Plants

17 pages, 3963 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluation of the Impact of Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma on Soybean Seed Germination

by Renáta Švubová, Ľudmila Slováková, Ľudmila Holubová, Dominika Rovňanová, Eliška Gálová and Juliána Tomeková

Plants 2021, 10(1), 177; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010177 - 19 Jan 2021

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 4904

Abstract

The present study aims to define the effects of Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma (CAPP) exposure on seed germination of an agriculturally important crop, soybean. Seed treatment with lower doses of CAPP generated in ambient air and oxygen significantly increased the activity of succinate [...] Read more.

The present study aims to define the effects of Cold Atmospheric Pressure Plasma (CAPP) exposure on seed germination of an agriculturally important crop, soybean. Seed treatment with lower doses of CAPP generated in ambient air and oxygen significantly increased the activity of succinate dehydrogenase (Krebs cycle enzyme), proving the switching of the germinating seed metabolism from anoxygenic to oxygenic. In these treatments, a positive effect on seed germination was documented (the percentage of germination increased by almost 20% compared to the untreated control), while the seed and seedling vigour was also positively affected. On the other hand, higher exposure times of CAPP generated in a nitrogen atmosphere significantly inhibited succinate dehydrogenase activity, but stimulated lactate and alcohol dehydrogenase activities, suggesting anoxygenic metabolism. It was also found that plasma exposure caused a slight increment in the level of primary DNA damage in ambient air- and oxygen-CAPP treatments, and more significant DNA damage was found in nitrogen-CAPP treatments. Although a higher level of DNA damage was also detected in the negative control (untreated seeds), this might be associated with the age of seeds followed by their lower germination capacity (with the germination percentage reaching only about 60%). Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Physiology and Metabolism)

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28 pages, 2430 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Past, Present and Future of Cannabis sativa Tissue Culture

by Adrian S. Monthony, Serena R. Page, Mohsen Hesami and Andrew Maxwell P. Jones

Plants 2021, 10(1), 185; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010185 - 19 Jan 2021

Cited by 70 | Viewed by 25811

Abstract

The recent legalization of Cannabis sativa L. in many regions has revealed a need for effective propagation and biotechnologies for the species. Micropropagation affords researchers and producers methods to rapidly propagate insect-/disease-/virus-free clonal plants and store germplasm and forms the basis for other [...] Read more.

The recent legalization of Cannabis sativa L. in many regions has revealed a need for effective propagation and biotechnologies for the species. Micropropagation affords researchers and producers methods to rapidly propagate insect-/disease-/virus-free clonal plants and store germplasm and forms the basis for other biotechnologies. Despite this need, research in the area is limited due to the long history of prohibitions and restrictions. Existing literature has multiple limitations: many publications use hemp as a proxy for drug-type Cannabis when it is well established that there is significant genotype specificity; studies using drug-type cultivars are predominantly optimized using a single cultivar; most protocols have not been replicated by independent groups, and some attempts demonstrate a lack of reproducibility across genotypes. Due to culture decline and other problems, the multiplication phase of micropropagation (Stage 2) has not been fully developed in many reports. This review will provide a brief background on the history and botany of Cannabis as well as a comprehensive and critical summary of Cannabis tissue culture. Special attention will be paid to current challenges faced by researchers, the limitations of existing Cannabis micropropagation studies, and recent developments and future directions of Cannabis tissue culture technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetics and Functional Genomics in Cannabis sativa, L.)

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14 pages, 765 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effect of Lead and Copper on Photosynthetic Apparatus in Citrus (Citrus aurantium L.) Plants. The Role of Antioxidants in Oxidative Damage as a Response to Heavy Metal Stress

by Anastasia Giannakoula, Ioannis Therios and Christos Chatzissavvidis

Plants 2021, 10(1), 155; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010155 - 14 Jan 2021

Cited by 146 | Viewed by 6560

Abstract

Photosynthetic changes and antioxidant activity to oxidative stress were evaluated in sour orange (Citrus aurantium L.) leaves subjected to lead (Pb), copper (Cu) and also Pb + Cu toxicity treatments, in order to elucidate the mechanisms involved in heavy metal tolerance. The [...] Read more.

Photosynthetic changes and antioxidant activity to oxidative stress were evaluated in sour orange (Citrus aurantium L.) leaves subjected to lead (Pb), copper (Cu) and also Pb + Cu toxicity treatments, in order to elucidate the mechanisms involved in heavy metal tolerance. The simultaneous effect of Pb⁻ and Cu on growth, concentration of malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), chlorophylls, flavonoids, carotenoids, phenolics, chlorophyll fluorescence and photosynthetic parameters were examined in leaves of Citrus aurantium L. plants. Exogenous application of Pb and Cu resulted in an increase in leaf H₂O₂ and lipid peroxidation (MDA). Toxicity symptoms of both Pb and Cu treated plants were stunted growth and decreased pigments concentration. Furthermore, photosynthetic activity of treated plants exhibited a significant decline. The inhibition of growth in Pb and Cu-treated plants was accompanied by oxidative stress, as indicated by the enhanced lipid peroxidation and the high H₂O₂ concentration. Furthermore, antioxidants in citrus plants after exposure to high Pb and Cu concentrations were significantly increased compared to control and low Pb and Cu treatments. In conclusion, this study indicates that Pb and Cu promote lipid peroxidation, disrupt membrane integrity, reduces growth and photosynthesis and inhibit mineral nutrition. Considering the potential for adverse human health effects associated with high concentrations of Pb and Cu contained in edible parts of citrus plants the study signals that it is important to conduct further research into the accessibility and uptake of the tested heavy metals in the soil and whether they pose risks to humans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Abiotic Stress on Nutrient Absorption and Photosynthetic Rate of Plants)

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14 pages, 3813 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Key Genes in the Melatonin Biosynthesis Pathway with Circadian Rhythm Are Associated with Various Abiotic Stresses

by Hye-Ryun Ahn, Yu-Jin Kim, You-Jin Lim, Shucheng Duan, Seok-Hyun Eom and Ki-Hong Jung

Plants 2021, 10(1), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010129 - 9 Jan 2021

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 4320

Abstract

Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine), a well-known animal hormone, is involved in several biological processes including circadian rhythm and the regulation of abiotic stress. A systematic understanding of the circadian regulation of melatonin biosynthesis-related genes has not been achieved in rice. In this study, [...] Read more.

Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine), a well-known animal hormone, is involved in several biological processes including circadian rhythm and the regulation of abiotic stress. A systematic understanding of the circadian regulation of melatonin biosynthesis-related genes has not been achieved in rice. In this study, key genes for all of the enzymes in the melatonin biosynthetic pathway that showed a peak of expression at night were identified by microarray data analysis and confirmed by qRT–PCR analysis. We further examined the expression patterns of the four genes under drought, salt, and cold stresses. The results showed that abiotic stresses, such as drought, salt, and cold, affected the expression patterns of melatonin biosynthetic genes. In addition, the circadian expression patterns of tryptophan decarboxylase (TDC), tryptamine 5-hydroxylase (T5H), and serotonin N-acetyltransferase (SNAT) genes in wild-type (WT) plants was damaged by the drought treatment under light and dark conditions. Conversely, N-acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase (ASMT) retained the circadian rhythm. The expression of ASMT was down-regulated by the rice gigantea (OsGI) mutation, suggesting the involvement of the melatonin biosynthetic pathway in the OsGI-mediated circadian regulation pathway. Taken together, our results provide clues to explain the relationship between circadian rhythms and abiotic stresses in the process of melatonin biosynthesis in rice. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Adaptation of Plants to Environmental Changes: Light and Temperature in Plant Development)

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12 pages, 1123 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Edible Chitosan/Propolis Coatings and Their Effect on Ripening, Development of Aspergillus flavus, and Sensory Quality in Fig Fruit, during Controlled Storage

by Pablo F. Aparicio-García, Rosa I. Ventura-Aguilar, Juan C. del Río-García, Mónica Hernández-López, Dagoberto Guillén-Sánchez, Dolores A. Salazar-Piña, Margarita de L. Ramos-García and Silvia Bautista-Baños

Plants 2021, 10(1), 112; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010112 - 7 Jan 2021

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 3402

Abstract

Biodegradable alternatives for the control of Aspergillus flavus in fig fruit were tested with the application of coatings based on chitosan (CS) and propolis (P). To potentiate the fungicidal effect, nanoparticles of these two (CSNPs and PNPs) were also considered. The objectives of [...] Read more.

Biodegradable alternatives for the control of Aspergillus flavus in fig fruit were tested with the application of coatings based on chitosan (CS) and propolis (P). To potentiate the fungicidal effect, nanoparticles of these two (CSNPs and PNPs) were also considered. The objectives of this research were to evaluate the effect of different formulations on: (a) the ripening process of the fig, (b) the incidence of A. flavus and the production of aflatoxins, and (c) the acceptance of the treated fruit by a panel. The nanostructured coatings did not influence the ripening process of the fruit during the 12 days of storage, however, the antioxidant activity increased by approximately 30% with the coating CS + PNPs + P. The figs treated with CS + CSNPs + PNPs + P, inhibited the growth of the fungus by about 20% to 30% under laboratory and semi-commercial conditions. For all treatments, the aflatoxin production was lower than 20 ppb compared to the control with values of c.a. 250 ppb. The sensory quality was acceptable among the panel. The edible coatings can be a non-toxic alternative for post-harvest preservation and the consumption of fig fruit. The next step will be its inclusion and evaluation at a commercial level in packing houses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products for Plant Pest and Disease Control)

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40 pages, 9469 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Impact of Environmental Factors on Stilbene Biosynthesis

by Alessio Valletta, Lorenzo Maria Iozia and Francesca Leonelli

Plants 2021, 10(1), 90; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010090 - 4 Jan 2021

Cited by 103 | Viewed by 8999

Abstract

Stilbenes are a small family of polyphenolic secondary metabolites that can be found in several distantly related plant species. These compounds act as phytoalexins, playing a crucial role in plant defense against phytopathogens, as well as being involved in the adaptation of plants [...] Read more.

Stilbenes are a small family of polyphenolic secondary metabolites that can be found in several distantly related plant species. These compounds act as phytoalexins, playing a crucial role in plant defense against phytopathogens, as well as being involved in the adaptation of plants to abiotic environmental factors. Among stilbenes, trans-resveratrol is certainly the most popular and extensively studied for its health properties. In recent years, an increasing number of stilbene compounds were subjected to investigations concerning their bioactivity. This review presents the most updated knowledge of the stilbene biosynthetic pathway, also focusing on the role of several environmental factors in eliciting stilbenes biosynthesis. The effects of ultraviolet radiation, visible light, ultrasonication, mechanical stress, salt stress, drought, temperature, ozone, and biotic stress are reviewed in the context of enhancing stilbene biosynthesis, both in planta and in plant cell and organ cultures. This knowledge may shed some light on stilbene biological roles and represents a useful tool to increase the accumulation of these valuable compounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biosynthesis Pathways and Regulation Mechanism of Plants Secondary Metabolites)

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19 pages, 788 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

RNA-Based Technologies for Engineering Plant Virus Resistance

by Michael Taliansky, Viktoria Samarskaya, Sergey K. Zavriev, Igor Fesenko, Natalia O. Kalinina and Andrew J. Love

Plants 2021, 10(1), 82; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010082 - 2 Jan 2021

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 7440

Abstract

In recent years, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have gained unprecedented attention as new and crucial players in the regulation of numerous cellular processes and disease responses. In this review, we describe how diverse ncRNAs, including both small RNAs and long ncRNAs, may be used [...] Read more.

