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Volume 9
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Plants, Volume 9, Issue 7 (July 2020) – 122 articles

Cover Story (view full-size image): During the second half of the 20th century, barley (Hordeum vulgare) has been widely used as a model organism for studying biological processes such as photosynthesis and chloroplast development. Although its primary role in basic research has been overshadowed by the more “user-friendly” model species Arabidopsis thaliana, barley retains some peculiar features and has great potential for basic research studies. In particular, the availability of a sequenced genome, protocols for genome transformation and editing, the presence of a canopy, and a proplastid-to-chloroplast developmental gradient across the leaf blade, together with the unique large collections of natural genetic diversity and mutant populations, make barley a perfect model for chloroplast research. View this paper
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13 pages, 1413 KiB  
Article
Physiological Behavior of the Aquatic Plant Azolla sp. in Response to Organic and Inorganic Fertilizers
by Ehab Azab and Abdel-fatah Salah Soror
Plants 2020, 9(7), 924; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070924 - 21 Jul 2020
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5061
Abstract
The present investigation aims to evaluate the impacts of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the water parameters and physiological behaviors of an aquatic plant (Azolla sp.). The experiment used three groups: treatment with organic or inorganic fertilizer and a group with [...] Read more.
The present investigation aims to evaluate the impacts of organic and inorganic fertilizers on the water parameters and physiological behaviors of an aquatic plant (Azolla sp.). The experiment used three groups: treatment with organic or inorganic fertilizer and a group with no fertilization as a control. Azolla sp. were grown in cement ponds that received different treatments. For water analysis, the obtained results clarified that fertilization resulted in no variation in the temperature or total hardness among different treatments. Organic fertilizer increased the dissolved phosphorus content, total hardness, and bicarbonate alkalinity, as well as the total phosphorus content, whereas inorganic treatment increased the pH, total ammonia content, and total nitrogen content. Regarding the biochemical composition of Azolla sp., the chlorophyll content showed no variation among different treatment groups, while organic matter showed high variation among different treatment groups. The highest values for ash and fat content were recorded in control ponds. The highest protein content was found in organic treatment ponds. The addition of fertilizers led to an increase in the tissue contents of N and P compared to the control. This increase was highest when Azolla sp. was fertilized with organic fertilizer. The atomic N:P ratio was low in tissues subjected to either treatment compared with the control. The doubling time of Azolla sp. was decreased by fertilization. It is concluded that different fertilizer systems have significant effect on physico-chemical and biological parameters of water. Fertilization positively affects Azolla sp. growth. Organic fertilizer was more efficient for the growth of Azolla sp., so it can be considered as a source of biofertilizer and green manure in areas where it spreads. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nutrition)
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11 pages, 290 KiB  
Communication
Corn Responsiveness to Azospirillum: Accessing the Effect of Root Exudates on the Bacterial Growth and Its Ability to Fix Nitrogen
by Lucas Caiubi Pereira, Carolina Bertuzzi Pereira, Larissa Vinis Correia, Thaisa Cavalieri Matera, Rayssa Fernanda dos Santos, Cristiane de Carvalho, Elisete Aparecida Fernandes Osipi and Alessandro Lucca Braccini
Plants 2020, 9(7), 923; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070923 - 21 Jul 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3161
Abstract
Corn has shown different degrees of positive response to inoculation with the nitrogen- fixing bacteria of the genera Azospirillum. Part of it has been attributed to the plant genotypic variation, including the root exudates, that are used by the bacteria as energy [...] Read more.
Corn has shown different degrees of positive response to inoculation with the nitrogen- fixing bacteria of the genera Azospirillum. Part of it has been attributed to the plant genotypic variation, including the root exudates, that are used by the bacteria as energy source. In this study, we grew two corn hybrids that differ for their response to Azospirillum, to investigate the effect of different exudates profiles on the bacteria growth and nitrogenase activity. Employing high performance liquid chromatography, we identified nine amino acids (asparagine, aspartic acid, serine, glutamic acid, valine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan and alanine), six sugars (glucose, sucrose, xylose, arabinose, fructose and galactose) and four organic acids (citrate, malate, succinate and fumarate). The less responsive corn genotype showed reduced plant growth (root volume, shoot dry mass and shoot N content), a lower concentration of Azospirillum cells within the root tissues, a higher content of asparagine and glucose and a reduced amount of metabolites that serve as bacterial energy source (all organic acids + five sugars, excluding glucose). The genotypes did not interfere in the ability of Azospirillum to colonize the substrate, but the metabolites released by the less responsive one reduced the nitrogenase activity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nitrogen Assimilation and Metabolism)
15 pages, 473 KiB  
Article
Stand-Alone and Combinatorial Effects of Plant-based Biostimulants on the Production and Leaf Quality of Perennial Wall Rocket
by Maria Giordano, Christophe El-Nakhel, Gianluca Caruso, Eugenio Cozzolino, Stefania De Pascale, Marios C. Kyriacou, Giuseppe Colla and Youssef Rouphael
Plants 2020, 9(7), 922; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070922 - 21 Jul 2020
Cited by 38 | Viewed by 3612
Abstract
Modern agriculture is facing many difficulties due to a rapidly changing climate, and environmental damage from agricultural production. The commitment of scientists and farmers to increase environmentally sustainable agricultural practices is one way to help mitigate environmental impacts. Among these practices, the use [...] Read more.
Modern agriculture is facing many difficulties due to a rapidly changing climate, and environmental damage from agricultural production. The commitment of scientists and farmers to increase environmentally sustainable agricultural practices is one way to help mitigate environmental impacts. Among these practices, the use of biostimulants could be beneficial for increasing fertilizer efficiency and reducing excessive use in agriculture, and as plant growth regulators capable of increasing both production volume and quality of crops. In our study, rocket plants were grown in a greenhouse and treated with two biostimulants (protein hydrolysates or tropical plant extract), either individually or combined, to assess the effect on yield, dry biomass, mineral content, qualitative parameters as well as on economic profitability of foliar biostimulant applications. Total yield and dry biomass of the plants treated with the three biostimulant combinations on average increased by 48.1% and 37.2% respectively compared to untreated plants, without significant differences between treatments. Biostimulant application increased the content of chlorophyll, K, Mg and Ca, compared to the untreated plants. Furthermore, a biostimulant synergistic effect was detected concerning the content of total ascorbic acid. Our results confirmed that the biostimulants are eco-friendly products, able to boost plant growth and product quality and thus increase growers’ profitability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Yield, Quality, Antioxidants, Mineral Composition and Residual Biomass Valorization of Vegetable Crops)
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14 pages, 3642 KiB  
Communication
A Critical Cross-Species Comparison of Pollen from Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. vs. Nymphaea lotus L. for Authentication of Thai Medicinal Herbal Tea
by Duangjai Tungmunnithum, Sullivan Renouard, Samantha Drouet, Jean-Philippe Blondeau and Christophe Hano
Plants 2020, 9(7), 921; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070921 - 21 Jul 2020
Cited by 26 | Viewed by 4713
Abstract
“Bau Luang” or Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. is an aquatic medicinal herb that has been used as a component of traditional medicines, medicinal products, and herbal tea for good health, particularly in Asia. The stamen of N. nucifera is an important part of this [...] Read more.
