Search Results (97)

Stilbocrea banihashemiana Bolboli, Tavakolian & Mostowf. is an emerging pathogen causing canker and dieback in a broad range of fruit and ornamental trees in Iran, and its distribution is expanding across the country. Extensive surveys conducted over five consecutive years (2019–2023) yielded 88 isolates of S. banihashemiana from multiple hosts, including different fig (Ficus caricae L.) cultivars, as well as loquat (Eryobotria japonica (Thunb.) Lindl.), pomegranate (Punica granatum L.), and walnut (Juglans regia L.) trees, across eight distinct regions of southern Iran. Species identification was performed morphologically and molecularly by employing the S. banihashemiana-specific primer pair TEF-Sb1 and TEF-Sb3. The genetic diversity of the S. banihashemiana population of isolates was assessed using eight inter-simple sequence repeats (ISSRs) markers. The UPGMA dendrogram demonstrated broad genetic variability among the isolates, with similarity coefficient values spanning from 0.46 to 1.00. This wide range indicates the presence of multiple divergent genotypes within the population, rather than a single dominant lineage. Principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) grouped the 88 isolates into three distinct genetic clusters that partially corresponded to geographic origin and host species. Pathogenicity assessment of 53 selected isolates from various hosts and geographic origins on detached fig shoots demonstrated highly significant variability in aggressiveness among isolates originating from different host species and geographically distinct regions. Multivariate analysis using principal component analysis (PCA) combined with heatmap-based clustering of the aggressiveness dataset clearly separated the isolates into four distinct groups, ranging from highly to less aggressive. A susceptibility assessment of 10 fig cultivars using the ex-type-isolate of S. banihashemiana revealed that the pathogen caused internal lesions and wood discoloration in all cultivars. Based on statistical analysis, the cultivars were classified into three groups: susceptible (cv. ‘Siah’), moderately susceptible (‘Brown Turkey’, ‘C8-M’, ‘C8-F’, ‘Dehdez’, ‘Gilasi’, ‘Payves’, ‘Shah-Anjeer’ and ‘Sabz’), and less susceptible (‘Matti’). High genetic variability, multiple-host association, and partial geographic structure indicate that in Fars Province S. banihashemiana’s population structure and epidemiology are complex, with high adaptive potential. This complexity may influence disease spread, management strategies, and long-term evolutionary trajectories. Full article

Ficus carica L. is traditionally used for diabetes management. This study evaluated the antihyperglycemic activity, safety, possible mechanisms, and phytochemical composition of its aqueous leaf extract (EAcFc). EAcFC activity was evaluated in streptozotocin–nicotinamide-induced type 2 diabetic (ST2D) mice under acute and subchronic conditions. EAcFc showed low acute toxicity (LD₅₀ > 3000 mg/kg). Acute and subchronic oral administration of EAcFc (300 mg/kg) significantly reduced blood glucose levels in ST2D mice. Although sustained HbA1c reduction was not observed, EAcFc improved lipid profiles, notably reducing triglyceride concentrations in ST2D males (from 156 ± 19.4 to 89.7 ± 3.3 mg/dL at week 4) and females (from 138 ± 2.0 to 77 ± 16.0 mg/dL at week 4). In oral sucrose and lactose tolerance tests (3 g/kg load), EAcFc (300 mg/kg) significantly attenuated postprandial hyperglycemia at 30, 60, and 120 min, an effect comparable to acarbose (50 mg/kg). No significant activity was observed during the oral glucose tolerance test (1.5 mg/kg load), suggesting the effect is not mediated by SGLT-1 inhibition. Preparative TLC and NMR analysis identified narcissin, nicotiflorin, and β-sitosterol. Thus, EAcFc possesses antihyperglycemic and lipid-modulating properties partially associated with α-glucosidase inhibition and bioactive flavonoids and phytosterol. Full article