In recent years, non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) have gained unprecedented attention as new and crucial players in the regulation of numerous cellular processes and disease responses. In this review, we describe how diverse ncRNAs, including both small RNAs and long ncRNAs, may be used to engineer resistance against plant viruses. We discuss how double-stranded RNAs and small RNAs, such as artificial microRNAs and trans-acting small interfering RNAs, either produced in transgenic plants or delivered exogenously to non-transgenic plants, may constitute powerful RNA interference (RNAi)-based technology that can be exploited to control plant viruses. Additionally, we describe how RNA guided CRISPR-CAS gene-editing systems have been deployed to inhibit plant virus infections, and we provide a comparative analysis of RNAi approaches and CRISPR-Cas technology. The two main strategies for engineering virus resistance are also discussed, including direct targeting of viral DNA or RNA, or inactivation of plant host susceptibility genes. We also elaborate on the challenges that need to be overcome before such technologies can be broadly exploited for crop protection against viruses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Engineering Virus-Resistant Plants)

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19 pages, 2136 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Somatic Embryogenesis in Centaurium erythraea Rafn—Current Status and Perspectives: A Review

by Ana D. Simonović, Milana M. Trifunović-Momčilov, Biljana K. Filipović, Marija P. Marković, Milica D. Bogdanović and Angelina R. Subotić

Plants 2021, 10(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010070 - 31 Dec 2020

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 4511

Abstract

Centaurium erythraea (centaury) is a traditionally used medicinal plant, with a spectrum of secondary metabolites with confirmed healing properties. Centaury is an emerging model in plant developmental biology due to its vigorous regenerative potential and great developmental plasticity when cultured in vitro. Hereby, [...] Read more.

Centaurium erythraea (centaury) is a traditionally used medicinal plant, with a spectrum of secondary metabolites with confirmed healing properties. Centaury is an emerging model in plant developmental biology due to its vigorous regenerative potential and great developmental plasticity when cultured in vitro. Hereby, we review nearly two decades of research on somatic embryogenesis (SE) in centaury. During SE, somatic cells are induced by suitable culture conditions to express their totipotency, acquire embryogenic characteristics, and eventually give rise to somatic embryos. When SE is initiated from centaury root explants, the process occurs spontaneously (on hormone-free medium), directly (without the callusing phase), and the somatic embryos are of unicellular origin. SE from leaf explants has to be induced by plant growth regulators and is indirect (preceded by callusing). Histological observations and culture conditions are compared in these two systems. The changes in antioxidative enzymes were followed during SE from the leaf explants. Special focus is given to the role of arabinogalactan proteins during SE, which were analyzed using a variety of approaches. The newest and preliminary results, including centaury transcriptome, novel potential SE markers, and novel types of arabinogalactan proteins, are discussed as perspectives of centaury research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Embryogenesis)

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20 pages, 3812 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Agronomic Practices and Performances of Quinoa under Field Conditions: A Systematic Review

by Mohamed Houssemeddine Sellami, Cataldo Pulvento and Antonella Lavini

Plants 2021, 10(1), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010072 - 31 Dec 2020

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 4476

Abstract

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is one of the most popular emerging food crops in the Andean region. It is tolerant to environmental stresses and characterized by interesting nutritional traits. Thus, it has the potential to contribute to food and nutrition security in [...] Read more.

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is one of the most popular emerging food crops in the Andean region. It is tolerant to environmental stresses and characterized by interesting nutritional traits. Thus, it has the potential to contribute to food and nutrition security in marginal environments. In this study, we conducted a systematic review integrated with a bibliometric analysis of cropping practices of quinoa under field conditions. The analysis is based on published data from the literature relating to the period 2000–2020. A total of 33 publications were identified, revealing that scientific research on the agronomic practices and performances of quinoa under field conditions is still limited. Africa, Asia, and Europe were the leading research production sites in this field and together provided over 81% of the total scientific production. There were no papers from the Australian continent. The number of papers screened dealing with tillage and weed control management was very limited. The keyword co-occurrence network analyses revealed that the main topics addressed in the scientific literature related to the effect of “variety” and “deficit irrigation”, followed by “water quality”, “fertilization”, and “sowing date” on seed yield. Results from this study will permit us to identify knowledge gaps and limited collaboration among authors and institutions from different countries. Salinity, sowing density, and sowing date were the agronomic interventions affecting productive response the most. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Worldwide Evaluations of Quinoa—Biodiversity and Food Security under Climate Change Pressures)

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17 pages, 857 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Antioxidant, Anti-tyrosinase, Anti-α-amylase, and Cytotoxic Potentials of the Invasive Weed Andropogon virginicus

by La Hoang Anh, Nguyen Van Quan, Vu Quang Lam, Yu Iuchi, Akiyoshi Takami, Rolf Teschke and Tran Dang Xuan

Plants 2021, 10(1), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010069 - 31 Dec 2020

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 6751

Abstract

Andropogon virginicus is an invasive weed that seriously threatens agricultural production and economics worldwide. In this research, dried aerial parts of A. virginicus were extracted, applying Soxhlet and liquid-liquid phase methods to acquire the total crude (T-Anvi), hexane (H-Anvi), ethyl acetate (E-Anvi), butanol [...] Read more.

Andropogon virginicus is an invasive weed that seriously threatens agricultural production and economics worldwide. In this research, dried aerial parts of A. virginicus were extracted, applying Soxhlet and liquid-liquid phase methods to acquire the total crude (T-Anvi), hexane (H-Anvi), ethyl acetate (E-Anvi), butanol (B-Anvi), and water (W-Anvi) extracts, respectively. In which, T-Anvi contains the highest total phenolic and flavonoid contents (24.80 mg gallic acid and 37.40 mg rutin equivalents per g dry weight, respectively). Via anti-radical (ABTS and DPPH), and reducing power assays, E-Anvi exhibits the most potent activities (IC₅₀ = 13.96, 43.59 and 124.11 µg/mL, respectively), stronger than butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), a standard antioxidant, while the lipid peroxidation inhibitory effect of E-Anvi (LPI = 90.85% at the concentration of 500 µg/mL) is close to BHT. E-Anvi shows the most substantial inhibition (IC₅₀ = 2.58 mg/mL) on tyrosinase. Notably, α-amylase is significantly suppressed by H-Anvi (IC₅₀ = 0.72 mg/mL), over twice stronger than the positive control, palmitic acid. In the cytotoxic assay, E-Anvi is the strongest extract inhibiting K562 cells (IC₅₀ = 112.01 µg/mL). Meanwhile, T-Anvi shows the highest prevention on Meg-01 expansion (IC₅₀ = 91.40 µg/mL). Dominant compounds detected in E-Anvi by high-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-ESI-MS/MS) are identified as flavonoids. However, among four major compounds identified in H-Anvi by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS), palmitic acid and phytol are the most abundant compounds with peak areas of 27.97% and 16.42%, respectively. In essence, this is the first report describing that A. virginicus is a potential natural source of antioxidants, tyrosinase and α-amylase inhibitors, and anti-chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) agents which may be useful in future therapeutics as promising alternative medicines. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities of Plant Extracts)

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19 pages, 1023 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Genus Curcuma and Inflammation: Overview of the Pharmacological Perspectives

by Md. Moshiur Rahaman, Ahmed Rakib, Saikat Mitra, Abu Montakim Tareq, Talha Bin Emran, A. F. M. Shahid-Ud-Daula, Mohammad Nurul Amin and Jesus Simal-Gandara

Plants 2021, 10(1), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010063 - 30 Dec 2020

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 7446

Abstract

The Curcuma genus has been extensively used for therapeutic purposes in traditional or folk medicine worldwide, including for its anti-inflammatory activity. Curcuma spp.’s active constituents, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, can act on various targets in the signaling pathway, restrain pro-inflammatory enzymes, [...] Read more.

The Curcuma genus has been extensively used for therapeutic purposes in traditional or folk medicine worldwide, including for its anti-inflammatory activity. Curcuma spp.’s active constituents, such as alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids, can act on various targets in the signaling pathway, restrain pro-inflammatory enzymes, lower the production of inflammatory cytokines and chemokines, and reduce oxidative stress, which subsequently suppresses inflammatory processes. Preclinical and clinical studies have reported the predominant anti-inflammatory activity of several Curcuma species. This review provides an overview of the anti-inflammatory effects of different extracts, preparations, and bioactive components in this genus. This analysis may provide a scientific basis for developing new and alternative methods for the isolation of a single entity from this genus to attenuate inflammatory conditions. The Curcuma genus is waiting for researchers interested in developing safe and efficient anti-inflammatory agents for further investigation. Full article

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31 pages, 960 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Curcuma longa L. Rhizome Essential Oil from Extraction to Its Agri-Food Applications. A Review

by María Dolores Ibáñez and María Amparo Blázquez

Plants 2021, 10(1), 44; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010044 - 28 Dec 2020

Cited by 62 | Viewed by 10732

Abstract

Curcuma longa L. rhizome essential oil is a valuable product in pharmaceutical industry due to its wide beneficial health effects. Novel applications in the agri-food industry where more sustainable extraction processes are required currently and safer substances are claimed for the consumer are [...] Read more.

Curcuma longa L. rhizome essential oil is a valuable product in pharmaceutical industry due to its wide beneficial health effects. Novel applications in the agri-food industry where more sustainable extraction processes are required currently and safer substances are claimed for the consumer are being investigated. This review provides information regarding the conventional and recent extraction methods of C. longa rhizome oil, their characteristics and suitability to be applied at the industrial scale. In addition, variations in the chemical composition of C. longa rhizome and leaf essential oils regarding intrinsic and extrinsic factors and extraction methods are also analysed in order to select the most proper to obtain the most efficient activity. Finally, the potential applications of C. longa rhizome oil in the agri-food industry, such as antimicrobial, weedicide and a food preservative agent, are included. Regarding the data, C. longa rhizome essential oil may play a special role in the agri-food industry; however, further research to determine the application threshold so as not to damage crops or affect the organoleptic properties of food products, as well as efficient encapsulation techniques, are necessary for its implementation in global agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Essential Oil with Biological Activity)

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24 pages, 4375 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Rising Atmospheric Temperature Impact on Wheat and Thermotolerance Strategies

by Adeel Khan, Munir Ahmad, Mukhtar Ahmed and M. Iftikhar Hussain

Plants 2021, 10(1), 43; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010043 - 27 Dec 2020

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 6179

Abstract

Temperature across the globe is increasing continuously at the rate of 0.15–0.17 °C per decade since the industrial revolution. It is influencing agricultural crop productivity. Therefore, thermotolerance strategies are needed to have sustainability in crop yield under higher temperature. However, improving thermotolerance in [...] Read more.