“Bau Luang” or Nelumbo nucifera Gaertn. is an aquatic medicinal herb that has been used as a component of traditional medicines, medicinal products, and herbal tea for good health, particularly in Asia. The stamen of N. nucifera is an important part of this medicinal plant that is used in the form of dried and/or powdered stamens for herbal tea as well as the main ingredient of some traditional remedies. However, there is another aquatic herb called “Bau Sai” or Nymphaea lotus L. that is distributed in similar locations. Living plants of these two aquatic species may be classified according to their morphology, but the dried and powdered stamens of these two medicinal species are difficult to distinguish. The major reason of adulteration is the higher price of Bau Luang stamen. As a result, various methods of authentication, such as pollen micromorphology evaluation using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis, bioinformatics analysis of two nuclear and plastic DNA markers, phytochemical stamen profiling, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis of stamen plant material authentication from Bau Luang and Bau Sai, have been used in this present research in order to avoid some adulteration and/or misuse between the dried stamens of Bau Luang and Bau Sai. These results showed that the micro-morphology of pollen (size of pollen grain, number of apertures, and surface ornamentation) from the SEM analysis, some phytochemical compounds and the FTIR sporopollenin-to-protein ratio signal analysis are potential tools for authentication and identification of these two medicinal plants from their dried-stamen materials. This model of investigation may also be used to distinguish dried plant material from other problematic plant groups. Full article
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15 pages, 2043 KiB  
Article
In Vitro Antimicrobial and Antiproliferative Activities of the Root Bark Extract and Isolated Chemical Constituents of Zanthoxylum paracanthum Kokwaro (Rutaceae)
by Magrate M. Kaigongi, Catherine W. Lukhoba, Souaibou Yaouba, Nokwanda P. Makunga, Joseph Githiomi and Abiy Yenesew
Plants 2020, 9(7), 920; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070920 - 21 Jul 2020
Cited by 41 | Viewed by 4380
Abstract
Zanthoxylum paracanthum Kokwaro (Rutaceae) is an endemic Kenyan and Tanzanian plant used in folk medicine by local populations. Although other Zanthoxylum species have been studied, only Z. paracantum stem extracts have been profiled, even though the roots are also used as herbal remedies. [...] Read more.
Zanthoxylum paracanthum Kokwaro (Rutaceae) is an endemic Kenyan and Tanzanian plant used in folk medicine by local populations. Although other Zanthoxylum species have been studied, only Z. paracantum stem extracts have been profiled, even though the roots are also used as herbal remedies. As root extracts may be another source of pharmaceutical compounds, the CH2Cl2/MeOH (1:1) root bark extract was studied in this report. Eight root bark compounds were isolated and their structural identities were confirmed by mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) (using COSY, HSQC, NOESY and HMBC) analyses. The structural identities were determined as follows: the fatty acid—myristic acid (1); the sterol—stigmasterol (2); the lignan—sesamin (3); two β-carboline alkaloids—10-methoxycanthin-6-one (6) and canthin-6-one (7); and three phenanthridine alkaloids—8-acetonyldihydrochelerythrine (4), arnottianamide (5) and 8-oxochelerythrine (8). Some of these compounds were identified in the species for the first time. These compounds and the extract were then tested in vitro against methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Escherichia coli (ATCC 25922), Staphylococcus aureus (ATCC 29213) and Candida albicans (ATCC 10231) before tests for antiproliferative activity against the human breast cancer (HCC 1395), human prostate cancer (DU 145) and normal (Vero E6) cell lines were conducted. Minimum inhibition concentration values of 3.91, 1.95, 0.98 and 7.81 µg/mL against MRSA, S. aureus, E. coli and C. albicans, respectively, were recorded. Among the isolates, canthin-6-one was the most active, followed by 10-methoxycanthin-6-one. The root extract and some of the compounds also had antiproliferative activity against the HCC 1395 cell line. Stigmasterol and canthin-6-one had IC50 values of 7.2 and 0.42. The root bark extract also showed activity, at 8.12 µg/mL, against the HCC 1395 cells. Out of the chemical isolates, 10-methoxycanthin-6-one and canthin-6-one showed the strongest inhibition of the DU 145 cells. The root extract had significant antimicrobial and antiproliferative activities, supporting the traditional use of this plant in treating microbial infections and cancer-related ailments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Composition and Biological Activities of Plant Secondary Metabolites)
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16 pages, 1709 KiB  
Article
Effects of Two Invasive Weeds on Arthropod Community Structure on the Central Plateau of New Zealand
by Evans Effah, D. Paul Barrett, Paul G. Peterson, Murray A. Potter, Jarmo K. Holopainen and Andrea Clavijo McCormick
Plants 2020, 9(7), 919; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070919 - 20 Jul 2020
Cited by 10 | Viewed by 3188
Abstract
Heather (Calluna vulgaris) and broom (Cytisus scoparius), originally from Europe, are the main invasive plants on New Zealand’s North Island Central Plateau, where they threaten native flora and fauna. Given the strong link between arthropod communities and plants, we [...] Read more.
Heather (Calluna vulgaris) and broom (Cytisus scoparius), originally from Europe, are the main invasive plants on New Zealand’s North Island Central Plateau, where they threaten native flora and fauna. Given the strong link between arthropod communities and plants, we explored the impact of these invasive weeds on the diversity and composition of associated arthropod assemblages in this area. The arthropods in heather-invaded areas, broom-invaded areas, and areas dominated by the native species mānuka (Leptospermum scoparium) and Dracohyllum (Dracophyllum subulatum) were collected and identified to order. During summer and autumn, arthropods were collected using beating trays, flight intercept traps and pitfall traps. Diversity indices (Richness, Shannon’s index and Simpson’s index) were calculated at the order level, and permutational multivariate analysis (PERMANOVA) was used to explore differences in order-level community composition. Our results show a significant variation in community composition for all trapping methods in both seasons, whereas invasive plants did not profoundly impact arthropod order richness. The presence of broom increased arthropod abundance, while heather was linked to a reduction. Under all possible plant pairings between heather, broom, mānuka, and Dracophylum, the impact of neighbouring plant identity on arthropod community composition was further explored for the samples collected using beating trays. The results suggest that during plant invasion, arthropod communities are affected by neighbouring plant identity and that impacts vary between arthropod sampling methods and seasons. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Weed Ecology and Management)
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11 pages, 2157 KiB  
Article
Homozygous Transgenic Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) Plants by Anther Culture
by Ludmila Ohnoutková and Tomáš Vlčko
Plants 2020, 9(7), 918; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070918 - 20 Jul 2020
Cited by 9 | Viewed by 3988
Abstract
Production of homozygous lines derived from transgenic plants is one of the important steps for phenotyping and genotyping transgenic progeny. The selection of homozygous plants is a tedious process that can be significantly shortened by androgenesis, cultivation of anthers, or isolated microspores. Doubled [...] Read more.