Background/Objectives: Fig (Ficus carica L.) is considered a valuable fruit owing to its rich health-promoting ingredients, including anthocyanins. However, little information is available on the regulatory networks that reveal anthocyanin biosynthesis in figs, especially the new fig cultivar “Silu Hongyu” (HY). Methods: In this study, multi-omics analysis was performed to dissect the regulatory networks responsible for anthocyanin accumulation in the female flower tissues of HY. Results: we found that the anthocyanin content in the female flower tissues of HY is higher than that of “Chinese Ziguo” (ZG). Metabolomic profiling identified 350 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs), among which 108 were flavonoids. The contents of multiple metabolites responsible for anthocyanin accumulation, such as naringenin chalcones, cyanidin 3-glucoside, and pelargonidin 3,5-diglucoside, were significantly increased in the HY female flower tissues. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that 3696 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were screened from the female flower tissues of ZG and HY, with 1730 upregulated DEGs and 1966 downregulated DEGs in HY compared to ZG. The key structural genes involved in anthocyanin biosynthesis, including FcPAL, Fc4CL, FcCHS, FcF3′H, and FcBZ1, were significantly upregulated in the female flower tissues of HY compared with ZG. KEGG analysis also demonstrated that five flavonoid biosynthesis pathways were co-enriched by DAMs and DEGs. Conclusion: These findings provide a multi-omics framework that governs anthocyanin biosynthesis in the female flower tissues of HY, which will facilitate the genetic breeding and improvement of high-anthocyanin fig cultivars. Full article

The reconstruction of the Stuttgart Hauptbahnhof railway junction, known as Stuttgart 21, is a very large and long-term infrastructure project. The gradual extension of the project implementation creates a specific time period during which atypical vegetation management in the trackbeds takes place. The vegetation of the trackbeds of the current station includes a total of 68 plant taxa, with Erigeron bonariensis L., Geum urbanum L. and Senecio inaequidens DC being significantly represented, for example. The limited level of disturbance within this “time window” creates favorable conditions in particular for the development of woody plants and lianas, such as Acer campestre L., Acer pseudoplatanus L., Ailanthus altissima (Mill.) Swingle, Clematis vitalba L., Ficus carica L., Hedera helix L. and Sambucus nigra L. The detected spectrum of plant taxa also indicates the formation of a diverse mosaic of microhabitats, which allows the coexistence of species with different ecological requirements. The assessed railway lines also provide space for the occurrence of non-native species, many of which are capable of effective wind dispersal and can subsequently colonize surrounding urban areas. Habitats with a time window of limited vegetation management may represent a poorly described factor influencing the spread of some taxa in the technosphere. The knowledge gained may contribute to a better understanding of the population dynamics of individual taxa and their potential for further spread. Full article

In this study, polysaccharides from Ficus carica L. fruits (FCPs) were extracted using a deep eutectic solvent (DES)-based ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) method. The physicochemical properties of the FCPs were then characterized, and the anti-aging effects of FCPs were evaluated in Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). It was demonstrated that FCPs significantly extended the lifespan of the nematodes, while improving locomotor activity without affecting the body size or reproductive capacity. Meanwhile, FCPs reduced lipofuscin accumulation, decreased intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and increased the survival of C. elegans under oxidative stress. Moreover, FCPs upregulated the expression of antioxidant genes sod-1, sod-3, ctl-2, ctl-3 and gst-4. The expression of skinhead-1 (skn-1), a homologue gene of mammalian nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor (Nrf) in C. elegans, was also elevated upon FCPs treatment. Knockdown of skn-1 expression by RNA interference abolished the lifespan extension and ROS reduction in FCPs-treated C. elegans, indicating that the SKN-1-mediated signaling was essential for the anti-aging effects of FCPs. Additionally, FCPs caused downregulation of the key components of the insulin/IGF-1 signaling (IIS) pathway, age-1, akt-1, and akt-2. Overall, these results suggested that FCPs promoted longevity in C. elegans via modulation of SKN-1 and IIS pathway. Full article

Maize (Zea mays L.) is a significant staple food crop in the developing world. Despite its significance, diseases and pests are limiting its supply. Farmers have primarily relied on synthetic chemicals as control measures; however, these chemicals are harmful to humans, animals, and the environment and exacerbate pest recurrence. Medicinal plants have shown promising potential as alternative pest- and disease-controlling agents, offering an economical, sustainable, biodegradable, and cost-effective approach. This review article synthesises phytochemical, ethnobotanical, and experimental data from relevant peer-reviewed papers published across various years to identify medicinal plants. Thirty-one unique plant families have been identified and have been used to control pests and diseases of maize. Some families represented both antifungal and insecticidal applications. Medicinal plants such as Senna obtusifolia, Euphorbia balsamifera, Aristolochia ringens, Allium sativum, Azadirachta indica, Carica papaya, Moringa oleifera, and Ficus exasperata have shown antifungal and insecticidal properties, primarily under laboratory conditions. Most of the evidence is derived from laboratory studies, with only limited validation in real field conditions and with limited evaluation of safety for non-target organisms. Furthermore, this review highlighted the extraction methods, solvents used, plant parts, major active ingredients, and mode of action. Future prospects for integrating ethnobotanical knowledge with contemporary scientific methods to optimise biopesticide production are also discussed, along with the challenges of standardisation, formulation, and commercialisation. Full article