Temperature across the globe is increasing continuously at the rate of 0.15–0.17 °C per decade since the industrial revolution. It is influencing agricultural crop productivity. Therefore, thermotolerance strategies are needed to have sustainability in crop yield under higher temperature. However, improving thermotolerance in the crop is a challenging task for crop scientists. Therefore, this review work was conducted with the aim of providing information on the wheat response in three research areas, i.e., physiology, breeding, and advances in genetics, which could assist the researchers in improving thermotolerance. The optimum temperature for wheat growth at the heading, anthesis, and grain filling duration is 16 ± 2.3 °C, 23 ± 1.75 °C, and 26 ± 1.53 °C, respectively. The high temperature adversely influences the crop phenology, growth, and development. The pre-anthesis high temperature retards the pollen viability, seed formation, and embryo development. The post-anthesis high temperature declines the starch granules accumulation, stem reserve carbohydrates, and translocation of photosynthates into grains. A high temperature above 40 °C inhibits the photosynthesis by damaging the photosystem-II, electron transport chain, and photosystem-I. Our review work highlighted that genotypes which can maintain a higher accumulation of proline, glycine betaine, expression of heat shock proteins, stay green and antioxidant enzymes activity viz., catalase, peroxidase, super oxide dismutase, and glutathione reductase can tolerate high temperature efficiently through sustaining cellular physiology. Similarly, the pre-anthesis acclimation with heat treatment, inorganic fertilizer such as nitrogen, potassium nitrate and potassium chloride, mulches with rice husk, early sowing, presoaking of a 6.6 mM solution of thiourea, foliar application of 50 ppm dithiothreitol, 10 mg per kg of silicon at heading and zinc ameliorate the crop against the high temperature. Finally, it has been suggested that modern genomics and omics techniques should be used to develop thermotolerance in wheat. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Responses to Biotic and Abiotic Stresses: Crosstalk between Biochemistry and Ecophysiology)

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17 pages, 1581 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Seed Priming with Phytohormones: An Effective Approach for the Mitigation of Abiotic Stress

by Mohammad Saidur Rhaman, Shahin Imran, Farjana Rauf, Mousumi Khatun, Carol C. Baskin, Yoshiyuki Murata and Mirza Hasanuzzaman

Plants 2021, 10(1), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010037 - 25 Dec 2020

Cited by 160 | Viewed by 14565

Abstract

Plants are often exposed to abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, heat, cold, and heavy metals that induce complex responses, which result in reduced growth as well as crop yield. Phytohormones are well known for their regulatory role in plant growth and development, [...] Read more.

Plants are often exposed to abiotic stresses such as drought, salinity, heat, cold, and heavy metals that induce complex responses, which result in reduced growth as well as crop yield. Phytohormones are well known for their regulatory role in plant growth and development, and they serve as important chemical messengers, allowing plants to function during exposure to various stresses. Seed priming is a physiological technique involving seed hydration and drying to improve metabolic processes prior to germination, thereby increasing the percentage and rate of germination and improving seedling growth and crop yield under normal and various biotic and abiotic stresses. Seed priming allows plants to obtain an enhanced capacity for rapidly and effectively combating different stresses. Thus, seed priming with phytohormones has emerged as an important tool for mitigating the effects of abiotic stress. Therefore, this review discusses the potential role of priming with phytohormones to mitigate the harmful effects of abiotic stresses, possible mechanisms for how mitigation is accomplished, and roles of priming on the enhancement of crop production. Full article

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

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14 pages, 3855 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Detection of Strawberry Diseases Using a Convolutional Neural Network

by Jia-Rong Xiao, Pei-Che Chung, Hung-Yi Wu, Quoc-Hung Phan, Jer-Liang Andrew Yeh and Max Ti-Kuang Hou

Plants 2021, 10(1), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010031 - 25 Dec 2020

Cited by 65 | Viewed by 7032

Abstract

The strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) is a high-value crop with an annual cultivated area of ~500 ha in Taiwan. Over 90% of strawberry cultivation is in Miaoli County. Unfortunately, various diseases significantly decrease strawberry production. The leaf and fruit disease became [...] Read more.

The strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) is a high-value crop with an annual cultivated area of ~500 ha in Taiwan. Over 90% of strawberry cultivation is in Miaoli County. Unfortunately, various diseases significantly decrease strawberry production. The leaf and fruit disease became an epidemic in 1986. From 2010 to 2016, anthracnose crown rot caused the loss of 30–40% of seedlings and ~20% of plants after transplanting. The automation of agriculture and image recognition techniques are indispensable for detecting strawberry diseases. We developed an image recognition technique for the detection of strawberry diseases using a convolutional neural network (CNN) model. CNN is a powerful deep learning approach that has been used to enhance image recognition. In the proposed technique, two different datasets containing the original and feature images are used for detecting the following strawberry diseases—leaf blight, gray mold, and powdery mildew. Specifically, leaf blight may affect the crown, leaf, and fruit and show different symptoms. By using the ResNet50 model with a training period of 20 epochs for 1306 feature images, the proposed CNN model achieves a classification accuracy rate of 100% for leaf blight cases affecting the crown, leaf, and fruit; 98% for gray mold cases, and 98% for powdery mildew cases. In 20 epochs, the accuracy rate of 99.60% obtained from the feature image dataset was higher than that of 1.53% obtained from the original one. This proposed model provides a simple, reliable, and cost-effective technique for detecting strawberry diseases. Full article

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20 pages, 4738 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Confirmation and Fine Mapping of the Resistance Locus Ren9 from the Grapevine Cultivar ‘Regent’

by Daniel Zendler, Reinhard Töpfer and Eva Zyprian

Plants 2021, 10(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010024 - 24 Dec 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 3217

Abstract

Grapevine (Vitis vinifera ssp. vinifera) is a major fruit crop with high economic importance. Due to its susceptibility towards fungal and oomycete pathogens such as Erysiphe necator and Plasmopara viticola, the causal agents of powdery and downy mildew (PM and DM, [...] Read more.

Grapevine (Vitis vinifera ssp. vinifera) is a major fruit crop with high economic importance. Due to its susceptibility towards fungal and oomycete pathogens such as Erysiphe necator and Plasmopara viticola, the causal agents of powdery and downy mildew (PM and DM, respectively), grapevine growers annually face a major challenge in coping with shortfalls of yield caused by these diseases. Here we report the confirmation of a genetic resource for grapevine resistance breeding against PM. During the delimitation process of Ren3 on chromosome 15 from the cultivar ‘Regent’, a second resistance-encoding region on chromosome 15 termed Ren9 was characterized. It mediates a trailing necrosis associated with the appressoria of E. necator and restricts pathogen growth. In this study, we confirm this QTL in a related mapping population of ‘Regent’ × ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’. The data show that this locus is located at the upper arm of chromosome 15 between markers GF15-58 (0.15 Mb) and GF15-53 (4 Mb). The efficiency of the resistance against one of the prominent European PM isolates (EU-B) is demonstrated. Based on fine-mapping and literature knowledge we propose two possible regions of interest and supply molecular markers to follow both regions in marker-assisted selection. Full article

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

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27 pages, 1349 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Nano-Fertilization as an Emerging Fertilization Technique: Why Can Modern Agriculture Benefit from Its Use?

by Mahmoud F. Seleiman, Khalid F. Almutairi, Majed Alotaibi, Ashwag Shami, Bushra Ahmed Alhammad and Martin Leonardo Battaglia

Plants 2021, 10(1), 2; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants10010002 - 22 Dec 2020

Cited by 290 | Viewed by 11349

Abstract

There is a need for a more innovative fertilizer approach that can increase the productivity of agricultural systems and be more environmentally friendly than synthetic fertilizers. In this article, we reviewed the recent development and potential benefits derived from the use of nanofertilizers [...] Read more.

There is a need for a more innovative fertilizer approach that can increase the productivity of agricultural systems and be more environmentally friendly than synthetic fertilizers. In this article, we reviewed the recent development and potential benefits derived from the use of nanofertilizers (NFs) in modern agriculture. NFs have the potential to promote sustainable agriculture and increase overall crop productivity, mainly by increasing the nutrient use efficiency (NUE) of field and greenhouse crops. NFs can release their nutrients at a slow and steady pace, either when applied alone or in combination with synthetic or organic fertilizers. They can release their nutrients in 40–50 days, while synthetic fertilizers do the same in 4–10 days. Moreover, NFs can increase the tolerance of plants against biotic and abiotic stresses. Here, the advantages of NFs over synthetic fertilizers, as well as the different types of macro and micro NFs, are discussed in detail. Furthermore, the application of NFs in smart sustainable agriculture and the role of NFs in the mitigation of biotic and abiotic stress on plants is presented. Though NF applications may have many benefits for sustainable agriculture, there are some concerns related to the release of nanoparticles (NPs) from NFs into the environment, with the subsequent detrimental effects that this could have on both human and animal health. Future research should explore green synthesized and biosynthesized NFs, their safe use, bioavailability, and toxicity concerns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition)

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14 pages, 2890 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Genotype × Environment Interaction for Wheat Yield Traits Suitable for Selection in Different Seed Priming Conditions

by Vera Popović, Nataša Ljubičić, Marko Kostić, Mirjana Radulović, Dragana Blagojević, Vladan Ugrenović, Dragana Popović and Bojana Ivošević

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1804; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121804 - 19 Dec 2020

Cited by 55 | Viewed by 3897

Abstract

Different seed priming treatments are widely used in order to improve the nutritional status of wheat, as well as to improve its grain yield and yield- related traits. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of seed priming with zinc oxide nanoparticles [...] Read more.

Different seed priming treatments are widely used in order to improve the nutritional status of wheat, as well as to improve its grain yield and yield- related traits. The present study aimed to evaluate the impact of seed priming with zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) on the yield related traits, such as, field emergence, plant height, spike length and grain yield per plant of four winter wheat genotypes (Triticum aestivum L.) during two vegetation seasons of 2018/2019 and 2019/2020. The seeds of each wheat genotypes were primed with different concentrations of ZnO NPs (0 mg L⁻¹, 10 mg L⁻¹, 100 mg L⁻¹ and 1000 mg L⁻¹) for 48 h in a dark box by continuous aeration and were sown in soil pots with 60–70% moisture content until full maturity. The additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) models were used to study the genotype environment effects. The results indicated that the plants response to ZnO nanoparticles significantly increased all of the observed traits of the wheat, while its maximum rates reduced the traits of the wheat. The AMMI analysis revealed the very complex nature of the variation observed in the trial and showed the significant effect of the G×E interaction, in which the first main component was significant for all components. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Wheat Crop Improvement (by Transgenic and Conventional Breeding Methods))

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26 pages, 1747 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Decoding Heavy Metal Stress Signalling in Plants: Towards Improved Food Security and Safety

by Marshall Keyster, Lee-Ann Niekerk, Gerhard Basson, Mogamat Carelse, Olalekan Bakare, Ndiko Ludidi, Ashwil Klein, Lukhanyo Mekuto and Arun Gokul

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1781; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121781 - 16 Dec 2020

Cited by 55 | Viewed by 5871

Abstract

The mining of heavy metals from the environment leads to an increase in soil pollution, leading to the uptake of heavy metals into plant tissue. The build-up of toxic metals in plant cells often leads to cellular damage and senescence. Therefore, it is [...] Read more.

