Search Results (79)

Cucumber green mottle mosaic virus (CGMMV, Tobamovirus viridimaculae) is a tobamovirus that induces leaf green mottling, mosaic patterns, bleaching, fruit sponginess, rotting, and malformation symptoms in various cucurbit crops. The underlying mechanisms by which CGMMV elicits these symptoms have yet to be elucidated. In the present study, we observed that the infection of CGMMV in bottle gourd, but not in N. benthamiana, led to the significant upregulation of a key gene involved in chlorophyll degradation, Chlorophyllase 1 (CLH1). This induction may be closely linked to chlorophyll degradation, particularly that of chlorophyll a (Clh a) in bottle gourd plants. Phylogenetic analysis showed that the amino acid sequence of BgCLH1 has a closer relationship with those of CLH1 from other cucurbit crops and has a relatively farther relationship with those of the well-studied CLH1 from Arabidopsis thaliana and Citrus sinensis. Further, confocal microscopy analysis indicated that BgCLH1 may be localized to the cytoplasm instead of the chloroplast. Moreover, silencing of the BgCLH1 gene not only reduced viral accumulation but also resulted in an increase in chlorophyll content. Similar results were also observed in watermelon, suggesting that this regulatory mechanism may be conserved across cucurbit crops. Our findings thus reveal a complex and intricate interplay between viral infection and the chlorophyll metabolic pathway. Full article

Root rot diseases caused by Ganoderma pseudoferreum and Pyrrhoderma noxium inflict substantial economic losses in rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) cultivation, while conventional control methods face environmental and resistance challenges. This study aimed to specifically investigate the molecular mechanisms by which ammonium sulfate enhances the biocontrol efficacy of Bacillus subtilis Czk1. Using label-free quantitative proteomics (LC-MS/MS), we characterized ammonium sulfate-induced alterations in the secretory proteome of Czk1. A total of 351 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were identified, with 329 significantly up-regulated and 22 down-regulated. GO functional enrichment analysis indicated that up-regulated DEPs were associated with metabolic pathways (glyoxylate/dicarboxylate, arginine/proline, cofactor biosynthesis) and extracellular localization (13 proteins), while down-regulated DEPs were linked to small molecule catabolism. KEGG pathway annotation identified DEP involvement in 124 pathways, including secondary metabolite biosynthesis and membrane transport. These findings demonstrate that ammonium sulfate remodels the Czk1 secretome to enhance the expression of key antagonistic proteins, thereby providing crucial molecular targets and a scientific foundation for developing effective biofungicides against rubber root rot, with clear practical implications for sustainable disease management. Full article

Postharvest losses due to fungal decay pose a significant challenge to global fruit and vegetable production, especially in regions where rot pathogens are prevalent. Traditional control methods rely heavily on synthetic fungicides, which are increasingly criticized for their environmental risks, human health concerns, and their role in fostering pathogen resistance. These issues underscore the urgent need for sustainable, residue-free alternatives that not only manage postharvest diseases but also enhance produce quality. Light-emitting diode [LED] technology has emerged as a promising, eco-friendly solution capable of modulating plant physiological responses through specific light wavelengths. However, the exact defense mechanisms activated by LED exposure in postharvest decay control and nutritional enhancement remain underexplored. This review provides a comprehensive synthesis of recent findings on LED-induced control of fungal decay, focusing on how LED treatments modulate pathogen–fruit interactions, activate innate defense pathways, regulate gene networks linked to defense and nutritional traits, and contribute to improved fruit and vegetable quality and health benefits. Full article

Boron (B) is a crucial micronutrient for the initial formation, development, and final quality of fruits, as it affects their physical and chemical properties and helps prevent various functional disorders. Recently, numerous physiological disorders in fruits have been reported, which have been linked to B deficiency. However, there is still uncertainty about whether these issues are directly related to B, other nutrients, their combinations, or environmental conditions. This review aims to compile current and accurate information on how B is absorbed by plants, its role in the cell wall and membrane, its impact on flowering and fruit set, and its influence on physical and chemical properties, as well as its role in preventing physiological disorders. This review examines the latest studies on B published in major scientific journals (Elsevier, Springer, MDPI, Frontiers, Hindawi, Wiley, and SciELO). Boron is mobile in the xylem and slightly mobile in the phloem, and it plays a crucial role in pollination and fruit set. It reduces mass loss, maintains firmness, improves color, and results in larger, heavier fruits. Also, boron increases soluble solids, regulates total titratable acidity and pH, decreases respiration rate, and stabilizes ascorbic acid by delaying its breakdown. It also helps prevent disorders such as splitting, cork spots, internal rot, shot berry in grapes, blossom end rot, and segment drying in citrus. Foliar or soil application of B enhances fruit yield and post-harvest quality. Full article