The use of fresh and dried figs has increased markedly in Tunisia in recent years, leading to a rise in public subsidies to support the further development of fig cultivation, especially in well-adapted production areas and with the adoption of innovative agronomic practices. This study aimed to carry out a comprehensive morphological and genetic characterization of fig germplasm from the Kesra region in north-western Tunisia, which is widely recognized for its long-standing tradition of fig production, in particular of the ‘Zidi’ cultivar. Field surveys and prospections enabled the identification of 26 distinct local fig cultivars, which were morphologically characterized and genotyped using 12 microsatellite (SSR) markers. All cultivars showed a specific allelic profile, including ‘Zidi’. The results provided valuable information for the conservation and management of Tunisian fig genetic resources. Moreover, the data will support the valorization of local fig production in the area through the establishment of the Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) ‘Fig of Kesra’, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of traditional orchards and the preservation of local agrobiodiversity. Full article

The fig tree (Ficus carica L.) is one of the oldest cultivated fruit trees in the Mediterranean region and represents an important genetic resource for both traditional and emerging production systems. Despite its agronomic and economic relevance, modern fig breeding remains limited, and large-scale phenotypic evaluations across Mediterranean germplasms are still scarce. The objective of this study was to assess phenotypic diversity and identify key agronomic traits relevant for fig breeding. A total of 257 female fig genotypes conserved in germplasm banks located in Spain, Turkey, and Tunisia were used. Over two consecutive seasons (2021 and 2022), a total of 27 morphological, phenological, and pomological traits were assessed according to the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) descriptors for fig (TG265/1), with 23 phenotypic traits retained for statistical analyses. Linear mixed models were used to estimate marginal means and to partition genetic and environmental variance, while multivariate analyses and trait correlations were employed to explore the structure of phenotypic diversity. The germplasm exhibits remarkable variation in productive type, reproductive behaviour, harvesting date, and fruit quality traits. Harvesting date spans nearly three months. Fruit weight ranges from 11.7 to 134.5 g, total soluble solids from 9 to 39 °Brix, and maturation index values reached high levels, indicating pronounced sweetness during fruit ripening. Most genotypes showed high skin scratch resistance, absence of cracking at maturity, and medium or small ostiole size, highlighting the presence of ideotypes specifically suited for fresh market production. Heritability estimates indicate strong genetic control of key traits, such as fruit weight, fruit size, and total soluble solids, highlighting their suitability for selection in breeding programs. Stakeholder prioritisation further confirmed the relevance of fruit size, sweetness, firmness, and ostiole characteristics, helping to identify best genotypes for breeding and agronomic purposes. Overall, this study demonstrates the value of Mediterranean fig germplasm as a reservoir of valuable agronomic and commercial traits and provides a robust phenotypic framework to support future breeding, conservation, and cultivar selection strategies. Full article

This study analyzed the elemental composition of 20 cultivated fig (Ficus carica L.) cultivars, evaluated their contribution to the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI), and assessed potential dietary risks associated with trace elements. Thirteen elements (K, Mg, Ca, P, S, Zn, Cu, Mn, Se, B, As, Pb, Cd) were quantified using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and the Health Risk Index (HRI) was calculated for trace elements. The results indicated that K was the most abundant mineral, ranging from 197 to 355 mg/100 g fresh weight (FW), followed by P (18–35 mg/100 g FW) and Mg (14–29 mg/100 g FW). A 100 g FW serving provided 9.9–17.8% of the adult RNI for K, 4.2–8.8% for Mg, and 2.5–9.9% for Cu. Multivariate analysis revealed distinct differences in mineral composition among the cultivars, classifying them into four groups. Varieties in Cluster 1 were rich in Mg, Ca, and Zn, whereas those in Cluster 2 exhibited higher Cu content. These findings highlight substantial cultivar-dependent differences in elemental composition and suggest that figs can contribute useful amounts of several essential minerals. In this adult dietary exposure assessment, detected trace element concentrations suggested negligible human health risks based on established experimental conditions. However, the present evaluation did not account for variable mineral bioavailability and individual differences in human intestinal absorption efficiency. Full article