The mining of heavy metals from the environment leads to an increase in soil pollution, leading to the uptake of heavy metals into plant tissue. The build-up of toxic metals in plant cells often leads to cellular damage and senescence. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to produce plants with improved tolerance to heavy metals for food security, as well as to limit heavy metal uptake for improved food safety purposes. To achieve this goal, our understanding of the signaling mechanisms which regulate toxic heavy metal uptake and tolerance in plants requires extensive improvement. In this review, we summarize recent literature and data on heavy metal toxicity (oral reference doses) and the impact of the metals on food safety and food security. Furthermore, we discuss some of the key events (reception, transduction, and response) in the heavy metal signaling cascades in the cell wall, plasma membrane, and cytoplasm. Our future perspectives provide an outlook of the exciting advances that will shape the plant heavy metal signaling field in the near future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal Pollution and Plants Growth)

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17 pages, 794 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

dsRNA Uptake in Plant Pests and Pathogens: Insights into RNAi-Based Insect and Fungal Control Technology

by Nick Wytinck, Christopher L. Manchur, Vivian H. Li, Steve Whyard and Mark F. Belmonte

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1780; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121780 - 16 Dec 2020

Cited by 61 | Viewed by 8567

Abstract

Efforts to develop more environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional broad-spectrum pesticides in agriculture have recently turned to RNA interference (RNAi) technology. With the built-in, sequence-specific knockdown of gene targets following delivery of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), RNAi offers the promise of controlling pests and [...] Read more.

Efforts to develop more environmentally friendly alternatives to traditional broad-spectrum pesticides in agriculture have recently turned to RNA interference (RNAi) technology. With the built-in, sequence-specific knockdown of gene targets following delivery of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA), RNAi offers the promise of controlling pests and pathogens without adversely affecting non-target species. Significant advances in the efficacy of this technology have been observed in a wide range of species, including many insect pests and fungal pathogens. Two different dsRNA application methods are being developed. First, host induced gene silencing (HIGS) harnesses dsRNA production through the thoughtful and precise engineering of transgenic plants and second, spray induced gene silencing (SIGS) that uses surface applications of a topically applied dsRNA molecule. Regardless of the dsRNA delivery method, one aspect that is critical to the success of RNAi is the ability of the target organism to internalize the dsRNA and take advantage of the host RNAi cellular machinery. The efficiency of dsRNA uptake mechanisms varies across species, and in some uptake is negligible, rendering them effectively resistant to this new generation of control technologies. If RNAi-based methods of control are to be used widely, it is critically important to understand the mechanisms underpinning dsRNA uptake. Understanding dsRNA uptake mechanisms will also provide insight into the design and formulation of dsRNAs for improved delivery and provide clues into the development of potential host resistance to these technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue External RNA Application for Gene Regulation and Plant Resistance)

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29 pages, 10341 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Seed Morphology in Silene Based on Geometric Models

by José Javier Martín-Gómez, Agnieszka Rewicz, José Luis Rodríguez-Lorenzo, Bohuslav Janoušek and Emilio Cervantes

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1787; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121787 - 16 Dec 2020

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 5568

Abstract

Seed description in morphology is often based on adjectives such as “spherical”, “globular”, or “reniform”, but this does not provide a quantitative method. A new morphological approach based on the comparison of seed images with geometric models provides a seed description in Silene [...] Read more.

Seed description in morphology is often based on adjectives such as “spherical”, “globular”, or “reniform”, but this does not provide a quantitative method. A new morphological approach based on the comparison of seed images with geometric models provides a seed description in Silene species on a quantitative basis. The novelty of the proposed method is based in the comparison of the seed images with geometric models according to a cardioid shape. The J index is a measurement that indicates the seed percentage of similarity with a cardioid or cardioid-derived figures used as models. The seeds of Silene species have high values of similarity with the cardioid and cardioid-derived models (J index superior to 90). The comparison with different figures allows species description and differentiation. The method is applied here to seeds of 21 species and models are proposed for some of them including S. diclinis, an endangered species. The method is discussed in the context of previous comparison with the measures used in traditional morphometric analysis. The similarity of seed images with geometric figures opens a new perspective for the automatized taxonomical evaluation of samples linking seed morphology to functional traits in endangered Silene species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Linking Seed Biology to Plant Preservation: New Advances and Perspectives)

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14 pages, 4802 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Plant Roots Release Small Extracellular Vesicles with Antifungal Activity

by Monica De Palma, Alfredo Ambrosone, Antonietta Leone, Pasquale Del Gaudio, Michelina Ruocco, Lilla Turiák, Ramesh Bokka, Immacolata Fiume, Marina Tucci and Gabriella Pocsfalvi

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1777; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121777 - 15 Dec 2020

Cited by 51 | Viewed by 7264

Abstract

Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) play pivotal roles in cell-to-cell and inter-kingdom communication. Despite their relevant biological implications, the existence and role of plant EVs released into the environment has been unexplored. Herein, we purified round-shaped small vesicles (EVs) by differential ultracentrifugation of a sampling [...] Read more.

Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) play pivotal roles in cell-to-cell and inter-kingdom communication. Despite their relevant biological implications, the existence and role of plant EVs released into the environment has been unexplored. Herein, we purified round-shaped small vesicles (EVs) by differential ultracentrifugation of a sampling solution containing root exudates of hydroponically grown tomato plants. Biophysical analyses, by means of dynamic light scattering, microfluidic resistive pulse sensing and scanning electron microscopy, showed that the size of root-released EVs range in the nanometric scale (50–100 nm). Shot-gun proteomics of tomato EVs identified 179 unique proteins, several of which are known to be involved in plant-microbe interactions. In addition, the application of root-released EVs induced a significant inhibition of spore germination and of germination tube development of the plant pathogens Fusarium oxysporum, Botrytis cinerea and Alternaria alternata. Interestingly, these EVs contain several proteins involved in plant defense, suggesting that they could be new components of the plant innate immune system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Microbe Interactions)

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18 pages, 2128 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Regulatory Role of Silicon in Mitigating Plant Nutritional Stresses

by Nusrat Ali, Elise Réthoré, Jean-Claude Yvin and Seyed Abdollah Hosseini

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1779; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121779 - 15 Dec 2020

Cited by 59 | Viewed by 6578

Abstract

It has been long recognized that silicon (Si) plays important roles in plant productivity by improving mineral nutrition deficiencies. Despite the fact that Si is considered as ‘quasi–essential’, the positive effect of Si has mostly been described in resistance to biotic and tolerance [...] Read more.

It has been long recognized that silicon (Si) plays important roles in plant productivity by improving mineral nutrition deficiencies. Despite the fact that Si is considered as ‘quasi–essential’, the positive effect of Si has mostly been described in resistance to biotic and tolerance to abiotic stresses. During the last decade, much effort has been aimed at linking the positive effects of Si under nutrient deficiency or heavy metal toxicity (HM). These studies highlight the positive effect of Si on biomass production, by maintaining photosynthetic machinery, decreasing transpiration rate and stomatal conductance, and regulating uptake and root to shoot translocation of nutrients as well as reducing oxidative stress. The mechanisms of these inputs and the processes driving the alterations in plant adaptation to nutritional stress are, however, largely unknown. In this review, we focus on the interaction of Si and macronutrient (MaN) deficiencies or micro-nutrient (MiN) deficiency, summarizing the current knowledge in numerous research fields that can improve our understanding of the mechanisms underpinning this cross-talk. To this end, we discuss the gap in Si nutrition and propose a working model to explain the responses of individual MaN or MiN disorders and their mutual responses to Si supplementation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Silicon Nutrition and the Cross Talk with Plant Biotic and Abiotic Stresses)

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50 pages, 3912 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Epidemiology of Plant Virus Disease: Towards a New Synthesis

by Michael J. Jeger

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1768; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121768 - 14 Dec 2020

Cited by 48 | Viewed by 11596

Abstract

Epidemiology is the science of how disease develops in populations, with applications in human, animal and plant diseases. For plant diseases, epidemiology has developed as a quantitative science with the aims of describing, understanding and predicting epidemics, and intervening to mitigate their consequences [...] Read more.

Epidemiology is the science of how disease develops in populations, with applications in human, animal and plant diseases. For plant diseases, epidemiology has developed as a quantitative science with the aims of describing, understanding and predicting epidemics, and intervening to mitigate their consequences in plant populations. Although the central focus of epidemiology is at the population level, it is often necessary to recognise the system hierarchies present by scaling down to the individual plant/cellular level and scaling up to the community/landscape level. This is particularly important for diseases caused by plant viruses, which in most cases are transmitted by arthropod vectors. This leads to range of virus-plant, virus-vector and vector-plant interactions giving a distinctive character to plant virus epidemiology (whilst recognising that some fungal, oomycete and bacterial pathogens are also vector-borne). These interactions have epidemiological, ecological and evolutionary consequences with implications for agronomic practices, pest and disease management, host resistance deployment, and the health of wild plant communities. Over the last two decades, there have been attempts to bring together these differing standpoints into a new synthesis, although this is more apparent for evolutionary and ecological approaches, perhaps reflecting the greater emphasis on shorter often annual time scales in epidemiological studies. It is argued here that incorporating an epidemiological perspective, specifically quantitative, into this developing synthesis will lead to new directions in plant virus research and disease management. This synthesis can serve to further consolidate and transform epidemiology as a key element in plant virus research. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Virus Epidemiology)

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33 pages, 1393 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Vegetable Soups and Creams: Raw Materials, Processing, Health Benefits, and Innovation Trends

by Juana Fernández-López, Carmen Botella-Martínez, Casilda Navarro-Rodríguez de Vera, María Estrella Sayas-Barberá, Manuel Viuda-Martos, Elena Sánchez-Zapata and José Angel Pérez-Álvarez

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1769; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121769 - 14 Dec 2020

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 14239

Abstract

Vegetable soups and creams have gained popularity among consumers worldwide due to the wide variety of raw materials (vegetable fruits, tubers, bulbs, leafy vegetables, and legumes) that can be used in their formulation which has been recognized as a healthy source of nutrients [...] Read more.

Vegetable soups and creams have gained popularity among consumers worldwide due to the wide variety of raw materials (vegetable fruits, tubers, bulbs, leafy vegetables, and legumes) that can be used in their formulation which has been recognized as a healthy source of nutrients (mainly proteins, dietary fiber, other carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals) and bioactive compounds that could help maintain the body’s health and wellbeing. In addition, they are cheap and easy to preserve and prepare at home, ready to eat, so in consequence they are very useful in the modern life rhythms that modify the habits of current consumption and that reclaim foods elaborated with natural ingredients, ecologic, vegans, less invasive production processes, agroindustry coproducts valorization, and exploring new flavors and textures. This review focuses on the nutritional and healthy properties of vegetable soups and creams (depending on the raw materials used in their production) highlighting their content in bioactive compounds and their antioxidant properties. Apart from the effect that some processing steps could have on these compounds, innovation trends for the development of healthier soups and creams adapted to specific consumer requirements have also been explored. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Products from Plant-Derived as Preservatives)

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16 pages, 941 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Agro-Morphological, Yield and Quality Traits and Interrelationship with Yield Stability in Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) Genotypes under Saline Marginal Environment

by M. Iftikhar Hussain, Adele Muscolo, Mukhtar Ahmed, Muhammad Ahsan Asghar and Abdullah J. Al-Dakheel

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1763; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121763 - 13 Dec 2020

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 3724

Abstract

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is a halophytic crop that shows resistance to multiple abiotic stresses, including salinity. In this study we investigated the salinity tolerance mechanisms of six contrasting quinoa cultivars belonging to the coastal region of Chile using agro-physiological parameters (plant [...] Read more.

