713; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13121713 - 20 Jun 2024

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1926

Abstract

Alkaline stress with high pH levels could significantly influence plant growth and survival. The enzyme 9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase (NCED) serves as a critical bottleneck in the biosynthesis of abscisic acid (ABA), making it essential for regulating stress tolerance. Here, we show that OsNCED3-overexpressing [...] Read more.

Alkaline stress with high pH levels could significantly influence plant growth and survival. The enzyme 9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase (NCED) serves as a critical bottleneck in the biosynthesis of abscisic acid (ABA), making it essential for regulating stress tolerance. Here, we show that OsNCED3-overexpressing rice lines have increased ABA content by up to 50.90% and improved transcription levels of numerous genes involved in stress responses that significantly enhance seedling survival rates. Overexpression of OsNCED3 increased the dry weight contents of the total chlorophyll, proline, soluble sugar, starch, and the activities of antioxidant enzymes of rice seedlings, while reducing the contents of O₂·⁻, H₂O₂, and malondialdehyde under hydroponic alkaline stress conditions simulated by 10, 15, and 20 mmol L⁻¹ of Na₂CO₃. Additionally, the OsNCED3-overexpressing rice lines exhibited a notable increase in the expression of OsNCED3; ABA response-related genes OsSalT and OsWsi18; ion homeostasis-related genes OsAKT1, OsHKT1;5, OsSOS1, and OsNHX5; and ROS scavenging-related genes OsCu/Zn-SOD, OsFe-SOD, OsPOX1, OsCATA, OsCATB, and OsAPX1 in rice seedling leaves. The results of these findings suggest that overexpression of OsNCED3 upregulates endogenous ABA levels and the expression of stress response genes, which represents an innovative molecular approach for enhancing the alkaline tolerance of rice seedlings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Responses of Crops to Abiotic Stress)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2581 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Chlorella vulgaris and Tetradesmus obliquus Protect Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) against Fusarium oxysporum

by Catarina Viana, Méanne Genevace, Florinda Gama, Luísa Coelho, Hugo Pereira, João Varela and Mário Reis

Plants 2024, 13(12), 1697; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13121697 - 19 Jun 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1649

Abstract

Chlorella vulgaris and Tetradesmus obliquus were tested as biocontrol agents against the phytopathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum. This evaluation was conducted through in vitro and in vivo trials with spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.). The in vitro trials showed that C. vulgaris and [...] Read more.

Chlorella vulgaris and Tetradesmus obliquus were tested as biocontrol agents against the phytopathogenic fungus Fusarium oxysporum. This evaluation was conducted through in vitro and in vivo trials with spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.). The in vitro trials showed that C. vulgaris and T. obliquus were able to inhibit the phytopathogen, showing a similar inhibitory effect to that of the positive controls (Rovral, BASF^® and Biocontrol T34, Biocontrol Technologies^® S.L.). C. vulgaris aqueous suspensions at 3.0 g L⁻¹ led to a hyphal growth of 0.55 cm, each corresponding to a reduction of 63% of fungal growth. With T. obliquus, the hyphal growth was 0.53 cm when applied at a concentration of 0.75 g L⁻¹, having an inhibition of fungus growth of 64%. Thereafter, these results were validated in an in vivo trial on spinach using the same controls. The results revealed a lower severity and disease incidence and a reduction in the disease’s AUDPC (area under the disease progress curve) when spinach was treated with the microalgae suspensions. Overall, these findings highlight the potential of C. vulgaris and T. obliquus suspensions as promising biocontrol agents against F. oxysporum in spinach when applied through irrigation. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 1453 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Advances in Single-Cell Transcriptome Sequencing and Spatial Transcriptome Sequencing in Plants

by Zhuo Lv, Shuaijun Jiang, Shuxin Kong, Xu Zhang, Jiahui Yue, Wanqi Zhao, Long Li and Shuyan Lin

Plants 2024, 13(12), 1679; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13121679 - 18 Jun 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3375

Abstract

“Omics” typically involves exploration of the structure and function of the entire composition of a biological system at a specific level using high-throughput analytical methods to probe and analyze large amounts of data, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, among other types. Genomics [...] Read more.

“Omics” typically involves exploration of the structure and function of the entire composition of a biological system at a specific level using high-throughput analytical methods to probe and analyze large amounts of data, including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, among other types. Genomics characterizes and quantifies all genes of an organism collectively, studying their interrelationships and their impacts on the organism. However, conventional transcriptomic sequencing techniques target population cells, and their results only reflect the average expression levels of genes in population cells, as they are unable to reveal the gene expression heterogeneity and spatial heterogeneity among individual cells, thus masking the expression specificity between different cells. Single-cell transcriptomic sequencing and spatial transcriptomic sequencing techniques analyze the transcriptome of individual cells in plant or animal tissues, enabling the understanding of each cell’s metabolites and expressed genes. Consequently, statistical analysis of the corresponding tissues can be performed, with the purpose of achieving cell classification, evolutionary growth, and physiological and pathological analyses. This article provides an overview of the research progress in plant single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, as well as their applications and challenges in plants. Furthermore, prospects for the development of single-cell and spatial transcriptomics are proposed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Genetic Architecture of Bamboo Growth and Development)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3215 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

In Vitro and In Vivo Anti-Inflammatory and Antidepressant-like Effects of Cannabis sativa L. Extracts

by Joonyoung Shin, Sangheon Choi, A Yeong Park, Suk Ju, Bitna Kweon, Dong-Uk Kim, Gi-Sang Bae, Dongwoon Han, Eunjeong Kwon, Jongki Hong and Sungchul Kim

Plants 2024, 13(12), 1619; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13121619 - 12 Jun 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2758

Abstract

Cannabis sativa L. has been widely used by humans for centuries for various purposes, such as industrial, ceremonial, medicinal, and food. The bioactive components of Cannabis sativa L. can be classified into two main groups: cannabinoids and terpenes. These bioactive components of Cannabis [...] Read more.

Cannabis sativa L. has been widely used by humans for centuries for various purposes, such as industrial, ceremonial, medicinal, and food. The bioactive components of Cannabis sativa L. can be classified into two main groups: cannabinoids and terpenes. These bioactive components of Cannabis sativa L. leaf and inflorescence extracts were analyzed. Mice were systemically administered 30 mg/kg of Cannabis sativa L. leaf extract 1 h before lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration, and behavioral tests were performed. We conducted an investigation into the oxygen saturation, oxygen tension, and degranulation of mast cells (MCs) in the deep cervical lymph nodes (DCLNs). To evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of Cannabis sativa L. extracts in BV2 microglial cells, we assessed nitrite production and the expression levels of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), cyclooxygenase (COX)-2, interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-6, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-α. The main bioactive components of the Cannabis sativa L. extracts were THCA (a cannabinoid) and β-caryophyllene (a terpene). Cannabis sativa L. leaf extract reduced the immobility time in the forced swimming test and increased sucrose preference in the LPS model, without affecting the total distance and time in the center in the open field test. Additionally, Cannabis sativa L. leaf extract improved oxygen levels and inhibited the degranulation of MCs in DCLNs. The Cannabis sativa L. extracts inhibited IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α, nitrite, iNOS, and COX-2 expression in BV2 microglia cells. The efficacy of Cannabis sativa L. extracts was suggested to be due to the entourage effect of various bioactive phytochemicals. Our findings indicate that these extracts have the potential to be used as effective treatments for a variety of diseases associated with acute inflammatory responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Edible Horticultural Plants: Chemical Properties, Nutritional Quality and Bioactive Components)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2535 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

‘Organ’ising Floral Organ Development

by Kestrel A. Maio and Laila Moubayidin

Plants 2024, 13(12), 1595; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13121595 - 8 Jun 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2535

Abstract

Flowers are plant structures characteristic of the phylum Angiosperms composed of organs thought to have emerged from homologous structures to leaves in order to specialize in a distinctive function: reproduction. Symmetric shapes, colours, and scents all play important functional roles in flower biology. [...] Read more.

Flowers are plant structures characteristic of the phylum Angiosperms composed of organs thought to have emerged from homologous structures to leaves in order to specialize in a distinctive function: reproduction. Symmetric shapes, colours, and scents all play important functional roles in flower biology. The evolution of flower symmetry and the morphology of individual flower parts (sepals, petals, stamens, and carpels) has significantly contributed to the diversity of reproductive strategies across flowering plant species. This diversity facilitates attractiveness for pollination, protection of gametes, efficient fertilization, and seed production. Symmetry, the establishment of body axes, and fate determination are tightly linked. The complex genetic networks underlying the establishment of organ, tissue, and cellular identity, as well as the growth regulators acting across the body axes, are steadily being elucidated in the field. In this review, we summarise the wealth of research already at our fingertips to begin weaving together how separate processes involved in specifying organ identity within the flower may interact, providing a functional perspective on how identity determination and axial regulation may be coordinated to inform symmetrical floral organ structures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Molecular Basis of Plant Developmental Diversity)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 9334 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Recent Advances in the Therapeutic Potential of Carotenoids in Preventing and Managing Metabolic Disorders

by Ana E. Ortega-Regules, Juan Alonso Martínez-Thomas, Karen Schürenkämper-Carrillo, Cecilia Anaya de Parrodi, Edgar R. López-Mena, Jorge L. Mejía-Méndez and J. Daniel Lozada-Ramírez

Plants 2024, 13(12), 1584; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13121584 - 7 Jun 2024

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3067

Abstract

Carotenoids constitute compounds of significant biological interest due to their multiple biological activities, such as antimicrobial, anticancer, antiadipogenic, antidiabetic, and antioxidant properties. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) comprehends a series of metabolic abnormalities (e.g., hypertension, obesity, and atherogenic dyslipidemia) that can affect children, adolescents, and [...] Read more.

