Plants

19 pages, 3272 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Magnetic Water Treatment: An Eco-Friendly Irrigation Alternative to Alleviate Salt Stress of Brackish Water in Seed Germination and Early Seedling Growth of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)

by Jihong Zhang, Quanjiu Wang, Kai Wei, Yi Guo, Weiyi Mu and Yan Sun

Plants 2022, 11(11), 1397; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11111397 - 25 May 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 4063

Abstract

Magnetized water has been a promising approach to improve crop productivity but the conditions for its effectiveness remain contradictory and inconclusive. The objective of this research was to understand the influences of different magnetized water with varying quality on seed absorption, germination, and [...] Read more.

Magnetized water has been a promising approach to improve crop productivity but the conditions for its effectiveness remain contradictory and inconclusive. The objective of this research was to understand the influences of different magnetized water with varying quality on seed absorption, germination, and early growth of cotton. To this end, a series of experiments involving the seed soaking process, germination test, and pot experiment were carried out to study the effects of different qualities (fresh and brackish water) of magnetized water on seed water absorption, germination, seedling growth, photosynthetic characteristics, and biomass of cotton in 2018. The results showed that the maximum relative water absorption of magnetized fresh and magnetized brackish water relatively increased by 16.76% and 19.75%, respectively, and the magnetic effect time of brackish water was longer than fresh water. The relative promotion effect of magnetized brackish water on cotton seed germination and growth potential was greater than magnetized fresh water. The cotton seeds germination rate under magnetized fresh and magnetized brackish water irrigation relatively increased by 13.14% and 41.86%, respectively, and the relative promoting effect of magnetized brackish water on the vitality indexes and the morphological indexes of cotton seedlings was greater than magnetized fresh water. Unlike non-magnetized water, the net photosynthetic rate (P_n), transpiration rate (T_r), and instantaneous water use efficiency (iWUE) of cotton irrigated with magnetized water increased significantly, while the stomatal limit value (L_s) decreased. The influences of photosynthesis and water use efficiency of cotton under magnetized brackish water were greater than magnetized fresh water. Magnetized fresh water had no significant effect on biomass proportional distribution of cotton but magnetized brackish water irrigation markedly improved the root-to-stem ratio of cotton within a 35.72% range. Therefore, the magnetization of brackish water does improve the growth characteristics of cotton seedlings, and the biological effect of magnetized brackish water is more significant than that of fresh water. It is suggested that magnetized brackish water can be used to irrigate cotton seedlings when freshwater resources are insufficient. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological and Biochemical Adjustments in Response to Abiotic Stressors Associated with Climate Change)

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15 pages, 762 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Oil Palm Breeding in the Modern Era: Challenges and Opportunities

by Jerome Jeyakumar John Martin, Rajesh Yarra, Lu Wei and Hongxing Cao

Plants 2022, 11(11), 1395; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11111395 - 24 May 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7497

Abstract

Oil palm, a cross-pollinated crop with long generation time, poses a lot of challenges in achieving sustainable oil palm with high yield and quality. The African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) is the most productive and versatile oil-yielding crop in the world, [...] Read more.

Oil palm, a cross-pollinated crop with long generation time, poses a lot of challenges in achieving sustainable oil palm with high yield and quality. The African oil palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) is the most productive and versatile oil-yielding crop in the world, producing more than any other oil-yielding crop. Despite recent challenges, such as stress tolerance, superior oil quality, disease tolerance, and the need for new market niches, there is a growing need to explore and develop new varieties with high yield potential and the genetic diversity required to maintain oil palm yield stability. Breeding is an indispensable part of producing high-quality planting materials to increase oil palm yield. Biotechnological technologies have transformed conventional plant breeding approaches by introducing novel genotypes for breeding. Innovative pre-breeding and breeding approaches, such as identifying candidate genes in wild or land races using genomics tools, can pave the way for genetic improvement in oil palm. In this review, we highlighted the modern breeding tools, including genomics, marker-assisted breeding, genetic engineering, and genome editing techniques in oil palm crops, and we explored certain concerns connected to the techniques and their applications in practical breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis) Biology, Productivity, Sustainability: From the Organism to the Ecosystem Scale)

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16 pages, 4419 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

ZmLBD5 Increases Drought Sensitivity by Suppressing ROS Accumulation in Arabidopsis

by Jing Xiong, Weixiao Zhang, Dan Zheng, Hao Xiong, Xuanjun Feng, Xuemei Zhang, Qingjun Wang, Fengkai Wu, Jie Xu and Yanli Lu

Plants 2022, 11(10), 1382; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11101382 - 23 May 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3091

Abstract

Drought stress is known to significantly limit crop growth and productivity. Lateral organ boundary domain (LBD) transcription factors—particularly class-I members—play essential roles in plant development and biotic stress. However, little information is available on class-II LBD genes related to abiotic stress in maize. [...] Read more.

Drought stress is known to significantly limit crop growth and productivity. Lateral organ boundary domain (LBD) transcription factors—particularly class-I members—play essential roles in plant development and biotic stress. However, little information is available on class-II LBD genes related to abiotic stress in maize. Here, we cloned a maize class-II LBD transcription factor, ZmLBD5, and identified its function in drought stress. Transient expression, transactivation, and dimerization assays demonstrated that ZmLBD5 was localized in the nucleus, without transactivation, and could form a homodimer or heterodimer. Promoter analysis demonstrated that multiple drought-stress-related and ABA response cis-acting elements are present in the promoter region of ZmLBD5. Overexpression of ZmLBD5 in Arabidopsis promotes plant growth under normal conditions, and suppresses drought tolerance under drought conditions. Furthermore, the overexpression of ZmLBD5 increased the water loss rate, stomatal number, and stomatal apertures. DAB and NBT staining demonstrated that the reactive oxygen species (ROS) decreased in ZmLBD5-overexpressed Arabidopsis. A physiological index assay also revealed that SOD and POD activities in ZmLBD5-overexpressed Arabidopsis were higher than those in wild-type Arabidopsis. These results revealed the role of ZmLBD5 in drought stress by regulating ROS levels. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Signaling and Responses in Plants)

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24 pages, 2629 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Cold Stress, Freezing Adaptation, Varietal Susceptibility of Olea europaea L.: A Review

by Raffaella Petruccelli, Giorgio Bartolini, Tommaso Ganino, Samanta Zelasco, Luca Lombardo, Enzo Perri, Mauro Durante and Rodolfo Bernardi

Plants 2022, 11(10), 1367; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11101367 - 20 May 2022

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5108

Abstract

Olive (Olea europaea L.) is an evergreen xerophytic tree characterizing vegetative landscape and historical-cultural identity of the Mediterranean Basin. More than 2600 cultivars constitute the rich genetic patrimony of the species cultivated in approximately 60 countries. As a subtropical species, the olive [...] Read more.

Olive (Olea europaea L.) is an evergreen xerophytic tree characterizing vegetative landscape and historical-cultural identity of the Mediterranean Basin. More than 2600 cultivars constitute the rich genetic patrimony of the species cultivated in approximately 60 countries. As a subtropical species, the olive tree is quite sensitive to low temperatures, and air temperature is the most critical environmental factor limiting olive tree growth and production. In this present review, we explored the detrimental effects caused of low temperatures on olive cultivars, and analyzed the most frequently experimental procedures used to evaluate cold stress. Then, current findings freezing stress physiology and gene are summarized in olive tree, with an emphasis on adaptive mechanisms for cold tolerance. This review might clear the way for new research on adaptive mechanisms for cold acclimation and for improvement of olive growing management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Genetic Diversity, Biotechnological Tools, and Phenotypic Trait Variation of Olea europaea L.: Studies to Support Breeding Programs)

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13 pages, 957 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Virulence Structure and Genetic Diversity of Blumeria graminis f. sp. avenae from Different Regions of Europe

by Magdalena Cieplak, Aleksandra Nucia, Tomasz Ociepa and Sylwia Okoń

Plants 2022, 11(10), 1358; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11101358 - 20 May 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2500

Abstract

The structure and dynamics of changes in pathogen populations can be analysed by assessing the level of virulence and genetic diversity. The aim of the present study was to determine the diversity of Blumeria graminis f. sp. avenae populations. Diversity and virulence of [...] Read more.

The structure and dynamics of changes in pathogen populations can be analysed by assessing the level of virulence and genetic diversity. The aim of the present study was to determine the diversity of Blumeria graminis f. sp. avenae populations. Diversity and virulence of B. graminis f. sp. avenae was assessed based on 80 single-spore isolates collected in different European countries such as Poland (40 isolates), Germany (10), Finland (10), Czech Republic (10) and Ireland (10) using ISSR (Inter-Simple Sequence Repeats) and SCoT (Start Codon Targeted) markers. This work demonstrated differences in virulence of B. graminis f. sp. avenae isolates sampled from different countries. Molecular analysis showed that both systems were useful for assessing genetic diversity, but ISSR markers were superior and generated more polymorphic products, as well as higher PIC and RP values. UPMGA and PCoA divided the isolates into groups corresponding with their geographical origin. In conclusion, the low level of genetic differentiation of the analysed isolates has suggested that the evolution of B. graminis f. sp. Avenae population is slow, and thus the evolutionary potential of the pathogen is low. This work paves the way for future studies on B. graminis f. sp. Avenae population structure and dynamics based on genetic variability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cereal Fungal Diseases: Etiology, Breeding, and Integrated Management)

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14 pages, 1125 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Medicinal Halophyte Frankenia laevis L. (Sea Heath) Has In Vitro Antioxidant Activity, α-Glucosidase Inhibition, and Cytotoxicity towards Hepatocarcinoma Cells

by Maria João Rodrigues, József Jekő, Zoltán Cziáky, Catarina G. Pereira and Luísa Custódio

Plants 2022, 11(10), 1353; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11101353 - 19 May 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2590

Abstract

This work explored the medicinal halophyte Frankenia laevis L. (sea heath) as a potential source of bioactive natural products. In this sense, methanol and dichloromethane extracts were prepared from aerial organs containing flowers, leaves and stems, and were profiled for their chemical composition [...] Read more.

This work explored the medicinal halophyte Frankenia laevis L. (sea heath) as a potential source of bioactive natural products. In this sense, methanol and dichloromethane extracts were prepared from aerial organs containing flowers, leaves and stems, and were profiled for their chemical composition using high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS/MS). The extracts were evaluated for their in vitro antioxidant capacity using five complementary methods: enzyme inhibitory effects on enzymes related with neurodegeneration (acetyl (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BuChE)), Type 2 diabetes (α-glucosidase and α-amylase), hyperpigmentation/food oxidation (tyrosinase), and cytotoxicity towards human hepatocarcinoma (HepG2) cells. Fifty-one molecules were identified in the extracts, including several derivatives of phenolic acids, lignans and flavonoids, monoterpenes, and hydroxylated derivatives of linoleic acid. The methanol extract was effective in DPPH and ABTS radical scavenging (EC₅₀ = 0.25 and 0.65 mg/mL, respectively), copper chelation (EC₅₀ = 0.78 mg/mL), and iron reduction (EC₅₀ = 0.51 mg/mL) activities, whereas the dichloromethane extract had high iron chelating ability (EC₅₀ = 0.76 mg/mL). Both extracts showed the capacity to inhibit α-glucosidase, especially the dichloromethane (EC₅₀ = 0.52 mg/mL). This extract also exerted a significant selective cytotoxicity towards HepG2 cells (EC₅₀ = 52.1 μg/mL, SI > 1.9). In conclusion, extracts from the aerial parts of sea heath were shown to be a promising source of natural products for pharmaceutical and/or food additive applications due to their high antioxidant, anti-diabetic, and cytotoxic properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioprospecting of Natural Products from Medicinal Plants)

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32 pages, 551 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Genetic Improvement of Wheat for Drought Tolerance: Progress, Challenges and Opportunities

by Theresa Bapela, Hussein Shimelis, Toi John Tsilo and Isack Mathew

Plants 2022, 11(10), 1331; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11101331 - 18 May 2022

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 11679

Abstract

Wheat production and productivity are challenged by recurrent droughts associated with climate change globally. Drought and heat stress resilient cultivars can alleviate yield loss in marginal production agro-ecologies. The ability of some crop genotypes to thrive and yield in drought conditions is attributable [...] Read more.