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa Willd.) is a halophytic crop that shows resistance to multiple abiotic stresses, including salinity. In this study we investigated the salinity tolerance mechanisms of six contrasting quinoa cultivars belonging to the coastal region of Chile using agro-physiological parameters (plant height (PH), number of branches/plant (BN), number of panicles/plant (PN), panicle length (PL), biochemical traits (leaf C%, leaf N%, grain protein contents); harvest index and yield (seed yield and plant dry biomass (PDM) under three salinity levels (0, 10, and 20 d Sm⁻¹ NaCl). The yield stability was evaluated through comparision of seed yield characteristics [(static environmental variance (S²) and dynamic Wricke’s ecovalence (W²)]. Results showed that significant variations existed in agro-morphological and yield attributes. With increasing salinity levels, yield contributing parameters (number of panicles and panicle length) decreased. Salt stress reduced the leaf carbon and nitrogen contents. Genotypes Q21, and AMES13761 showed higher seed yield (2.30 t ha⁻¹), more productivity and stability at various salinities as compared to the other genotypes. Salinity reduced seed yield to 44.48% and 60% at lower (10 dS m⁻¹) and higher salinity (20 dS m⁻¹), respectively. Grain protein content was highest in NSL106398 and lowest in Q29 when treated with saline water. Seed yield was positively correlated with PH, TB, HI, and C%. Significant and negative correlations were observed between N%, protein contents and seed yield. PH showed significant positive correlation with APL, HI, C% and C:N ratio. HI displayed positive correlations with C%, N% and protein content., All measured plant traits, except for C:N ratio, responded to salt in a genotype-specific way. Our results indicate that the genotypes (Q21 and AMES13761) proved their suitability under sandy desert soils of Dubai, UAE as they exhibited higher seed yield while NSL106398 showed an higher seed protein content. The present research highlights the need to preserve quinoa biodiversity for a better seedling establishment, survival and stable yield in the sandy desertic UAE environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Responses to Biotic and Abiotic Stresses: Crosstalk between Biochemistry and Ecophysiology)

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13 pages, 1172 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Impact of the Method Extraction and Different Carrot Variety on the Carotenoid Profile, Total Phenolic Content and Antioxidant Properties of Juices

by Aleksandra Purkiewicz, Joanna Ciborska, Małgorzata Tańska, Agnieszka Narwojsz, Małgorzata Starowicz, Katarzyna E. Przybyłowicz and Tomasz Sawicki

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1759; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121759 - 11 Dec 2020

Cited by 25 | Viewed by 4902

Abstract

The study assesses the antioxidant activity (AA), carotenoid profile and total phenolic content (TPC) of carrot juices obtained from three different varieties (black, orange and yellow) and prepared using high- (HSJ) and low-speed juicer (LSJ). The AA assessment was carried out using four [...] Read more.

The study assesses the antioxidant activity (AA), carotenoid profile and total phenolic content (TPC) of carrot juices obtained from three different varieties (black, orange and yellow) and prepared using high- (HSJ) and low-speed juicer (LSJ). The AA assessment was carried out using four assays (DPPH, ABTS, PCL ACW and PCL ACL). The content of carotenoids was conducted by high performance liquid chromatography equipped with a diode array detector (HPLC-DAD) method, while the total phenolic content by the spectrophotometric method. It was shown that orange carrot juices contain more carotenoids than yellow and black carrot juices, approximately ten and three times more, respectively. The total carotenoid content in orange carrot juice made by the HSJ was higher (by over 11%) compared to juice prepared by the LSJ. The highest total phenolic content was noticed in black carrot juices, while the lowest in orange carrot juices. In black carrot juices, a higher range of TPC was found in juices made by HSJ, while in the case of the orange and yellow carrots, the highest content of TPC was detected in juices prepared by the LSJ. AA of the juices was highly dependent on the carrot variety, juice extraction method. The most assays confirmed the highest AA values in black carrot juices. Furthermore, it was shown that the HSJ method is more preferred to obtain orange and yellow carrot juices with higher antioxidant properties, while the LSJ method is more suitable for black carrot juice extraction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Structural and Functional Analysis of Extracts in Plants)

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15 pages, 2945 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Grapevine Responses to Heat Stress and Global Warming

by Xenophon Venios, Elias Korkas, Aspasia Nisiotou and Georgios Banilas

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1754; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121754 - 11 Dec 2020

Cited by 118 | Viewed by 13540

Abstract

The potential effects of the forthcoming climate change include the rising of the average annual temperature and the accumulation of extreme weather events, like frequent and severe heatwaves, a phenomenon known as global warming. Temperature is an important environmental factor affecting almost all [...] Read more.

The potential effects of the forthcoming climate change include the rising of the average annual temperature and the accumulation of extreme weather events, like frequent and severe heatwaves, a phenomenon known as global warming. Temperature is an important environmental factor affecting almost all aspects of growth and development in plants. The grapevine (Vitis spp.) is quite sensitive to extreme temperatures. Over the current century, temperatures are projected to continue rising with negative impacts on viticulture. These consequences range from short-term effects on wine quality to long-term issues such as the suitability of certain varieties and the sustainability of viticulture in traditional wine regions. Many viticultural zones, particularly in Mediterranean climate regions, may not be suitable for growing winegrapes in the near future unless we develop heat-stress-adapted genotypes or identify and exploit stress-tolerant germplasm. Grapevines, like other plants, have developed strategies to maintain homeostasis and cope with high-temperature stress. These mechanisms include physiological adaptations and activation of signaling pathways and gene regulatory networks governing heat stress response and acquisition of thermotolerance. Here, we review the major impacts of global warming on grape phenology and viticulture and focus on the physiological and molecular responses of the grapevine to heat stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Grapevine Responses to Environmental Challenges)

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31 pages, 1654 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Dual Effect of Nanomaterials on Germination and Seedling Growth: Stimulation vs. Phytotoxicity

by Réka Szőllősi, Árpád Molnár, Selahattin Kondak and Zsuzsanna Kolbert

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1745; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121745 - 10 Dec 2020

Cited by 81 | Viewed by 5720

Abstract

Due to recent active research, a large amount of data has been accumulated regarding the effects of different nanomaterials (mainly metal oxide nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, chitosan nanoparticles) on different plant species. Most studies have focused on seed germination and early seedling development, presumably [...] Read more.

Due to recent active research, a large amount of data has been accumulated regarding the effects of different nanomaterials (mainly metal oxide nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, chitosan nanoparticles) on different plant species. Most studies have focused on seed germination and early seedling development, presumably due to the simplicity of these experimental systems. Depending mostly on size and concentration, nanomaterials can exert both positive and negative effects on germination and seedling development during normal and stress conditions, thus some research has evaluated the phytotoxic effects of nanomaterials and the physiological and molecular processes behind them, while other works have highlighted the favorable seed priming effects. This review aims to systematize and discuss research data regarding the effect of nanomaterials on germination and seedling growth in order to provide state-of-the-art knowledge about this fast developing research area. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Morphogenesis under Stress)

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28 pages, 1222 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Paecilomyces and Its Importance in the Biological Control of Agricultural Pests and Diseases

by Alejandro Moreno-Gavíra, Victoria Huertas, Fernando Diánez, Brenda Sánchez-Montesinos and Mila Santos

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1746; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121746 - 10 Dec 2020

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 11177

Abstract

Incorporating beneficial microorganisms in crop production is the most promising strategy for maintaining agricultural productivity and reducing the use of inorganic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. Numerous microorganisms have been described in the literature as biological control agents for pests and diseases, although some [...] Read more.

Incorporating beneficial microorganisms in crop production is the most promising strategy for maintaining agricultural productivity and reducing the use of inorganic fertilizers, herbicides, and pesticides. Numerous microorganisms have been described in the literature as biological control agents for pests and diseases, although some have not yet been commercialised due to their lack of viability or efficacy in different crops. Paecilomyces is a cosmopolitan fungus that is mainly known for its nematophagous capacity, but it has also been reported as an insect parasite and biological control agent of several fungi and phytopathogenic bacteria through different mechanisms of action. In addition, species of this genus have recently been described as biostimulants of plant growth and crop yield. This review includes all the information on the genus Paecilomyces as a biological control agent for pests and diseases. Its growth rate and high spore production rate in numerous substrates ensures the production of viable, affordable, and efficient commercial formulations for agricultural use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Control of Plant Diseases)

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15 pages, 6060 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Over-Expression of a Melon Y3SK2-Type LEA Gene Confers Drought and Salt Tolerance in Transgenic Tobacco Plants

by Samuel Aduse Poku, Peter Nkachukwu Chukwurah, Htut Htet Aung and Ikuo Nakamura

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1749; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121749 - 10 Dec 2020

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 4138

Abstract

Climate change, with its attendant negative effects, is expected to hamper agricultural production in the coming years. To counteract these negative effects, breeding of environmentally resilient plants via conventional means and genetic engineering is necessary. Stress defense genes are valuable tools by which [...] Read more.

Climate change, with its attendant negative effects, is expected to hamper agricultural production in the coming years. To counteract these negative effects, breeding of environmentally resilient plants via conventional means and genetic engineering is necessary. Stress defense genes are valuable tools by which this can be achieved. Here we report the successful cloning and functional characterization of a melon Y3SK2-type dehydrin gene, designated as CmLEA-S. We generated CmLEA-S overexpressing transgenic tobacco lines and performed in vitro and in vivo drought and salt stress analyses. Seeds of transgenic tobacco plants grown on 10% polyethylene glycol (PEG) showed significantly higher germination rates relative to wild-type seeds. In the same way, transgenic seeds grown on 150 mM sodium chloride (NaCl) recorded significantly higher germination percentages compared with wild-type plants. The fresh weights and root lengths of young transgenic plants subjected to drought stress were significantly higher than that of wild-type plants. Similarly, the fresh weights and root lengths of transgenic seedlings subjected to salt stress treatments were also significantly higher than wild-type plants. Moreover, transgenic plants subjected to drought and salt stresses in vivo showed fewer signs of wilting and chlorosis, respectively. Biochemical assays revealed that transgenic plants accumulated more proline and less malondialdehyde (MDA) compared with wild-type plants under both drought and salt stress conditions. Finally, the enzymatic activities of ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and catalase (CAT) were enhanced in drought- and salt-stressed transgenic lines. These results suggest that the CmLEA-S gene could be used as a potential candidate gene for crop improvement. Full article

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23 pages, 2300 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evolution of the Polyphenol and Terpene Content, Antioxidant Activity and Plant Morphology of Eight Different Fiber-Type Cultivars of Cannabis sativa L. Cultivated at Three Sowing Densities

by Amandine André, Marianne Leupin, Markus Kneubühl, Vasilisa Pedan and Irene Chetschik

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1740; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121740 - 9 Dec 2020

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 4913

Abstract

The chemical composition of the inflorescences of eight different fibre-type Cannabis sativa L. cultivars grown in Switzerland was monitored for different sowing densities over the season 2019. HPLC-MS, GC-MS and GC-FID, as well as spectrophotometric techniques were used to measure the total phenolic [...] Read more.