Production of homozygous lines derived from transgenic plants is one of the important steps for phenotyping and genotyping transgenic progeny. The selection of homozygous plants is a tedious process that can be significantly shortened by androgenesis, cultivation of anthers, or isolated microspores. Doubled haploid (DH) production achieves complete homozygosity in one generation. We obtained transgenic homozygous DH lines from six different transgenic events by using anther culture. Anthers were isolated from T0 transgenic primary regenerants and cultivated in vitro. The ploidy level was determined in green regenerants. At least half of the 2n green plants were transgenic, and their progeny were shown to carry the transgene. The process of dihaploidization did not affect the expression of the transgene. Embryo cultures were used to reduce the time to seed of the next generation. The application of these methods enables rapid evaluation of transgenic lines for gene function studies and trait evaluation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Doubled Haploid Technology in Plant Breeding)
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19 pages, 3922 KiB  
Article
Water Shortage Strongly Alters Formation of Calcium Oxalate Druse Crystals and Leaf Traits in Fagopyrum esculentum
by Alenka Gaberščik, Mateja Grašič, Katarina Vogel-Mikuš, Mateja Germ and Aleksandra Golob
Plants 2020, 9(7), 917; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070917 - 20 Jul 2020
Cited by 13 | Viewed by 3290
Abstract
Common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) is a robust plant with high resistance to different environmental constraints. It contains high levels of calcium oxalate (CaOx) druse crystals, although their role remains obscure. The objective was to examine the effects of water shortage on [...] Read more.
Common buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum Moench) is a robust plant with high resistance to different environmental constraints. It contains high levels of calcium oxalate (CaOx) druse crystals, although their role remains obscure. The objective was to examine the effects of water shortage on plant biomass partition and leaf traits and formation of CaOx druse crystals in common buckwheat. Buckwheat plants were exposed to favorable and reduced water availability for 28 days. The element composition and morphological, biochemical, physiological and optical traits of the leaves, and the plant biomass were investigated under these conditions. Measurements of photochemical efficiency of photosystem II showed undisturbed functioning for buckwheat exposed to water shortage, apparently due to partially closed stomata and more efficient water regulation. Strong relationships were seen between water-related parameters and Ca, Mn and S content, and size and density of CaOx druse crystals. Redundancy analysis revealed the importance of the size of CaOx druse crystals to explain reflection in the UV range. Water shortage resulted in shorter plants with the same leaf mass (i.e., increased mass:height ratio), which, together with denser leaf tissue and higher content of photosynthetic pigments and protective substances, provides an advantage under extreme weather conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mineral Nutrition and Plant Abiotic Stress Resistance)
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17 pages, 1897 KiB  
Article
Investigating the Influence of Infrared Drying Method on Linden (Tilia platyphyllos Scop.) Leaves: Kinetics, Color, Projected Area, Modeling, Total Phenolic, and Flavonoid Content
by Kemal Çağatay Selvi
Plants 2020, 9(7), 916; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070916 - 20 Jul 2020
Cited by 23 | Viewed by 3746
Abstract
The Linden (Tilia platyphyllos Scop.) is a highly popular herbal plant due to its central nervous system properties. In this study, thin layer drying kinetics of linden leave samples were experimentally investigated in an infrared (IR) dryer. In order to select [...] Read more.
The Linden (Tilia platyphyllos Scop.) is a highly popular herbal plant due to its central nervous system properties. In this study, thin layer drying kinetics of linden leave samples were experimentally investigated in an infrared (IR) dryer. In order to select the appropriate model for predicting the drying kinetics of linden leaves, eleven thin layer semi theoretical, theoretical, and empirical models, widely used in describing the drying behavior of agricultural products, were fitted to the experimental data. Moreover, the color, projected area (PA), total phenolic content (TPC), and total flavonoid content (TFC) were investigated. The results showed that the drying time decreased from 50 min to 20 min. with increased IR temperature from 50–70 °C. Therewithal, the Midilli model gave the most suitable data for 50 °C, 60 °C. Moreover, Verma et al. and Diffusion approximation models showed good results for 70 °C. The lightness and greenness of the dried linden leaves were significantly changed compared with fresh samples. The PA of dried sample decreased similar to the drying time. In addition, the drying temperature effect on the effective diffusion diffusivity (Deff) and activation energy (Ea) were also computed. The Deff ranges from 4.13 × 10−12 to 5.89 × 10−12 and Ea coefficient was 16.339 kJ/mol. Considering these results, the Midilli et al. model is above the 50 °C, 60 °C, and the Verma et al. and Diffusion to 70 °C, for explaining the drying behavior of linden leaves under IR drying. Moreover, it can be said that the Page model can be used, if it is desired, to express the drying behaviors, partially with the help of a simple equation material by drying. TPC and TFC values were statistically < 0.001 higher in dried samples compared to fresh samples; however, no change has been recorded of TPC and TFC values at different temperatures (50 °C, 60 °C, 70 °C). Full article
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15 pages, 2971 KiB  
Article
Genome-Wide Identification and Functional Characterization of the Heat Shock Factor Family in Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) under Abiotic Stress Conditions
by Jinglei Wang, Haijiao Hu, Wuhong Wang, Qingzhen Wei, Tianhua Hu and Chonglai Bao
Plants 2020, 9(7), 915; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070915 - 20 Jul 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3144
Abstract
Plant heat shock factors (Hsfs) play crucial roles in various environmental stress responses. Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is an agronomically important and thermophilic vegetable grown worldwide. Although the functions of Hsfs under environmental stress conditions have been characterized in the model plant [...] Read more.
Plant heat shock factors (Hsfs) play crucial roles in various environmental stress responses. Eggplant (Solanum melongena L.) is an agronomically important and thermophilic vegetable grown worldwide. Although the functions of Hsfs under environmental stress conditions have been characterized in the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana and tomato, their roles in responding to various stresses remain unclear in eggplant. Therefore, we characterized the eggplant SmeHsf family and surveyed expression profiles mediated by the SmeHsfs under various stress conditions. Here, using reported Hsfs from other species as queries to search SmeHsfs in the eggplant genome and confirming the typical conserved domains, we identified 20 SmeHsf genes. The SmeHsfs were further classified into 14 subgroups on the basis of their structure. Additionally, quantitative real-time PCR revealed that SmeHsfs responded to four stresses—cold, heat, salinity and drought—which indicated that SmeHsfs play crucial roles in improving tolerance to various abiotic stresses. The expression pattern of SmeHsfA6b exhibited the most immediate response to the various environmental stresses, except drought. The genome-wide identification and abiotic stress-responsive expression pattern analysis provide clues for further analysis of the roles and regulatory mechanism of SmeHsfs under environmental stresses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Responses of Plants to Environmental Stresses)
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12 pages, 1220 KiB  
Article
Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Phytochelatin Synthases Differ Less in Functional Terms Than Previously Thought: A Comparative Analysis of Marchantia polymorpha and Geitlerinema sp. PCC 7407
by Erika Bellini, Claudio Varotto, Marco Borsò, Lorenza Rugnini, Laura Bruno and Luigi Sanità di Toppi
Plants 2020, 9(7), 914; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070914 - 20 Jul 2020
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3335
Abstract
This paper reports functional studies on the enzyme phytochelatin synthase in the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha and the cyanobacterium Geitlerinema sp. strain PCC 7407. In vitro activity assays in control samples (cadmium-untreated) showed that phytochelatin synthase was constitutively expressed in both organisms. In the [...] Read more.