Carotenoids constitute compounds of significant biological interest due to their multiple biological activities, such as antimicrobial, anticancer, antiadipogenic, antidiabetic, and antioxidant properties. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) comprehends a series of metabolic abnormalities (e.g., hypertension, obesity, and atherogenic dyslipidemia) that can affect children, adolescents, and the elderly. The treatment of MetS involves numerous medications, which, despite their efficacy, pose challenges due to prolonged use, high costs, and various side effects. Carotenoids and their derivatives have been proposed as alternative treatments to MetS because they reduce serum triglyceride concentrations, promote insulin response, inhibit adipogenesis, and downregulate angiotensin-converting enzyme activity. However, carotenoids are notably sensitive to pH, light exposure, and temperature. This review addresses the activity of carotenoids such as lycopene, lutein, fucoxanthin, astaxanthin, crocin, and β-carotene towards MetS. It includes a discussion of sources, extraction methods, and characterization techniques for analyzing carotenoids. Encapsulation approaches are critically reviewed as alternatives to prevent degradation and improve the biological performance of carotenoids. A brief overview of the physiopathology and epidemiology of the diseases, including MetS, is also provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemistry)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

19 pages, 3483 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Examining Chlorophyll Extraction Methods in Sesame Genotypes: Uncovering Leaf Coloration Effects and Anatomy Variations

by Muez Berhe, Jun You, Komivi Dossa, Donghua Li, Rong Zhou, Yanxin Zhang and Linhai Wang

Plants 2024, 13(12), 1589; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13121589 - 7 Jun 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2510

Abstract

This study focuses on optimizing chlorophyll extraction techniques, in which leaf discs are cut from places on the leaf blade to enhance chlorophyll concentration in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) leaves. Thirty sesame genotypes, categorized into light green (LG), middle green (MG), and [...] Read more.

This study focuses on optimizing chlorophyll extraction techniques, in which leaf discs are cut from places on the leaf blade to enhance chlorophyll concentration in sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) leaves. Thirty sesame genotypes, categorized into light green (LG), middle green (MG), and deep green (DG) pigment groups based on leaf coloration, were selected from a larger pool of field-grown accessions. The investigation involved determining optimal Soil Plant Analysis Development (SPAD) value index measurements, quantifying pigment concentrations, exploring extraction solvents, and selecting suitable leaf disk positions. Significant variations in chlorophyll content were observed across genotypes, greenness categories, and leaf disk positions. The categorization of genotypes into DG, MG, and LG groups revealed a correlation between leaf appearance and chlorophyll content. The study highlighted a consistent relationship between carotenoids and chlorophyll, indicating their role in adaptation to warm environments. An examination of leaf disk positions revealed a significant chlorophyll gradient along the leaf blade, emphasizing the need for standardized protocols. Chlorophyll extraction experiments identified DMSO and 96% ethanol, particularly in those incubated for 10 min at 85 °C, as effective choices. This recommendation considers factors like cost-effectiveness, time efficiency, safety, and environmental regulations, ensuring consistent and simplified extraction processes. For higher chlorophyll extraction, focusing on leaf tips and the 75% localization along the sesame leaf blade is suggested, as this consistently yields increased chlorophyll content. Furthermore, our examination revealed significant anatomical variations in the internal structure of the mesophyll tissue leaves between deep green and light green sesame plants, primarily linked to chloroplast density and pigment-producing structures. Our findings, therefore, provide insightful knowledge of chlorophyll gradients and encourage the use of standardized protocols that enable researchers to refine their experimental designs for precise and comparable chlorophyll measurements. The recommended solvent choices ensure reliable outcomes in plant physiology, ecology, and environmental studies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crop Responses to Environmental Stresses: Unraveling the Molecular and Physiological Mechanisms)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1821 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Design of Microbial Consortia Based on Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi, Yeasts, and Bacteria to Improve the Biochemical, Nutritional, and Physiological Status of Strawberry Plants Growing under Water Deficits

by Urley A. Pérez-Moncada, Christian Santander, Antonieta Ruiz, Catalina Vidal, Cledir Santos and Pablo Cornejo

Plants 2024, 13(11), 1556; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13111556 - 4 Jun 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1982

Abstract

Drought affects several plant physiological characteristics such as photosynthesis, carbon metabolism, and chlorophyll content, causing hormonal and nutritional imbalances and reducing nutrient uptake and transport, which inhibit growth and development. The use of bioinoculants based on plant growth-promoting microorganisms such as plant growth-promoting [...] Read more.

Drought affects several plant physiological characteristics such as photosynthesis, carbon metabolism, and chlorophyll content, causing hormonal and nutritional imbalances and reducing nutrient uptake and transport, which inhibit growth and development. The use of bioinoculants based on plant growth-promoting microorganisms such as plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), yeasts, and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) has been proposed as an alternative to help plants tolerate drought. However, most studies have been based on the use of a single type of microorganism, while consortia studies have been scarcely performed. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate different combinations of three PGPR, three AMF, and three yeasts with plant growth-promoting attributes to improve the biochemical, nutritional, and physiological behavior of strawberry plants growing under severe drought. The results showed that the growth and physiological attributes of the non-inoculated plants were significantly reduced by drought. In contrast, plants inoculated with the association of the fungus Claroideoglomus claroideum, the yeast Naganishia albida, and the rhizobacterium Burkholderia caledonica showed a stronger improvement in tolerance to drought. High biomass, relative water content, fruit number, photosynthetic rate, transpiration, stomatal conductance, quantum yield of photosystem II, N concentration, P concentration, K concentration, antioxidant activities, and chlorophyll contents were significantly improved in inoculated plants by up to 16.6%, 12.4%, 81.2%, 80%, 79.4%, 71.0%, 17.8%, 8.3%, 6.6%, 57.3%, 41%, and 22.5%, respectively, compared to stressed non-inoculated plants. Moreover, decreased malondialdehyde levels by up to 32% were registered. Our results demonstrate the feasibility of maximizing the effects of inoculation with beneficial rhizosphere microorganisms based on the prospect of more efficient combinations among different microbial groups, which is of interest to develop bioinoculants oriented to increase the growth of specific plant species in a global scenario of increasing drought stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 2372 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Transgenic Soybean for Production of Thermostable α-Amylase

by Zhenyan Cao, Ye Jiang, Jiajie Li, Ting Zheng, Chaoyang Lin and Zhicheng Shen

Plants 2024, 13(11), 1539; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13111539 - 2 Jun 2024

Viewed by 2523

Abstract

Alpha-amylases are crucial hydrolase enzymes which have been widely used in food, feed, fermentation, and pharmaceutical industries. Methods for low-cost production of α-amylases are highly desirable. Soybean seed, functioning as a bioreactor, offers an excellent platform for the mass production of recombinant proteins [...] Read more.

Alpha-amylases are crucial hydrolase enzymes which have been widely used in food, feed, fermentation, and pharmaceutical industries. Methods for low-cost production of α-amylases are highly desirable. Soybean seed, functioning as a bioreactor, offers an excellent platform for the mass production of recombinant proteins for its ability to synthesize substantial quantities of proteins. In this study, we generated and characterized transgenic soybeans expressing the α-amylase AmyS from Bacillus stearothermophilus. The α-amylase expression cassettes were constructed for seed specific expression by utilizing the promoters of three different soybean storage peptides and transformed into soybean via Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. The event with the highest amylase activity reached 601 U/mg of seed flour (one unit is defined as the amount of enzyme that generates 1 micromole reducing ends per min from starch at 65 °C in pH 5.5 sodium acetate buffer). The optimum pH, optimum temperature, and the enzymatic kinetics of the soybean expressed enzyme are similar to that of the E. coli expressed enzyme. However, the soybean expressed α-amylase is glycosylated, exhibiting enhanced thermostability and storage stability. Soybean AmyS retains over 80% activity after 100 min at 75 °C, and the transgenic seeds exhibit no significant activity loss after one year of storage at room temperature. The accumulated AmyS in the transgenic seeds represents approximately 15% of the total seed protein, or about 4% of the dry seed weight. The specific activity of the transgenic soybean seed flour is comparable to many commercial α-amylase enzyme products in current markets, suggesting that the soybean flour may be directly used for various applications without the need for extraction and purification. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Genetic Engineering in Agriculture)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

26 pages, 8071 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Phospholipid Signaling in Crop Plants: A Field to Explore

by Lucas Amokrane, Igor Pokotylo, Sébastien Acket, Amélie Ducloy, Adrian Troncoso-Ponce, Jean-Luc Cacas and Eric Ruelland

Plants 2024, 13(11), 1532; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13111532 - 31 May 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1793

Abstract

In plant models such as Arabidopsis thaliana, phosphatidic acid (PA), a key molecule of lipid signaling, was shown not only to be involved in stress responses, but also in plant development and nutrition. In this article, we highlight lipid signaling existing in [...] Read more.