The chemical composition of the inflorescences of eight different fibre-type Cannabis sativa L. cultivars grown in Switzerland was monitored for different sowing densities over the season 2019. HPLC-MS, GC-MS and GC-FID, as well as spectrophotometric techniques were used to measure the total phenolic content (TPC) and the antioxidative activity of the inflorescence extracts, and to characterise and quantify the flavonoids and terpenes produced by the different cultivars over different sowing densities from July to September 2019. The main finding of the present study is that the TPC, as well as the individual flavonoids and terpenes, were mainly influenced by the harvest period and the phenological stage of the plant. The content of polyphenols and flavonoids decrease during the flower development for all cultivars studied. The terpene content increased with maturation. The monoterpenes/sesquiterpenes ratio also changed between the early flowering (majority of sesquiterpenes) and the end of flowering (majority of monoterpenes). The sowing density showed an impact on plant morphology, a low density such as 30 seeds/m² influencing the production of bigger flowers, thus increasing the yield of polyphenols and terpenes production. Therefore, hemp inflorescences can be regarded as valuable by-products of fibre production, for their valorisation in the food and beverage industry in addition to cosmetics and perfumery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemistry)

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11 pages, 6390 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Use of Leaves as Bioindicator to Assess Air Pollution Based on Composite Proxy Measure (APTI), Dust Amount and Elemental Concentration of Metals

by Vanda Éva Molnár, Dávid Tőzsér, Szilárd Szabó, Béla Tóthmérész and Edina Simon

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1743; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121743 - 9 Dec 2020

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 5983

Abstract

Monitoring air pollution and environmental health are crucial to ensure viable cities. We assessed the usefulness of the Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI) as a composite index of environmental health. Fine and coarse dust amount and elemental concentrations of Celtis occidentalis and Tilia [...] Read more.

Monitoring air pollution and environmental health are crucial to ensure viable cities. We assessed the usefulness of the Air Pollution Tolerance Index (APTI) as a composite index of environmental health. Fine and coarse dust amount and elemental concentrations of Celtis occidentalis and Tilia × europaea leaves were measured in June and September at three sampling sites (urban, industrial, and rural) in Debrecen city (Hungary) to assess the usefulness of APTI. The correlation between APTI values and dust amount and elemental concentrations was also studied. Fine dust, total chlorophyll, and elemental concentrations were the most sensitive indicators of pollution. Based on the high chlorophyll and low elemental concentration of tree leaves, the rural site was the least disturbed by anthropogenic activities, as expected. We demonstrated that fine and coarse dust amount and elemental concentrations of urban tree leaves are especially useful for urban air quality monitoring. Correlations between APTI and other measured parameters were also found. Both C. occidentalis and T. europaea were sensitive to air pollution based on their APTI values. Thus, the APTI of tree leaves is an especially useful proxy measure of air pollution, as well as environmental health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral Nutrition and Plant Abiotic Stress Resistance)

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18 pages, 1526 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Effects of Nonthermal Plasma on Morphology, Genetics and Physiology of Seeds: A Review

by Pia Starič, Katarina Vogel-Mikuš, Miran Mozetič and Ita Junkar

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1736; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121736 - 9 Dec 2020

Cited by 67 | Viewed by 7178

Abstract

Nonthermal plasma (NTP), or cold plasma, has shown many advantages in the agriculture sector as it enables removal of pesticides and contaminants from the seed surface, increases shelf life of crops, improves germination and resistance to abiotic stress. Recent studies show that plasma [...] Read more.

Nonthermal plasma (NTP), or cold plasma, has shown many advantages in the agriculture sector as it enables removal of pesticides and contaminants from the seed surface, increases shelf life of crops, improves germination and resistance to abiotic stress. Recent studies show that plasma treatment indeed offers unique and environmentally friendly processing of different seeds, such as wheat, beans, corn, soybeans, barley, peanuts, rice and Arabidopsis thaliana, which could reduce the use of agricultural chemicals and has a high potential in ecological farming. This review covers the main concepts and underlying principles of plasma treatment techniques and their interaction with seeds. Different plasma generation methods and setups are presented and the influence of plasma treatment on DNA damage, gene expression, enzymatic activity, morphological and chemical changes, germination and resistance to stress, is explained. Important plasma treatment parameters and interactions of plasma species with the seed surface are presented and critically discussed in correlation with recent advances in this field. Although plasma agriculture is a relatively new field of research, and the complex mechanisms of interactions are not fully understood, it holds great promise for the future. This overview aims to present the advantages and limitations of different nonthermal plasma setups and discuss their possible future applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Non-thermal Plasma Treatment on Plant Physiological and Biochemical Processes)

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21 pages, 765 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Recent Development in Micropropagation Techniques for Rare Plant Species

by Vasiliy A. Chokheli, Pavel A. Dmitriev, Vishnu D. Rajput, Semyon D. Bakulin, Anatoly S. Azarov, Tatiana V. Varduni, Victoria V. Stepanenko, Sarieh Tarigholizadeh, Rupesh Kumar Singh, Krishan K. Verma and Tatiana M. Minkina

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1733; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121733 - 8 Dec 2020

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 8709

Abstract

The current investigation aimed to present an overview of the conservation of biological diversity of rare and endangered plant species. Methods of biodiversity conservation as well as several overview recommendations for the preservation of various rare species have been considered. An overview of [...] Read more.

The current investigation aimed to present an overview of the conservation of biological diversity of rare and endangered plant species. Methods of biodiversity conservation as well as several overview recommendations for the preservation of various rare species have been considered. An overview of the taxa included in the red book has been presented on the example of the Russian Federation. Global and local codes and classifiers of plant rarity were also presented. Future prospects for the conservation of biological diversity and the creation and development of bioresource collections have been considered. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Tissue Culture)

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17 pages, 815 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Scion and Rootstock Differently Influence Growth, Yield and Quality Characteristics of Cherry Tomato

by Rosario Paolo Mauro, Michele Agnello, Andrea Onofri, Cherubino Leonardi and Francesco Giuffrida

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1725; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121725 - 7 Dec 2020

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 2800

Abstract

Grafting is a valuable tool for managing problems of tomato soil-borne pathogens and pests, but often generates unpredictable effects on crop yield and product quality. To observe these rootstocks-induced changes, experimental designs including many rootstock-scion combinations are required. To this end, a greenhouse [...] Read more.

Grafting is a valuable tool for managing problems of tomato soil-borne pathogens and pests, but often generates unpredictable effects on crop yield and product quality. To observe these rootstocks-induced changes, experimental designs including many rootstock-scion combinations are required. To this end, a greenhouse experiment was conducted on 63 graft combinations, involving seven cherry tomato scions grouped in large, medium and small-fruited, and eight rootstocks with different genetic backgrounds (crosses between Solanum lycopersicum and S. habrochaites or S. peruvianum or S. pimpinellifolium, plus an intraspecific hybrid), using ungrafted controls. The response of the graft partners was firstly analyzed individually using the environmental variance (σ²_E), then by grouping them by classes. When analyzed individually, the scion genotype influenced fruit L*, b*, shape index, total soluble solids (TSS) and its ratio with tritatable acidity (TSS/TA), whereas plant growth and yield were unpredictable. After clustering the graft partners, some of these responses were attributable to the imposed classes. The S. habrochaites-derived hybrids maximized plant biomass, unlike the S. pimpinellifolium ones. Both classes reduced fruit biomass in small- and medium-fruited scions (by 11 and 14%, respectively). The S. habrochaites and S. peruvianum hybrids reduced a* and TSS, whereas promoted TA. L-ascorbic acid was reduced by grafting (from −23 to −45%), in the S. pimpinellifolium group too, indicating, even in low vigor rootstocks, a dilution effect worsening this nutraceutical trait of tomatoes. Full article

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

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10 pages, 237 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceEditorial

Plant Biodiversity and Genetic Resources Matter!

by Andreas W. Ebert and Johannes M. M. Engels

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1706; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121706 - 4 Dec 2020

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 15263

Abstract

Plant biodiversity is the foundation of our present-day food supply (including functional food and medicine) and offers humankind multiple other benefits in terms of ecosystem functions and resilience to climate change, as well as other perturbations. This Special Issue on ‘Plant Biodiversity and [...] Read more.

Plant biodiversity is the foundation of our present-day food supply (including functional food and medicine) and offers humankind multiple other benefits in terms of ecosystem functions and resilience to climate change, as well as other perturbations. This Special Issue on ‘Plant Biodiversity and Genetic Resources’ comprises 32 papers covering a wide array of aspects from the definition and identification of hotspots of wild and domesticated plant biodiversity to the specifics of conservation of genetic resources of crop genepools, including breeding and research materials, landraces and crop wild relatives which collectively are the pillars of modern plant breeding, as well as of localized breeding efforts by farmers and farming communities. The integration of genomics and phenomics into germplasm and genebank management enhances the value of crop germplasm conserved ex situ, and is likely to increase its utilization in plant breeding, but presents major challenges for data management and the sharing of this information with potential users. Furthermore, also a better integration of in situ and ex situ conservation efforts will contribute to a more effective conservation and certainly to a more sustainable and efficient utilization. Other aspects such as policy, access and benefit-sharing that directly impact the use of plant biodiversity and genetic resources, as well as balanced nutrition and enhanced resilience of production systems that depend on their increased use, are also being treated. The editorial concludes with six key messages on plant biodiversity, genetic erosion, genetic resources and plant breeding, agricultural diversification, conservation of agrobiodiversity, and the evolving role and importance of genebanks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Biodiversity and Genetic Resources)

32 pages, 4295 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Selenium Toxicity in Plants and Environment: Biogeochemistry and Remediation Possibilities

by Mirza Hasanuzzaman, M. H. M. Borhannuddin Bhuyan, Ali Raza, Barbara Hawrylak-Nowak, Renata Matraszek-Gawron, Kamrun Nahar and Masayuki Fujita

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1711; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121711 - 4 Dec 2020

Cited by 62 | Viewed by 9982

Abstract

Selenium (Se) is a widely distributed trace element with dual (beneficial or toxic) effects for humans, animals, and plants. The availability of Se in the soil is reliant on the structure of the parental material and the procedures succeeding to soil formation. Anthropogenic [...] Read more.