This paper reports functional studies on the enzyme phytochelatin synthase in the liverwort Marchantia polymorpha and the cyanobacterium Geitlerinema sp. strain PCC 7407. In vitro activity assays in control samples (cadmium-untreated) showed that phytochelatin synthase was constitutively expressed in both organisms. In the presence of 100 µM cadmium, in both the liverwort and the cyanobacterium, the enzyme was promptly activated in vitro, and produced phytochelatins up to the oligomer PC4. Likewise, in vivo exposure to 10–36 µM cadmium for 6-120 h induced in both organisms phytochelatin synthesis up to PC4. Furthermore, the glutathione (GSH) levels in M. polymorpha were constitutively low (compared with the average content in higher plants), but increased considerably under cadmium stress. Conversely, the GSH levels in Geitlerinema sp. PCC 7407 were constitutively high, but were halved under metal treatments. At odds with former papers, our results demonstrate that, as in M. polymorpha and other plants, the cyanobacterial phytochelatin synthase exposed to cadmium possesses manifest transpeptidasic activity, being able to synthesize phytochelatins with a degree of oligomerization higher than PC2. Therefore, prokaryotic and eukaryotic phytochelatin synthases differ less in functional terms than previously thought. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Plant, Algae and Lichen Response to Abiotic Stress: from Molecules to Ecosystems)
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19 pages, 2071 KiB  
Article
Effects of Dark Septate Endophytes Strain A024 on Damping-off Biocontrol, Plant Growth and the Rhizosphere Soil Enviroment of Pinus sylvestris var. mongolica Annual Seedlings
by Xun Deng, Xiaoshuang Song, Saiyaremu Halifu, Wenjing Yu and Ruiqing Song
Plants 2020, 9(7), 913; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070913 - 20 Jul 2020
Cited by 21 | Viewed by 3906
Abstract
Dark septate endophytes (DSEs) exert a vital role in promoting plant growth, improving mineral absorption, biological disease control, and enhancing plant stress resistance. The effects of dark septate endophyte strain, Phialocephala bamuru A024 on damping-off biocontrol, plant development, nutrients within the rhizosphere soil, [...] Read more.
Dark septate endophytes (DSEs) exert a vital role in promoting plant growth, improving mineral absorption, biological disease control, and enhancing plant stress resistance. The effects of dark septate endophyte strain, Phialocephala bamuru A024 on damping-off biocontrol, plant development, nutrients within the rhizosphere soil, as well as bacterial communities in the annual seedlings of P. sylvestris var. Mongolica were studied. According to our findings, following P. bamuru A024 inoculation, the damping-off disease morbidity decreased significantly compared with control, some physiological indices such as β-1,3-glucanase, chitinase enzyme activity as well as a soluble protein and proline content in P. sylvestris var. mongolica were elevated under R. solani stress. After inoculation with P. bamuru A024, the biomass in seedlings, nutrients in soil, root structure index, together with activities of soil enzymes were remarkably up-regulated relative to control (p < 0.05). As suggested by the results of high-throughput sequencing, the microbial structure in the rhizosphere soil of the P. sylvestris var. mongolica showed significant differences (p < 0.05) after P. bamuru A024 inoculation compared to control treatment and the rhizosphere soil bacterial community structure after DSE A024 inoculation was positively correlated to the main soil nutrition indices. Full article
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18 pages, 4521 KiB  
Article
Inhibitory Mechanism of Trichoderma virens ZT05 on Rhizoctonia solani
by Saiyaremu Halifu, Xun Deng, Xiaoshuang Song, Ruiqing Song and Xu Liang
Plants 2020, 9(7), 912; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070912 - 19 Jul 2020
Cited by 45 | Viewed by 5481
Abstract
Trichoderma is a filamentous fungus that is widely distributed in nature. As a biological control agent of agricultural pests, Trichoderma species have been widely studied in recent years. This study aimed to understand the inhibitory mechanism of Trichoderma virens ZT05 on Rhizoctonia solani [...] Read more.
Trichoderma is a filamentous fungus that is widely distributed in nature. As a biological control agent of agricultural pests, Trichoderma species have been widely studied in recent years. This study aimed to understand the inhibitory mechanism of Trichoderma virens ZT05 on Rhizoctonia solani through the side-by-side culture of T. virens ZT05 and R. solani. To this end, we investigated the effect of volatile and nonvolatile metabolites of T. virens ZT05 on the mycelium growth and enzyme activity of R. solani and analyzed transcriptome data collected from side-by-side culture. T. virens ZT05 has a significant antagonistic effect against R. solani. The mycelium of T. virens ZT05 spirally wraps around and penetrates the mycelium of R. solani and inhibits the growth of R. solani. The volatile and nonvolatile metabolites of T. virens ZT05 have significant inhibitory effects on the growth of R. solani. The nonvolatile metabolites of T. virens ZT05 significantly affect the mycelium proteins of R. solani, including catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), selenium-dependent glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), soluble proteins, and malondialdehyde (MDA). Twenty genes associated with hyperparasitism, including extracellular proteases, oligopeptide transporters, G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), chitinases, glucanases, and proteases were found to be upregulated during the antagonistic process between T. virens ZT05 and R. solani. Thirty genes related to antibiosis function, including tetracycline resistance proteins, reductases, the heat shock response, the oxidative stress response, ATP-binding cassette (ABC) efflux transporters, and multidrug resistance transporters, were found to be upregulated during the side-by-side culture of T. virens ZT05 and R. solani. T. virens ZT05 has a significant inhibitory effect on R. solani, and its mechanism of action is associated with hyperparasitism and antibiosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mechanisms of Resistance to Plant Diseases)
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15 pages, 1176 KiB  
Review
First Come, First Served: Sui Generis Features of the First Intron
by David Zalabák and Yoshihisa Ikeda
Plants 2020, 9(7), 911; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070911 - 19 Jul 2020
Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4923
Abstract
Most of the transcribed genes in eukaryotic cells are interrupted by intervening sequences called introns that are co-transcriptionally removed from nascent messenger RNA through the process of splicing. In Arabidopsis, 79% of genes contain introns and more than 60% of intron-containing genes [...] Read more.
Most of the transcribed genes in eukaryotic cells are interrupted by intervening sequences called introns that are co-transcriptionally removed from nascent messenger RNA through the process of splicing. In Arabidopsis, 79% of genes contain introns and more than 60% of intron-containing genes undergo alternative splicing (AS), which ostensibly is considered to increase protein diversity as one of the intrinsic mechanisms for fitness to the varying environment or the internal developmental program. In addition, recent findings have prevailed in terms of overlooked intron functions. Here, we review recent progress in the underlying mechanisms of intron function, in particular by focusing on unique features of the first intron that is located in close proximity to the transcription start site. The distinct deposition of epigenetic marks and nucleosome density on the first intronic DNA sequence, the impact of the first intron on determining the transcription start site and elongation of its own expression (called intron-mediated enhancement, IME), translation control in 5′-UTR, and the new mechanism of the trans-acting function of the first intron in regulating gene expression at the post-transcriptional level are summarized. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue mRNA Metabolism in Plants)
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20 pages, 3084 KiB  
Article
Ecological Risk Assessment of Heavy Metals along Three Main Drains in Nile Delta and Potential Phytoremediation by Macrophyte Plants
by Yasser A. El-Amier, Giuliano Bonanomi, Saud L. Al-Rowaily and Ahmed M. Abd-ElGawad
Plants 2020, 9(7), 910; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070910 - 18 Jul 2020
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 3947
Abstract
The use of drainage water in the irrigation of agroecosystem is associated with environmental hazards, and can pose threats to human health. Nine heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Co, Cr, Ni, Cd and Pb) along three main drains in the middle Nile [...] Read more.