Wheat production and productivity are challenged by recurrent droughts associated with climate change globally. Drought and heat stress resilient cultivars can alleviate yield loss in marginal production agro-ecologies. The ability of some crop genotypes to thrive and yield in drought conditions is attributable to the inherent genetic variation and environmental adaptation, presenting opportunities to develop drought-tolerant varieties. Understanding the underlying genetic, physiological, biochemical, and environmental mechanisms and their interactions is key critical opportunity for drought tolerance improvement. Therefore, the objective of this review is to document the progress, challenges, and opportunities in breeding for drought tolerance in wheat. The paper outlines the following key aspects: (1) challenges associated with breeding for adaptation to drought-prone environments, (2) opportunities such as genetic variation in wheat for drought tolerance, selection methods, the interplay between above-ground phenotypic traits and root attributes in drought adaptation and drought-responsive attributes and (3) approaches, technologies and innovations in drought tolerance breeding. In the end, the paper summarises genetic gains and perspectives in drought tolerance breeding in wheat. The review will serve as baseline information for wheat breeders and agronomists to guide the development and deployment of drought-adapted and high-performing new-generation wheat varieties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wheat Breeding, Genomic Selection, and Phenomics)

10 pages, 3599 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The First Report on Transgenic Hairy Root Induction from the Stem of Tung Tree (Vernicia fordii)

by Hongyu Jia, Junjie Chen, Lin Zhang and Lingling Zhang

Plants 2022, 11(10), 1315; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11101315 - 16 May 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2889

Abstract

Tung tree (Vernicia fordii) is an industrially important oil-bearing woody plant of the Euphorbiaceae family. Functional studies of tung tree at the molecular level are limited by the lack of an efficient transgenic system. The Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated hairy root generation [...] Read more.

Tung tree (Vernicia fordii) is an industrially important oil-bearing woody plant of the Euphorbiaceae family. Functional studies of tung tree at the molecular level are limited by the lack of an efficient transgenic system. The Agrobacterium rhizogenes-mediated hairy root generation system is an alternative to typical plant transformation systems. However, its application in many plants has been blocked due to the inability of existing methods to induce hairy roots. Thus, it is critical to build a method suitable for the hairy induction of the specific plant of interest. In this study, a modified method for tung tree was developed, and it is the first report that hairy roots could be effectively induced in the stem of tung tree. With the method, an average of 10.7 hairy roots per seedling were generated in tung tree, approximately 67% of seedlings produced transgenic hairy roots and approximately 13.96% of the hairy roots of these seedlings were transgenic. This modified method is also suitable for the hairy root induction of two other oil-bearing plants of the Euphorbiaceae family, Ricinus communis and Vernicia montana. This modified method will accelerate functional studies of tung tree at the molecular level and also shed light on plants lacking a transgenic system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Plant Domestication and Crop Evolution)

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34 pages, 2464 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Diversity of Useful Plants in Cabo Verde Islands: A Biogeographic and Conservation Perspective

by Maria Cristina Duarte, Isildo Gomes, Silvia Catarino, Miguel Brilhante, Samuel Gomes, Aline Rendall, Ângela Moreno, Arlindo Rodrigues Fortes, Vladmir Silves Ferreira, Isaurinda Baptista, Herculano Dinis and Maria Manuel Romeiras

Plants 2022, 11(10), 1313; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11101313 - 15 May 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4923

Abstract

Cabo Verde’s biodiversity is threatened by activities that meet human needs. To counteract this, an integration of scientific and indigenous knowledge is required, but no comprehensive list of the useful local plants is available. Thus, in this work, we assess (1) their diversity [...] Read more.

Cabo Verde’s biodiversity is threatened by activities that meet human needs. To counteract this, an integration of scientific and indigenous knowledge is required, but no comprehensive list of the useful local plants is available. Thus, in this work, we assess (1) their diversity and phytogeography; (2) the role of geophysical, historical, and socio-economic factors on species distribution and uses; and (3) potentially relevant species for sustainable development. Data were obtained from flora, scientific publications, historical documents, herbarium specimens and field work. Many species were introduced since the 15th century to support settlement and commercial interests. We identified 518 useful taxa, of which 145 are native, 38 endemic and 44 endangered. The number of useful taxa is correlated with altitude and agricultural area, as well as with rural population indicators, but not with total population or socio-economic indicators such as gross domestic product. Native taxa are mostly used for fuelwood, forage and utilitarian purposes. Agrobiodiversity and traditional practices seem crucial to cope with recurrent droughts and ensure food security. Most of the introduced species do not present conservation problems, contrasting with the overuse of some native taxa. The safeguarding of native populations will ensure the sustainable exploitation of these resources and benefit the local economy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Systematics and the Conservation of Plant Diversity)

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18 pages, 3215 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Angiopteris cochinchinensis de Vriese Ameliorates LPS-Induced Acute Lung Injury via Src Inhibition

by Won Young Jang, Hwa Pyoung Lee, Seung A Kim, Lei Huang, Ji Hye Yoon, Chae Yun Shin, Ankita Mitra, Han Gyung Kim and Jae Youl Cho

Plants 2022, 11(10), 1306; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11101306 - 13 May 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3511

Abstract

Growing demand for treatment options against acute lung injury (ALI) emphasizes studies on plant extracts harboring anti-inflammatory effects. According to GC-MS analysis, Angiopteris cochinchinensis de Vriese consists of various flavonoids with anti-inflammatory activities. Thus, in this study, the anti-inflammatory effects of an extract [...] Read more.

Growing demand for treatment options against acute lung injury (ALI) emphasizes studies on plant extracts harboring anti-inflammatory effects. According to GC-MS analysis, Angiopteris cochinchinensis de Vriese consists of various flavonoids with anti-inflammatory activities. Thus, in this study, the anti-inflammatory effects of an extract of Angiopteris cochinchinensis de Vriese (Ac-EE) were assessed using RAW264.6 murine macrophages and a lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced ALI model. Ac-EE reduced the nitric oxide production in murine macrophages increased by LPS induction. Moreover, protective effects of Ac-EE on lung tissue were demonstrated by shrinkage of edema and lung injury. Reduced neutrophil infiltration and formation of hyaline membranes were also detected in lung tissues after H&E staining. Semiquantitative RT-PCR, quantitative real-time PCR, and ELISA showed that Ac-EE inhibits the production of proinflammatory mediators, including iNOS and COX-2, and cytokines, such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6. An Ac-EE-mediated anti-inflammatory response was derived from inhibiting the NF-κB signaling pathway, which was evaluated by luciferase reporter assay and Western blotting analysis. A cellular thermal shift assay revealed that the prime target of Ac-EE in alleviating inflammation was Src. With its direct binding with Src, Angiopteris cochinchinensis de Vriese significantly mitigates lung injury, showing possibilities of its potential as an effective botanical drug. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Anti-Inflammatory Bioactivities in Plant Extracts)

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22 pages, 3060 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Artificial Neural Networks Elucidated the Essential Role of Mineral Nutrients versus Vitamins and Plant Growth Regulators in Achieving Healthy Micropropagated Plants

by Tomás A. Arteta, Radhia Hameg, Mariana Landin, Pedro P. Gallego and M. Esther Barreal

Plants 2022, 11(10), 1284; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11101284 - 11 May 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2515

Abstract

The design of an adequate culture medium is an essential step in the micropropagation process of plant species. Adjustment and balance of medium components involve the interaction of several factors, such as mineral nutrients, vitamins, and plant growth regulators (PGRs). This work aimed [...] Read more.

The design of an adequate culture medium is an essential step in the micropropagation process of plant species. Adjustment and balance of medium components involve the interaction of several factors, such as mineral nutrients, vitamins, and plant growth regulators (PGRs). This work aimed to shed light on the role of these three components on the plant growth and quality of micropropagated woody plants, using Actinidia arguta as a plant model. Two experiments using a five-dimensional experimental design space were defined using the Design of Experiments (DoE) method, to study the effect of five mineral factors (NH₄NO₃, KNO₃, Mesos, Micros, and Iron) and five vitamins (Myo-inositol, thiamine, nicotinic acid, pyridoxine, and vitamin E). A third experiment, using 20 combinations of two PGRs: BAP (6-benzylaminopurine) and GA₃ (gibberellic acid) was performed. Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) algorithms were used to build models with the whole database to determine the effect of those components on several growth and quality parameters. Neurofuzzy logic allowed us to decipher and generate new knowledge on the hierarchy of some minerals as essential components of the culture media over vitamins and PRGs, suggesting rules about how MS basal media formulation could be modified to assess the quality of micropropagated woody plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Biotechnology to Woody Propagation)

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20 pages, 1449 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench: Biological and Pharmacological Properties. A Review

by Cristina Burlou-Nagy, Florin Bănică, Tünde Jurca, Laura Grațiela Vicaș, Eleonora Marian, Mariana Eugenia Muresan, Ildikó Bácskay, Rita Kiss, Pálma Fehér and Annamaria Pallag

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091244 - 5 May 2022

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 12118

Abstract

Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench (EP)is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant, commonly known as purple coneflower and it belongs to the Asteraceae family. The Echinacea genus is originally from North America, in the United States, and its species are widely distributed throughout. There are [...] Read more.

Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench (EP)is a perennial herbaceous flowering plant, commonly known as purple coneflower and it belongs to the Asteraceae family. The Echinacea genus is originally from North America, in the United States, and its species are widely distributed throughout. There are nine different species of Echinacea, but only three of them are used as medicinal plants with wide therapeutic uses: Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench, Echinacea pallida (Nutt.) Nutt. and Echinacea angustifolia DC. Several significant groups of bioactive compounds with pharmacological activities have been isolated from Echinacea species. Numerous beneficial effects have been demonstrated about these compounds. The immunomodulatory effect was initially demonstrated, but over time other effects have also been highlighted. The present review gives a comprehensive summary of the chemical constituents, bioactive compounds, biological effects and therapeutical uses of purple coneflower. Research shows that such a well-known and recognized species needs to be further studied to obtain efficient products with a guarantee of the safety. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Review Papers in Phytochemistry)

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18 pages, 5258 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP) and SYBR Green qPCR for Fast and Reliable Detection of Geosmithia morbida (Kolařik) in Infected Walnut

by Domenico Rizzo, Chiara Aglietti, Alessandra Benigno, Matteo Bracalini, Daniele Da Lio, Linda Bartolini, Giovanni Cappellini, Antonio Aronadio, Cristina Francia, Nicola Luchi, Alberto Santini, Santa Olga Cacciola, Tiziana Panzavolta and Salvatore Moricca

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1239; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091239 - 3 May 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3156

Abstract

Walnut species (Juglans spp.) are multipurpose trees, widely employed in plantation forestry for high-quality timber and nut production, as well as in urban greening as ornamental plants. These species are currently threatened by the thousand cankers disease (TCD) complex, an insect–fungus association [...] Read more.

Walnut species (Juglans spp.) are multipurpose trees, widely employed in plantation forestry for high-quality timber and nut production, as well as in urban greening as ornamental plants. These species are currently threatened by the thousand cankers disease (TCD) complex, an insect–fungus association which involves the ascomycete Geosmithia morbida (GM) and its vector, the bark beetle Pityophthorus juglandis. While TCD has been studied extensively where it originated in North America, little research has been carried out in Europe, where it was more recently introduced. A key step in research to cope with this new phytosanitary emergency is the development of effective molecular detection tools. In this work, we report two accurate molecular methods for the diagnosis of GM, based on LAMP (real-time and visual) and SYBR Green qPCR, which are complimentary to and integrated with similar recently developed assays. Our protocols detected GM DNA from pure mycelium and from infected woody tissue with high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity, without cross-reactivity to a large panel of taxonomically related species. The precision and robustness of our tests guarantee high diagnostic standards and could be used to support field diagnostic end-users in TCD monitoring and surveillance campaigns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Challenge of Coping with Globally and Locally Emerging Fungal and Oomycetes Plant Pathogens)

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16 pages, 3912 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Genome-Wide Analyses of MADS-Box Genes in Humulus lupulus L. Reveal Potential Participation in Plant Development, Floral Architecture, and Lupulin Gland Metabolism

by Robert Márquez Gutiérrez, Thales Henrique Cherubino Ribeiro, Raphael Ricon de Oliveira, Vagner Augusto Benedito and Antonio Chalfun-Junior

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1237; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091237 - 3 May 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3424

Abstract

MADS-box transcription factors (TFs) are involved in multiple plant development processes and are most known during the reproductive transition and floral organ development. Very few genes have been characterized in the genome of Humulus lupulus L. (Cannabaceae), an important crop for the pharmaceutical [...] Read more.