Dictyophora indusiata cultivation is severely impeded by premature hyphal regression. This study elucidates the spatiotemporal dynamics of mycelial regression and associated microbial succession in both substrate and soil matrices across progressive regression stages (CK: normal growth; S1: initial recession; S2: advanced recession; S3: complete recession). Microscopic analysis revealed preferential mycelial regression in the substrate, preceding soil regression by 1–2 stages. High-throughput sequencing demonstrated significant fungal community restructuring, characterized by a sharp decline in Phallus abundance (substrate: 99.7% → 7.0%; soil: 78.3% → 5.5%) and concomitant explosive proliferation of Trichoderma (substrate: 0% → 45.2%; soil: 0.1% → 55.3%). Soil fungal communities exhibited a higher richness (Chao1, p < 0.05) and stability, attributed to functional redundancy (e.g., Aspergillus, Conocybe) and physical protection by organic–mineral complexes. Conversely, substrate bacterial diversity dominated, driven by organic matter availability (e.g., the Burkholderia–Caballeronia–Paraburkholderia complex surged to 59%) and optimized porosity. Niche analysis confirmed intensified competition in post-regression soil (niche differentiation) versus substrate niche contraction under Trichoderma dominance. Critically, Trichoderma overgrowing was mechanistically linked to (1) nutrient competition via activated hydrolases (e.g., Chit42) and (2) pathogenic activity (e.g., T. koningii causing rot). We propose ecological control strategies: application of antagonistic Bacillus subtilis (reducing Trichoderma by 63%), substrate C/N ratio modulation via soybean meal amendment, and Sphingomonas–biochar soil remediation. This work provides the first integrated microbial niche model for D. indusiata regression, establishing a foundation for sustainable cultivation. Full article

European plum (Prunus domestica) is among the most important stone fruits cultivated worldwide. However, its production is significantly affected by fungal brown rot disease, caused by Monilinia spp. pathogens, which threaten the crop throughout the entire vegetation period. This study aimed to visually assess brown rot resistance and susceptibility in European plum and to perform whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of selected cultivars and hybrids grown in Lithuania, with the goal of identifying candidate single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with disease response. WGS was performed for 20 European plum cultivars and hybrids with known resistance or susceptibility profiles, generating over 1,4 million SNPs. These SNPs were filtered to identify genetic variants associated with brown rot disease. Three candidate SNPs were found to be significantly associated with disease response (located on chromosomes G5 and G8) and one linked to susceptibility (on chromosome G5). Identified SNPs were located in genes encoding alcohol dehydrogenase family enzymes (resistant cultivars, G5 chromosome) and beta-glucosidase family enzymes (variants found in both resistant and susceptible cultivars, G5 chromosome), which are important for plant biotic stress response. The findings of this study provide a valuable foundation for the development of molecular markers for identifying resistant and susceptible cultivars and may inform future European plum breeding programs. Full article

Viticulture is facing challenges, like the impact of climate change and various pests and pathogens. Alongside powdery and downy mildew, black rot is one of the most prevalent fungal diseases in European wine-growing regions. The focus of grapevine breeding research has so far been mainly on resistance to mildew diseases, and marker-assisted selection (MAS) in breeding material is possible for the most important resistance loci. However, only a few loci have been described for black rot resistance and these cannot yet be used for MAS. Thus, the characterization of genetic resistance to black rot and the establishment of closely linked genetic markers is important for the breeding of cultivars with multifungal resistances. In this study, an improved SSR marker-based genetic map of the biparental mapping population V3125 (‘Schiava Grossa’ x ‘Riesling’) x ‘Börner‘ (Vitis riparia x Vitis cinerea) was used to perform QTL analysis for black rot resistance. A total of 195 F1 individuals were analyzed at 347 SSR marker positions distributed on all 19 chromosomes. QTL analysis detected two QTLs conferring resistance to black rot on linkage groups 14 (Rgb1) and 16 (Rgb2). Our results revealed for the first time that Rgb1 and Rgb2 are derived from the wild species V. riparia. The presence of both loci in F1 individuals showed a clear additive effect for black rot resistance, supporting the breeding strategy of pyramiding two or more resistance factors to achieve a stronger overall resistance. Full article