In plant models such as Arabidopsis thaliana, phosphatidic acid (PA), a key molecule of lipid signaling, was shown not only to be involved in stress responses, but also in plant development and nutrition. In this article, we highlight lipid signaling existing in crop species. Based on open access databases, we update the list of sequences encoding phospholipases D, phosphoinositide-dependent phospholipases C, and diacylglycerol-kinases, enzymes that lead to the production of PA. We show that structural features of these enzymes from model plants are conserved in equivalent proteins from selected crop species. We then present an in-depth discussion of the structural characteristics of these proteins before focusing on PA binding proteins. For the purpose of this article, we consider RESPIRATORY BURST OXIDASE HOMOLOGUEs (RBOHs), the most documented PA target proteins. Finally, we present pioneering experiments that show, by different approaches such as monitoring of gene expression, use of pharmacological agents, ectopic over-expression of genes, and the creation of silenced mutants, that lipid signaling plays major roles in crop species. Finally, we present major open questions that require attention since we have only a perception of the peak of the iceberg when it comes to the exciting field of phospholipid signaling in plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Signal Transduction in Plants in Response to Environmental Stresses)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

14 pages, 3767 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Soybean (Glycine max L.) Leaf Moisture Estimation Based on Multisource Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Image Feature Fusion

by Wanli Yang, Zhijun Li, Guofu Chen, Shihao Cui, Yue Wu, Xiaochi Liu, Wen Meng, Yucheng Liu, Jinyao He, Danmao Liu, Yifan Zhou, Zijun Tang, Youzhen Xiang and Fucang Zhang

Plants 2024, 13(11), 1498; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13111498 - 29 May 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1333

Abstract

Efficient acquisition of crop leaf moisture information holds significant importance for agricultural production. This information provides farmers with accurate data foundations, enabling them to implement timely and effective irrigation management strategies, thereby maximizing crop growth efficiency and yield. In this study, unmanned aerial [...] Read more.

Efficient acquisition of crop leaf moisture information holds significant importance for agricultural production. This information provides farmers with accurate data foundations, enabling them to implement timely and effective irrigation management strategies, thereby maximizing crop growth efficiency and yield. In this study, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) multispectral technology was employed. Through two consecutive years of field experiments (2021–2022), soybean (Glycine max L.) leaf moisture data and corresponding UAV multispectral images were collected. Vegetation indices, canopy texture features, and randomly extracted texture indices in combination, which exhibited strong correlations with previous studies and crop parameters, were established. By analyzing the correlation between these parameters and soybean leaf moisture, parameters with significantly correlated coefficients (p < 0.05) were selected as input variables for the model (combination 1: vegetation indices; combination 2: texture features; combination 3: randomly extracted texture indices in combination; combination 4: combination of vegetation indices, texture features, and randomly extracted texture indices). Subsequently, extreme learning machine (ELM), extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost), and back propagation neural network (BPNN) were utilized to model the leaf moisture content. The results indicated that most vegetation indices exhibited higher correlation coefficients with soybean leaf moisture compared with texture features, while randomly extracted texture indices could enhance the correlation with soybean leaf moisture to some extent. RDTI, the random combination texture index, showed the highest correlation coefficient with leaf moisture at 0.683, with the texture combination being Variance1 and Correlation5. When combination 4 (combination of vegetation indices, texture features, and randomly extracted texture indices) was utilized as the input and the XGBoost model was employed for soybean leaf moisture monitoring, the highest level was achieved in this study. The coefficient of determination (R²) of the estimation model validation set reached 0.816, with a root-mean-square error (RMSE) of 1.404 and a mean relative error (MRE) of 1.934%. This study provides a foundation for UAV multispectral monitoring of soybean leaf moisture, offering valuable insights for rapid assessment of crop growth. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Spectral Techniques in Agriculture and Forestry)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 2032 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Iron Plaque: A Shield against Soil Contamination and Key to Sustainable Agriculture

by Zeping He, Jinyuan Chen, Shilin Yuan, Sha Chen, Yuanyi Hu, Yi Zheng and Ding Li

Plants 2024, 13(11), 1476; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13111476 - 27 May 2024

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1799

Abstract

Soils play a dominant role in supporting the survival and growth of crops and they are also extremely important for human health and food safety. At present, the contamination of soil by heavy metals remains a globally concerning environmental issue that needs to [...] Read more.

Soils play a dominant role in supporting the survival and growth of crops and they are also extremely important for human health and food safety. At present, the contamination of soil by heavy metals remains a globally concerning environmental issue that needs to be resolved. In the environment, iron plaque, naturally occurring on the root surface of wetland plants, is found to be equipped with an excellent ability at blocking the migration of heavy metals from soils to plants, which can be further developed as an environmentally friendly strategy for soil remediation to ensure food security. Because of its large surface-to-volume porous structure, iron plaque exhibits high binding affinity to heavy metals. Moreover, iron plaque can be seen as a reservoir to store nutrients to support the growth of plants. In this review, the formation process of iron plaque, the ecological role that iron plaque plays in the environment and the interaction between iron plaque, plants and microbes, are summarized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Effect of Heavy Metals on Plants, 2nd Volume)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 4811 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Chromosome-Scale, De Novo, Phased Genome Assemblies of Three Australian Limes: Citrus australasica, C. inodora, and C. glauca

by Khushwant Singh, Matthew Huff, Jianyang Liu, Jong-Won Park, Tara Rickman, Manjunath Keremane, Robert R. Krueger, Madhurababu Kunta, Mikeal L. Roose, Chris Dardick, Margaret Staton and Chandrika Ramadugu

Plants 2024, 13(11), 1460; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13111460 - 24 May 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2422

Abstract

Huanglongbing (HLB) is a severe citrus disease worldwide. Wild Australian limes like Citrus australasica, C. inodora, and C. glauca possess beneficial HLB resistance traits. Individual trees of the three taxa were extensively used in a breeding program for over a decade [...] Read more.

Huanglongbing (HLB) is a severe citrus disease worldwide. Wild Australian limes like Citrus australasica, C. inodora, and C. glauca possess beneficial HLB resistance traits. Individual trees of the three taxa were extensively used in a breeding program for over a decade to introgress resistance traits into commercial-quality citrus germplasm. We generated high-quality, phased, de novo genome assemblies of the three Australian limes using PacBio long-read sequencing. The genome assembly sizes of the primary and alternate haplotypes were determined for C. australasica (337 Mb/335 Mb), C. inodora (304 Mb/299 Mb), and C. glauca (376 Mb/379 Mb). The nine chromosome-scale scaffolds included 86–91% of the genome sequences generated. The integrity and completeness of the assembled genomes were estimated to be at 97.2–98.8%. Gene annotation studies identified 25,461 genes in C. australasica, 27,665 in C. inodora, and 30,067 in C. glauca. Genes belonging to 118 orthogroups were specific to Australian lime genomes compared to other citrus genomes analyzed. Significantly fewer canonical resistance (R) genes were found in C. inodora and C. glauca (319 and 449, respectively) compared to C. australasica (576), C. clementina (579), and C. sinensis (651). Similar patterns were observed for other gene families associated with potential HLB resistance, including Phloem protein 2 (PP2) and Callose synthase (CalS) genes predicted in the Australian lime genomes. The genomic information on Australian limes developed in the present study will help understand the genetic basis of HLB resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis and Disease Control in Crops—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

21 pages, 2058 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Biostimulant Response of Foliar Application of Rare Earth Elements on Physiology, Growth, and Yield of Rice

by Cynthia de Oliveira, Silvio Junio Ramos, Guilherme Soares Dinali, Teotonio Soares de Carvalho, Fábio Aurélio Dias Martins, Valdemar Faquin, Evaristo Mauro de Castro, Jorge Eduardo Souza Sarkis, José Oswaldo Siqueira and Luiz Roberto Guimarães Guilherme

Plants 2024, 13(11), 1435; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13111435 - 22 May 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1887

Abstract

Rare earth elements (REEs) have been intentionally used in Chinese agriculture since the 1980s to improve crop yields. Around the world, REEs are also involuntarily applied to soils through phosphate fertilizers. These elements are known to alleviate damage in plants under abiotic stresses, [...] Read more.

Rare earth elements (REEs) have been intentionally used in Chinese agriculture since the 1980s to improve crop yields. Around the world, REEs are also involuntarily applied to soils through phosphate fertilizers. These elements are known to alleviate damage in plants under abiotic stresses, yet there is no information on how these elements act in the physiology of plants. The REE mode of action falls within the scope of the hormesis effect, with low-dose stimulation and high-dose adverse reactions. This study aimed to verify how REEs affect rice plants’ physiology to test the threshold dose at which REEs could act as biostimulants in these plants. In experiment 1, 0.411 kg ha⁻¹ (foliar application) of a mixture of REE (containing 41.38% Ce, 23.95% La, 13.58% Pr, and 4.32% Nd) was applied, as well as two products containing 41.38% Ce and 23.95% La separately. The characteristics of chlorophyll a fluorescence, gas exchanges, SPAD index, and biomass (pot conditions) were evaluated. For experiment 2, increasing rates of the REE mix (0, 0.1, 0.225, 0.5, and 1 kg ha⁻¹) (field conditions) were used to study their effect on rice grain yield and nutrient concentration of rice leaves. Adding REEs to plants increased biomass production (23% with Ce, 31% with La, and 63% with REE Mix application) due to improved photosynthetic rate (8% with Ce, 15% with La, and 27% with REE mix), favored by the higher electronic flow (photosynthetic electron transport chain) (increase of 17%) and by the higher F_v/F_m (increase of 14%) and quantum yield of photosystem II (increase of 20% with Ce and La, and 29% with REE Mix), as well as by increased stomatal conductance (increase of 36%) and SPAD index (increase of 10% with Ce, 12% with La, and 15% with REE mix). Moreover, adding REEs potentiated the photosynthetic process by increasing rice leaves’ N, Mg, K, and Mn concentrations (24–46%). The dose for the higher rice grain yield (an increase of 113%) was estimated for the REE mix at 0.72 kg ha⁻¹. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling in Cereals, Especially Wheat)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

34 pages, 10912 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Influence of Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles and Salt Stress on the Morphological and Some Biochemical Characteristics of Solanum lycopersicum L. Plants

by Mostafa Ahmed, Diaa Attia Marrez, Roquia Rizk, Mostafa Zedan, Donia Abdul-Hamid, Kincső Decsi, Gergő Péter Kovács and Zoltán Tóth

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1418; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101418 - 20 May 2024

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2541

Abstract

Salinity reduces crop yields and quality, causing global economic losses. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) improve plant physiological and metabolic processes and abiotic stress resistance. This study examined the effects of foliar ZnO-NPs at 75 and 150 mg/L on tomato Kecskeméti 549 plants to [...] Read more.