MADS-box transcription factors (TFs) are involved in multiple plant development processes and are most known during the reproductive transition and floral organ development. Very few genes have been characterized in the genome of Humulus lupulus L. (Cannabaceae), an important crop for the pharmaceutical and beverage industries. The MADS-box family has not been studied in this species yet. We identified 65 MADS-box genes in the hop genome, of which 29 encode type-II TFs (27 of subgroup MIKC^C and 2 MIKC*) and 36 type-I proteins (26 α, 9 β, and 1 γ). Type-II MADS-box genes evolved more complex architectures than type-I genes. Interestingly, we did not find FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) homologs, a transcription factor that acts as a floral repressor and is negatively regulated by cold. This result provides a molecular explanation for a previous work showing that vernalization is not a requirement for hop flowering, which has implications for its cultivation in the tropics. Analysis of gene ontology and expression profiling revealed genes potentially involved in the development of male and female floral structures based on the differential expression of ABC homeotic genes in each whorl of the flower. We identified a gene exclusively expressed in lupulin glands, suggesting a role in specialized metabolism in these structures. In toto, this work contributes to understanding the evolutionary history of MADS-box genes in hop, and provides perspectives on functional genetic studies, biotechnology, and crop breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Plants—Recent Advances and Perspectives)

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16 pages, 4662 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Essential Oil Yield, Composition, and Bioactivity of Sagebrush Species in the Bighorn Mountains

by Valtcho D. Zheljazkov, Charles L. Cantrell, Ekaterina A. Jeliazkova, Tess Astatkie and Vicki Schlegel

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1228; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091228 - 1 May 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2286

Abstract

Sagebrush (Artemisia spp.) are dominant wild plants in large areas of the U.S., Canada and Mexico, and they include several species and subspecies. The aim was to determine if there are significant differences in essential oil (EO) yield, composition, and biological activity [...] Read more.

Sagebrush (Artemisia spp.) are dominant wild plants in large areas of the U.S., Canada and Mexico, and they include several species and subspecies. The aim was to determine if there are significant differences in essential oil (EO) yield, composition, and biological activity of sagebrush within the Bighorn Mountains, U.S. The EO yield in fresh herbage varied from 0.15 to 1.69% for all species, including 0.25–1.69% in A. tridentata var. vaseyana, 0.64–1.44% in A. tridentata var. tridentata, 1% in A. tridentata var. wyomingensis, 0.8–1.2% in A. longifolia, 0.8–1% in A. cana, and 0.16% in A. ludoviciana. There was significant variability in the EO profile between species, and subspecies. Some EO constituents, such as α-pinene (0–35.5%), camphene (0–21.5%), eucalyptol (0–30.8%), and camphor (0–45.5%), were found in most species and varied with species and subspecies. The antioxidant capacity of the EOs varied between the species and subspecies. None of the sagebrush EOs had significant antimicrobial, antimalarial, antileishmanial activity, or contained podophyllotoxin. Some accessions yielded EO with significant concentrations of compounds including camphor, eucalyptol, cis-thujone, α-pinene, α-necrodol-acetate, fragranol, grandisol, para-cymene, and arthole. Therefore, chemotypes can be selected and possibly introduced into culture and be grown for commercial production of these compounds to meet specific industry needs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in the Research of Bioactive Compounds from Plant Origin with Nutraceutical and Pharmaceutical Potential)

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12 pages, 1219 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Partial Substitution of Conventional Protein Sources with Duckweed (Lemna minor) Meal in the Feeding of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) on Growth Performances and the Quality Product

by Elisa Fiordelmondo, Simona Ceschin, Gian Enrico Magi, Francesca Mariotti, Nicolaia Iaffaldano, Livio Galosi and Alessandra Roncarati

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1220; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091220 - 30 Apr 2022

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3349

Abstract

Duckweed (Lemna minor) meal was included in the formulation of three experimental feeds (L1, L2, L3) for rainbow trout at 10%, 20%, 28% of the protein source, respectively. Increasing the duckweed inclusion, the other protein sources were adjusted to get isonitrogenous [...] Read more.

Duckweed (Lemna minor) meal was included in the formulation of three experimental feeds (L1, L2, L3) for rainbow trout at 10%, 20%, 28% of the protein source, respectively. Increasing the duckweed inclusion, the other protein sources were adjusted to get isonitrogenous (41%) and isolipidic (20%) diets, as the control diet (LC). 540 fish (mean body weight 124.5 ± 0.7 g) were randomly allocated in 12 tanks divided equally among the four different diets. After 90 days, fish were weighed and the most important productive performances, fillet quality and fatty acid profile were determined. The final body weight in L1 (340.53 g) and L2 (339.42 g) was not different from LC (348.80 g); L3 trout significantly (p < 0.05) exhibited the lowest one (302.16 g). Similar trends were found in final mean length, weight gain, specific growth rate, food conversion rate. Somatic indices were affected by duckweed inclusion. Diets had not significant effects on the proximate composition and fatty acids of the fillet in L1, L2, L3 respect to LC. Based on this study, duckweed meal derived from Lemna minor can be included in the feed for the rainbow trout without negative effects on the growth performances at 20% of the protein substitution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Duckweed: Research Meets Applications)

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22 pages, 1371 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Multiple Role of Silicon Nutrition in Alleviating Environmental Stresses in Sustainable Crop Production

by Szilvia Kovács, Erika Kutasy and József Csajbók

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1223; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091223 - 30 Apr 2022

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 6824

Abstract

In addition to the application of macronutrients (N, P, K), there has been an increasing interest in studying the effects of different micronutrients on growth and development in plant populations under abiotic and biotic stresses. Experimental results have demonstrated the role of silicon [...] Read more.

In addition to the application of macronutrients (N, P, K), there has been an increasing interest in studying the effects of different micronutrients on growth and development in plant populations under abiotic and biotic stresses. Experimental results have demonstrated the role of silicon in mitigating environmental stresses on plants (especially in silicon accumulating plant species). Furthermore, as the silicon content of soils available to plants can vary greatly depending on soil type, the many positive results have led to increased interest in silicon as a nutrient in sustainable agriculture over the last decade. The grouping of plant species according to silicon accumulation is constantly changing as a result of new findings. There are also many new research results on the formation of phytoliths and their role in the plants. The use of silicon as a nutrient is becoming more widespread in crop production practices based on research results reporting beneficial effects. Controversial results have also been obtained on the use of different Si-containing materials as fertilizers. Many questions remain to be clarified about the uptake, transport, and role of silicon in plant life processes, such as stress management. Future research is needed to address these issues. This review discusses the role and beneficial effects of silicon in plants as a valuable tool for regulating biological and abiotic stresses. Our aim was to provide an overview of recent research on the role and importance of silicon in sustainable crop production and to highlight possible directions for further research. Full article

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

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17 pages, 4521 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Root Transcriptional and Metabolic Dynamics Induced by the Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacterium (PGPR) Bacillus subtilis Mbi600 on Cucumber Plants

by Anastasios Samaras, Nathalie Kamou, Georgios Tzelepis, Katerina Karamanoli, Urania Menkissoglu-Spiroudi and George S. Karaoglanidis

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1218; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091218 - 30 Apr 2022

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 3999

Abstract

Bacillus subtilis MBI600 is a commercialized plant growth-promoting bacterial species used as a biocontrol agent in many crops, controlling various plant pathogens via direct or indirect mechanisms. In the present study, a detailed transcriptomic analysis of cucumber roots upon response to the Bs [...] Read more.

Bacillus subtilis MBI600 is a commercialized plant growth-promoting bacterial species used as a biocontrol agent in many crops, controlling various plant pathogens via direct or indirect mechanisms. In the present study, a detailed transcriptomic analysis of cucumber roots upon response to the Bs MBI600 strain is provided. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis showed altered gene expression in more than 1000 genes at 24 and 48 h post-application of Bs MBI600. Bs MBI600 induces genes involved in ISR and SAR signaling. In addition, genes involved in phytohormone production and nutrient availability showed an upregulation pattern, justifying the plant growth promotion. Biocontrol ability of Bs MBI600 seems also to be related to the activation of defense-related genes, such as peroxidase, endo-1,3(4)-beta-glucanase, PR-4, and thaumatin-like. Moreover, KEGG enriched results showed that differentially expressed genes were classified into biocontrol-related pathways. To further investigate the plant’s response to the presence of PGPR, a profile of polar metabolites of cucumber treated with Bs MBI600 was performed and compared to that of untreated plants. The results of the current study gave insights into the mechanisms deployed by this biocontrol agent to promote plant resistance, helping to understand the molecular interactions in this system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control of Plant Pathogens for a Greener Future: Induced Systemic Resistance and Epigenetics)

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13 pages, 1582 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Biological Activities of Some Isoquinoline Alkaloids from Fumaria schleicheri Soy. Will.

by Ramona Păltinean, Irina Ielciu, Daniela Hanganu, Mihaela Niculae, Emoke Pall, Luc Angenot, Monique Tits, Andrei Mocan, Mihai Babotă, Oleg Frumuzachi, Mircea Tămaş, Gianina Crişan and Michel Frederich

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1202; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091202 - 29 Apr 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2541

Abstract

Fumaria schleicheri Soy. Will. is a species belonging to the Papaveraceae family, being widespread in East-Central and Southern Europe. As with numerous other species of the genus, it is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of hepatobiliary and digestive disorders. The aim [...] Read more.

Fumaria schleicheri Soy. Will. is a species belonging to the Papaveraceae family, being widespread in East-Central and Southern Europe. As with numerous other species of the genus, it is used in traditional medicine for the treatment of hepatobiliary and digestive disorders. The aim of the present study consisted of the evaluation of its alkaloid content and the assessment of its in vitro antioxidant, anti-cholinesterase and cytotoxic potential. Total alkaloid content in the composition of the species was quantified by a spectrophotometrical method and they were individually identified and quantified by HPLC-DAD. The antioxidant capacity was investigated by the DPPH and FRAP methods, while the anti-cholinesterase activity was assessed by an adapted Ellman’s method. The in vitro cytotoxic activity was evaluated on BJ human fibroblasts and DLD-1 human colon adenocarcinoma cell lines. Results showed the presence of bicuculline, protopine, chelidonine, stylopine and sanguinarine, among which bicuculline, protopine, stylopine and sanguinarine were quantified, while the antioxidant and anti-cholinesterase assays showed valuable potentials. No cytotoxic effect was observed on BJ cell lines and selective cytotoxicity was expressed towards tumoral cells. In this context, F. schleicheri appears as an important medicinal species with significant potential of substitution with the officinal species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue 10th Anniversary of Plants—Recent Advances and Perspectives)

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73 pages, 11334 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Plant Communities of the Class Isoëto-Nanojuncetea in Sicily

by Salvatore Brullo, Cristian Brullo, Saverio Sciandrello, Gianmarco Tavilla, Salvatore Cambria, Valeria Tomaselli, Vincenzo Ilardi, Gianpietro Giusso del Galdo and Pietro Minissale

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1214; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091214 - 29 Apr 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3123

Abstract

A syntaxonomical revision of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea class for the Sicilian territory is provided. This syntaxon gathers the ephemeral herbaceous hygrophilous plant communities linked to periodically submerged soils, widely distributed in the European, circum-Mediterranean and Macaronesian territories. Within this class, two orders are recognized, [...] Read more.