European plum production is affected by mostly harm Monilinia spp., causing full pathogen brown-rot infections. The plums are the susceptible to the Monilinia fructigena pathogen, which is the most common in Europe. This study aims to analyze the gene expression profiles and signaling pathways of the European plum, cv. Victoria, inoculated with the M. fructigena pathogen at 24, 48, and 72 h post inoculation. By transcriptome sequencing, the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) increased over time, with the highest number at 72 hpi, showing the tendency to involve more genes in the response to prolonged exposure to the pathogen. Pathogenesis-related (PR) family and mildew resistance locus O (MLO-like) proteins were expressed the most during plum response to the pathogen. The plum initiates complex defense responses by significantly activating 23 pathways according to Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG). In this study, expressed genes over the infection were in response to stress, defense, cell death, and disease resistance. The findings of this study could be used as the basis for further research of markers linked to resistance or susceptibility to disease in plum hybrids at an early age, which will improve the plum breeding process. Full article

The citrus industry contributes to the cultivation of one of the most important fruit crops globally. However, citrus trees are susceptible to numerous Bisifusarium, Fusarium, and Neocosmospora-linked diseases, with dry root rot posing a serious threat to citrus orchards worldwide. These infections are exacerbated by biotic and abiotic stresses, leading to increased disease incidence. Healthy trees unexpectedly wilt and fall, exhibiting symptoms such as chlorosis, dieback, necrotic roots, root rot, wood discolouration, and eventual decline. Research indicates that the disease is caused by a complex of species from the Nectriaceae family, with Neocosmospora solani being the most prominent. To improve treatment and management strategies, further studies are needed to definitively identify these phytopathogens and understand the conditions and factors associated with Bisifusarium, Fusarium, and Neocosmospora-related diseases in citrus. This review focuses on the epidemiology and symptomatology of Fusarium and Neocosmospora species, recent advances in molecular techniques for accurate phytopathogen identification, and the molecular mechanisms of pathogenicity and resistance underlying Fusarium and Neocosmospora–citrus interactions. Additionally, the review highlights novel alternative methods, including biological control agents, for disease control to promote environmentally friendly and sustainable agricultural practices. Full article

The coffee berry borer (CBB) is the most destructive pest of coffee worldwide, with damages exceeding $500 M a year and affecting the livelihood of 25 million farmers. Coffee fruit rot (CFR) is described as an anthracnose disease; it can cause up to 80% loss of the crop on susceptible cultivars when conditions favor it. These two serious threats to coffee production have been studied separately, but a link between them was not shown until recently. Several recent studies show that CBB damage is associated with a higher incidence of fruit rot; CBBs carry Colletotrichum and Fusarium fungi, also found in rotted fruits, and can transmit disease to coffee fruits as they bore into them. Previous studies on the relationship between CBB and Fusarium did not take into account that Fusarium is involved in coffee fruit rot, so these recent findings shed new light on the relationship. Here we discuss this relationship and its implications, both ecological and practical. Full article

Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) sapwood was modified using maleic anhydride (MA) and sodium hypophosphite (SHP) to improve its durability against wood-deteriorating fungi, mechanical strength, and fire retardancy (thermal stability). The modification significantly reduced mass loss caused by wood-decaying fungi (Trametes versicolor, Rhodonia placenta, and soft rot fungi) due to the formation of cross-links between wood, MA, and SHP, which limited the moisture uptake and altered the chemical structure of wood. On the other hand, the modification did not provide improved resistance to fungi growth on the wood surface, which indicated that the modification had little impact on the accessibility of nutrients on the surface. A bending test showed that the modulus of elasticity (MOE) was not affected by the treatment, whilst the modulus of rupture (MOR) decreased to half the value of untreated wood. Thermal resistance was improved, as demonstrated by micro-scale combustion calorimeter testing, where the total heat release was halved, and the residue percentage nearly doubled. These results indicate that phosphonate protects the modified wood via the formation of a protective char layer on the surface and the formation of radical moieties. Based on the results, wood modified with MA and SHP shows potential for possible use in outdoor, non-loadbearing structures. Full article