Selenium (Se) is a widely distributed trace element with dual (beneficial or toxic) effects for humans, animals, and plants. The availability of Se in the soil is reliant on the structure of the parental material and the procedures succeeding to soil formation. Anthropogenic activities affect the content of Se in the environment. Although plants are the core source of Se in animal and human diet, the role of Se in plants is still debatable. A low concentration of Se can be beneficial for plant growth, development, and ecophysiology both under optimum and unfavorable environmental conditions. However, excess Se results in toxic effects, especially in Se sensitive plants, due to changing structure and function of proteins and induce oxidative/nitrosative stress, which disrupts several metabolic processes. Contrary, Se hyperaccumulators absorb and tolerate exceedingly large amounts of Se, could be potentially used to remediate, i.e., remove, transfer, stabilize, and/or detoxify Se-contaminants in the soil and groundwater. Thereby, Se-hyperaccumulators can play a dynamic role in overcoming global problem Se-inadequacy and toxicity. However, the knowledge of Se uptake and metabolism is essential for the effective phytoremediation to remove this element. Moreover, selecting the most efficient species accumulating Se is crucial for successful phytoremediation of a particular Se-contaminated area. This review emphasizes Se toxicity in plants and the environment with regards to Se biogeochemistry and phytoremediation aspects. This review follows a critical approach and stimulates thought for future research avenues. Full article

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

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21 pages, 3613 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

UV-B Radiation Affects Photosynthesis-Related Processes of Two Italian Olea europaea (L.) Varieties Differently

by Chiara Piccini, Giampiero Cai, Maria Celeste Dias, Marco Romi, Roberta Longo and Claudio Cantini

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1712; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121712 - 4 Dec 2020

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 3427

Abstract

Given the economical importance of the olive tree it is essential to study its responses to stress agents such as excessive UV-B radiation, to understand the defense mechanisms and to identify the varieties that are able to cope with it. In the light [...] Read more.

Given the economical importance of the olive tree it is essential to study its responses to stress agents such as excessive UV-B radiation, to understand the defense mechanisms and to identify the varieties that are able to cope with it. In the light of the analysis carried out in this study, we argue that UV-B radiation represents a dangerous source of stress for the olive tree, especially in the current increasingly changing environmental conditions. Both the varieties considered (Giarraffa and Olivastra Seggianese), although resistant to the strong treatment to which they were exposed, showed, albeit in different ways and at different times, evident effects. The two varieties have different response times and the Giarraffa variety seems better suited to prolonged UV-B stress, possible due to a more efficient and quick activation of the antioxidant response (e.g., flavonoids use to counteract reactive oxygen species) and because of its capacity to maintain the photosynthetic efficiency as well as a relatively higher content of mannitol. Moreover, pigments reduction after a long period of UV-B exposure can also be an adaptation mechanism triggered by Giarraffa to reduce energy absorption under UV-B stress. Olivastra Seggianese seems less suited to overcome UV-B stress for a long period (e.g., higher reduction of F_v/F_m) and has a higher requirement for sugars (e.g., glucose) possible to counteract stress and to restore energy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Effects of Abiotic Stress on Plants 2020–2021)

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33 pages, 3365 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Updating the Breeding Philosophy of Wheat to Fusarium Head Blight (FHB): Resistance Components, QTL Identification, and Phenotyping—A Review

by Akos Mesterhazy

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1702; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121702 - 3 Dec 2020

Cited by 47 | Viewed by 4249

Abstract

Fusarium head blight has posed continuous risks to wheat production worldwide due to its effects on yield, and the fungus provides additional risks with production of toxins. Plant resistance is thought to be the most powerful method. The host plant resistance is complex, [...] Read more.

Fusarium head blight has posed continuous risks to wheat production worldwide due to its effects on yield, and the fungus provides additional risks with production of toxins. Plant resistance is thought to be the most powerful method. The host plant resistance is complex, Types I–V were reported. From the time of spraying inoculation (Type I), all resistance types can be identified and used to determine the total resistance. Type II resistance (at point inoculation) describes the spread of head blight from the ovary to the other parts of the head. Therefore, it cannot solve the resistance problem alone. Type II QTL (quantitative trait locus) Fhb1 on 3BS from Sumai 3 descendant CM82036 secures about the same resistance level as Type I QTL does on 5AS and 5ASc in terms of visual symptoms, FDK (Fusarium damaged kernel), and deoxynivalenol response. Recently, increasing evidence supports the association of deoxynivalenol (DON) content and low kernel infection with FHB (Fusarium head blight) resistance (Types III and IV), as QTL for individual resistance types has been identified. In plant breeding practice, the role of visual selection remains vital, but the higher correlations for FDK/DON make it possible to select low-DON genotypes via FDK value. For phenotyping, the use of more independent inocula (isolates or mixtures) makes resistance evaluation more reliable. The large heterogeneity of the mapping populations is a serious source of underestimating genetic effects. Therefore, the increasing of homogeneity is a necessity. As no wheat varieties exist with full resistance to FHB, crops must be supported by proper agronomy and fungicide use. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Improvement of Cereal Crops for Resistance to Biotic and Abiotic Stresses)

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16 pages, 1369 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Endemic Veronica saturejoides Vis. ssp. saturejoides–Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Free Volatile Compounds

by Marija Nazlić, Dario Kremer, Renata Jurišić Grubešić, Barbara Soldo, Elma Vuko, Edith Stabentheiner, Dalibor Ballian, Faruk Bogunić and Valerija Dunkić

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1646; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121646 - 25 Nov 2020

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 2853

Abstract

Chemical profile and antioxidant activity of the species Veronica saturejoides Vis. ssp. saturejoides (Plantaginaceae)—which is endemic to Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro —were investigated. Volatile compounds produced by glandular trichomes (composed of one stalk cell and two elliptically formed head cells according [...] Read more.

Chemical profile and antioxidant activity of the species Veronica saturejoides Vis. ssp. saturejoides (Plantaginaceae)—which is endemic to Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro —were investigated. Volatile compounds produced by glandular trichomes (composed of one stalk cell and two elliptically formed head cells according to scanning electron microscope investigation) were isolated from the plants collected in two locations. Additionally, as a part of specialized metabolites, total polyphenols, total tannins, total flavonoids and total phenolic acids were determined spectrophotometrically. In the lipophilic volatile fractions-essential oils, the most abundant compounds identified were hexahydrofarnesyl acetone, caryophyllene oxide and hexadecanoic acid. In total, the class of oxygenated sesquiterpenes and the group of fatty aldehydes, acids and alcoholic compounds dominated in the essential oils. In the hydrophilic volatile fractions-hydrosols, the most abundant compounds identified were trans-p-mentha-1(7),8-dien-2-ol, allo-aromadendrene and (E)-caryophyllene. A group of oxygenated monoterpenes and the sesquiterpene hydrocarbons dominated in the hydrosols. Antioxidant activity of essential oils and hydrosols was tested with two methods: 2,2′-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC). Essential oils showed higher antioxidant activity than hydrosols and showed similar antioxidant activity to Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil. Obtained results demonstrate that this genus is a potential source of volatiles with antioxidant activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composition and Biological Activities of Plant Secondary Metabolites)

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22 pages, 2515 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Challenges and Prospects for the Conservation of Crop Genetic Resources in Field Genebanks, in In Vitro Collections and/or in Liquid Nitrogen

by Bart Panis, Manuela Nagel and Ines Van den houwe

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1634; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121634 - 24 Nov 2020

Cited by 80 | Viewed by 10975

Abstract

The conservation of crop genetic resources, including their wild relatives, is of utmost importance for the future of mankind. Most crops produce orthodox seeds and can, therefore, be stored in seed genebanks. However, this is not an option for crops and species that [...] Read more.

The conservation of crop genetic resources, including their wild relatives, is of utmost importance for the future of mankind. Most crops produce orthodox seeds and can, therefore, be stored in seed genebanks. However, this is not an option for crops and species that produce recalcitrant (non-storable) seeds such as cacao, coffee and avocado, for crops that do not produce seeds at all; therefore, they are inevitably vegetatively propagated such as bananas, or crops that are predominantly clonally propagated as their seeds are not true to type, such as potato, cassava and many fruit trees. Field, in vitro and cryopreserved collections provide an alternative in such cases. In this paper, an overview is given on how to manage and setup a field, in vitro and cryopreserved collections, as well as advantages and associated problems taking into account the practical, financial and safety issues in the long-term. In addition, the need for identification of unique accessions and elimination of duplicates is discussed. The different conservation methods are illustrated with practical examples and experiences from national and international genebanks. Finally, the importance of establishing safe and long-term conservation methods and associated backup possibilities is highlighted in the frame of the global COVID-19 pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Biodiversity and Genetic Resources)

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13 pages, 902 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Breeding Buckwheat for Increased Levels of Rutin, Quercetin and Other Bioactive Compounds with Potential Antiviral Effects

by Zlata Luthar, Mateja Germ, Matevž Likar, Aleksandra Golob, Katarina Vogel-Mikuš, Paula Pongrac, Anita Kušar, Igor Pravst and Ivan Kreft

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1638; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121638 - 24 Nov 2020

Cited by 42 | Viewed by 4740

Abstract

Common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) and Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum (L.) Gaertn.) are sources of many bioactive compounds, such as rutin, quercetin, emodin, fagopyrin and other (poly)phenolics. In damaged or milled grain under wet conditions, most of the rutin in common [...] Read more.

Common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) and Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum (L.) Gaertn.) are sources of many bioactive compounds, such as rutin, quercetin, emodin, fagopyrin and other (poly)phenolics. In damaged or milled grain under wet conditions, most of the rutin in common and Tartary buckwheat is degraded to quercetin by rutin-degrading enzymes (e.g., rutinosidase). From Tartary buckwheat varieties with low rutinosidase activity it is possible to prepare foods with high levels of rutin, with the preserved initial levels in the grain. The quercetin from rutin degradation in Tartary buckwheat grain is responsible in part for inhibition of α-glucosidase in the intestine, which helps to maintain normal glucose levels in the blood. Rutin and emodin have the potential for antiviral effects. Grain embryos are rich in rutin, so breeding buckwheat with the aim of producing larger embryos may be a promising strategy to increase the levels of rutin in common and Tartary buckwheat grain, and hence to improve its nutritional value. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

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13 pages, 632 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Celery (Apium graveolens L.) Performances as Subjected to Different Sources of Protein Hydrolysates

by Beppe Benedetto Consentino, Giuseppe Virga, Gaetano Giuseppe La Placa, Leo Sabatino, Youssef Rouphael, Georgia Ntatsi, Giovanni Iapichino, Salvatore La Bella, Rosario Paolo Mauro, Fabio D’Anna, Teresa Tuttolomondo and Claudio De Pasquale

Plants 2020, 9(12), 1633; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9121633 - 24 Nov 2020

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 4243

Abstract

The vegetable production sector is currently fronting several issues mainly connected to the increasing demand of high quality food produced in accordance with sustainable horticultural technologies. The application of biostimulants, particularly protein hydrolysates (PHs), might be favorable to optimize water and mineral uptake [...] Read more.