A syntaxonomical revision of the Isoëto-Nanojuncetea class for the Sicilian territory is provided. This syntaxon gathers the ephemeral herbaceous hygrophilous plant communities linked to periodically submerged soils, widely distributed in the European, circum-Mediterranean and Macaronesian territories. Within this class, two orders are recognized, lsoëtetalia, with a prevalently Mediterranean distribution, and Nanocyperetalia chiefly occurring in the central-European and Atlantic territories, with scattered and marginal occurrence in the Mediterranean area. The order Isoëtetalia in Sicily is represented by four alliances, i.e., Isoëtion, Preslion cervinae, Cicendio-Solenopsion laurentiae and Agrostion salmanticae, while within Nanocyperetalia three alliances can be recognized, namely Nanocyperion, Verbenion supinae and Lythrion tribracteati. Overall, 32 plant communities are recognized, 11 of which are described for the first time. Each higher rank syntaxa and related associations are examined from a nomenclatural, floristic, ecological and chorological point of view. In particular, the associations were processed using cluster analysis in order to highlight the correlations between them. Regarding the floristic aspects, a checklist of the species occurring in the phytosociological relevés is provided, as well as a new combination concerning Solenopsis gasparrinii, a critical species of the Sicilian flora, is proposed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Ecology)

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15 pages, 5007 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Characteristics of Sunburn Browning Fruit and Rootstock-Dependent Damage-Free Yield of Ambrosia™ Apple after Sustained Summer Heat Events

by Hao Xu, Yoichiro Watanabe, Danielle Ediger, Xiaotang Yang and Davis Iritani

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1201; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091201 - 29 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3222

Abstract

The 2021 summer heat waves experienced in the Pacific Northwest led to considerable fruit damage in many apple production zones. Sunburn browning (SB) was a particularly evident symptom. To understand the mechanism underlying the damage and to facilitate the early assessment of compromised [...] Read more.

The 2021 summer heat waves experienced in the Pacific Northwest led to considerable fruit damage in many apple production zones. Sunburn browning (SB) was a particularly evident symptom. To understand the mechanism underlying the damage and to facilitate the early assessment of compromised fruit quality, we conducted a study on external characteristics and internal quality attributes of SB ‘Ambrosia’ apple (Malus domestica var. Ambrosia) and evaluated the fruit loss on five rootstocks. The cell integrity of the epidermal and hypodermal layers of fruit skins in the SB patch was compromised. Specifically, the number of chloroplasts and anthocyanin decreased in damaged cells, while autofluorescent stress-related compounds accumulated in dead cells. Consequently, the affected sun-exposed skin demonstrated a significant increase in differential absorbance between 670 nm and 720 nm, measured using a handheld apple DA meter, highlighting the potential of using this method as a non-destructive early indicator for sunburn damage. Sunburn browning eventually led to lower fruit weight, an increase in average dry matter content, soluble solids content, acidity, deteriorated weight retention, quicker loss of firmness, and accelerated ethylene emission during ripening. Significant inconsistency was found between the sun-exposed and shaded sides in SB apples regarding dry matter content, firmness, and tissue water potential, which implied preharvest water deficit in damaged tissues and the risk of quicker decline of postharvest quality. Geneva 935 (G.935), a large-dwarfing rootstock with more vigor and higher water transport capacity, led to a lower ratio of heat-damaged fruits and a higher yield of disorder-free fruits, suggesting rootstock selection as a long-term horticultural measure to mitigate summer heat stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Responses of Plants to Environmental Stresses Volume II)

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18 pages, 761 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Environmental Behaviors of Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) Insecticidal Proteins and Their Effects on Microbial Ecology

by Yujie Li, Cui Wang, Lei Ge, Cong Hu, Guogan Wu, Yu Sun, Lili Song, Xiao Wu, Aihu Pan, Qinqing Xu, Jialiang Shi, Jingang Liang and Peng Li

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1212; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091212 - 29 Apr 2022

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 8332

Abstract

Bt proteins are crystal proteins produced by Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in the early stage of spore formation that exhibit highly specific insecticidal activities. The application of Bt proteins primarily includes Bt transgenic plants and Bt biopesticides. Transgenic crops with insect resistance [...] Read more.

Bt proteins are crystal proteins produced by Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) in the early stage of spore formation that exhibit highly specific insecticidal activities. The application of Bt proteins primarily includes Bt transgenic plants and Bt biopesticides. Transgenic crops with insect resistance (via Bt)/herbicide tolerance comprise the largest global area of agricultural planting. After artificial modification, Bt insecticidal proteins expressed from Bt can be released into soils through root exudates, pollen, and plant residues. In addition, the construction of Bt recombinant engineered strains through genetic engineering has become a major focus of Bt biopesticides, and the expressed Bt proteins will also remain in soil environments. Bt proteins expressed and released by Bt transgenic plants and Bt recombinant strains are structurally and functionally quite different from Bt prototoxins naturally expressed by B. thuringiensis in soils. The former can thus be regarded as an environmentally exogenous substance with insecticidal toxicity that may have potential ecological risks. Consequently, biosafety evaluations must be conducted before field tests and production of Bt plants or recombinant strains. This review summarizes the adsorption, retention, and degradation behavior of Bt insecticidal proteins in soils, in addition to their impacts on soil physical and chemical properties along with soil microbial diversity. The review provides a scientific framework for evaluating the environmental biosafety of Bt transgenic plants, Bt transgenic microorganisms, and their expression products. In addition, prospective research targets, research methods, and evaluation methods are highlighted based on current research of Bt proteins. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosafety and Ecological Assessment of Genetically Engineered and Edited Crops)

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19 pages, 2406 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

History of Herbicide-Resistant Traits in Cotton in the U.S. and the Importance of Integrated Weed Management for Technology Stewardship

by Rohith Vulchi, Muthukumar Bagavathiannan and Scott A. Nolte

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1189; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091189 - 28 Apr 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4077

Abstract

This paper reviews the history of herbicide-resistant (HR) traits in U.S. cotton since the beginning, highlighting the shortcomings of each trait over time that has led to the development of their successor and emphasizing the importance of integrated weed management (IWM) going forward [...] Read more.

This paper reviews the history of herbicide-resistant (HR) traits in U.S. cotton since the beginning, highlighting the shortcomings of each trait over time that has led to the development of their successor and emphasizing the importance of integrated weed management (IWM) going forward to ensure their long-term sustainability. Introduction of glyphosate-resistant cropping systems has allowed for expansion of no-till systems more reliant on herbicides, favored less diverse crop rotations, and heavily relied on a single herbicide mode of action (MOA). With repeated applications of glyphosate over the years, biotypes of glyphosate-resistant (GR) A. palmeri and other weeds became economically damaging pests in cotton production systems throughout the U.S. Moreover, the reported cases of weeds resistant to different MOA across various parts of the United States has increased. The dicamba- (XtendFlex^®) and 2,4-D-resistant (Enlist^®) cotton traits (with stacks of glyphosate and glufosinate resistance) were introduced and have been highly adopted in the U.S. to manage HR weeds. Given the current rate of novel herbicide MOA discovery and increase in new HR weed cases, the future of sustainable weed management relies on an integrated approach that includes non-herbicidal methods with herbicides to ensure long-term success. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Integrated Pest Management of Crops)

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18 pages, 5862 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Use of Biochar to Improve the Sustainable Crop Production of Cauliflower (Brassica oleracea L.)

by Daniela Losacco, Marina Tumolo, Pietro Cotugno, Natalia Leone, Carmine Massarelli, Stefano Convertini, Angelo Tursi, Vito Felice Uricchio and Valeria Ancona

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1182; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091182 - 27 Apr 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3512

Abstract

In agriculture, biochar (B) application has been suggested as a green technology to reduce nitrate pollution from agricultural origins and improve crop yield. The agronomic impact of B use on soil has been extensively studied, while knowledge of its possible effects on horticultural [...] Read more.

In agriculture, biochar (B) application has been suggested as a green technology to reduce nitrate pollution from agricultural origins and improve crop yield. The agronomic impact of B use on soil has been extensively studied, while knowledge of its possible effects on horticultural cultivation is still scarce. A greenhouse experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of using biochar in soils treated with two different rates of nitrogen fertilizers on soil properties and nitrogen (N) leachate. This study also investigated the vegetative parameters during the crop growing season of Brassica oleracea L. var. botrytis. Soil mesocosms were set up to test the following treatments: untreated/control (C); normal dose of N fertilizer (130 kg N ha⁻¹) (ND); ND+B; high dose of N fertilizer (260 kg N ha⁻¹) (HD); and HD+B. Principal component analysis and cluster analysis were exploited to assess biochar’s ability to reduce nitrate leaching and enhance soil–vegetative properties. Biochar addition affected the soil chemical properties of the fertilized microcosms (ND and HD). Biochar increased the

N H_{4}^{+}

content in HD soil and the

N O_{3}^{-}

content in ND soil by 26 mg/L and 48.76 mg/L, respectively. The results showed that biochar application increased the marketable cauliflower yield. In ND+B and HD+B, the curd weight was 880.68 kg and 1097.60 kg, respectively. In addition, a small number of nitrogenous compounds in the leachate were quantified in experimental lines with the biochar. Therefore, biochar use improves the marketable yield of horticulture, mitigating the negative impacts associated with the mass use of N fertilizers in agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition Volume II)

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15 pages, 1828 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Stand-Alone or Combinatorial Effects of Grafting and Microbial and Non-Microbial Derived Compounds on Vigour, Yield and Nutritive and Functional Quality of Greenhouse Eggplant

by Leo Sabatino, Beppe Benedetto Consentino, Georgia Ntatsi, Salvatore La Bella, Sara Baldassano and Youssef Rouphael

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1175; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091175 - 27 Apr 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 2417

Abstract

The current research investigated the effects of endophytic fungi such as Trichoderma atroviride (Ta) or Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extract (An) and their combination on growth, yield, nutritive and functional features, and mineral profile of ‘Birgah’ F₁ eggplant either ungrafted, self-grafted or grafted [...] Read more.

The current research investigated the effects of endophytic fungi such as Trichoderma atroviride (Ta) or Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed extract (An) and their combination on growth, yield, nutritive and functional features, and mineral profile of ‘Birgah’ F₁ eggplant either ungrafted, self-grafted or grafted onto the Solanum torvum rootstock. Eggplant exposed to An or An+Ta had a significant increase in root collar diameter 50 days after transplanting (RCD₅₀), total yield (TY), marketable yield (MY), ascorbic acid (AA) content, Mg, Cu, and Zn concentration, and a reduction in glycoalkaloids (GLY) compared with the control. Furthermore, grafted plants had a higher TY, MY, number of marketable fruits (NMF), RCD₅₀, AA, Cu, and Zn and a lower SSC, GLY, and Mg than the ungrafted plants. The combination of grafting and An+Ta significantly improved mean weight of marketable fruits (MF), plant height 50 days after transplanting (PH₅₀), number of leaves 50 days after transplanting (NL₅₀), fruit dry matter (FDM), chlorogenic acid (ClA), proteins, and K and Fe concentration. This combination also produced fruits of high premium quality as evidenced by the higher AA and ClA concentration, the lower GLY concentration, and an overall improved mineral profile. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Development and Morphogenesis)

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32 pages, 1796 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Molecular Biology, Composition and Physiological Functions of Cuticle Lipids in Fleshy Fruits

by Heriberto García-Coronado, Julio César Tafolla-Arellano, Miguel Ángel Hernández-Oñate, Alexel Jesús Burgara-Estrella, Jesús Martín Robles-Parra and Martín Ernesto Tiznado-Hernández

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1133; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091133 - 22 Apr 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3696

Abstract

Fleshy fruits represent a valuable resource of economic and nutritional relevance for humanity. The plant cuticle is the external lipid layer covering the nonwoody aerial organs of land plants, and it is the first contact between fruits and the environment. It has been [...] Read more.