Salinity reduces crop yields and quality, causing global economic losses. Zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) improve plant physiological and metabolic processes and abiotic stress resistance. This study examined the effects of foliar ZnO-NPs at 75 and 150 mg/L on tomato Kecskeméti 549 plants to alleviate salt stress caused by 150 mM NaCl. The precipitation procedure produced ZnO-NPs that were characterized using UV-VIS, TEM, STEM, DLS, EDAX, Zeta potential, and FTIR. The study assessed TPCs, TFCs, total hydrolyzable sugars, total free amino acids, protein, proline, H₂O₂, and MDA along with plant height, stem width, leaf area, and SPAD values. The polyphenolic burden was also measured by HPLC. With salt stress, plant growth and chlorophyll content decreased significantly. The growth and development of tomato plants changed by applying the ZnO-NPs. Dosages of ZnO-NPs had a significant effect across treatments. ZnO-NPs also increased chlorophyll, reduced stress markers, and released phenolic chemicals and proteins in the leaves of tomatoes. ZnO-NPs reduce salt stress by promoting the uptake of minerals. ZnO-NPs had beneficial effects on tomato plants when subjected to salt stress, making them an alternate technique to boost resilience in saline soils or low-quality irrigation water. This study examined how foliar application of chemically synthesized ZnO-NPs to the leaves affected biochemistry, morphology, and phenolic compound synthesis with and without NaCl. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular and Physiological Mechanisms Regulating Vegetable Crops Growth under Stressful Conditions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

30 pages, 952 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Plant–Entomopathogenic Fungi Interaction: Recent Progress and Future Prospects on Endophytism-Mediated Growth Promotion and Biocontrol

by S. M. Ahsan, Md. Injamum-Ul-Hoque, Ashim Kumar Das, Md. Mezanur Rahman, Md. Mahi Imam Mollah, Narayan Chandra Paul and Hyong Woo Choi

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1420; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101420 - 20 May 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4632

Abstract

Entomopathogenic fungi, often acknowledged primarily for their insecticidal properties, fulfill diverse roles within ecosystems. These roles encompass endophytism, antagonism against plant diseases, promotion of the growth of plants, and inhabitation of the rhizosphere, occurring both naturally and upon artificial inoculation, as substantiated by [...] Read more.

Entomopathogenic fungi, often acknowledged primarily for their insecticidal properties, fulfill diverse roles within ecosystems. These roles encompass endophytism, antagonism against plant diseases, promotion of the growth of plants, and inhabitation of the rhizosphere, occurring both naturally and upon artificial inoculation, as substantiated by a growing body of contemporary research. Numerous studies have highlighted the beneficial aspects of endophytic colonization. This review aims to systematically organize information concerning the direct (nutrient acquisition and production of phytohormones) and indirect (resistance induction, antibiotic and secondary metabolite production, siderophore production, and mitigation of abiotic and biotic stresses) implications of endophytic colonization. Furthermore, a thorough discussion of these mechanisms is provided. Several challenges, including isolation complexities, classification of novel strains, and the impact of terrestrial location, vegetation type, and anthropogenic reluctance to use fungal entomopathogens, have been recognized as hurdles. However, recent advancements in biotechnology within microbial research hold promising solutions to many of these challenges. Ultimately, the current constraints delineate potential future avenues for leveraging endophytic fungal entomopathogens as dual microbial control agents. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mycology and Plant Pathology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

27 pages, 17497 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Osmophore Structure and Labellum Micromorphology in Ophrys speculum (Orchidaceae): New Interpretations of Floral Features and Implications for a Specific Sexually Deceptive Pollination Interaction

by Ana Francisco and Lia Ascensão

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1413; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101413 - 18 May 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2671

Abstract

Pollination by sexual deception specifically attracts male insects, through the floral scent and particular morphological features of the flower that serve as visual and tactile stimuli. The unique bond between the Ophrys speculum orchid and the male Dasyscolia ciliata wasp primarily stems from [...] Read more.

Pollination by sexual deception specifically attracts male insects, through the floral scent and particular morphological features of the flower that serve as visual and tactile stimuli. The unique bond between the Ophrys speculum orchid and the male Dasyscolia ciliata wasp primarily stems from a few distinctive semiochemicals that mimic the female wasp’s sex pheromone, although the floral scent comprises a variety of compounds. An osmophore producing highly volatile compounds has been documented in four close relatives of O. speculum and is now being also investigated in this species. Given the existing debates regarding the structure of the labellum and stigmatic cavity in O. speculum, this study details their micromorphology. Additionally, comparisons of O. speculum flowers and female D. ciliata wasps under stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy are conducted to seek new evidence of visual and tactile mimicry. The findings confirm that (i) an osmophore is present at the apical margin of the labellum in O. speculum flowers; (ii) the labellum features a distinct basal field homologous to those found in other Ophrys species; and (iii) the basal labellum region closely mimics the female wasp’s thorax and wings. The implications of these novel floral features are discussed within an evolutionary context. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Decoding the Secretory Structure in Plants: From Biology to Interaction Networks)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 3846 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Transcriptome and Metabolome Analysis of Rice Cultivar CBB23 after Inoculation by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae Strains AH28 and PXO99^A

by Pingli Chen, Junjie Wang, Qing Liu, Junjie Liu, Qiaoping Mo, Bingrui Sun, Xingxue Mao, Liqun Jiang, Jing Zhang, Shuwei Lv, Hang Yu, Weixiong Chen, Wei Liu and Chen Li

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1411; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101411 - 18 May 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1672

Abstract

Bacterial leaf blight (BLB), among the most serious diseases in rice production, is caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo). Xa23, the broadest resistance gene against BLB in rice, is widely used in rice breeding. In this study, the rice [...] Read more.

Bacterial leaf blight (BLB), among the most serious diseases in rice production, is caused by Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae (Xoo). Xa23, the broadest resistance gene against BLB in rice, is widely used in rice breeding. In this study, the rice variety CBB23 carrying the Xa23 resistance gene was inoculated with AH28 and PXO99^A to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with the resistance. Transcriptome sequencing of the infected leaves showed 7997 DEGs between the two strains at different time points, most of which were up-regulated, including cloned rice anti-blight, peroxidase, pathology-related, protein kinase, glucosidase, and other coding genes, as well as genes related to lignin synthesis, salicylic acid, jasmonic acid, and secondary metabolites. Additionally, the DEGs included 40 cloned, five NBS-LRR, nine SWEET family, and seven phenylalanine aminolyase genes, and 431 transcription factors were differentially expressed, the majority of which belonged to the WRKY, NAC, AP2/ERF, bHLH, and MYB families. Metabolomics analysis showed that a large amount of alkaloid and terpenoid metabolite content decreased significantly after inoculation with AH28 compared with inoculation with PXO99^A, while the content of amino acids and their derivatives significantly increased. This study is helpful in further discovering the pathogenic mechanism of AH28 and PXO99^A in CBB23 rice and provides a theoretical basis for cloning and molecular mechanism research related to BLB resistance in rice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Bacteria Interaction)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 761 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Plant Biostimulants Enhance Tomato Resilience to Salinity Stress: Insights from Two Greek Landraces

by Theodora Ntanasi, Ioannis Karavidas, George P. Spyrou, Evangelos Giannothanasis, Konstantinos A. Aliferis, Costas Saitanis, Vasileios Fotopoulos, Leo Sabatino, Dimitrios Savvas and Georgia Ntatsi

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1404; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101404 - 17 May 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2598

Abstract

Salinity, one of the major abiotic stresses in plants, significantly hampers germination, photosynthesis, biomass production, nutrient balance, and yield of staple crops. To mitigate the impact of such stress without compromising yield and quality, sustainable agronomic practices are required. Among these practices, seaweed [...] Read more.

Salinity, one of the major abiotic stresses in plants, significantly hampers germination, photosynthesis, biomass production, nutrient balance, and yield of staple crops. To mitigate the impact of such stress without compromising yield and quality, sustainable agronomic practices are required. Among these practices, seaweed extracts (SWEs) and microbial biostimulants (PGRBs) have emerged as important categories of plant biostimulants (PBs). This research aimed at elucidating the effects on growth, yield, quality, and nutrient status of two Greek tomato landraces (‘Tomataki’ and ‘Thessaloniki’) following treatments with the Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extract ‘Algastar’ and the PGPB ‘Nitrostim’ formulation. Plants were subjected to bi-weekly applications of biostimulants and supplied with two nutrient solutions: 0.5 mM (control) and 30 mM NaCl. The results revealed that the different mode(s) of action of the two PBs impacted the tolerance of the different landraces, since ‘Tomataki’ was benefited only from the SWE application while ‘Thessaloniki’ showed significant increase in fruit numbers and average fruit weight with the application of both PBs at 0.5 and 30 mM NaCl in the root zone. In conclusion, the stress induced by salinity can be mitigated by increasing tomato tolerance through the application of PBs, a sustainable tool for productivity enhancement, which aligns well with the strategy of the European Green Deal. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Towards Sustainable Development of Horticulture in a Changing Climate Scenario)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1471 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

CRISPR/Cas9-Mediated Knockout of the Lycopene ε-Cyclase for Efficient Astaxanthin Production in the Green Microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii

by Jacob Sebastian Kneip, Niklas Kniepkamp, Junhwan Jang, Maria Grazia Mortaro, EonSeon Jin, Olaf Kruse and Thomas Baier

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1393; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101393 - 17 May 2024

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 5405

Abstract

Carotenoids are valuable pigments naturally occurring in all photosynthetic plants and microalgae as well as in selected fungi, bacteria, and archaea. Green microalgae developed a complex carotenoid profile suitable for efficient light harvesting and light protection and harbor great capacity for carotenoid production [...] Read more.