Background/Objectives: The widespread phenomenon of “brain rot”, named the Oxford Word of the Year 2024, refers to the cognitive decline and mental exhaustion experienced by individuals, particularly adolescents and young adults, due to excessive exposure to low-quality online materials, especially on social media. The present study is exploratory and interpretative in nature, aiming to investigate the phenomenon of “brain rot”, with a focus on its key pillars, psychological factors, digital behaviors, and the cognitive impact resulting from the overconsumption of low-quality digital content. Methods: This study employs a rapid review approach, examining research published between 2023 and 2024 across PubMed, Google Scholar, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science. It explores the causes and effects of brain rot, focusing on the overuse of social media, video games, and other digital platforms. Results: The findings reveal that brain rot leads to emotional desensitization, cognitive overload, and a negative self-concept. It is associated with negative behaviors, such as doomscrolling, zombie scrolling, and social media addiction, all linked to psychological distress, anxiety, and depression. These factors impair executive functioning skills, including memory, planning, and decision-making. The pervasive nature of digital media, driven by dopamine-driven feedback loops, exacerbates these effects. Conclusions: The study concludes by offering strategies to prevent brain rot, such as controlling screen time, curating digital content, and engaging in non-digital activities. Given the increasing prevalence of digital engagement, it is essential to explore a variety of strategies, including mindful technology use, to support cognitive health and emotional well-being. The results can guide various stakeholders—policymakers, practitioners, researchers, educators, and parents or caregivers—in addressing the pervasive impact of brain rot and promoting a balanced approach to technology use that fosters cognitive resilience among adolescents and young adults. Full article

Colletotrichum graminicola is the causative agent of both maize stem rot and leaf blight, which are among the most damaging diseases affecting maize. Carbohydrate-binding modules (CBMs) are protein domains that lack catalytic activity and are commonly found alongside carbohydrate-hydrolyzing enzymes in fungi. A comprehensive examination of the C. graminicola TZ-3 genome resulted in the identification of 83 C. graminicola CBM (CgCBM) genes, which are characterized by distinct gene structures and protein motifs. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that the majority of CgCBM proteins were localized in the extracellular space. Investigation of the promoter regions of CgCBM genes uncovered a variety of responsive elements associated with plant hormones, including abscisic acid and methyl jasmonate response elements, as well as various stress-related response elements for drought, cold, defense, and other stress factors. Gene ontology analysis identified the primary functions of CgCBM genes as being linked to polysaccharide metabolism processes. Furthermore, the 83 CgCBM genes exhibited varying responses at different time points during C. graminicola infection, indicating their contribution to the fungus–maize interaction and their potential roles in the fungal pathogenic process. This study provides essential insights into CgCBMs, establishing a crucial foundation for further exploration of their functions in the mechanisms of fungal pathogenicity. Full article

Monilinia fructicola is the most common and destructive brown rot agent on peaches. Knowledge of gene expression mediating host–pathogen interaction is essential to manage fungal plant diseases. M. fructicola putative virulence factors have been predicted by genome investigations. The pathogen interaction with the host was validated. Five M. fructicola isolates were inoculated on two cultivars (cv.s) of peach (Prunus persica (L.) Batsch) ‘Royal Summer’ and ‘Messapia’ with intermediate and late ripening periods, respectively. The expression pattern of 17 candidate effector genes of M. fructicola with functions linked to host invasion and fungal life, and seven peach genes involved in the immune defense system were monitored at 0, 2, 6, 10, and 24 h-post inoculation (hpi). All fungal isolates induced similar brown rot lesions on both cv.s whereas the modulation of effector genes was regulated mainly at 2, 6, and 10 hpi, when disease symptoms appeared on the fruit surface, confirming the involvement of effector genes in the early infection stage. Although differences were observed among the fungal isolates, the principal component investigation identified the main differences linked to the host genotype. The salicylic acid and jasmonate/ethylene signaling pathways were differently modulated in the host independent from the fungal isolate used for inoculation. On plants susceptible to brown rot, the pathogen may have adapted to the host’s physiology by modulating its effectors as weapons. Full article

Corn leaf blight and stem rot caused by Colletotrichum graminicola are significant diseases that severely affect corn crops. Glycosyltransferases (GTs) catalyze the transfer of sugar residues to diverse receptor molecules, participating in numerous biological processes and facilitating functions ranging from structural support to signal transduction. This study identified 101 GT genes through functional annotation of the C. graminicola TZ–3 genome. Subsequent analyses revealed differences among the C. graminicola GT (CgGT) genes. Investigation into subcellular localization indicated diverse locations of CgGTs within subcellular structures, while the presence of multiple domains in CgGTs suggests their involvement in diverse fungal biological processes through versatile functions. The promoter regions of CgGT genes are enriched with diverse cis-acting regulatory elements linked to responses to biotic and abiotic stresses, suggesting a key involvement of CgGT genes in the organism’s multi-faceted stress responses. Expression pattern analysis reveals that most CgGT genes were differentially expressed during the interaction between C. graminicola and corn. Integrating gene ontology functional analysis revealed that CgGTs play important roles in the interaction between C. graminicola and corn. Our research contributes to understanding the functions of CgGT genes and investigating their involvement in fungal pathogenesis. At the same time, our research has laid a solid foundation for the development of sustainable agriculture and the utilization of GT genes to develop stress-resistant and high-yield crop varieties. Full article