Fleshy fruits represent a valuable resource of economic and nutritional relevance for humanity. The plant cuticle is the external lipid layer covering the nonwoody aerial organs of land plants, and it is the first contact between fruits and the environment. It has been hypothesized that the cuticle plays a role in the development, ripening, quality, resistance to pathogen attack and postharvest shelf life of fleshy fruits. The cuticle’s structure and composition change in response to the fruit’s developmental stage, fruit physiology and different postharvest treatments. This review summarizes current information on the physiology and molecular mechanism of cuticle biosynthesis and composition changes during the development, ripening and postharvest stages of fleshy fruits. A discussion and analysis of studies regarding the relationship between cuticle composition, water loss reduction and maintaining fleshy fruits’ postharvest quality are presented. An overview of the molecular mechanism of cuticle biosynthesis and efforts to elucidate it in fleshy fruits is included. Enhancing our knowledge about cuticle biosynthesis mechanisms and identifying specific transcripts, proteins and lipids related to quality traits in fleshy fruits could contribute to the design of biotechnological strategies to improve the quality and postharvest shelf life of these important fruit crops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lipid Genes and Biotechnology in Plants)

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20 pages, 4004 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Priming Treatments with Biostimulants to Cope the Short-Term Heat Stress Response: A Transcriptomic Profile Evaluation

by Giacomo Cocetta, Michela Landoni, Roberto Pilu, Carlos Repiso, José Nolasco, Marcos Alajarin, Lydia Ugena, Camila C. B. Levy, Giacomo Scatolino, Daniele Villa and Antonio Ferrante

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1130; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091130 - 21 Apr 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 4268

Abstract

Plant stress induced by high temperature is a problem in wide areas of different regions in the world. The trend of global warming is going to enhance the effects of heat stress on crops in many cultivation areas. Heat stress impairs the stability [...] Read more.

Plant stress induced by high temperature is a problem in wide areas of different regions in the world. The trend of global warming is going to enhance the effects of heat stress on crops in many cultivation areas. Heat stress impairs the stability of cell membranes and many biological processes involving both primary and secondary metabolism. Biostimulants are innovative agronomical tools that can be used as a strategy to counteract the detrimental effect of abiotic stresses, including heat stress. In this work, two biostimulants based on Ascophyllum nodosum extracts (named Phylgreen) and based on animal L-α amino acids (named Delfan Plus) were applied as priming treatments to Arabidopsis thaliana plants subjected to heat stress exposure. Plants at the vegetative stage were treated with biostimulants 12 h before high temperature exposure, which consisted of maintaining the plants at 37 ± 1 °C for 4 h. Transcriptional profiles, physiological, and biochemical analyses were performed to understand the mode of action of the biostimulants in protecting the plants exposed to short-term heat stress. At a physiological level, chlorophyll, chlorophyll a fluorescence, phenolic index, total anthocyanins, reactive oxygen species (ROS) were measured, and significant variations were observed immediately after stress. Both biostimulants were able to reduce the oxidative damage in leaves and cell membrane. Transcriptomic data revealed that upregulated genes were 626 in Phylgreen and 365 in Delfan Plus, while downregulated genes were 295 in Phylgreen and 312 in Delfan Plus. Bioinformatic analysis showed that the biostimulants protected the plants from heat stress by activating specific heat shock proteins (HPS), antioxidant systems, and ROS scavengers. The results revealed that the biostimulants effectively induced the activation of heat stress-associated genes belonging to different transcription factors and HSP families. Among the heat shock proteins, the most important was the AtHSP17 family and in particular, those influenced by treatments were AtHPS17.4 and AtHPS17.6A, B, showing the most relevant changes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Biostimulants)

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28 pages, 1374 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Breeding Diploid F₁ Hybrid Potatoes for Propagation from Botanical Seed (TPS): Comparisons with Theory and Other Crops

by John E. Bradshaw

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1121; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091121 - 21 Apr 2022

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 4094

Abstract

This paper reviews the progress and the way ahead in diploid F₁ hybrid potato breeding by comparisons with expectations from the theory of inbreeding and crossbreeding, and experiences from other diploid outbreeding crops. Diploid potatoes can be converted from an outbreeding species, [...] Read more.

This paper reviews the progress and the way ahead in diploid F₁ hybrid potato breeding by comparisons with expectations from the theory of inbreeding and crossbreeding, and experiences from other diploid outbreeding crops. Diploid potatoes can be converted from an outbreeding species, in which self-pollination is prevented by a gametophytic self-incompatibility system, into one where self-pollination is possible, either through a dominant self-incompatibility inhibitor gene (Sli) or knockout mutations in the incompatibility locus. As a result, diploid F₁ hybrid breeding can be used to produce genetically uniform potato cultivars for propagation from true potato seeds by crossing two near-homozygous inbred lines, derived from a number of generations of self-pollination despite inbreeding depression. Molecular markers can be used to detect and remove deleterious recessive mutations of large effect, including those in tight repulsion linkage. Improvements to the inbred lines can be made by introducing and stacking genes and chromosome segments of large desirable effect from wild relatives by backcrossing. Improvements in quantitative traits require a number of cycles of inbreeding and crossbreeding. Seed production can be achieved by hand pollinations. F₁ hybrid planting material can be delivered to farmers as true seeds or young plants, and mini-tubers derived from true seeds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diploid F1 Hybrid Breeding in Potato)

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17 pages, 1671 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Diazotrophic Bacteria Is an Alternative Strategy for Increasing Grain Biofortification, Yield and Zinc Use Efficiency of Maize

by Arshad Jalal, Carlos Eduardo da Silva Oliveira, Henrique Benetasse Fernandes, Fernando Shintate Galindo, Edson Cabral da Silva, Guilherme Carlos Fernandes, Thiago Assis Rodrigues Nogueira, Pedro Henrique Gomes De Carvalho, Vinícius Rodrigues Balbino, Bruno Horschut de Lima and Marcelo Carvalho Minhoto Teixeira Filho

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1125; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091125 - 21 Apr 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2877

Abstract

Biofortification of cereal crops with zinc and diazotrophic bacteria is a sustainable solution to nutrient deficiency and hidden hunger. The inoculation of staple grain crops such as maize is increased with reducing productivity losses while improving nutrition and use efficiency under climatic extremes [...] Read more.

Biofortification of cereal crops with zinc and diazotrophic bacteria is a sustainable solution to nutrient deficiency and hidden hunger. The inoculation of staple grain crops such as maize is increased with reducing productivity losses while improving nutrition and use efficiency under climatic extremes and weathered soils of tropical savannah. Therefore, objectives of our study were to evaluate the influence of seed inoculation with diazotrophic bacteria (No inoculation–Control, Azospirillum brasilense, Bacillus subtilis, and Pseudomonas fluorescens) together with residual effect of soil Zn (absence and presence) on growth, yield, Zn nutrition, Zn use efficiencies, and intake of maize in 2019 and 2020 cropping seasons. The inoculation of B. subtilis increased hundred grain mass and yield (14.5 and 17%), while P. fluorescens under residual Zn fertilization has improved shoot and grain Zn concentration in shoot (29.5 and 30.5%). and grain (25.5 and 26.2%), while improving Zn accumulation in shoot (33.8 and 35%) and grain (37.2 and 42%) of maize. The estimated Zn intake in maize was also increased with A. brasilense inoculation and residual Zn application. The Zn use efficiencies including Zn use efficiency, agro-physiological, and utilization efficiency was increased with B. subtilis, while applied Zn recovery was increased with A. brasilense inoculations under residual Zn fertilization. Zinc use efficiency was increased by 93.3 and 397% with inoculation of B. subtilis regardless of Zn application. Therefore, inoculation with B. subtilis and P. fluorescens along residual Zn fertilization is considered the most effective and sustainable strategy for agronomic biofortification of maize under harsh tropical conditions of Brazil. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Plant Nutrition Biofortification)

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19 pages, 2922 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Physiological and Growth Responses of Potato (Solanum Tuberosum L.) to Air Temperature and Relative Humidity under Soil Water Deficits

by Peng Zhang, Xin Yang, Kiril Manevski, Shenglan Li, Zhenhua Wei, Mathias Neumann Andersen and Fulai Liu

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1126; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091126 - 21 Apr 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3456

Abstract

Drought stress often occurs concurrently with heat stress, yet the interacting effect of high vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and soil drying on the physiology of potato plants remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the physiological and growth responses of potatoes to [...] Read more.

Drought stress often occurs concurrently with heat stress, yet the interacting effect of high vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and soil drying on the physiology of potato plants remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the physiological and growth responses of potatoes to progressive soil drying under varied VPDs. Potato plants were grown either in four separate climate-controlled greenhouse cells with different VPD levels (viz., 0.70, 1.06, 1.40, and 2.12 kPa, respectively) or under a rainout shelter in the field. The VPD of each greenhouse cell was caused by two air temperature levels (23 and 30 °C) combined with two relative humidity levels (50 and 70%), and the VPD of the field was natural conditions. Irrigation treatments were commenced three or four weeks after planting in greenhouse cells or fields, respectively. The results indicated that soil water deficits limited leaf gas exchange and shoot dry matter (DM_shoot) of plants while increasing the concentration of abscisic acid (ABA) in the leaf and xylem, as well as water use efficiency (WUE) across all VPD levels. High VPD decreased stomatal conductance (g_s) but increased transpiration rate (T_r). High VPD increased the threshold of soil water for T_r began to decrease, while the soil water threshold for g_s depended on temperature due to the varied ABA response to temperature. High VPD decreased leaf water potential, leaf area, and DM_shoot, which exacerbated the inhibition of soil drying to plant growth. Across the well-watered plants in both experiments, negative linear relationships of g_s and WUE to VPD and positive linear relations between T_r and VPD were found. The results provide some novel information for developing mechanistic models simulating crop WUE and improving irrigation scheduling in future arid climates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Implications of Abscisic Acid in the Drought Stress Tolerance)

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12 pages, 1795 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Cyperus (Cyperus esculentus L.): A Review of Its Compositions, Medical Efficacy, Antibacterial Activity and Allelopathic Potentials

by Shengai Zhang, Peizhi Li, Zunmiao Wei, Yan Cheng, Jiayao Liu, Yanmin Yang, Yuyan Wang and Zhongsheng Mu

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1127; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091127 - 21 Apr 2022

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5763

Abstract

Cyperus (Cyperus esculentus L.) is an edible perennial grass-like plant, which propagates exclusively with underground tubers. Its tubers are rich in starch (20–30%), fat (25–35%), sugar (10–20%), protein (10–15%) and dietary fiber (8–9%). In addition, the tubers also contain alkaloids, organic acids, [...] Read more.

Cyperus (Cyperus esculentus L.) is an edible perennial grass-like plant, which propagates exclusively with underground tubers. Its tubers are rich in starch (20–30%), fat (25–35%), sugar (10–20%), protein (10–15%) and dietary fiber (8–9%). In addition, the tubers also contain alkaloids, organic acids, vitamins (C and E), steroids, terpenoids and other active components. The contents of oleic acid and linoleic acid in Cyperus oil are very high, which have important medicinal value and health-promoting properties. Most of the extracts from the tubers, stems and leaves of Cyperus have allelopathic potential and antibacterial, antioxidant and insecticidal activities. In recent years, the planting area of Cyperus has increased significantly all over the world, especially in China and some other countries. This paper presents the current status of Cyperus and the recent trend in research in this area. Published reports on its nutritional contents, active ingredients, medicinal efficacy, antibacterial activity and allelopathic potential were also reviewed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Allelopathy: Mechanisms and Applications in Regenerative Agriculture)

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14 pages, 1138 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Phenolic Compounds Content Evaluation of Lettuce Grown under Short-Term Preharvest Daytime or Nighttime Supplemental LEDs

by Aušra Brazaitytė, Viktorija Vaštakaitė-Kairienė, Rūta Sutulienė, Neringa Rasiukevičiūtė, Akvilė Viršilė, Jurga Miliauskienė, Kristina Laužikė, Alma Valiuškaitė, Lina Dėnė, Simona Chrapačienė, Asta Kupčinskienė and Giedrė Samuolienė

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1123; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091123 - 21 Apr 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3309

Abstract

The study aimed to determine the changes in phenolic compounds content in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Little Gem) depending on the preharvest short-term daytime or nighttime supplemental light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to high-pressure sodium lamps (HPS) lighting in a greenhouse during autumn [...] Read more.