The use of drainage water in the irrigation of agroecosystem is associated with environmental hazards, and can pose threats to human health. Nine heavy metals (Fe, Mn, Zn, Cu, Co, Cr, Ni, Cd and Pb) along three main drains in the middle Nile Delta were measures in the sediments, roots and shoots of three common macrophytes (Echinochloa stagnina, Phragmites australis and Typha domingensis). The physicochemical characteristics, as well as the enrichment factor (Ef), contamination factor (Cf), geoaccumulation index (Igeo), ecological risk factor (Er), degree of contamination (Dc) and potential ecological risk index (PERI), were determined for sediment. The metal bioaccumulation factor (BAF) and translocation factor (TF) were assessed for plants. Data revealed high contents of Cr, Zn and Cd in the upstream of the drains, while Mn, Cu and Ni were recorded in high concentrations in the downstream. Mn, Cr, Co, Cu, Ni and Zn were recorded to be within EU (2002), CSQGD (2007) and US EPA (1999) limits, while Cd and Pb showed high a ecological risk index. This high concentration of pollutants could be attributed to unremitting industrial activities, which can bioaccumulate in the food chains and cause serious problems for humans. The root of P. australis showed the effective accumulation of most of the elements, while T. domingensis revealed the highest accumulation of Pb. However, the highest BAF shoot value was found in T. domingensis for most of the heavy metals, except for Fe and Zn in P. australis and Mn in E. stagnina. Thus, P. australis could be used as a potential phytoextractor of these hazardous metals, as an eco-friendly and cost-efficient method for remediation of the polluted drains. Further, T. domingensis could be integrated as a hyperaccumulator of Pb. Strict laws and regulations must be taken into consideration by the policymaker against unmanaged industrial activities, particularly near the water streams in the Nile Delta. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fundamental and Applied Research for the Effective Deployment of Phytoremediation)
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16 pages, 3411 KiB  
Article
Leaf Trichome Distribution Pattern in Arabidopsis Reveals Gene Expression Variation Associated with Environmental Adaptation
by Shotaro Okamoto, Kohei Negishi, Yuko Toyama, Takeo Ushijima and Kengo Morohashi
Plants 2020, 9(7), 909; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070909 - 17 Jul 2020
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 3994
Abstract
Gene expression varies stochastically even in both heterogenous and homogeneous cell populations. This variation is not simply useless noise; rather, it is important for many biological processes. Unicellular organisms or cultured cell lines are useful for analyzing the variation in gene expression between [...] Read more.
Gene expression varies stochastically even in both heterogenous and homogeneous cell populations. This variation is not simply useless noise; rather, it is important for many biological processes. Unicellular organisms or cultured cell lines are useful for analyzing the variation in gene expression between cells; however, owing to technical challenges, the biological relevance of this variation in multicellular organisms such as higher plants remain unclear. Here, we addressed the biological relevance of this variation between cells by examining the genetic basis of trichome distribution patterns in Arabidopsis thaliana. The distribution pattern of a trichome on a leaf is stochastic and can be mathematically represented using Turing’s reaction-diffusion (RD) model. We analyzed simulations based on the RD model and found that the variability in the trichome distribution pattern increased with the increase in stochastic variation in a particular gene expression. Moreover, differences in heat-dependent variability of the trichome distribution pattern between the accessions showed a strong correlation with environmental factors to which each accession was adapted. Taken together, we successfully visualized variations in gene expression by quantifying the variability in the Arabidopsis trichome distribution pattern. Thus, our data provide evidence for the biological importance of variations in gene expression for environmental adaptation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Systems and Application)
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17 pages, 3330 KiB  
Article
Antioxidant and Biological Activities of Acacia saligna and Lawsonia inermis Natural Populations
by Hosam O. Elansary, Agnieszka Szopa, Paweł Kubica, Halina Ekiert, Fahed A. Al-Mana and Mohammed A. Al-Yafrsi
Plants 2020, 9(7), 908; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070908 - 17 Jul 2020
Cited by 35 | Viewed by 4712
Abstract
Acacia saligna and Lawsonia inermis natural populations growing in Northern Saudi Arabia might be a valuable source of polyphenols with potent biological activities. Using high-performance liquid chromatography–diode array detection (HPLC-DAD), several polyphenols were detected tentatively in considerable amounts in the methanolic leaf extracts [...] Read more.
Acacia saligna and Lawsonia inermis natural populations growing in Northern Saudi Arabia might be a valuable source of polyphenols with potent biological activities. Using high-performance liquid chromatography–diode array detection (HPLC-DAD), several polyphenols were detected tentatively in considerable amounts in the methanolic leaf extracts of A. saligna and L. inermis. A. saligna mainly contained rutoside, hyperoside, quercetin 3-glucuronide, gallic acid and p-coumaric acid, whereas those of L. inermis contained apigenin 5-glucoside, apigetrin and gallic acid. Strong antioxidant activities were found in the leaf extracts of both species due to the presence of hyperoside, quercetin 3-glucuronide, gallic acid, isoquercetin, p-coumaric acid, quercitrin and rutoside. A. saligna and L. inermis leaf extracts as well as hyperoside, apigenin 5-glucoside, and quercetin 3-glucuronide significantly reduced reactive oxygen species accumulation in all investigated cancer cells compared to the control. Methanolic leaf extracts and identified polyphenols showed antiproliferative and cytotoxic activities against cancer cells, which may be attributed to necrotic cell accumulation during apoptotic periods. Antibacterial activities were also found in both species leaf extracts and were twice as high in A. saligna than L. inermis due to the high composition of rutoside and other polyphenols. Finally, strong antifungal activities were detected, which were associated with specific phenols such as rutoside, hyperoside, apigenin 5-glucoside and p-coumaric acid. This is the first study exploring the polyphenolic composition of A. saligna and L. inermis natural populations in northern Saudi Arabia and aiming at the detection of their biological activities. Full article
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12 pages, 1340 KiB  
Article
The Ethylene Biosynthesis Genes ACS2 and ACS6 Modulate Disease Severity of Verticillium dahliae
by Eirini G. Poulaki, Maria-Dimitra Tsolakidou, Danai Gkizi, Iakovos S. Pantelides and Sotirios E. Tjamos
Plants 2020, 9(7), 907; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070907 - 17 Jul 2020
Cited by 6 | Viewed by 3284
Abstract
Verticillium dahliae is one of the most destructive soilborne plant pathogens since it has a broad host range and there is no chemical disease management. Therefore, there is a need to unravel the molecular interaction between the pathogen and the host plant. For [...] Read more.
Verticillium dahliae is one of the most destructive soilborne plant pathogens since it has a broad host range and there is no chemical disease management. Therefore, there is a need to unravel the molecular interaction between the pathogen and the host plant. For this purpose, we examined the role of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid synthases (ACSs) of Arabidopsis thaliana upon V. dahliae infection. We observed that the acs2, acs6, and acs2/6 plants are partially resistant to V. dahliae, since the disease severity of the acs mutants was lower than the wild type (wt) Col-0 plants. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that acs2, acs6, and acs2/6 plants had lower endophytic levels of V. dahliae than the wt. Therefore, the observed reduction of the disease severity in the acs mutants is rather associated with resistance than tolerance. It was also shown that ACS2 and ACS6 were upregulated upon V. dahliae infection in the root and the above ground tissues of the wt plants. Furthermore, the addition of 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC) and aminooxyacetic acid (AOA), the competitive inhibitor of ACS, in wt A. thaliana, before or after V. dahliae inoculation, revealed that both substances decreased Verticillium wilt symptoms compared to controls irrespectively of the application time. Therefore, our results suggest that the mechanism underpinning the partial resistance of acs2 and acs6 seem to be ethylene depended rather than ACC related, since the application of ACC in the wt led to decreased disease severity compared to control. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Management of Verticillium Wilt Disease)
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14 pages, 524 KiB  
Article
Using ICPC-2 Standard to Identify Thai Zingiberaceae of Pharmacological Interest
by Methee Phumthum and Henrik Balslev
Plants 2020, 9(7), 906; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070906 - 17 Jul 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 3196
Abstract
The Economic Botany Data Collection Standard (EBDCS) is a widely used standard among ethnobotanists. However, this standard classifies ethnomedicinal uses into categories based on local peoples’ perception. It is difficult to apply in pharmacological research. The International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC), now [...] Read more.