Carotenoids are valuable pigments naturally occurring in all photosynthetic plants and microalgae as well as in selected fungi, bacteria, and archaea. Green microalgae developed a complex carotenoid profile suitable for efficient light harvesting and light protection and harbor great capacity for carotenoid production through the substantial power of the endogenous 2-C-methyl-D-erythritol 4-phosphate (MEP) pathway. Previous works established successful genome editing and induced significant changes in the cellular carotenoid content in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. This study employs a tailored carotenoid pathway for engineered bioproduction of the valuable ketocarotenoid astaxanthin. Functional knockout of lycopene ε-cyclase (LCYE) and non-homologous end joining (NHEJ)-based integration of donor DNA at the target site inhibit the accumulation of α-carotene and consequently lutein and loroxanthin, abundant carotenoids in C. reinhardtii without changes in cellular fitness. PCR-based screening indicated that 4 of 96 regenerated candidate lines carried (partial) integrations of donor DNA and increased ß-carotene as well as derived carotenoid contents. Iterative overexpression of CrBKT, PacrtB, and CrCHYB resulted in a 2.3-fold increase in astaxanthin accumulation in mutant ΔLCYE#3 (1.8 mg/L) compared to the parental strain UVM4, which demonstrates the potential of genome editing for the design of a green cell factory for astaxanthin bioproduction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microalgae Photobiology, Biotechnology, and Bioproduction)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 2465 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Physiological and Agronomical Response of Coffee to Different Nitrogen Forms with and without Water Stress

by Victor Hugo Ramirez-Builes, Jürgen Küsters, Ellen Thiele and Juan Carlos Lopez-Ruiz

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1387; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101387 - 16 May 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2617

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) is the most important nutrient in coffee, with a direct impact on productivity, quality, and sustainability. N uptake by the roots is dominated by ammonium (NH₄⁺) and nitrates (NO₃⁻), along with some organic forms at [...] Read more.

Nitrogen (N) is the most important nutrient in coffee, with a direct impact on productivity, quality, and sustainability. N uptake by the roots is dominated by ammonium (NH₄⁺) and nitrates (NO₃⁻), along with some organic forms at a lower proportion. From the perspective of mineral fertilizer, the most common N sources are urea, ammonium (AM), ammonium nitrates (AN), and nitrates; an appropriate understanding of the right balance between N forms in coffee nutrition would contribute to more sustainable coffee production through the better N management of this important crop. The aim of this research was to evaluate the influences of different NH₄-N/NO₃-N ratios in coffee from a physiological and agronomical perspective, and their interaction with soil water levels. Over a period of 5 years, three trials were conducted under controlled conditions in a greenhouse with different growing media (quartz sand) and organic soil, with and without water stress, while one trial was conducted under field conditions. N forms and water levels directly influence physiological responses in coffee, including photosynthesis (Ps), chlorophyll content, dry biomass accumulation (DW), nutrient uptake, and productivity. In all of the trials, the plants group in soils with N ratios of 50% NH₄-N/50% NO₃-N, and 25% NH₄-N/75% NO₃-N showed better responses to water stress, as well as a higher Ps, a higher chlorophyll content, a higher N and cation uptake, higher DW accumulation, and higher productivity. The soil pH was significantly influenced by the N forms: the higher the NO₃⁻-N share, the lower the acidification level. The results allow us to conclude that the combination of 50% NH₄-N/50% NO₃-N and 25% NH₄-N/75% NO₃-N N forms in coffee improves the resistance capacity of the coffee to water stress, improves productivity, reduces the soil acidification level, and improves ion balance and nutrient uptake. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Role of Nitrogen in Plant Growth and Development)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3102 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Cladodes of Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. Possess Important Beneficial Properties Dependent on Their Different Stages of Maturity

by Jessica Maiuolo, Saverio Nucera, Maria Serra, Rosamaria Caminiti, Francesca Oppedisano, Roberta Macrì, Federica Scarano, Salvatore Ragusa, Carolina Muscoli, Ernesto Palma and Vincenzo Mollace

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1365; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101365 - 14 May 2024

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2496

Abstract

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. belongs to the Cactaceae family and the genus Opuntia; it is a succulent plant that adapts to extreme climatic conditions. The aerial part of the plant consists of the cladodes, morphological changes of branches that appear green, are covered [...] Read more.

Opuntia ficus-indica (L.) Mill. belongs to the Cactaceae family and the genus Opuntia; it is a succulent plant that adapts to extreme climatic conditions. The aerial part of the plant consists of the cladodes, morphological changes of branches that appear green, are covered with thorns, and are essential to reduce excessive perspiration of water. The composition of cladodes is very varied, and the main constituents are water, fibers, polysaccharides, proteins, fatty acids, vitamins, sterols, minerals, and polyphenols. Polyphenols are responsible for many beneficial activities for human health, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and nutritional properties. The purpose of this manuscript was to compare the properties of cladodes belonging to the same plant but with different stages of maturity. Relative extracts were tested both in vitro and on a cell line and antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties were found. The antioxidant activity was tested by the Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) test, the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazil (DPPH) test, and the measurement of cellular accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Anti-apoptotic activity was evaluated by the annexin/PI assay and measurement of caspases 9 and 3 expression. The results obtained showed that the extracts considered possess antioxidant and anti-apoptotic properties. However, the different stages of maturity of cladodes are essential for the performance of both functions. In addition, important variations were made in the dissolution of the extracts that brought greater safety in their use. In conclusion, this manuscript provides further information on cladodes of Opuntia ficus-indica, which can be used as adjuvants in many human pathologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Utilization of By-Products from Fruits and Vegetables)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

26 pages, 5198 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Sensing for Water Status Estimation in Vineyards under Different Pruning Strategies

by Juan C. Nowack, Luz K. Atencia-Payares, Ana M. Tarquis and M. Gomez-del-Campo

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1350; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101350 - 13 May 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1384

Abstract

Pruning determines the plant water status due to its effects on the leaf area and thus the irrigation management. The primary aim of this study was to assess the use of high-resolution multispectral imagery to estimate the plant water status through different bands [...] Read more.

Pruning determines the plant water status due to its effects on the leaf area and thus the irrigation management. The primary aim of this study was to assess the use of high-resolution multispectral imagery to estimate the plant water status through different bands and vegetation indexes (VIs) and to evaluate which is most suitable under different pruning management strategies. This work was carried out in 2021 and 2022 in a commercial Merlot vineyard in an arid area of central Spain. Two different pruning strategies were carried out: mechanical pruning and no pruning. The stem water potential was measured with a pressure chamber (Ψ_stem) at two different solar times (9 h and 12 h). Multispectral information from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) was obtained at the same time as the field Ψstem measurements and different vegetation indexes (VIs) were calculated. Pruning management significantly determined the Ψ_stem, bunch and berry weight, number of bunches, and plant yield. Linear regression between the Ψ_stem and NDVI presented the tightest correlation at 12 h solar time (R² = 0.58). The red and red-edge bands were included in a generalised multivariable linear regression and achieved higher accuracy (R² = 0.74) in predicting the Ψ_stem. Using high-resolution multispectral imagery has proven useful in predicting the vine water status independently of the pruning management strategy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Application of Spectral Techniques in Agriculture and Forestry)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 3638 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Cell-Autonomous and Non-Cell-Autonomous Mechanisms Concomitantly Regulate the Early Developmental Pattern in the Kelp Saccharina latissima Embryo

by Samuel Boscq, Bernard Billoud and Bénédicte Charrier

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1341; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101341 - 13 May 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2609

Abstract

Brown algae are multicellular organisms that have evolved independently from plants and animals. Knowledge of the mechanisms involved in their embryogenesis is available only for the Fucus, Dictyota, and Ectocarpus, which are brown algae belonging to three different orders. Here, [...] Read more.

Brown algae are multicellular organisms that have evolved independently from plants and animals. Knowledge of the mechanisms involved in their embryogenesis is available only for the Fucus, Dictyota, and Ectocarpus, which are brown algae belonging to three different orders. Here, we address the control of cell growth and cell division orientation in the embryo of Saccharina latissima, a brown alga belonging to the order Laminariales, which grows as a stack of cells through transverse cell divisions until growth is initiated along the perpendicular axis. Using laser ablation, we show that apical and basal cells have different functions in the embryogenesis of this alga, with the apical cell being involved mainly in growth and basal cells controlling the orientation of cell division by inhibiting longitudinal cell division and thereby the widening of the embryo. These functions were observed in the very early development before the embryo reached the 8-cell stage. In addition, the growth of the apical and basal regions appears to be cell-autonomous, because there was no compensation for the loss of a significant part of the embryo upon laser ablation, resulting in smaller and less elongated embryos compared with intact embryos. In contrast, the orientation of cell division in the apical region of the embryo appears to be controlled by the basal cell only, which suggests a polarised, non-cell-autonomous mechanism. Altogether, our results shed light on the early mechanisms of growth rate and growth orientation at the onset of the embryogenesis of Saccharina, in which non-cell-specific cell-autonomous and cell-specific non-cell-autonomous processes are involved. This complex control differs from the mechanisms described in the other brown algal embryos, in which the establishment of embryo polarity depends on environmental cues. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Current Topics in Macroalgal Research)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1884 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Exploring Disease Resistance in Pepper (Capsicum spp.) Germplasm Collection Using Fluidigm SNP Genotyping

by Nayoung Ro, Gi-An Lee, Ho-Cheol Ko, Hyeonseok Oh, Sukyeung Lee, Mesfin Haile and Jundae Lee

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1344; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101344 - 13 May 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2886

Abstract

This study utilized a diverse Capsicum accessions (5658) sourced from various species and geographical regions, deposited at the National Agrobiodiversity Center, Genebank. We employed 19 SNP markers through a Fluidigm genotyping system and screened these accessions against eight prevalent diseases of pepper. This [...] Read more.