The study aimed to determine the changes in phenolic compounds content in lettuce (Lactuca sativa L. cv. Little Gem) depending on the preharvest short-term daytime or nighttime supplemental light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to high-pressure sodium lamps (HPS) lighting in a greenhouse during autumn and spring cultivation. Plants were grown in a greenhouse under HPS supplemented with 400 nm, 455 nm, 530 nm, 455 + 530 nm or 660 nm LEDs light for 4 h five days before harvest. Two experiments (EXP) were performed: EXP1—HPS, and LEDs treatment during daytime 6 PM–10 PM, and EXP2—LEDs treatment at nighttime during 10 AM–2 PM. LEDs’ photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) was 50 and HPS—90 ± 10 µmol m⁻² s⁻¹. The most pronounced positive effect on total phenolic compounds revealed supplemental 400 and 455 + 530 nm LEDs lighting, except its application during the daytime at spring cultivation, when all supplemental LEDs light had no impact on phenolics content variation. Supplemental 400 nm LEDs applied in the daytime increased chlorogenic acid during spring and chicoric acid during autumn cultivation. 400 nm LEDs used in nighttime enhanced chlorogenic acid accumulation and rutin during autumn. Chicoric and chlorogenic acid significantly increased under supplemental 455 + 530 nm LEDs applied at daytime in autumn and used at nighttime—in spring. Supplemental LEDs application in the nighttime resulted in higher phenolic compounds content during spring cultivation and the daytime during autumn cultivation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impact of LED (Light-Emitting Diode) Spectra on Plant Growth and Quality)

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16 pages, 3095 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Comparative Analysis of Chloroplast Genomes of Dalbergia Species for Identification and Phylogenetic Analysis

by Hoi-Yan Wu, Kwan-Ho Wong, Bobby Lim-Ho Kong, Tin-Yan Siu, Grace Wing-Chiu But, Stacey Shun-Kei Tsang, David Tai-Wai Lau and Pang-Chui Shaw

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1109; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091109 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3286

Abstract

Dalbergia L.f. is a pantropical genus consisting of 269 species of trees, shrubs, and woody lianas. This genus is listed in CITES Appendices because of illegal logging and trafficking driven by the high economic value of its heartwood. Some species are also used [...] Read more.

Dalbergia L.f. is a pantropical genus consisting of 269 species of trees, shrubs, and woody lianas. This genus is listed in CITES Appendices because of illegal logging and trafficking driven by the high economic value of its heartwood. Some species are also used medicinally. Species identification of Dalbergia timber and herbs is challenging but essential for CITES implementation. Molecular methods had been developed for some timber species, mostly from Madagascar and Southeast Asia, but medicinal species in south China were usually not included in those studies. Here, we sequenced and assembled the chloroplast genomes of five Dalbergia species native to Hong Kong, four of which are medicinal plants. Our aim is to find potential genetic markers for the identification of medicinal Dalbergia species based on divergence hotspots detected in chloroplast genomes after comparative and phylogenetic analysis. Dalbergia chloroplast genomes displayed the typical quadripartite structure, with the 50 kb inversion found in most Papilionoideae lineages. Their sizes and gene content are well conserved. Phylogenetic tree of Dalbergia chloroplast genomes showed an overall topology similar to that of ITS sequences. Four divergence hotspots (trnL(UAA)-trnT(UGU), ndhG-ndhI, ycf1a and ycf1b) were identified and candidate markers for identification of several Dalbergia species were suggested. Full article

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

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22 pages, 1050 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Emerging Roles of β-Glucanases in Plant Development and Adaptative Responses

by Thomas Perrot, Markus Pauly and Vicente Ramírez

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1119; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091119 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 60 | Viewed by 6609

Abstract

Plant β-glucanases are enzymes involved in the synthesis, remodelling and turnover of cell wall components during multiple physiological processes. Based on the type of the glycoside bond they cleave, plant β-glucanases have been grouped into three categories: (i) β-1,4-glucanases degrade cellulose and other [...] Read more.

Plant β-glucanases are enzymes involved in the synthesis, remodelling and turnover of cell wall components during multiple physiological processes. Based on the type of the glycoside bond they cleave, plant β-glucanases have been grouped into three categories: (i) β-1,4-glucanases degrade cellulose and other polysaccharides containing 1,4-glycosidic bonds to remodel and disassemble the wall during cell growth. (ii) β-1,3-glucanases are responsible for the mobilization of callose, governing the symplastic trafficking through plasmodesmata. (iii) β-1,3-1,4-glucanases degrade mixed linkage glucan, a transient wall polysaccharide found in cereals, which is broken down to obtain energy during rapid seedling growth. In addition to their roles in the turnover of self-glucan structures, plant β-glucanases are crucial in regulating the outcome in symbiotic and hostile plant–microbe interactions by degrading non-self glucan structures. Plants use these enzymes to hydrolyse β-glucans found in the walls of microbes, not only by contributing to a local antimicrobial defence barrier, but also by generating signalling glucans triggering the activation of global responses. As a counterpart, microbes developed strategies to hijack plant β-glucanases to their advantage to successfully colonize plant tissues. This review outlines our current understanding on plant β-glucanases, with a particular focus on the latest advances on their roles in adaptative responses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Cell Wall Plasticity under Stress Situations)

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14 pages, 1918 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Grape Cultivar Features Differentiate the Grape Rhizosphere Microbiota

by Lijun Bao, Bo Sun, Yingxue Wei, Nan Xu, Shiwei Zhang, Likun Gu and Zhihui Bai

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1111; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091111 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3660

Abstract

Rhizosphere microflora are key determinants that contribute to plant growth and productivity, which are involved in improving the uptake of nutrients, regulation of plants’ metabolisms and activation of plants’ responses against both biotic and abiotic stresses. However, the structure and diversity of the [...] Read more.

Rhizosphere microflora are key determinants that contribute to plant growth and productivity, which are involved in improving the uptake of nutrients, regulation of plants’ metabolisms and activation of plants’ responses against both biotic and abiotic stresses. However, the structure and diversity of the grape rhizosphere microbiota remains poorly described. To gain a detailed understanding of the assembly of rhizosphere microbiota, we investigated the rhizosphere microbiota of nine grape varieties in northern China by high-throughput sequencing. We found that the richness and diversity of bacterial and fungal community networking in the root compartments were significantly influenced by the grape variety. The bacterial linear discriminant analysis showed that Pseudomonas and Rhizobium, which were considered as potential plant-growth-promoting bacteria, were more enriched in Pinot noir, and Nitrosospira was enriched in Gem. The fungal linear discriminant analysis showed that Fusarium was more enriched in Longan, Sporormiella was more enriched in Merlot, Gibberella and Pseudallescheria were more enriched in Gem and Mortierella was more abundant in Cabernet Sauvignon. The 16S rRNA functional prediction indicated that no significance differentiates among the grape varieties. Understanding the rhizosphere soil microbial diversity characteristics of different grape varieties could provide the basis for exploring microbial associations and maintaining the health of grapes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interaction of Plants and Endophytic Microorganisms: Molecular Aspects, Biological Functions, Community Composition, and Practical Applications)

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18 pages, 2741 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Metabolic Modifications in Terpenoid and Steroid Pathways Triggered by Methyl Jasmonate in Taxus × media Hairy Roots

by Katarzyna Sykłowska-Baranek, Monika Kamińska, Cezary Pączkowski, Agnieszka Pietrosiuk and Anna Szakiel

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1120; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091120 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2401

Abstract

The in vitro cultures of Taxus spp. were one of the first plant in vitro systems proved to exert the positive effect of elicitation with methyl jasmonate (MeJA) on the biosynthesis of specialized metabolites. The main aim of the present study is to [...] Read more.

The in vitro cultures of Taxus spp. were one of the first plant in vitro systems proved to exert the positive effect of elicitation with methyl jasmonate (MeJA) on the biosynthesis of specialized metabolites. The main aim of the present study is to examine the effect of MeJA treatment on the steroid and triterpenoid content of two genetically different hairy root lines of Taxus × media, KT and ATMA. The results revealed that the two lines differed in the total content of steroids and triterpenoids (in the ATMA root line, their amounts were lower than those in the KT line by 43% and 30%, respectively), but not in the composition of these compounds. The metabolic response to elicitation with MeJA was different: in the KT root line, the content of steroids decreased by 18%, whereas it increased by 38% in the ATMA line. Several metabolic features were common, including the characteristic changes in the ratio of sitosterol to stigmasterol content, caused by the very sharp boost in stigmasterol levels, the increase in the amount of glycoside forms of sterols, as well as in triterpenoid and total phenolic content. It is the first report on modifications of the terpenoid biosynthetic pathway in Taxus hairy root cultures triggered by MeJA, concerning steroids and triterpenoids. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Specialized Metabolites in Root cultures)

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14 pages, 1190 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Complex Synergistic Interactions among Volatile and Phenolic Compounds Underlie the Effectiveness of Allelopathic Residues Added to the Soil for Weed Control

by María Pardo-Muras, Carolina G. Puig and Nuria Pedrol

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1114; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091114 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 2272

Abstract

The introduction of allelopathic cover crops for green manuring or mulching is a regular practice in Integrated Weed Management. In this context, the alternative use of the abundant phytotoxic residues of allelopathic plants from the agroecosystem, e.g., the foliage of Eucalyptus, Acacia [...] Read more.

The introduction of allelopathic cover crops for green manuring or mulching is a regular practice in Integrated Weed Management. In this context, the alternative use of the abundant phytotoxic residues of allelopathic plants from the agroecosystem, e.g., the foliage of Eucalyptus, Acacia, or Cytisus species, is promising. Previous studies identified the phytotoxic compounds potentially involved in the effectiveness of some plant residues when added to the soil for weed control. The low quantities of allelochemicals present in the tissues and the weak phytotoxicity of each of them in their natural concentrations did not explain the significant levels of weed control observed at field scale. Here, to study hypothetical synergistic interactions among the volatile (VOCs) and water-soluble compounds released to the soil matrix, complex mixtures of VOCs, phenolics, or both, mimicking the chemical profiles of Cytisus scoparius were prepared and then tested in vitro on the germination and early growth of two weeds. The effects were calibrated against the VOCs naturally emitted by the fresh plant material and aqueous extract, acting together or not, and with or without soil. The presence of the aqueous extract significantly increased the phytotoxicity of VOCs on Amaranthus retroflexus root growth compared to the volatiles emitted alone. In addition, the soil factor enhanced synergistic interactions among VOCs and water-soluble compounds, resulting in a 54% decrease in total germination and an 80% inhibition of root and shoot growth. Multi-level synergistic chemical interactions should explain the bioherbicidal effectiveness of allelopathic residues applied as a soil amendment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Extracts as Biological Protective Agents)

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28 pages, 6413 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Chemical Structure, Sources and Role of Bioactive Flavonoids in Cancer Prevention: A Review

by Georgiana Drețcanu, Ioana Știrbu, Nicolae Leoplold, Daniel Cruceriu, Corina Danciu, Andreea Stănilă, Anca Fărcaș, Ileana Monica Borda, Cristian Iuhas and Zorița Diaconeasa

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1117; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091117 - 20 Apr 2022

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 3741

Abstract

There has been a major shift in the collective mindset around the world in recent decades, both in terms of food and in terms of the treatment of chronic diseases. Increasing numbers of people are choosing to prevent rather than treat, which is [...] Read more.