The Economic Botany Data Collection Standard (EBDCS) is a widely used standard among ethnobotanists. However, this standard classifies ethnomedicinal uses into categories based on local peoples’ perception. It is difficult to apply in pharmacological research. The International Classification of Primary Care (ICPC), now updated to ICPC-2, is more related to medical terms, but is rarely used among ethnobotanists. This study aims to apply the ICPC-2 to classify metadata of the ethnomedicinal uses of Zingiberaceae plants in Thailand, in order to identify important medicinal taxa for future research. Data on the ethnomedicinal uses of Thai gingers were collected from 62 theses, journal articles, scientific reports and a book, published between 1990 and 2019. Scientific plant names were updated using The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP) website. Informant Consensus Factor (ICF) was used to identify the medicinal issues commonly treated with gingers, and the Cultural Importance Index (CI) was used to identify species that might have pharmacological potential. We found records of 76 ginger species with ethnomedicinal uses, and together they had 771 use reports. The gingers were commonly used for treatments related to digestive system conditions, particularly abdominal pain and flatulence. Gingers remain exceedingly important in Thai ethnomedicine, with a high number of useful species. They are used to treat a variety of health conditions, but most commonly such ones that are related to the digestive system. Apart from the popular studied ginger, Curcuma longa, we identified a number of other useful gingers in Thailand. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insights into Ethnobotanical Research: Linking Tradition, Innovation, and Sustainability)
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14 pages, 1814 KiB  
Article
Artifleck: The Study of Artifactual Responses to Light Flecks with Inappropriate Leaves
by Thomas E. Marler
Plants 2020, 9(7), 905; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070905 - 17 Jul 2020
Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2583
Abstract
Methods in sunfleck research commonly employ the use of experimental leaves which were constructed in homogeneous light. These experimental organs may behave unnaturally when they are challenged with fluctuating light. Photosynthetic responses to heterogeneous light and leaf macronutrient relations were determined for Cycas [...] Read more.
Methods in sunfleck research commonly employ the use of experimental leaves which were constructed in homogeneous light. These experimental organs may behave unnaturally when they are challenged with fluctuating light. Photosynthetic responses to heterogeneous light and leaf macronutrient relations were determined for Cycas micronesica, Glycine max, and Zea mays leaves that were grown in homogeneous shade, heterogeneous shade, or full sun. The speed of priming where one light fleck increased the photosynthesis during a subsequent light fleck was greatest for the leaves grown in heterogeneous shade. The rate of induction and the ultimate steady-state photosynthesis were greater for the leaves that were grown in heterogeneous shade versus the leaves grown in homogeneous shade. The leaf mass per area, macronutrient concentration, and macronutrient stoichiometry were also influenced by the shade treatments. The amplitude and direction in which the three developmental light treatments influenced the response variables were not universal among the three model species. The results indicate that the historical practice of using experimental leaves which were constructed under homogeneous light to study leaf responses to fluctuating light may produce artifacts that generate dubious interpretations. Full article
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13 pages, 3687 KiB  
Article
Selenium Enhances Cadmium Accumulation Capability in Two Mustard Family Species—Brassica napus and B. juncea
by Zhong-Wei Zhang, Yi-Ying Dong, Ling-Yang Feng, Zong-Lin Deng, Qiang Xu, Qi Tao, Chang-Quan Wang, Yang-Er Chen, Ming Yuan and Shu Yuan
Plants 2020, 9(7), 904; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070904 - 17 Jul 2020
Cited by 25 | Viewed by 3514
Abstract
Oilseed rape (Brassica napus) is a Cadmium (Cd) hyperaccumulator. However, high-level Cd at the early seedling stage seriously arrests the growth of rape, which limits its applications. Brassica juncea had higher Cd accumulation capacity, but its biomass was lower, also limiting [...] Read more.
Oilseed rape (Brassica napus) is a Cadmium (Cd) hyperaccumulator. However, high-level Cd at the early seedling stage seriously arrests the growth of rape, which limits its applications. Brassica juncea had higher Cd accumulation capacity, but its biomass was lower, also limiting its applications. Previous studies have confirmed that Selenium (Se) can alleviate Cd toxicity. However, the regulatory mechanism of Se in different valence states of Cd accumulation was unclear. In this study, we investigated the ameliorating effects of three Se valence states, Na2SeO4 [Se(VI)], Na2SeO3 [Se(IV)] and Se-Met [Se(II)], to Cd toxicity by physiological and biochemical approaches in hydroponically-cultured Brassica juncea and Brassica napus seedlings. Although Se treatments slightly inhibited seedling Cd concentration, it tripled or quadrupled the Cd accumulation level per plant, because dry weight increased about four times more with Se and Cd application than with Cd treatment alone. Among the different valence states of Se, Se(II) had the most marked effect on reducing Cd toxicity as evidenced by decreased growth inhibition and Cd content. The application of Se(II) was effective in reducing Cd-induced reactive oxygen species accumulation, and promoted the antioxidant enzyme activity and photosynthesis of both Brassica species. In addition, Se(II) treatment increased the concentrations of Cd in the cell wall and soluble fractions, but the Cd concentration in the organelle part was reduced. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fundamental and Applied Research for the Effective Deployment of Phytoremediation)
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14 pages, 735 KiB  
Review
Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, an Algal Model in the Nitrogen Cycle
by Carmen M. Bellido-Pedraza, Victoria Calatrava, Emanuel Sanz-Luque, Manuel Tejada-Jiménez, Ángel Llamas, Maxence Plouviez, Benoit Guieysse, Emilio Fernández and Aurora Galván
Plants 2020, 9(7), 903; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070903 - 16 Jul 2020
Cited by 29 | Viewed by 7916
Abstract
Nitrogen (N) is an essential constituent of all living organisms and the main limiting macronutrient. Even when dinitrogen gas is the most abundant form of N, it can only be used by fixing bacteria but is inaccessible to most organisms, algae among them. [...] Read more.