The vegetable production sector is currently fronting several issues mainly connected to the increasing demand of high quality food produced in accordance with sustainable horticultural technologies. The application of biostimulants, particularly protein hydrolysates (PHs), might be favorable to optimize water and mineral uptake and plant utilization and to increase both production performance and quality feature of vegetable crops. The present study was carried out on celery plants grown in a tunnel to appraise the influence of two PHs, a plant-derived PH (P-PH), obtained from soy extract and an animal PH (A-PH), derived from hydrolyzed animal epithelium (waste from bovine tanneries) on yield, yield components (head height, root collar diameter, and number of stalks), mineral composition, nutritional and functional features, as well as the economic profitability of PHs applications. Fresh weight in A-PH and P-PH treated plants was 8.3% and 38.2% higher, respectively than in untreated control plants. However, no significant difference was found between A-PH treated plants and control plants in terms of fresh weight. Head height significantly increased by 5.5% and 16.3% in A-PH and P-PH treated plants, respectively compared with untreated control (p ≤ 0.05). N content was inferior in PHs treated plants than in untreated control. Conversely, K and Mg content was higher in A-PH and P-PH treated plants as compared to the untreated ones. Furthermore, A-PH and P-PH improved ascorbic acid content by 8.2% and 8.7%, respectively compared with the non-treated control (p ≤ 0.001). Our results confirmed, also, that PHs application is an eco-friendly technique to improve total phenolic content in celery plants. In support of this, our findings revealed that animal or plants PH applications increased total phenolics by 36.9% and 20.8%, respectively compared with untreated plants (p ≤ 0.001). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biostimulants as Growth Promoting and Stress Protecting Compounds)

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31 pages, 2689 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Opportunities and Challenges in Studies of Host-Pathogen Interactions and Management of Verticillium dahliae in Tomatoes

by Bhupendra Acharya, Thomas W. Ingram, YeonYee Oh, Tika B. Adhikari, Ralph A. Dean and Frank J. Louws

Plants 2020, 9(11), 1622; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9111622 - 22 Nov 2020

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 5921

Abstract

Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) are a valuable horticultural crop that are grown and consumed worldwide. Optimal production is hindered by several factors, among which Verticillium dahliae, the cause of Verticillium wilt, is considered a major biological constraint in temperate production regions. [...] Read more.

Tomatoes (Solanum lycopersicum L.) are a valuable horticultural crop that are grown and consumed worldwide. Optimal production is hindered by several factors, among which Verticillium dahliae, the cause of Verticillium wilt, is considered a major biological constraint in temperate production regions. V. dahliae is difficult to mitigate because it is a vascular pathogen, has a broad host range and worldwide distribution, and can persist in soil for years. Understanding pathogen virulence and genetic diversity, host resistance, and plant-pathogen interactions could ultimately inform the development of integrated strategies to manage the disease. In recent years, considerable research has focused on providing new insights into these processes, as well as the development and integration of environment-friendly management approaches. Here, we discuss the current knowledge on the race and population structure of V. dahliae, including pathogenicity factors, host genes, proteins, enzymes involved in defense, and the emergent management strategies and future research directions for managing Verticillium wilt in tomatoes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Verticillium Wilt Disease)

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23 pages, 1116 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Baccharis dracunculifolia and Dalbergia ecastophyllum, Main Plant Sources for Bioactive Properties in Green and Red Brazilian Propolis

by Adela Ramona Moise and Otilia Bobiş

Plants 2020, 9(11), 1619; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9111619 - 21 Nov 2020

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 5018

Abstract

Nowadays, propolis is used as a highly valuable product in alternative medicine for improving health or treating a large spectrum of pathologies, an ingredient in pharmaceutical products, and also as a food additive. Different vegetal materials are collected by honeybees and mixed with [...] Read more.

Nowadays, propolis is used as a highly valuable product in alternative medicine for improving health or treating a large spectrum of pathologies, an ingredient in pharmaceutical products, and also as a food additive. Different vegetal materials are collected by honeybees and mixed with wax and other own substances in order to obtain the final product, called propolis. It is known as the bee product with the widest chemical composition due to the raw material collected by the bees. Different types are known worldwide: green Brazilian propolis (having Baccharis dracunculifolia as the major plant source), red Brazilian propolis (from Dalbergia ecastophyllum), European propolis (Populus nigra L.), Russian propolis (Betula verrucosa Ehrh), Cuban and Venezuelan red propolis (Clusia spp.), etc. An impressive number of scientific papers already demonstrate the pharmacological potential of different types of propolis, the most important activities being the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, antitumor, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant activities. However, the bioactive compounds responsible for each activity have not been fully elucidated. This review aims to collect important data about the chemical composition and bioactive properties of the vegetal sources and to compare with the chemical composition of respective propolis types, in order to determine the connection between the floral source and the propolis properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plants: Sources of Diversity in Propolis Properties)

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13 pages, 295 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus: Seed Transmission Rate and Efficacy of Different Seed Disinfection Treatments

by Salvatore Davino, Andrea Giovanni Caruso, Sofia Bertacca, Stefano Barone and Stefano Panno

Plants 2020, 9(11), 1615; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9111615 - 20 Nov 2020

Cited by 62 | Viewed by 9651

Abstract

Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) is a highly infectious virus, that is becoming a threat to tomato production worldwide. In this work we evaluated the localization of ToBRFV particles in tomato seeds, its seed transmission rate and efficacy of disinfection, and the [...] Read more.

Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) is a highly infectious virus, that is becoming a threat to tomato production worldwide. In this work we evaluated the localization of ToBRFV particles in tomato seeds, its seed transmission rate and efficacy of disinfection, and the effects of different thermal- and chemical-based treatments on ToBRFV-infected seeds’ germination. Analyses demonstrated that ToBRFV was located in the seed coat, sometime in the endosperm, but never in the embryo; its transmission from infected seeds to plantlets occurs by micro-lesions during the germination. The ToBRFV seed transmission rate was 2.8% in cotyledons and 1.8% in the third true leaf. Regarding the different disinfection treatments, they returned 100% of germination at 14 days post-treatment (dpt), except for the treatment with 2% hydrochloric acid +1.5% sodium hypochlorite for 24 h, for which no seed germinated after 14 dpt. All treatments have the ability to inactivate ToBRFV, but in six out of seven treatments ToBRFV was still detectable by RT-qPCR. These results raise many questions about the correct way to carry out diagnosis at customs. To our knowledge, this is the first study on the effective localization of ToBRFV particles in seeds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seed Borne Plant Viruses: A Threat for the Global Exchanges)

16 pages, 4733 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Ontogeny and Anatomy of the Dimorphic Pitchers of Nepenthes rafflesiana Jack

by Rachel Schwallier, Valeri van Wely, Mirna Baak, Rutger Vos, Bertie Joan van Heuven, Erik Smets, Rogier R. van Vugt and Barbara Gravendeel

Plants 2020, 9(11), 1603; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9111603 - 18 Nov 2020

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 9410

Abstract

An enigmatic feature of tropical pitcher plants belonging to the genus Nepenthes is their dimorphic prey-capturing pitfall traps. In many species, the conspicuously shaped upper and lower pitchers grow from a swollen leaf tendril tip until finally opening as insect-alluring devices. Few have [...] Read more.

An enigmatic feature of tropical pitcher plants belonging to the genus Nepenthes is their dimorphic prey-capturing pitfall traps. In many species, the conspicuously shaped upper and lower pitchers grow from a swollen leaf tendril tip until finally opening as insect-alluring devices. Few have studied the ontogeny of these traps from an anatomical and quantitative morphological perspective. We investigated whether the anatomy and development of lower and upper type pitchers of N. rafflesiana differ or overlap in terms of 3D geometric morphology and microstructure progression and presence. We hypothesized that there is an overlap in the initial, but not all, developmental stages of the two pitcher types and that one pitcher type is suspended in development. We identified four important morphological changes of pitcher ontogeny and defined these as curvation, elongation, inflation and maturation phases. Pitcher length indicated progress through developmental phases, and we propose to use it as a tool for indication of developmental stage. Microstructure development coincided with the developmental phases defined. Additionally, we discovered a new anatomical feature of extrafloral nectariferous peristomal glands between the inner peristome ridges of upper and lower pitchers being hollow and analyze the chemistry of the sugars on the outside of these glands. Ontogenetic shape analysis indicated that upper and lower pitcher types develop with similar phase progression but have no directly overlapping morphology. This means that upper pitchers are not a derived state from lower pitchers. Independent developmental programs evolved to produce distinctly shaped upper and lower pitchers in Nepenthes, likely to exploit different food sources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Anatomy and Biochemistry)

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14 pages, 3701 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Woody Planet: From Past Triumph to Manmade Decline

by Laurence Fazan, Yi-Gang Song and Gregor Kozlowski

Plants 2020, 9(11), 1593; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9111593 - 17 Nov 2020

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 6298

Abstract

Woodiness evolved in land plants approximately 400 Mya, and very soon after this evolutionary invention, enormous terrestrial surfaces on Earth were covered by dense and luxurious forests. Forests store close to 80% of the biosphere’s biomass, and more than 60% of the global [...] Read more.

Woodiness evolved in land plants approximately 400 Mya, and very soon after this evolutionary invention, enormous terrestrial surfaces on Earth were covered by dense and luxurious forests. Forests store close to 80% of the biosphere’s biomass, and more than 60% of the global biomass is made of wood (trunks, branches and roots). Among the total number of ca. 374,000 plant species worldwide, approximately 45% (138,500) are woody species—e.g., trees, shrubs or lianas. Furthermore, among all 453 described vascular plant families, 191 are entirely woody (42%). However, recent estimations demonstrate that the woody domination of our planet was even greater before the development of human civilization: 1.4 trillion trees, comprising more than 45% of forest biomass, and 35% of forest cover disappeared during the last few thousands of years of human dominance on our planet. The decline in the woody cover of Planet Earth did not decelerate during the last few centuries or decades. Ongoing overexploitation, land use and climate change have pushed ten thousand woody species to the brink of extinction. Our review highlights the importance, origin and past triumph of woody species and summarizes the unprecedented recent decline in woody species on our planet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic Diversity and Conservation of Woody Species)

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25 pages, 959 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Significance of Plant Growth Promoting Rhizobacteria in Grain Legumes: Growth Promotion and Crop Production

by Karivaradharajan Swarnalakshmi, Vandana Yadav, Deepti Tyagi, Dolly Wattal Dhar, Annapurna Kannepalli and Shiv Kumar

Plants 2020, 9(11), 1596; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9111596 - 17 Nov 2020

Cited by 104 | Viewed by 12005

Abstract

Grain legumes are an important component of sustainable agri-food systems. They establish symbiotic association with rhizobia and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, thus reducing the use of chemical fertilizers. Several other free-living microbial communities (PGPR—plant growth promoting rhizobacteria) residing in the soil-root interface are also [...] Read more.

Grain legumes are an important component of sustainable agri-food systems. They establish symbiotic association with rhizobia and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi, thus reducing the use of chemical fertilizers. Several other free-living microbial communities (PGPR—plant growth promoting rhizobacteria) residing in the soil-root interface are also known to influence biogeochemical cycles and improve legume productivity. The growth and function of these microorganisms are affected by root exudate molecules secreted in the rhizosphere region. PGPRs produce the chemicals which stimulate growth and functions of leguminous crops at different growth stages. They promote plant growth by nitrogen fixation, solubilization as well as mineralization of phosphorus, and production of phytohormone(s). The co-inoculation of PGPRs along with rhizobia has shown to enhance nodulation and symbiotic interaction. The recent molecular tools are helpful to understand and predict the establishment and function of PGPRs and plant response. In this review, we provide an overview of various growth promoting mechanisms of PGPR inoculations in the production of leguminous crops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pea-Rhizobial and Pea-Mycorrhizal Symbioses)

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