There has been a major shift in the collective mindset around the world in recent decades, both in terms of food and in terms of the treatment of chronic diseases. Increasing numbers of people are choosing to prevent rather than treat, which is why many consumers are choosing plant-based diets, mainly due to their bioactive compounds. A significant case of bioactive compound is flavonoids—a wide subclass of an even wider class of phytochemicals: polyphenols. Flavonoids are a broad topic of study for researchers due to their potential in the prevention and treatment of a broad range of cancers. The aim of this review is to inform/update the reader on the diversity, accessibility and importance of flavonoids as biomolecules that are essential for optimal health, focusing on the potential of these compounds in the prevention of various types of cancer. Along with conventional sources, this review presents some of the possible methods for obtaining significant amounts of flavonoids based on a slightly different approach, genetic manipulation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of Plant Extracts)

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25 pages, 1469 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Abiotic Stresses in Plants and Their Markers: A Practice View of Plant Stress Responses and Programmed Cell Death Mechanisms

by Bruno Paes de Melo, Paola de Avelar Carpinetti, Otto Teixeira Fraga, Paolo Lucas Rodrigues-Silva, Vinícius Sartori Fioresi, Luiz Fernando de Camargos and Marcia Flores da Silva Ferreira

Plants 2022, 11(9), 1100; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11091100 - 19 Apr 2022

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 11891

Abstract

Understanding how plants cope with stress and the intricate mechanisms thereby used to adapt and survive environmental imbalances comprise one of the most powerful tools for modern agriculture. Interdisciplinary studies suggest that knowledge in how plants perceive, transduce and respond to abiotic stresses [...] Read more.

Understanding how plants cope with stress and the intricate mechanisms thereby used to adapt and survive environmental imbalances comprise one of the most powerful tools for modern agriculture. Interdisciplinary studies suggest that knowledge in how plants perceive, transduce and respond to abiotic stresses are a meaningful way to design engineered crops since the manipulation of basic characteristics leads to physiological remodeling for plant adaption to different environments. Herein, we discussed the main pathways involved in stress-sensing, signal transduction and plant adaption, highlighting biochemical, physiological and genetic events involved in abiotic stress responses. Finally, we have proposed a list of practice markers for studying plant responses to multiple stresses, highlighting how plant molecular biology, phenotyping and genetic engineering interconnect for creating superior crops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Cellular Homeostasis and Reprogramming during Stress)

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15 pages, 3352 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Angelica purpurascens (Avé-Lall.) Gilli. Essential Oil Improved Brain Function via Cholinergic Modulation and Antioxidant Effects in the Scopolamine-Induced Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Model

by Razvan Stefan Boiangiu, Eyup Bagci, Gabriela Dumitru, Lucian Hritcu and Elena Todirascu-Ciornea

Plants 2022, 11(8), 1096; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081096 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2978

Abstract

Angelica purpurascens (Avé-Lall.) Gilli. is a medicinal plant that displays antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and neuroprotective properties. The effect of A. purpurascens essential oil (APO) on memory impairments and brain oxidative stress in zebrafish (Danio rerio) treated with scopolamine (Sco), as well as [...] Read more.

Angelica purpurascens (Avé-Lall.) Gilli. is a medicinal plant that displays antioxidant, anticholinesterase, and neuroprotective properties. The effect of A. purpurascens essential oil (APO) on memory impairments and brain oxidative stress in zebrafish (Danio rerio) treated with scopolamine (Sco), as well as the underlying mechanism involved, were investigated in this study. Exposure to Sco (100 μM) resulted in anxiety in zebrafish, as assessed by the novel tank diving test (NTT), whereas spatial memory and novelty response dysfunctions, as evidenced by the Y-maze test and novel object recognition test (NOR), were noticed. When zebrafish were given Sco and simultaneously given APO (25 and 150 μL/L, once daily for 13 days), the deficits were averted. An increase in brain antioxidant enzymes, a reduction of lipid peroxidation, and protein oxidation were linked to this impact. Furthermore, acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity was significantly reduced in the brains of APO-treated zebrafish. The main detected components in the APO composition were β-phellandrene (33.80%), sabinene (6.80%), α-pinene (5.30%), germacrene-D (4.50%), α-phellandrene (4.20%), and p-cymene (3.80%) based on gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) investigations. Our findings show that APO’s beneficial effect in a zebrafish model of Sco-induced memory impairment is mediated through multiple mechanisms, including the restoration of cholinergic system function and the improvement of the brain antioxidant state. As a result, APO could be employed as a potential source of bioactive molecules with useful biological properties and medicinal uses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of Plant Extracts)

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16 pages, 1846 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Transient Expression of Glycosylated SARS-CoV-2 Antigens in Nicotiana benthamiana

by Valentina Ruocco and Richard Strasser

Plants 2022, 11(8), 1093; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081093 - 18 Apr 2022

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3973

Abstract

The current COVID-19 pandemic very dramatically shows that the world lacks preparedness for novel viral diseases. In addition to newly emerging viruses, many known pathogenic viruses such as influenza are constantly evolving, leading to frequent outbreaks with severe diseases and deaths. Hence, infectious [...] Read more.

The current COVID-19 pandemic very dramatically shows that the world lacks preparedness for novel viral diseases. In addition to newly emerging viruses, many known pathogenic viruses such as influenza are constantly evolving, leading to frequent outbreaks with severe diseases and deaths. Hence, infectious viruses are a recurrent burden to our daily life, and powerful strategies to stop the spread of human pathogens and disease progression are of utmost importance. Transient plant-based protein expression is a technology that allows fast and highly flexible manufacturing of recombinant viral proteins and, thus, can contribute to infectious disease detection and prevention. This review highlights recent progress in the transient production of viral glycoproteins in N. benthamiana with a focus on SARS-CoV-2-derived viral antigens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based Expression System)

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19 pages, 3260 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Improved Medicago sativa Nodulation under Stress Assisted by Variovorax sp. Endophytes

by Noris J. Flores-Duarte, Julia Pérez-Pérez, Salvadora Navarro-Torre, Enrique Mateos-Naranjo, Susana Redondo-Gómez, Eloísa Pajuelo and Ignacio D. Rodríguez-Llorente

Plants 2022, 11(8), 1091; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081091 - 17 Apr 2022

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 2793

Abstract

Legumes are the recommended crops to fight against soil degradation and loss of fertility because of their known positive impacts on soils. Our interest is focused on the identification of plant-growth-promoting endophytes inhabiting nodules able to enhance legume growth in poor and/or degraded [...] Read more.

Legumes are the recommended crops to fight against soil degradation and loss of fertility because of their known positive impacts on soils. Our interest is focused on the identification of plant-growth-promoting endophytes inhabiting nodules able to enhance legume growth in poor and/or degraded soils. The ability of Variovorax paradoxus S110^T and Variovorax gossypii JM-310^T to promote alfalfa growth in nutrient-poor and metal-contaminated estuarine soils was studied. Both strains behaved as nodule endophytes and improved in vitro seed germination and plant growth, as well as nodulation in co-inoculation with Ensifer medicae MA11. Variovorax ameliorated the physiological status of the plant, increased nodulation, chlorophyll and nitrogen content, and the response to stress and metal accumulation in the roots of alfalfa growing in degraded soils with moderate to high levels of contamination. The presence of plant-growth-promoting traits in Variovorax, particularly ACC deaminase activity, could be under the observed in planta effects. Although the couple V. gossypii-MA11 reported a great benefit to plant growth and nodulation, the best result was observed in plants inoculated with the combination of the three bacteria. These results suggest that Variovorax strains could be used as biofertilizers to improve the adaptation of legumes to degraded soils in soil-recovery programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interaction of Plants and Endophytic Microorganisms: Molecular Aspects, Biological Functions, Community Composition, and Practical Applications)

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19 pages, 1731 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Genetic Characterization by SSR Markers of a Comprehensive Wine Grape Collection Conserved at Rancho de la Merced (Andalusia, Spain)

by Enrico Cretazzo, Paula Moreno Sanz, Silvia Lorenzi, Miguel Lara Benítez, Leonardo Velasco and Francesco Emanuelli

Plants 2022, 11(8), 1088; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081088 - 16 Apr 2022

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3044

Abstract

The IFAPA research center “Rancho de la Merced” (Jerez, Spain) hosts one of the oldest and most diverse grapevine germplasm repositories in Europe, and is aimed at providing feasible solutions to deal with any agronomic trait by exploring its genetic variability and by [...] Read more.

The IFAPA research center “Rancho de la Merced” (Jerez, Spain) hosts one of the oldest and most diverse grapevine germplasm repositories in Europe, and is aimed at providing feasible solutions to deal with any agronomic trait by exploring its genetic variability and by means of association and Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) editing studies. In this work, we focused on a wine and dual-use grapevine subcollection that consists of 930 accessions. Genetic analysis allowed to identify 521 unique genotypes. After comparing them with several databases, matches were found for 476 genetic profiles while the remaining 45 have not been previously described. Combination with clustering analysis suggested a total pool of 481 Vitis vinifera accessions that included some table cultivars. Several synonymies, homonymies and mislabeling have also been detected. Structure analysis allowed identifying six clusters according to eco-geographic cultivation areas and one additional group including non-vinifera accessions. Diversity analysis pointed out that Spanish Mediterranean varieties are genetically closer to oriental genotypes than to European varieties typical of oceanic and continental climates. The origin of Spanish varieties is discussed in depth considering our data and previous studies. Analysis of molecular variance partition confirmed a well-structured germplasm, although differentiation among groups had a much lower effect on genetic variability than differences within groups, which are strongly related to a very high heterozygosity. A core collection that covers all allele richness is proposed. It is constituted of about 13% of total accessions, and each cluster inferred by structure analysis is represented. Full article

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

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16 pages, 2996 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Eucalyptus globulus and Salvia officinalis Extracts Mediated Green Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles and Their Application as an Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Agent

by Aistė Balčiūnaitienė, Mindaugas Liaudanskas, Viktorija Puzerytė, Jonas Viškelis, Valdimaras Janulis, Pranas Viškelis, Egidijus Griškonis and Virginija Jankauskaitė

Plants 2022, 11(8), 1085; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081085 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 4274

Abstract

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) biosynthesized using plant extracts as reducing and capping agents show multiple possibilities for solving various biological problems. The aim of this study was to expand the boundaries of AgNPs using a novel low toxicity and production cost phytochemical method for [...] Read more.

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) biosynthesized using plant extracts as reducing and capping agents show multiple possibilities for solving various biological problems. The aim of this study was to expand the boundaries of AgNPs using a novel low toxicity and production cost phytochemical method for the biosynthesis of nanoparticles from Eucalyptus globulus and Salvia officinalis aqueous leaf extracts. Biosynthesized AgNPs were characterized by various methods (ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV-vis), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy with horizontal attenuated total reflectance (HART), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS)). The determined antioxidative and antimicrobial activity of plant extracts was compared with the activity of the AgNPs. The UV-vis spectral analysis demonstrated the absorption peaks at 408 and 438 nm, which confirmed the synthesis of stable AgNPs from E. globulus and S. officinalis, respectively. FTIR-HART results suggested strong capping of phytochemicals on AgNPs. TEM results show mainly spherical-shaped AgNPs, whose size distribution depends on the plant leaf extract type; the smaller AgNPs were obtained with E. globulus extract (with size range of 17.5 ± 5.89 nm compared to 34.3 ± 7.76 nm from S. officinalis AgNPs). The in vitro antioxidant activity evaluated by radical scavenging assays and the reduction activity method clearly demonstrated that both the plant extracts and AgNPs showed prominent antioxidant properties. In addition, AgNPs show much stronger antimicrobial activity against broad spectrum of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria strains than the plant extracts used for their synthesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Resources of Berry and Medicinal Plants Volume II)

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14 pages, 1551 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Comparative Study of Isolated Secondary Metabolites from Lichens and Their Antioxidative Properties

by Ján Elečko, Mária Vilková, Richard Frenák, Deepti Routray, Dajana Ručová, Martin Bačkor and Michal Goga

Plants 2022, 11(8), 1077; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081077 - 15 Apr 2022

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 2603

Abstract

Free radicals play a critical role in the chemical processes that occur in all cells. Pharmaceutical companies manufacture a variety of synthetically prepared antioxidants, but it is known that many of these can be carcinogenic. As a result, efforts are being made to [...] Read more.