Nitrogen (N) is an essential constituent of all living organisms and the main limiting macronutrient. Even when dinitrogen gas is the most abundant form of N, it can only be used by fixing bacteria but is inaccessible to most organisms, algae among them. Algae preferentially use ammonium (NH4+) and nitrate (NO3−) for growth, and the reactions for their conversion into amino acids (N assimilation) constitute an important part of the nitrogen cycle by primary producers. Recently, it was claimed that algae are also involved in denitrification, because of the production of nitric oxide (NO), a signal molecule, which is also a substrate of NO reductases to produce nitrous oxide (N2O), a potent greenhouse gas. This review is focused on the microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii as an algal model and its participation in different reactions of the N cycle. Emphasis will be paid to new actors, such as putative genes involved in NO and N2O production and their occurrence in other algae genomes. Furthermore, algae/bacteria mutualism will be considered in terms of expanding the N cycle to ammonification and N fixation, which are based on the exchange of carbon and nitrogen between the two organisms. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Nitrogen Assimilation and Metabolism)
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14 pages, 3378 KiB  
Article
Reorganization of Protein Tyrosine Nitration Pattern Indicates the Relative Tolerance of Brassica napus (L.) over Helianthus annuus (L.) to Combined Heavy Metal Treatment
by Gábor Feigl, Ádám Czifra, Árpád Molnár, Attila Bodor, Etelka Kovács, Katalin Perei, Vivian Jebet and Zsuzsanna Kolbert
Plants 2020, 9(7), 902; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070902 - 16 Jul 2020
Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2906
Abstract
Metal-polluted areas, especially where municipal sewage is used as fertilizer, often have high concentrations of more than one metal. The development of the root system is regulated by a complex signaling network, which includes reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. The delicate balance of [...] Read more.
Metal-polluted areas, especially where municipal sewage is used as fertilizer, often have high concentrations of more than one metal. The development of the root system is regulated by a complex signaling network, which includes reactive oxygen and nitrogen species. The delicate balance of the endogenous signal system can be affected by various environmental stimuli including heavy metals (HMs) in excess. Our goal was to analyze the microelement homeostasis, root architecture, and to determine the underlying changes in the nitro-oxidative status in the root system of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) and sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) subjected to combined HM treatments. The effect of model-sewage in two different layouts was simulated in rhizotron system by only supplementing the highest HM concentrations (Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, and Zn) legally allowed. The two species reacted differently to combined HM treatment; compared to the relatively sensitive sunflower, rapeseed showed better metal translocation capability and root growth even at the more severe treatment, where the pattern of protein tyrosine nitration was reorganized. The obtained results, especially the increased nitric oxide content and changed pattern of tyrosine nitration in rapeseed, can indicate acclimation and species-specific nitro-oxidative responses to combined HM stress. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nitric Oxide Signaling of Plants)
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16 pages, 1477 KiB  
Article
Influence of Citrus Scion/Rootstock Genotypes on Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Community Composition under Controlled Environment Condition
by Fang Song, Fuxi Bai, Juanjuan Wang, Liming Wu, Yingchun Jiang and Zhiyong Pan
Plants 2020, 9(7), 901; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070901 - 16 Jul 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3349
Abstract
Citrus is vegetatively propagated by grafting for commercial production, and most rootstock cultivars of citrus have scarce root hairs, thus heavily relying on mutualistic symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) for mineral nutrient uptake. However, the AMF community composition, and its differences under [...] Read more.
Citrus is vegetatively propagated by grafting for commercial production, and most rootstock cultivars of citrus have scarce root hairs, thus heavily relying on mutualistic symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) for mineral nutrient uptake. However, the AMF community composition, and its differences under different citrus scion/rootstock genotypes, were largely unknown. In this study, we investigated the citrus root-associated AMF diversity and richness, and assessed the influence of citrus scion/rootstock genotypes on the AMF community composition in a controlled condition, in order to exclude interferences from environmental factors and agricultural practices. As a result, a total of 613,408 Glomeromycota tags were detected in the citrus roots, and 46 AMF species were annotated against the MAARJAM database. Of these, 39 species belonged to Glomus, indicating a dominant role of the Glomus AMF in the symbiosis with citrus. PCoA analysis indicated that the AMF community’s composition was significantly impacted by both citrus scion and rootstock genotypes, but total samples were clustered according to rootstock genotype rather than scion genotype. In addition, AMF α diversity was significantly affected merely by rootstock genotype. Thus, rootstock genotype might exert a greater impact on the AMF community than scion genotype. Taken together, this study provides a comprehensive insight into the AMF community in juvenile citrus plants, and reveals the important effects of citrus genotype on AMF community composition. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant-Microbe Interactions)
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18 pages, 3027 KiB  
Article
Coupling Phosphate-Solubilizing Bacteria with Phosphorus Supplements Improve Maize Phosphorus Acquisition and Growth under Lime Induced Salinity Stress
by Muhammad Adnan, Shah Fahad, Muhammad Zamin, Shahen Shah, Ishaq Ahmad Mian, Subhan Danish, Muhammad Zafar-ul-Hye, Martin Leonardo Battaglia, Raja Mohib Muazzam Naz, Beena Saeed, Shah Saud, Imran Ahmad, Zhen Yue, Martin Brtnicky, Jiri Holatko and Rahul Datta
Plants 2020, 9(7), 900; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070900 - 16 Jul 2020
Cited by 189 | Viewed by 9878
Abstract
Global warming promotes soil calcification and salinization processes. As a result, soil phosphorus (P) is becoming deficient in arid and semiarid areas throughout the world. In this pot study, we evaluated the potential of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) for enhancing the growth and P [...] Read more.
Global warming promotes soil calcification and salinization processes. As a result, soil phosphorus (P) is becoming deficient in arid and semiarid areas throughout the world. In this pot study, we evaluated the potential of phosphate-solubilizing bacteria (PSB) for enhancing the growth and P uptake in maize under varying levels of lime (4.8%, 10%, 15% and 20%) and additional P supplements (farmyard manure, poultry manure, single super phosphate and rock phosphate) added at the rate of 45 mg P2O5 kg−1. Inoculation and application of P as organic manures (Poultry and farm yard manures) improved maize growth and P uptake compared to the control and soils with P applied from mineral sources. Liming adversely affected crop growth, but the use of PSB and organic manure significantly neutralized this harmful effect. Mineral P sources combined with PSB were as effective as the organic sources alone. Furthermore, while single supper phosphate showed better results than Rock phosphate, the latter performed comparably upon PSB inoculation. Thus, PSB plus P application as organic manures is an eco-friendly option to improve crop growth and P nutrition in a calcareous soil under changing climate. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Impacts of Abiotic Stresses on Plant Development)
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12 pages, 258 KiB  
Article
Response of Pumpkin to Different Concentrations and Forms of Selenium and Iodine, and their Combinations
by Aleksandra Golob, Ana Kroflič, Ana Jerše, Nina Kacjan Maršić, Helena Šircelj, Vekoslava Stibilj and Mateja Germ
Plants 2020, 9(7), 899; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070899 - 16 Jul 2020
Cited by 11 | Viewed by 3668
Abstract
The elements selenium (Se) and iodine (I) are both crucial for the normal functioning of the thyroid. Biofortification with these elements is particularly feasible in areas where they show a deficit. Iodine and selenium can have positive effects on different plants when applied [...] Read more.