The presence of Silba adipata in countries outside its native range has raised increasing concern among fig (Ficus carica L.) producers due to its growing economic importance. Information on this lonchaeid remains scarce and is frequently fragmented across regional reports, technical documents, and isolated scientific studies. The lack of consolidated and reliable knowledge on S. adipata, together with its sporadic impacts on figs and frequent confusion with closely related species, has hindered the development of effective and sustainable management strategies. Here, we provide a comprehensive synthesis of the current geographic distribution of S. adipata and its expansion into new areas, addressing diagnostic aspects and potential misidentifications reported in the literature that have the potential to confound distribution records and assessments of its pest status. We critically review current knowledge of the biology, ecology, and behavior of S. adipata, together with existing and emerging management and control approaches, including cultural practices, monitoring tools, mass trapping strategies, and biological- and chemical-based tactics. The strengths and limitations of these approaches are discussed in the context of their applicability to fig production systems. Advancing the management of S. adipata requires not only accurate species identification and evaluation of conventional control methods, but also a deeper understanding of its ecology and sexual behavior. Addressing these knowledge gaps will be essential for the development of innovative, effective, and environmentally sustainable management strategies for this emerging pest. Full article

Little is known about the fungal pathogens responsible for fig (Ficus carica L.) branch canker in the Kashi region of Xinjiang, China. Using a combination of morphological characterization and multilocus sequence analyses of ITS, TEF1-α, and RPB2, we identified fungal isolates obtained from cankered fig branches collected in commercial orchards in this region. The pathogenicity of representative isolates was evaluated by artificial inoculation of fig branches under natural field conditions. Two dominant fungal species, Fusarium proliferatum and Alternaria alternata, were consistently isolated from diseased tissues. In inoculation assays, both species induced typical branch canker lesions similar to those observed in the field. Lesions caused by F. proliferatum were generally larger than those induced by A. alternata. The original pathogens were successfully re-isolated from the inoculated branches, thereby fulfilling Koch’s postulates. This study represents the first report of F. proliferatum and A. alternata as causal agents of fig branch canker in Xinjiang and expands the known spectrum of pathogens associated with fig branch diseases. These findings provide a scientific basis for improved disease monitoring and the development of sustainable management strategies in local fig orchards. Full article

Among the most important species of Ficus L. genus are F. deltoidea, F. exasperata, F. sycomorus, F. religiosa, F. microcarpa, F. hirta Vahl., F. benghalensis, F. racemosa, F. elastica, and F. carica. The genus has more than 30 traditional ethnomedicinal uses, attributed to the combination of different bioactive compounds, including flavonoids, (flavanols, flavones, flavonols, isoflavones, chalcones, anthocyanins), phenolic acids (hydroxycinnamic acids, hydroxybenzoic acids), terpenes (triterpenes, tetraterpenes, diterpenes, sesquiterpenes, monoterpenes), phytosterols, coumarins, hydroxybenzoates, phenylpropanoids, chlorins, pheophytins, megastigmans, chitinases, organic acids, fatty acids, amino acids, alkaloids, and glycosides. With this in mind, the objective of this manuscript was to conduct a scientific search in the main electronic databases (PubMed, SciELO, Latindex, Redalyc, BiologyBrowser, ScienceResearch, ScienceDirect, World Wide Science, Web of Science, Academic Journals, Etnobotany, Scopus, and Google Scholar) to gather information on published research regarding the genoprotective potential of the Ficus L. genus. Unlike most scientific articles, which primarily describe the individual characteristics and properties of each species, this document compiles the largest number of studies (in vitro and in vivo) on Ficus plants described by different authors. Thus, we aim to promote more detailed scientific research and expand studies on the protective capacity of these angiosperm plants to the genetic material. Full article