This study utilized a diverse Capsicum accessions (5658) sourced from various species and geographical regions, deposited at the National Agrobiodiversity Center, Genebank. We employed 19 SNP markers through a Fluidigm genotyping system and screened these accessions against eight prevalent diseases of pepper. This study revealed accessions resistant to individual diseases as well as those exhibiting resistance to multiple diseases, including bacterial spot, anthracnose, powdery mildew, phytophthora root rot, and potyvirus. The C. chacoense accessions were identified as resistant materials against bacterial spot, anthracnose, powdery mildew, and phytophthora root rot, underscoring the robust natural defense mechanisms inherent in the wild Capsicum species and its potential uses as sources of resistance for breeding. C. baccatum species also demonstrated to be a promising source of resistance to major pepper diseases. Generally, disease-resistant germplasm has been identified from various Capsicum species. Originating from diverse locations such as Argentina, Bolivia, and the United Kingdom, these accessions consistently demonstrated resistance, indicating the widespread prevalence of disease-resistant traits across varied environments. Additionally, we selected ten pepper accessions based on their resistance to multiple diseases, including CMV, Phytophthora root rot, potyviruses, and TSWV, sourced from diverse geographical regions like Hungary, Peru, the United States, and the Netherlands. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into disease resistance in Capsicum, crucial for fostering sustainable agricultural practices and advancing crop improvement through breeding strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Breeding for Plant Disease Resistance)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 369 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Does the Invasive Heracleum mantegazzianum Influence Other Species by Allelopathy?

by Daniela Gruľová, Beata Baranová, Adriana Eliašová, Christelle Brun, Jozef Fejér, Ivan Kron, Luca Campone, Stefania Pagliari, Ľuboš Nastišin and Vincent Sedlák

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1333; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101333 - 12 May 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1717

Abstract

Heracleum mantegazzianum is an invasive species in middle Europe. The mode of action of its invasiveness is still not known. Our study focuses on observation of potential allelopathic influence by the production and release of phytochemicals into its environment. Plant material was collected four [...] Read more.

Heracleum mantegazzianum is an invasive species in middle Europe. The mode of action of its invasiveness is still not known. Our study focuses on observation of potential allelopathic influence by the production and release of phytochemicals into its environment. Plant material was collected four times within one season (April, May, June, July 2019) at locality Lekárovce (eastern Slovakia) for comparison of differences in composition and potential allelopathy. Water extracts from collected samples were used for different biological assays. The total phenols and flavonoids were determined spectrophotometrically. The profile and content of phenolic components, including coumarins, were determined by two techniques of liquid chromatography along with in vitro evaluation of the free radical scavenging activity of extracts (DPPH, Hydroxyl, Superoxide, and FRAP). The changes in composition in extracts in different seasonal periods were evident as well as potential phytotoxic activity in some concentrations on specific model plants. The slight antioxidant activity was noted. The invasiveness of the current species could be supported by the excretion of its phytochemicals into its surroundings and by different modes of action influencing living organisms in its environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Invasions across Scales)

20 pages, 1747 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Rational Combination of Selenium Application Rate and Planting Density to Improve Selenium Uptake, Agronomic Traits, and Yield of Dryland Maize

by Fei Gao, Le Wang, Rong Zhao, Yixiong Wang, Yankun Ma, Rulan Yang, Qi Zhang and Chuangyun Wang

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1327; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101327 - 11 May 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1432

Abstract

Exogenous selenium application could effectively improve the selenium absorption of crops affected by different climatic conditions due to changes in the planting environment and planting conditions. We planted maize at planting densities of 67,500 plants ha⁻¹ (D1) and 75,000 plants ha⁻¹ [...] Read more.

Exogenous selenium application could effectively improve the selenium absorption of crops affected by different climatic conditions due to changes in the planting environment and planting conditions. We planted maize at planting densities of 67,500 plants ha⁻¹ (D1) and 75,000 plants ha⁻¹ (D2). Five selenium fertilizer gradients of 0 mg m⁻² (Se0), 7.5 mg m⁻² (Se1), 15.0 mg m⁻² (Se2), 22.5 mg m⁻² (Se3), and 30.0 mg m⁻² (Se4) were applied to investigate the response of the plants to selenium fertilizer application in terms of the gradient selenium absorption and substance accumulation. With the increase in the amount of selenium fertilizer applied, more of the selenium fertilizer will be absorbed and transported from the leaves to the grains, and the selenium content of the grains will gradually increase and exceed the selenium content of leaves. Under the D2 density in 2022, the selenium content of the grains under Se1, Se2, Se3, and Se4 treatments increased by 65.67%, 72.71%, and 250.53%, respectively, compared with that of Se0. A total of 260.55% of the plants showed a gradient of grain > leaf > cob > stalk from the Se2 treatment, and the overall selenium content of the plants increased first and then decreased. Under the D1 density, compared with the Se0, the dry matter mass of the Se1, Se2, Se3, and Se4 treatments significantly improved by 5.84%, 1.49%, and 14.26% in 2021, and significantly improved by 4.84%, 3.50%, and 2.85% in 2022. The 1000-grain weight under Se2, Se3, and Se4 treatments improved by 8.57%, 9.06%, and 15.56% compared to that under the Se0 treatment, and the yield per ha under the Se2, Se3, and Se4 treatments was 18.58%, 9.09%, and 21.42% higher than that under Se0 treatment, respectively. In addition, a reasonable combination of selenium application rate and density could improve the chlorophyll content and stem growth of dryland maize. This lays a foundation for the efficient application of selenium fertilizer and provides an important reference. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant–Soil Interactions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 4604 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Chitosan-GSNO Nanoparticles and Silicon Priming Enhance the Germination and Seedling Growth of Soybean (Glycine max L.)

by Senabulya Steven, Mohammad Shafiqul Islam, Amit Ghimire, Nusrat Jahan Methela, Eun-Hae Kwon, Byung-Wook Yun, In-Jung Lee, Seong-Hoon Kim and Yoonha Kim

Plants 2024, 13(10), 1290; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13101290 - 7 May 2024

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1961

Abstract

Soybean, a major legume crop, has seen a decline in its production owing to challenges in seed germination and the development of seedlings. Thus, in this study, we systematically investigated the influence of various chitosan–S-nitrosoglutathione (chitosan-GSNO) nanoparticle (0, 25, 50, and 100 µM) [...] Read more.

Soybean, a major legume crop, has seen a decline in its production owing to challenges in seed germination and the development of seedlings. Thus, in this study, we systematically investigated the influence of various chitosan–S-nitrosoglutathione (chitosan-GSNO) nanoparticle (0, 25, 50, and 100 µM) and Si (0, 0.5, and 1 mM) priming concentrations on soybean seed germination and seedling growth over five different priming durations (range: 1–5 h at each concentration). Significant differences were observed in all parameters, except seedling diameter, with both treatments. Seed germination was significantly enhanced after 3 h of priming in both treatments. The final germination percentage (FGP), peak germination percentage (PGP), vigor index (VI), seedling biomass (SB), hypocotyl length (HL), and radical length (RL) of 100 μM chitosan-GSNO-nanoparticle-primed seeds increased by 20.3%, 41.3%, 78.9%, 25.2%, 15.7%, and 65.9%, respectively, compared with those of the control; however, the mean germination time (MGT) decreased by 18.43%. Si priming at 0.5 mM increased the FGP, PGP, VI, SB, HL, and RL by 13.9%, 55.17%, 39.2%, 6.5%, 22.5%, and 25.1%, respectively, but reduced the MGT by 12.29% compared with the control treatment. Chitosan-GSNO and Si treatment up-regulated the relative expression of gibberellic acid (GA)-related genes (GmGA3ox3 and GmGA2ox1) and down-regulated that of abscisic acid (ABA)-related genes (GmABA2, GmAAO3, and GmNCED5). Chitosan-GSNO and Si application increased bioactive GA₄ levels and simultaneously reduced ABA content. Hence, the use of exogenous chitosan-GSNO nanoparticles and Si as priming agents had a beneficial effect on seed germination and seedling growth because of the up-regulation in the expression of GA and down-regulation in the expression of ABA. Additional research is needed to understand the combined impact of Si and chitosan-GSNO nanoparticles, including their effects on the expression levels of other hormones and genes even in the later growth stage of the crop. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Studies on Strategy of Diaspore Dispersal and Effectiveness of Seed Germination)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 20225 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Genetic Dissection of Diverse Seed Coat Patterns in Cowpea through a Comprehensive GWAS Approach

by Haizheng Xiong, Yilin Chen, Waltram Ravelombola, Beiquan Mou, Xiaolun Sun, Qingyang Zhang, Yiting Xiao, Yang Tian, Qun Luo, Ibtisam Alatawi, Kenani Edward Chiwina, Hanan Mohammedsaeed Alkabkabi and Ainong Shi

Plants 2024, 13(9), 1275; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091275 - 5 May 2024

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2323

Abstract

This study investigates the genetic determinants of seed coat color and pattern variations in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), employing a genome-wide association approach. Analyzing a mapping panel of 296 cowpea varieties with 110,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we focused on eight unique [...] Read more.