The elements selenium (Se) and iodine (I) are both crucial for the normal functioning of the thyroid. Biofortification with these elements is particularly feasible in areas where they show a deficit. Iodine and selenium can have positive effects on different plants when applied at the correct concentrations. The effects of their simultaneous addition on plant physiology and biochemistry, as well as on seed germination and sprout biomass, were studied in pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L. ssp. pepo). To study the effect of Se and I on sprouts, sprouts were grown from seeds soaked in solutions of different forms of Se, I and their combination in the growth chamber experiment. In the field experiment, pumpkins plants were foliarly treated with the same concentrations and forms of Se and I. The combination of Se and I treatments enhanced the germination of the soaked seeds, with no significant differences between Se and I treatments for sprout mass. The yield of pumpkins and seed production were unaffected by Se and I foliar application. The anthocyanin levels and respiratory potential measured via the electron transport system’s activity showed different patterns according to treatments and plant parts (sprouts, leaves, seeds). The redistribution of Se and I from seeds to sprouts was significant. The accumulation of Se was higher in sprouts from the seeds treated with Se together with I, compared to sprouts from the seeds treated with Se alone. Interactions between Se and I were also noted in the seeds, which developed in the treated plants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Factors Affecting Yield, Quality, Antioxidants, Mineral Composition and Residual Biomass Valorization of Vegetable Crops)
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18 pages, 3303 KiB  
Article
Russeting in ‘Apple’ Mango: Triggers and Mechanisms
by Thomas O. Athoo, Andreas Winkler and Moritz Knoche
Plants 2020, 9(7), 898; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070898 - 16 Jul 2020
Cited by 15 | Viewed by 10347
Abstract
Russeting is an important surface disorder of many fruitcrop species. The mango cultivar ‘Apple’ is especially susceptible to russeting. Russeting compromises both fruit appearance and postharvest performance. The objective was to identify factors, mechanisms, and consequences of russeting in ‘Apple’ mango. Russeting was [...] Read more.
Russeting is an important surface disorder of many fruitcrop species. The mango cultivar ‘Apple’ is especially susceptible to russeting. Russeting compromises both fruit appearance and postharvest performance. The objective was to identify factors, mechanisms, and consequences of russeting in ‘Apple’ mango. Russeting was quantified on excised peels using image analysis and a categorical rating scheme. Water vapour loss was determined gravimetrically. The percentage of the skin area exhibiting russet increased during development. Russet began at lenticels then spread across the surface, ultimately forming a network of rough, brown patches over the skin. Cross-sections revealed stacks of phellem cells, typical of a periderm. Russet was more severe on the dorsal surface of the fruit than on the ventral and more for fruit in the upper part of the canopy than in the lower. Russet differed markedly across orchards sites of different climates. Russet was positively correlated with altitude, the number of rainy days, and the number of cold nights but negatively correlated with minimum, maximum, and mean daily temperatures, dew point temperature, and heat sum. Russeted fruit had higher transpiration rates than non-russeted fruits and higher skin permeance to water vapour. Russet in ‘Apple’ mango is due to periderm formation that is initiated at lenticels. Growing conditions conducive for surface wetness exacerbate russeting. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological Responses of Tree Fruits to Environmental and Management Factors)
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19 pages, 1198 KiB  
Review
Advances in Plant Regeneration: Shake, Rattle and Roll
by Sergio Ibáñez, Elena Carneros, Pilar S. Testillano and José Manuel Pérez-Pérez
Plants 2020, 9(7), 897; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070897 - 16 Jul 2020
Cited by 34 | Viewed by 8788
Abstract
Some plant cells are able to rebuild new organs after tissue damage or in response to definite stress treatments and/or exogenous hormone applications. Whole plants can develop through de novo organogenesis or somatic embryogenesis. Recent findings have enlarged our understanding of the molecular [...] Read more.
Some plant cells are able to rebuild new organs after tissue damage or in response to definite stress treatments and/or exogenous hormone applications. Whole plants can develop through de novo organogenesis or somatic embryogenesis. Recent findings have enlarged our understanding of the molecular and cellular mechanisms required for tissue reprogramming during plant regeneration. Genetic analyses also suggest the key role of epigenetic regulation during de novo plant organogenesis. A deeper understanding of plant regeneration might help us to enhance tissue culture optimization, with multiple applications in plant micropropagation and green biotechnology. In this review, we will provide additional insights into the physiological and molecular framework of plant regeneration, including both direct and indirect de novo organ formation and somatic embryogenesis, and we will discuss the key role of intrinsic and extrinsic constraints for cell reprogramming during plant regeneration. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Plant Regeneration)
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23 pages, 1222 KiB  
Review
Glycine Betaine Accumulation, Significance and Interests for Heavy Metal Tolerance in Plants
by Shafaqat Ali, Zohaib Abbas, Mahmoud F. Seleiman, Muhammad Rizwan, İlkay YAVAŞ, Bushra Ahmed Alhammad, Ashwag Shami, Mirza Hasanuzzaman and Dimitris Kalderis
Plants 2020, 9(7), 896; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070896 - 15 Jul 2020
Cited by 97 | Viewed by 10225
Abstract
Unexpected biomagnifications and bioaccumulation of heavy metals (HMs) in the surrounding environment has become a predicament for all living organisms together with plants. Excessive release of HMs from industrial discharge and other anthropogenic activities has threatened sustainable agricultural practices and limited the overall [...] Read more.
Unexpected biomagnifications and bioaccumulation of heavy metals (HMs) in the surrounding environment has become a predicament for all living organisms together with plants. Excessive release of HMs from industrial discharge and other anthropogenic activities has threatened sustainable agricultural practices and limited the overall profitable yield of different plants species. Heavy metals at toxic levels interact with cellular molecules, leading towards the unnecessary generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), restricting productivity and growth of the plants. The application of various osmoprotectants is a renowned approach to mitigate the harmful effects of HMs on plants. In this review, the effective role of glycine betaine (GB) in alleviation of HM stress is summarized. Glycine betaine is very important osmoregulator, and its level varies considerably among different plants. Application of GB on plants under HMs stress successfully improves growth, photosynthesis, antioxidant enzymes activities, nutrients uptake, and minimizes excessive heavy metal uptake and oxidative stress. Moreover, GB activates the adjustment of glutathione reductase (GR), ascorbic acid (AsA) and glutathione (GSH) contents in plants under HM stress. Excessive accumulation of GB through the utilization of a genetic engineering approach can successfully enhance tolerance against stress, which is considered an important feature that needs to be investigated in depth. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Heavy Metal Stress in Plants)
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17 pages, 2901 KiB  
Article
Feeding Behavior and Virus-transmission Ability of Insect Vectors Exposed to Systemic Insecticides
by Elisa Garzo, Aránzazu Moreno, María Plaza and Alberto Fereres
Plants 2020, 9(7), 895; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants9070895 - 15 Jul 2020
Cited by 44 | Viewed by 8002
Abstract
The majority of plant viruses depend on Hemipteran vectors for their survival and spread. Effective management of these insect vectors is crucial to minimize the spread of vector-borne diseases, and to reduce crop damage. The aim of the present study was to evaluate [...] Read more.
The majority of plant viruses depend on Hemipteran vectors for their survival and spread. Effective management of these insect vectors is crucial to minimize the spread of vector-borne diseases, and to reduce crop damage. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effect of various systemic insecticides on the feeding behavior of Bemisia tabaci and Myzus persicae, as well as their ability to interfere with the transmission of circulative viruses. The obtained results indicated that some systemic insecticides have antifeeding properties that disrupt virus transmission by their insect vectors. We found that some of the tested insecticides significantly reduced phloem contact and sap ingestion by aphids and whiteflies, activities that are closely linked to the transmission of phloem-limited viruses. These systemic insecticides may play an important role in reducing the primary and secondary spread of tomato yellow leaf curl virus (TYLCV) and turnip yellows virus (TuYV), transmitted by B. tabaci and M. persicae, respectively. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insect-Plant-Microbe Interactions)
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