Free radicals play a critical role in the chemical processes that occur in all cells. Pharmaceutical companies manufacture a variety of synthetically prepared antioxidants, but it is known that many of these can be carcinogenic. As a result, efforts are being made to find natural antioxidants that do not have these side effects. Lichens may be suitable candidates because they contain secondary metabolites with proven antioxidant properties. This could be explained by the presence of compounds with phenolic groups in lichens. The radical scavenging reaction is a chemical reaction governed by stoichiometry, and our aim is to determine the efficacy of these reactions. The aim of this study is to compare metabolite activity based on the same amount of substance involved in radical scavenging, calculated in micromoles rather than weight concentration. This provides an accurate way of comparing radical scavenging activity. We tested superoxide anion scavenging activity and free radical scavenging activity of isolated lichen secondary metabolites and their mixtures in different ratios. The following compounds were isolated and tested for antioxidant activity: gyrophoric acid (Umbilicaria hirsuta), evernic acid (Evernia prunastri), physodic acid, 3-hydroxyphysodic acid, physodalic acid and atranorin (Hypogymnia physodes), and usnic acid (as a synthetic compound). Of all the tested compounds, 3-hydroxyphysodic acid, as well as mixtures containing this metabolite, showed the strongest scavenging activity. The results also demonstrated that calculation by amount of substance leads to a new consideration of antioxidant activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Secondary Metabolites from Lichens and Biological Activity)

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19 pages, 5262 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

In Vitro Study of the Biological Potential of Wastewater Obtained after the Distillation of Four Bulgarian Oil-Bearing Roses

by Yana Ilieva, Lyudmila Dimitrova, Almira Georgieva, Neli Vilhelmova-Ilieva, Maya Margaritova Zaharieva, Zlatina Kokanova-Nedialkova, Ana Dobreva, Paraskev Nedialkov, Vesselin Kussovski, Alexander D. Kroumov, Hristo Najdenski and Milka Mileva

Plants 2022, 11(8), 1073; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081073 - 14 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2407

Abstract

The wastewater after rose oil distillation is usually discharged into the drainage systems and it represents a serious environmental problem. While being rich in polyphenols, which have beneficial biological activity and application in the pharmaceutical industry, limited research has been carried out about [...] Read more.

The wastewater after rose oil distillation is usually discharged into the drainage systems and it represents a serious environmental problem. While being rich in polyphenols, which have beneficial biological activity and application in the pharmaceutical industry, limited research has been carried out about the biological activity of the specific wastewaters per se. Wastewaters after distillation of the four Bulgarian oil-bearing roses Rosa damascena Mill., R. alba L., R. centifolia L., and R. gallica L. exerted significant antioxidant activity and good antiherpes simplex virus type-1 (HSV-1) activity while maintaining a good toxicological safety profile (low cytotoxic effect) towards normal cell lines. More precisely, the non-tumorigenic cells were a human (HEK-293 embryonic kidney cells) and a mouse cell line (CCL-1 fibroblasts, which are recommended as a standard for cytotoxicity evaluation in Annex C of ISO 10993-5). The concentrations that achieved antioxidant and radical scavenging effects (0.04–0.92% v/v) were much lower than most of the maximum tolerated concentrations for the tissue culture cells (0.2–3.4% v/v). The wastewaters had a weak antiproliferative effect against Staphylococcus aureus. None of the wastewaters had activity against Gram-negative bacteria or a bactericidal or antifungal effect. We can conclude that these four species, which are the most preferred species worldwide for producing high-quality rose oil, have the potential to be developed as promising antioxidant and antiherpesvirus nutraceuticals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Specialized Metabolites of Plants—Evaluation of Functional and Biological Value)

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22 pages, 4300 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Photoprotection Is Achieved by Photorespiration and Modification of the Leaf Incident Light, and Their Extent Is Modulated by the Stomatal Sensitivity to Water Deficit in Grapevines

by Luis Villalobos-González, Nicolás Alarcón, Roberto Bastías, Cristobal Pérez, René Sanz, Álvaro Peña-Neira and Claudio Pastenes

Plants 2022, 11(8), 1050; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081050 - 12 Apr 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2607

Abstract

Absorbed energy in excess of that used by photosynthesis induces photoinhibition, which is common in water deficit conditions, resulting in reductions in stomatal conductance. In grapevines, controlled water deficit is a common field practice, but little is known about the impact of a [...] Read more.

Absorbed energy in excess of that used by photosynthesis induces photoinhibition, which is common in water deficit conditions, resulting in reductions in stomatal conductance. In grapevines, controlled water deficit is a common field practice, but little is known about the impact of a given water shortage on the energy transduction processes at the leaf level in relation to contrasting stomatal sensitivities to drought. Here, we assessed the effect of a nearly similar water deficit condition on four grapevine varieties: Cabernet Sauvignon (CS) and Sauvignon Blanc (SB), which are stomatal sensitive, and Chardonnay (CH) and Carménère (CM), which are less stomatal sensitive, grown in 20 L pots outdoors. Plants were maintained to nearly 94% of field capacity (WW) and 83% field capacity (WD). We have assessed plant water status, photosynthesis (A_N), photorespiration, A_N vs. PAR, AC_i curves, photochemical (qP) and non-photochemical (qN) fluorescence quenching vs. PAR, the photoprotective effectiveness of NPQ (qPd) and light interception by leaves. Photorespiration is important under WD, but to a different extent between varieties. This is related to stomatal sensitivity, maintaining a safe proportion of PSII reaction centres in an open state. Additionally, the capacity for carboxylation is affected by WD, but to a greater extent in more sensitive varieties. As for qN, in WD it saturates at 750 μmol PAR m⁻²s⁻¹, irrespective of the variety, which coincides with PAR, from which qN photoprotective effectiveness declines, and qP is reduced to risky thresholds. Additionally, that same PAR intensity is intercepted by WD leaves from highly stomatal-sensitive varieties, likely due to a modification of the leaf angle in those plants. Pigments associated with qN, as well as chlorophylls, do not seem to be a relevant physiological target for acclimation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Regulation of Plant Responses to Heat and Drought Stress)

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16 pages, 1820 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Epitranscriptomics: An Additional Regulatory Layer in Plants’ Development and Stress Response

by Yasira Shoaib, Babar Usman, Hunseung Kang and Ki-Hong Jung

Plants 2022, 11(8), 1033; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081033 - 11 Apr 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 4230

Abstract

Epitranscriptomics has added a new layer of regulatory machinery to eukaryotes, and the advancement of sequencing technology has revealed more than 170 post-transcriptional modifications in various types of RNAs, including messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), ribosomal RNA (rRNA), and long non-coding RNA [...] Read more.

Epitranscriptomics has added a new layer of regulatory machinery to eukaryotes, and the advancement of sequencing technology has revealed more than 170 post-transcriptional modifications in various types of RNAs, including messenger RNA (mRNA), transfer RNA (tRNA), ribosomal RNA (rRNA), and long non-coding RNA (lncRNA). Among these, N6-methyladenosine (m⁶A) and N5-methylcytidine (m⁵C) are the most prevalent internal mRNA modifications. These regulate various aspects of RNA metabolism, mainly mRNA degradation and translation. Recent advances have shown that regulation of RNA fate mediated by these epitranscriptomic marks has pervasive effects on a plant’s development and responses to various biotic and abiotic stresses. Recently, it was demonstrated that the removal of human-FTO-mediated m⁶A from transcripts in transgenic rice and potatoes caused a dramatic increase in their yield, and that the m⁶A reader protein mediates stress responses in wheat and apple, indicating that regulation of m⁶A levels could be an efficient strategy for crop improvement. However, changing the overall m⁶A levels might have unpredictable effects; therefore, the identification of precise m⁶A levels at a single-base resolution is essential. In this review, we emphasize the roles of epitranscriptomic modifications in modulating molecular, physiological, and stress responses in plants, and provide an outlook on epitranscriptome engineering as a promising tool to ensure food security by editing specific m⁶A and m⁵C sites through robust genome-editing technology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Responses of Plants to Environmental Stresses Volume II)

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14 pages, 349 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Assessment of Ocimum basilicum Essential Oil Anti-Insect Activity and Antimicrobial Protection in Fruit and Vegetable Quality

by Miroslava Kačániová, Lucia Galovičová, Petra Borotová, Nenad L. Vukovic, Milena Vukic, Simona Kunová, Pavel Hanus, Ladislav Bakay, Edyta Zagrobelna, Maciej Kluz and Przemysław Łukasz Kowalczewski

Plants 2022, 11(8), 1030; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081030 - 10 Apr 2022

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 3379

Abstract

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a commonly used herb; it also contains essential oils and other valuable compounds. The basil oil obtained has a pleasant aroma, but also a broad spectrum of biological activity. This work reports on the chemical composition, antioxidant, [...] Read more.

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a commonly used herb; it also contains essential oils and other valuable compounds. The basil oil obtained has a pleasant aroma, but also a broad spectrum of biological activity. This work reports on the chemical composition, antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-insect activity in vitro and in situ of Ocimum basilicum essential oil (OBEO) obtained by steam distillation of fresh flowering plants. Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, DPPH, agar and disc diffusion and vapor phase methods were used to analyze the OBEO properties. The analysis of the chemical composition of OBEO showed that its main components were methyl chavicol (88.6%), 1,8-cineole (4.2%) and α-trans-bergamotene (1.7%). A strong antioxidant effect was demonstrated at the level of 77.3%. The analysis of antimicrobial properties showed that OBEO exerts variable strength of inhibiting activity against various groups of microorganisms. The growth inhibition zones ranged from 9.67 to 15.33 mm in Gram-positive (G⁺) and Gram-negative (G⁻) bacteria and from 5.33 to 7.33 mm in yeast. The lowest measured minimal inhibition concentration (MIC) was 3.21 µL/mL against Gram-negative Azotobacter chrococcum and Gram-positive Micrococcus luteus. The antimicrobial activity of in situ vapor phase of OBEO was also confirmed on apples, pears, potatoes and kohlrabi. The highest insecticidal activity against Pyrrhocorisapterus, observed at the concentration of 100%, caused the death of 80% of individuals. Due to its broad spectrum of activity, OBEO seems an ideal candidate for preserving fruit and vegetables. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Based Products and Ingredients: Isolation, Characterization, Bioactivity and Applications in Several Industries)

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13 pages, 2928 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Allelopathy in Durum Wheat Landraces as Affected by Genotype and Plant Part

by Aurelio Scavo, Gaetano Pandino, Alessia Restuccia, Paolo Caruso, Sara Lombardo and Giovanni Mauromicale

Plants 2022, 11(8), 1021; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11081021 - 8 Apr 2022

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3393

Abstract

Durum wheat is one of the largest cultivated crops across Mediterranean areas. The high demand for sustainable crop productions, especially concerning weed management, is driving the return to local landraces. In the present work, the in vitro allelopathic effects of the extracts of [...] Read more.

Durum wheat is one of the largest cultivated crops across Mediterranean areas. The high demand for sustainable crop productions, especially concerning weed management, is driving the return to local landraces. In the present work, the in vitro allelopathic effects of the extracts of three durum wheat landraces (‘Timilia’, ‘Russello’ and ‘Perciasacchi’) and a modern variety (‘Mongibello’), obtained from three different plant parts (ears, stems and roots), were tested on seed germination (G) and mean germination time (MGT) of Portulaca oleracea L. and Stellaria. media (L.) Vill., two weeds commonly infesting wheat fields. In addition, the total polyphenol (TPC) and total flavonoid (TFC) content of extracts was determined. All extracts reduced G and increased MGT in both weeds compared to the control. The magnitude of phytotoxicity was strongly affected by the influence of genotype, plant part and extract dilution. Overall, the landraces ‘Timilia’ and ‘Russello’ showed the highest allelopathic effects, ear extracts were the most active, and the maximum extract dilution induced higher phytotoxicity. Extracts’ TPC and TFC corroborated these results. The findings obtained here encourage the use of local landraces as a source of allelochemicals and suggest that they could be left on soil surface or soil-incorporated after harvest for a possible weed control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Weed Management)

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