This study investigates the genetic determinants of seed coat color and pattern variations in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata), employing a genome-wide association approach. Analyzing a mapping panel of 296 cowpea varieties with 110,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we focused on eight unique coat patterns: (1) Red and (2) Cream seed; (3) White and (4) Brown/Tan seed coat; (5) Pink, (6) Black, (7) Browneye and (8) Red/Brown Holstein. Across six GWAS models (GLM, SRM, MLM, MLMM, FarmCPU from GAPIT3, and TASSEL5), 13 significant SNP markers were identified and led to the discovery of 23 candidate genes. Among these, four specific genes may play a direct role in determining seed coat pigment. These findings lay a foundational basis for future breeding programs aimed at creating cowpea varieties aligned with consumer preferences and market requirements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Diversity of Germplasm Resources in Cereals and Legumes)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 2701 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Application of Developmental Regulators for Enhancing Plant Regeneration and Genetic Transformation

by Pingjun Xu, Yinxiao Zhong, Ang Xu, Bingshuang Liu, Yue Zhang, Anqi Zhao, Xiaoming Yang, Meiling Ming, Fuliang Cao and Fangfang Fu

Plants 2024, 13(9), 1272; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091272 - 4 May 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 4157

Abstract

Establishing plant regeneration systems and efficient genetic transformation techniques plays a crucial role in plant functional genomics research and the development of new crop varieties. The inefficient methods of transformation and regeneration of recalcitrant species and the genetic dependence of the transformation process [...] Read more.

Establishing plant regeneration systems and efficient genetic transformation techniques plays a crucial role in plant functional genomics research and the development of new crop varieties. The inefficient methods of transformation and regeneration of recalcitrant species and the genetic dependence of the transformation process remain major obstacles. With the advancement of plant meristematic tissues and somatic embryogenesis research, several key regulatory genes, collectively known as developmental regulators, have been identified. In the field of plant genetic transformation, the application of developmental regulators has recently garnered significant interest. These regulators play important roles in plant growth and development, and when applied in plant genetic transformation, they can effectively enhance the induction and regeneration capabilities of plant meristematic tissues, thus providing important opportunities for improving genetic transformation efficiency. This review focuses on the introduction of several commonly used developmental regulators. By gaining an in-depth understanding of and applying these developmental regulators, it is possible to further enhance the efficiency and success rate of plant genetic transformation, providing strong support for plant breeding and genetic engineering research. Full article

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 3150 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Trichoderma virens and Pseudomonas chlororaphis Differentially Regulate Maize Resistance to Anthracnose Leaf Blight and Insect Herbivores When Grown in Sterile versus Non-Sterile Soils

by Pei-Cheng Huang, Peiguo Yuan, John M. Grunseich, James Taylor, Eric-Olivier Tiénébo, Elizabeth A. Pierson, Julio S. Bernal, Charles M. Kenerley and Michael V. Kolomiets

Plants 2024, 13(9), 1240; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091240 - 30 Apr 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1839

Abstract

Soil-borne Trichoderma spp. have been extensively studied for their biocontrol activities against pathogens and growth promotion ability in plants. However, the beneficial effect of Trichoderma on inducing resistance against insect herbivores has been underexplored. Among diverse Trichoderma species, consistent with previous reports, we [...] Read more.

Soil-borne Trichoderma spp. have been extensively studied for their biocontrol activities against pathogens and growth promotion ability in plants. However, the beneficial effect of Trichoderma on inducing resistance against insect herbivores has been underexplored. Among diverse Trichoderma species, consistent with previous reports, we showed that root colonization by T. virens triggered induced systemic resistance (ISR) to the leaf-infecting hemibiotrophic fungal pathogens Colletotrichum graminicola. Whether T. virens induces ISR to insect pests has not been tested before. In this study, we investigated whether T. virens affects jasmonic acid (JA) biosynthesis and defense against fall armyworm (FAW) and western corn rootworm (WCR). Unexpectedly, the results showed that T. virens colonization of maize seedlings grown in autoclaved soil suppressed wound-induced production of JA, resulting in reduced resistance to FAW. Similarly, the bacterial endophyte Pseudomonas chlororaphis 30-84 was found to suppress systemic resistance to FAW due to reduced JA. Further comparative analyses of the systemic effects of these endophytes when applied in sterile or non-sterile field soil showed that both T. virens and P. chlororaphis 30-84 triggered ISR against C. graminicola in both soil conditions, but only suppressed JA production and resistance to FAW in sterile soil, while no significant impact was observed when applied in non-sterile soil. In contrast to the effect on FAW defense, T. virens colonization of maize roots suppressed WCR larvae survival and weight gain. This is the first report suggesting the potential role of T. virens as a biocontrol agent against WCR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beneficial Plant-Microorganisms Interactions: Augmented Defenses of Plants and Physiological Responses)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2592 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Biochemical Responses in Populus tremula: Defending against Sucking and Leaf-Chewing Insect Herbivores

by Filip Pastierovič, Alina Kalyniukova, Jaromír Hradecký, Ondřej Dvořák, Jan Vítámvás, Kanakachari Mogilicherla and Ivana Tomášková

Plants 2024, 13(9), 1243; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091243 - 30 Apr 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1735

Abstract

The main biochemical traits were estimated in poplar leaves under biotic attack (aphids and spongy moth infestation). Changes in the abundance of bioactive compounds in genetically uniform individuals of European aspen (Populus tremula), such as proline, polyphenolic compounds, chlorophylls a and [...] Read more.

The main biochemical traits were estimated in poplar leaves under biotic attack (aphids and spongy moth infestation). Changes in the abundance of bioactive compounds in genetically uniform individuals of European aspen (Populus tremula), such as proline, polyphenolic compounds, chlorophylls a and b, and volatile compounds, were determined between leaves damaged by sucking insects (aphid—Chaitophorus nassonowi) and chewing insects (spongy moth—Lymantria dispar) compared to uninfected leaves. Among the nine analyzed phenolic compounds, only catechin and procyanidin showed significant differences between the control leaves and leaves affected by spongy moths or aphids. GC-TOF-MS volatile metabolome analysis showed the clear separation of the control versus aphids-infested and moth-infested leaves. In total, the compounds that proved to have the highest explanatory power for aphid-infested leaves were 3-hexenal and 5-methyl-2-furanone, and for moth-infested leaves, trans-α-farnesene and 4-cyanocyclohexane. The aphid-infested leaves contained around half the amount of chlorophylls and twice the amount of proline compared to uninfected leaves, and these results evidenced that aphids influence plant physiology more than chewing insects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Herbivore Interactions: Insights from Chemical Ecology and Chemodiversity)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 6996 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Morphological and Molecular Identification of Ulva spp. (Ulvophyceae; Chlorophyta) from Algarrobo Bay, Chile: Understanding the Composition of Green Tides

by Javiera Mutizabal-Aros, María Eliana Ramírez, Pilar A. Haye, Andrés Meynard, Benjamín Pinilla-Rojas, Alejandra Núñez, Nicolás Latorre-Padilla, Francesca V. Search, Fabian J. Tapia, Gonzalo S. Saldías, Sergio A. Navarrete and Loretto Contreras-Porcia

Plants 2024, 13(9), 1258; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091258 - 30 Apr 2024

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3811

Abstract

Green algae blooms of the genus Ulva are occurring globally and are primarily attributed to anthropogenic factors. At Los Tubos beach in Algarrobo Bay along the central Chilean coast, there have been blooms of these algae that persist almost year-round over the past [...] Read more.

Green algae blooms of the genus Ulva are occurring globally and are primarily attributed to anthropogenic factors. At Los Tubos beach in Algarrobo Bay along the central Chilean coast, there have been blooms of these algae that persist almost year-round over the past 20 years, leading to environmental, economic, and social issues that affect the local government and communities. The objective of this study was to characterize the species that form these green tides based on a combination of ecological, morpho-anatomical, and molecular information. For this purpose, seasonal surveys of beached algal fronds were conducted between 2021 and 2022. Subsequently, the sampled algae were analyzed morphologically and phylogenetically using the molecular markers ITS1 and tufA, allowing for the identification of at least five taxa. Of these five taxa, three (U. stenophylloides, U. uncialis, U. australis) have laminar, foliose, and distromatic morphology, while the other two (U. compressa, U. aragoensis) have tubular, filamentous, and monostromatic fronds. Intertidal surveys showed that U. stenophylloides showed the highest relative coverage throughout the seasons and all intertidal levels, followed by U. uncialis. Therefore, we can establish that the green tides on the coast of Algarrobo in Chile are multispecific, with differences in relative abundance during different seasons and across the intertidal zone, opening opportunities for diverse future studies, ranging from ecology to algal biotechnology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seaweed Biology: Focusing on Food, Materials and Bioenergy—2nd Edition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 10280 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluating Propagation Techniques for Cannabis sativa L. Cultivation: A Comparative Analysis of Soilless Methods and Aeroponic Parameters

by Matthew Weingarten, Neil Mattson and Heather Grab

Plants 2024, 13(9), 1256; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091256 - 30 Apr 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3092

Abstract

Given the rapid growth of the Cannabis industry, developing practices for producing young plants with limited genetic variation and efficient growth is crucial to achieving reliable and successful cultivation results. This study presents a multi-faceted experiment series analyzing propagation techniques for evaluating proficiency [...] Read more.

Given the rapid growth of the Cannabis industry, developing practices for producing young plants with limited genetic variation and efficient growth is crucial to achieving reliable and successful cultivation results. This study presents a multi-faceted experiment series analyzing propagation techniques for evaluating proficiency in the growth and development of Cannabis vegetative cuttings. This research encompasses various (1) soilless propagation methods including aeroponics, horticultural (phenolic) foam, and rockwool; (2) transplant timings; (3) aeroponic spray intervals; and (4) aeroponic reservoir nutrient concentrations, to elucidate their impact on rooting and growth parameters amongst two Cannabis cultivars. Aeroponics was as effective as, and in some cases more effective than, soilless propagation media for root development and plant growth. In aeroponic systems, continuous spray intervals, compared to intermittent, result in a better promotion of root initiation and plant growth. Moreover, raised nutrient concentrations in aeroponic propagation demonstrated greater rooting and growth. The effects of experimental treatment were dependent on the cultivar and sampling day. These findings offer valuable insights into how various propagation techniques and growth parameters can be tailored to enhance the production of vegetative cuttings. These results hold critical implications for cultivators intending to achieve premium harvests through efficient propagule methods and optimization strategies in the competitive Cannabis industry. Ultimately, our findings suggest that aeroponic propagation, compared to alternative soilless methods, is a rapid and efficient process for cultivating vegetative cuttings of Cannabis and offers sustainable advantages in resource conservation and preservation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cannabis sativa: Advances in Biology and Cultivation)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 1207 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Creating Climate-Resilient Crops by Increasing Drought, Heat, and Salt Tolerance

by Tharanya Sugumar, Guoxin Shen, Jennifer Smith and Hong Zhang

Plants 2024, 13(9), 1238; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091238 - 29 Apr 2024

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2717

Abstract

Over the years, the changes in the agriculture industry have been inevitable, considering the need to feed the growing population. As the world population continues to grow, food security has become challenged. Resources such as arable land and freshwater have become scarce due [...] Read more.