Background/Objectives: Fig (Ficus carica L.) seed oil represents an underexplored by-product with considerable nutraceutical potential. However, systematic evaluation of genotype × environment (G × E) interactions affecting its biochemical composition remains limited. This study assessed compositional variability across fig varieties, identified metabolic trade-offs, and developed rapid authentication protocols using FTIR-ATR spectroscopy to support predictive G × E models and marker-assisted selection. Methods: Thirty-seven fig varieties were evaluated across two consecutive harvest years (2023–2024) in Morocco. Conventional biochemical analyses measured total phenolic content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), DPPH and ABTS antioxidant activities, and oil yield. FTIR-ATR spectroscopy characterized spectral variations, with ANOVA assessing effects of year, variety, and G × E interactions. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) discriminated genotypes and years. Results: TPC varied substantially (16.5–115.1 mg GAE/100 g oil), declining 36% from 2023 (48.7 ± 16.6 mg GAE/100 g) to 2024 (31.2 ± 16.6 mg GAE/100 g; F = 1372.84, p < 0.001), with TFC showing parallel trends (15.6 vs. 11.8 mg QCE/100 g). DPPH activity increased 34% in 2024 (58.5% vs. 43.7%), while ABTS activity decreased 18.6% from 32.34 ± 14.28% to 26.31 ± 6.10% (p < 0.001). Oil yield decreased from 26.7% to 21.2% and negatively correlated with phenolic accumulation (r = −0.49, p < 0.001). FTIR-ATR identified diagnostic peaks (e.g., 3012, 2928 cm⁻¹), with significant G × E effects (p < 0.001). PCA captured 75.4–84.5% variance, discriminating genotypes and years. Stable high-value cultivars included ‘Dottato Perguerolles’, ‘VCR 276/49’, and ‘Ferqouch Jmel’. Conclusions: Genotypic differences and year-to-year environmental conditions significantly influence fig seed oil composition. The observed negative correlation between oil yield and phenolic content indicates a trade-off between lipid biosynthesis and secondary metabolism. FTIR-ATR spectroscopy coupled with multivariate analysis enables reliable variety discrimination and year differentiation, supporting the development of stable cultivars for nutraceutical applications. Full article

Ficus carica L. is a fruit crop of notable nutritional and economic value. The ‘Xinjiang Zaohuang’ cultivar, rich in flavonoids, also holds considerable medicinal potential. To address the constraints of conventional propagation for mass production, this study developed an efficient and genetically stable generation protocol using healthy sprouted branches. MS medium was identified as the most effective basal medium for shoot growth. The highest adventitious bud induction rate (89.67%) and the greatest mean bud number (6.29) were achieved when explants were cultured on MS medium supplemented with 1 mg/L 6-BA and 0.1 mg/L IBA. In the organogenesis process, indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) promoted direct shoot formation with minimal callus intervention compared to naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA). The optimal combination for shoot elongation was 0.1 mg/L 6-BA and 0.01 mg/L IBA, which produced morphologically uniform shoots. For rooting, an IBA concentration of 1 mg/L was optimal, achieving a 96.7% success rate. Inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) analysis confirmed the genetic stability of all regenerated plants. These findings establish a reliable technical framework for the large-scale propagation of this valuable fig cultivar. Full article

The present study provides a comprehensive comparative evaluation of three Greek fig cultivars through integrated instrumental, computational, and chemometric approaches. Fresh fig peel and flesh samples were analyzed to determine total soluble solids, total phenolic and flavonoid content, as well as antioxidant and antiradical activities, complemented by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy for structural profiling. Significant varietal and tissue-dependent differences were observed, with fig peel exhibiting higher levels of phenolic compounds and antioxidant activity compared to flesh. ATR-FTIR spectral patterns revealed the presence of characteristic functional groups associated with carbohydrates, phenolic compounds, carboxylic acids, and volatile compounds, reflecting the influence of variety, pollination requirements, and geographical origin. In parallel, to explore potential neuroprotective relevance, 30 phytochemicals reported in figs were subjected to molecular docking against human β-secretase 1 (hBACE1), a key enzyme in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathogenesis. Phenolic acids and flavonoids displayed favorable binding affinities and interaction profiles with the catalytic Asp32–Asp228 dyad and with the flap domain. A machine learning model (XGBoost) trained on known BACE1 inhibitors further classified all examined fig metabolites as active candidates. Collectively, these findings highlight Greek figs as chemically rich fruits with potential biological properties, supporting future targeted studies on their bioactive potential. Full article