Over the years, the changes in the agriculture industry have been inevitable, considering the need to feed the growing population. As the world population continues to grow, food security has become challenged. Resources such as arable land and freshwater have become scarce due to quick urbanization in developing countries and anthropologic activities; expanding agricultural production areas is not an option. Environmental and climatic factors such as drought, heat, and salt stresses pose serious threats to food production worldwide. Therefore, the need to utilize the remaining arable land and water effectively and efficiently and to maximize the yield to support the increasing food demand has become crucial. It is essential to develop climate-resilient crops that will outperform traditional crops under any abiotic stress conditions such as heat, drought, and salt, as well as these stresses in any combinations. This review provides a glimpse of how plant breeding in agriculture has evolved to overcome the harsh environmental conditions and what the future would be like. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Response to Abiotic Stress and Climate Change)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

38 pages, 1229 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Sustainable Development versus Extractivist Deforestation in Tropical, Subtropical, and Boreal Forest Ecosystems: Repercussions and Controversies about the Mother Tree and the Mycorrhizal Network Hypothesis

by Tomas Gabriel Bas, Mario Luis Sáez and Nicolas Sáez

Plants 2024, 13(9), 1231; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091231 - 29 Apr 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 3758

Abstract

This research reviews the phenomenon of extractive deforestation as a possible trigger for cascade reactions that could affect part of the forest ecosystem and its biodiversity (surface, aerial, and underground) in tropical, subtropical, and boreal forests. The controversy and disparities in criteria generated [...] Read more.

This research reviews the phenomenon of extractive deforestation as a possible trigger for cascade reactions that could affect part of the forest ecosystem and its biodiversity (surface, aerial, and underground) in tropical, subtropical, and boreal forests. The controversy and disparities in criteria generated in the international scientific community around the hypothesis of a possible link between “mother trees” and mycorrhizal networks in coopetition for nutrients, nitrogen, and carbon are analyzed. The objective is to promote awareness to generate more scientific knowledge about the eventual impacts of forest extraction. Public policies are emphasized as crucial mediators for balanced sustainable development. Currently, the effects of extractive deforestation on forest ecosystems are poorly understood, which requires caution and forest protection. Continued research to increase our knowledge in molecular biology is advocated to understand the adaptation of biological organisms to the new conditions of the ecosystem both in the face of extractive deforestation and reforestation. The environmental impacts of extractive deforestation, such as the loss of biodiversity, soil degradation, altered water cycles, and the contribution of climate change, remain largely unknown. Long-term and high-quality research is essential to ensure forest sustainability and the preservation of biodiversity for future generations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Perspectives on New World Tropical Forests)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 2567 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Potyviral Helper-Component Protease: Multifaced Functions and Interactions with Host Proteins

by Veronika Hýsková, Kateřina Bělonožníková, Josef Chmelík, Hana Hoffmeisterová, Noemi Čeřovská, Tomáš Moravec and Helena Ryšlavá

Plants 2024, 13(9), 1236; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091236 - 29 Apr 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1933

Abstract

The best-characterized functional motifs of the potyviral Helper-Component protease (HC-Pro) responding for aphid transmission, RNA silencing suppression, movement, symptom development, and replication are gathered in this review. The potential cellular protein targets of plant virus proteases remain largely unknown despite their multifunctionality. The [...] Read more.

The best-characterized functional motifs of the potyviral Helper-Component protease (HC-Pro) responding for aphid transmission, RNA silencing suppression, movement, symptom development, and replication are gathered in this review. The potential cellular protein targets of plant virus proteases remain largely unknown despite their multifunctionality. The HC-Pro catalytic domain, as a cysteine protease, autoproteolytically cleaves the potyviral polyproteins in the sequence motif YXVG/G and is not expected to act on host targets; however, 146 plant proteins in the Viridiplantae clade containing this motif were searched in the UniProtKB database and are discussed. On the other hand, more than 20 interactions within the entire HC-Pro structure are known. Most of these interactions with host targets (such as the 20S proteasome, methyltransferase, transcription factor eIF4E, and microtubule-associated protein HIP2) modulate the cellular environments for the benefit of virus accumulation or contribute to symptom severity (interactions with MinD, Rubisco, ferredoxin) or participate in the suppression of RNA silencing (host protein VARICOSE, calmodulin-like protein). On the contrary, the interaction of HC-Pro with triacylglycerol lipase, calreticulin, and violaxanthin deepoxidase seems to be beneficial for the host plant. The strength of these interactions between HC-Pro and the corresponding host protein vary with the plant species. Therefore, these interactions may explain the species-specific sensitivity to potyviruses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Horizons in Plant–Microbe Interactions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 3554 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Echinacea: Bioactive Compounds and Agronomy

by Fatemeh Ahmadi, Khalil Kariman, Milad Mousavi and Zed Rengel

Plants 2024, 13(9), 1235; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091235 - 29 Apr 2024

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4964

Abstract

For centuries, medicinal plants have been used as sources of remedies and treatments for various disorders and diseases. Recently, there has been renewed interest in these plants due to their potential pharmaceutical properties, offering natural alternatives to synthetic drugs. Echinacea, among the world’s [...] Read more.

For centuries, medicinal plants have been used as sources of remedies and treatments for various disorders and diseases. Recently, there has been renewed interest in these plants due to their potential pharmaceutical properties, offering natural alternatives to synthetic drugs. Echinacea, among the world’s most important medicinal plants, possesses immunological, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties. Nevertheless, there is a notable lack of thorough information regarding the echinacea species, underscoring the vital need for a comprehensive review paper to consolidate existing knowledge. The current review provides a thorough analysis of the existing knowledge on recent advances in understanding the physiology, secondary metabolites, agronomy, and ecology of echinacea plants, focusing on E. purpurea, E. angustifolia, and E. pallida. Pharmacologically advantageous effects of echinacea species on human health, particularly distinguished for its ability to safeguard the nervous system and combat cancer, are discussed. We also highlight challenges in echinacea research and provide insights into diverse approaches to boost the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites of interest in echinacea plants and optimize their large-scale farming. Various academic databases were employed to carry out an extensive literature review of publications from 2001 to 2024. The medicinal properties of echinacea plants are attributed to diverse classes of compounds, including caffeic acid derivatives (CADs), chicoric acid, echinacoside, chlorogenic acid, cynarine, phenolic and flavonoid compounds, polysaccharides, and alkylamides. Numerous critical issues have emerged, including the identification of active metabolites with limited bioavailability, the elucidation of specific molecular signaling pathways or targets linked to echinacoside effects, and the scarcity of robust clinical trials. This raises the overarching question of whether scientific inquiry can effectively contribute to harnessing the potential of natural compounds. A systematic review and analysis are essential to furnish insights and lay the groundwork for future research endeavors focused on the echinacea natural products. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemistry)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 3572 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Monitoring and Genotyping of Wild Grapevine (Vitis vinifera L. subsp. sylvestris) in Slovenia

by Andrej Perko, Oliver Trapp, Erika Maul, Franco Röckel, Andrej Piltaver and Stanko Vršič

Plants 2024, 13(9), 1234; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants13091234 - 29 Apr 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1707

Abstract

Vitis vinifera L. subsp. sylvestris (sylvestris) is the only native wild grapevine in Eurasia (Europe and western Asia) and is the existing ancestor of the grapevine varieties (for wine and table grape production) belonging to the subsp. sativa. In Slovenia, [...] Read more.

Vitis vinifera L. subsp. sylvestris (sylvestris) is the only native wild grapevine in Eurasia (Europe and western Asia) and is the existing ancestor of the grapevine varieties (for wine and table grape production) belonging to the subsp. sativa. In Slovenia, the prevailing opinion has been that there are no Slovenian sylvestris habitats. This study describes sylvestris in Slovenia for the first time and aims to present an overview of the locations of the wild grapevine in the country. In this project, a sample set of 89 accessions were examined using 24 SSR and 2 SSR markers plus APT3 markers to determine flower sex. The accessions were found in forests on the left bank of the Sava River in Slovenia, on the border between alluvial soils and limestone and dolomite soils, five different sites, some of which are described for the first time. The proportion of female to male accessions differed between sites. At two sites, female plants dominated; at others, the ratio was balanced. The plants’ genetic diversity and structure were compared with autochthonous and unique varieties of subsp. sativa from old vineyards in Slovenia and with rootstocks escaped from nature from abandoned vineyards. Sylvestris was clearly distinguishable from vinifera and the rootstocks. Based on genetic analyses, it was confirmed that Slovenian sylvestris is closest to the Balkan and German sylvestris groups. Meanwhile, a safety duplication of the wild grapevine accessions has been established at the University Centre of Viticulture and Enology Meranovo, Faculty of Agriculture and Life Sciences at the University of Maribor. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grapevine Genetic Resources)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Editor’s Choice Articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI