Plants

12 pages, 852 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Root-growth Characteristics Contributing to Genotypic Variation in Nitrogen Efficiency of Bottle Gourd and Rootstock Potential for Watermelon

by Abdullah Ulas, Esat Doganci, Firdes Ulas and Halit Yetisir

Plants 2019, 8(3), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030077 - 25 Mar 2019

Cited by 20 | Viewed by 3186

Abstract

In this study, two hydroponic experiments were conducted in nutrient solution growth system. Experiments were conducted in growth chamber of Erciyes University, Agricultural Faculty in Kayseri, Turkey. In the first experiment, 10 local Turkish bottle gourd genotypes and two commercial watermelon cultivars were [...] Read more.

In this study, two hydroponic experiments were conducted in nutrient solution growth system. Experiments were conducted in growth chamber of Erciyes University, Agricultural Faculty in Kayseri, Turkey. In the first experiment, 10 local Turkish bottle gourd genotypes and two commercial watermelon cultivars were screened under 2 N doses (0.3 mM and 3.0 mM N) in RBD design with three replications for six weeks. In the second experiment, four genotypes (N-efficient: 70-07 and 07-45, N-inefficient: 35-10 and 45-07) were selected and used as rootstock for grafting with N-inefficient watermelon cultivar (Crimson Sweet) under 2 N doses. The grafted N-efficient gourd genotypes (07-45 and 70-07) significantly contributed to growth and biomass production of the N-inefficient watermelon plants as compared to non-grafted control plants and thus showed a higher rootstock potential for watermelon. The N-efficiency of some gourd genotypes was associated with vigor root growth and active root system particularly at low N conditions. These traits could be useful characters to select ‘N-efficient’ bottle gourd rootstocks for sustainable agriculture in the future. Full article

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11 pages, 671 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Expression of Genes Related to Sugar and Amino Acid Transport and Cytokinin Metabolism during Leaf Development and Senescence in Pisum sativum L.

by Annu S. Ninan, Jan Grant, Jiancheng Song and Paula E. Jameson

Plants 2019, 8(3), 76; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030076 - 25 Mar 2019

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3565

Abstract

Gene editing is becoming the plant breeding tool of choice, but prior to targeting a gene for editing, a knowledge of the gene family members (GFMs) controlling yield is required in the specific crop plant. Critical to yield are components from senescing leaves. [...] Read more.

Gene editing is becoming the plant breeding tool of choice, but prior to targeting a gene for editing, a knowledge of the gene family members (GFMs) controlling yield is required in the specific crop plant. Critical to yield are components from senescing leaves. We targeted genes controlling senescence in Pisum sativum and the release and transport of carbohydrates and amino acids from the source leaves to the pods and seeds. The expression of GFMs for cytokinin biosynthesis (IPT) and destruction (CKX), sucrose transporters (SUT), Sugar Will Eventually be Exported Transporters (SWEET), amino acid permeases (AAP), and cell wall invertases, was determined using RT-qPCR. GFMs were differentially expressed in leaves of different ages. The expression of many gene family members was lower in the expanding sink leaves compared with the senescing leaves, with the exception of two PsAAP GFMs and PsCKX5, which were highly expressed. Expression of specific PsSWEETs, SUTs, and AAPs increased in the mature and/or senescing leaves. Expression of PsIPTs was least in the mature source leaves, but as strong in the senescing leaves as in the young source leaves. PsCKX7 was expressed in source and senescing leaves. We discuss the potential impact of the targeted reduction of specific PsCKX GFMs on source-sink relationships. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Leaf Senescence)

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14 pages, 2190 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Changes of Ascorbic Acid, Phenolics Biosynthesis and Antioxidant Activities in Mung Beans (Vigna radiata) until Maturation

by Yanyan Lu, Xiaoxiao Chang and Xinbo Guo

Plants 2019, 8(3), 75; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030075 - 25 Mar 2019

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 3826

Abstract

To better understand the regulatory mechanism of phenolics and ascorbic acid accumulation as well as antioxidant activities in mung beans during legume development, the gene expression profiles of 25 key-coding genes in ascorbic acid and phenolics metabolic pathways were analyzed. As well as [...] Read more.

To better understand the regulatory mechanism of phenolics and ascorbic acid accumulation as well as antioxidant activities in mung beans during legume development, the gene expression profiles of 25 key-coding genes in ascorbic acid and phenolics metabolic pathways were analyzed. As well as the dynamitic changes of ascorbic acid, phenolic profiles and antioxidant activities with legume development were studied. The results indicated that gene expression profiles were closely related to the ascorbic acid and phenolics accumulation regularity during legume development. _VrVTC2 and _VrGME played important roles for ascorbic acid accumulation from 8 to 17 days after flowering (DAF). _VrPAL and _VrCHS exhibited positive correlations with daidzein and glycitin accumulation, and _VrIFS had a strong positive correlation with glycitin biosynthesis. Antioxidant activities dramatically increased during mung bean maturing, which were significantly related to ascorbic acid and phenolics accumulation. Eight days after flowering was the essential stage for ascorbic acid and phenolics biosynthesis in mung beans. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Vitamin C Metabolism in Plants)

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19 pages, 3749 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Embryology in Helosis cayennensis (Balanophoraceae): Structure of Female Flowers, Fruit, Endosperm and Embryo

by Ana Maria Gonzalez, Héctor A. Sato and Brigitte Marazzi

Plants 2019, 8(3), 74; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030074 - 22 Mar 2019

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 7011

Abstract

Helosis cayennensis (Balanophoraceae s.str.) is a holoparasite characterised by aberrant vegetative bodies and tiny, reduced unisexual flowers. Here, we analysed the development of female flowers to elucidate their morpho-anatomy and the historical controversy on embryo sac formation. We also studied the developmental origin [...] Read more.

Helosis cayennensis (Balanophoraceae s.str.) is a holoparasite characterised by aberrant vegetative bodies and tiny, reduced unisexual flowers. Here, we analysed the development of female flowers to elucidate their morpho-anatomy and the historical controversy on embryo sac formation. We also studied the developmental origin of inflorescences and the ontogeny of fruits, embryo and endosperm and discussed in a phylogenetic framework. Inflorescences were analysed by optical, fluorescence and scanning electron microscopy. Inflorescences of H. cayennensis arise endogenously. Female flowers lack perianth organs, thus only consist of the ovary, two styles and stigmata. Ovules are undifferentiated; two megaspore mother cells develop inside a nucellar complex. The female gametophyte, named Helosis-type, is a bisporic four-celled embryo sac, provided with a typical egg apparatus and a uni-nucleated central cell. Fertilization was not observed, yet a few-celled embryo and cellular endosperm developed. In sum, results confirm that, among Santalales holoparasites, Helosis is intermediate in the reduction series of its floral organs. Although perianth absence best supports the Balanophoraceae s.str. clade, our literature survey on female flower developmental data across Balanophoraceae s.l. highlights the many gaps that need to be filled to really understand these features in the light of new phylogenetic relationships. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Reproduction)

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17 pages, 2978 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sulphated Polysaccharide from Acanthophora spicifera Induced Hevea brasiliensis Defense Responses Against Phytophthora palmivora Infection

by Sittiporn Pettongkhao, Abdulmuhaimin Bilanglod, Khemmikar Khompatara and Nunta Churngchow

Plants 2019, 8(3), 73; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030073 - 22 Mar 2019

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 4430

Abstract

Elicitors from seaweeds are considered an alternative stimulant of plant defenses against pathogenic infection. Finding new sources of elicitors and exploring their effects on plant defenses is a significant undertaking. In this study, we extracted crude polysaccharide (CPS) from Acanthophora spicifera (a red [...] Read more.

Elicitors from seaweeds are considered an alternative stimulant of plant defenses against pathogenic infection. Finding new sources of elicitors and exploring their effects on plant defenses is a significant undertaking. In this study, we extracted crude polysaccharide (CPS) from Acanthophora spicifera (a red alga) and tested the effects of the compound on rubber tree (Hevea brasiliensis) defense responses. Accumulations of salicylic acid (SA) and scopoletin (Scp) were measured by HPLC. The expression of SA- and Jasmonic acid (JA)-responsive genes was analyzed by semi-qRT-PCR. Strong anion exchange chromatography and Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy were used for purification and functional characterization of CPS, respectively. The extracted CPS enhanced rubber tree defenses against Phytophthora palmivora infection. It induced SA and Scp accumulations and SA-responsive gene expression, but suppressed JA-responsive gene expression. We successfully separated the non-sulphated polysaccharide (F1) from the sulphated polysaccharides (SPS). Both peaks of SPS (F2 and F3) were identified as lambda (λ)-carrageenan. The F3 fraction showed greater elicitor activity on tobacco leaves. It induced SA and Scp accumulations and peroxidase activity but suppressed catalase activity. Furthermore, the purified λ-carrageenan did not cause cell death in tobacco or rubber tree leaves. Therefore, the elicitor from A. spicifera could be an alternative plant stimulant. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Induced Resistance (IR) of Plants)

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16 pages, 2115 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Antifungal Activity of Eclipta alba Metabolites against Sorghum Pathogens

by Rajini Sollepura Boregowda, Nandhini Murali, Arakere C. Udayashankar, Siddapura R. Niranjana, Ole S. Lund and Harischandra S. Prakash

Plants 2019, 8(3), 72; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030072 - 22 Mar 2019

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5983

Abstract

Unscientific use of synthetic fungicides in plant disease management has environmental ramifications, such as disease resurgence and serious health problems due to their carcinogenicity. This has prompted the identification and development of eco-friendly greener alternatives. Eclipta alba extract was evaluated for its antifungal [...] Read more.

Unscientific use of synthetic fungicides in plant disease management has environmental ramifications, such as disease resurgence and serious health problems due to their carcinogenicity. This has prompted the identification and development of eco-friendly greener alternatives. Eclipta alba extract was evaluated for its antifungal activity in in vitro and in vivo against sorghum fungal pathogens Fusarium thapsinum, Alternaria alternata, Epicoccum sorghinum, and Curvularia lunata. The column purified methanolic extract of E. alba exhibited good antifungal activity against the target pathogens. The MIC was observed at 80 mg/mL for all tested pathogenic fungi, whereas MFC was 80 mg/mL for E. sorghinum, 100 mg/mL for F. thapsinum, A. alternata, and C. lunata. In vitro germination percentage was significantly high in seeds treated with E. alba extract (98%) over untreated control (91%). Significant disease protection of 95% was observed in greenhouse and 66% disease protection was noticed in field experiments. The efficacy of E. alba extract in field conditions was improved with the use of E. alba extract formulation. The profile of phytochemicals in E. alba methanol fractions was obtained by ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) mass spectroscopy. The [M-H]⁻ at m/z 313.3, m/z 797.9, and m/z 269.0 revealed the presence of wedelolactone, eclalbasaponin II, and apigenin, respectively. The H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (¹H-NMR) chemical shift value supported the findings of the mass spectrometry. The results highlighted the possible use of E. alba methanolic extract as alternative to chemical fungicide in sorghum disease management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Phytochemicals on Crop Protection and Biotechnology)

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20 pages, 1640 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Role of Silicon in Mitigation of Heavy Metal Stresses in Crop Plants

by Javaid Akhter Bhat, S. M. Shivaraj, Pritam Singh, Devanna B. Navadagi, Durgesh Kumar Tripathi, Prasanta K. Dash, Amolkumar U. Solanke, Humira Sonah and Rupesh Deshmukh

Plants 2019, 8(3), 71; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030071 - 21 Mar 2019

Cited by 267 | Viewed by 15120

Abstract

Over the past few decades, heavy metal contamination in soil and water has increased due to anthropogenic activities. The higher exposure of crop plants to heavy metal stress reduces growth and yield, and affect the sustainability of agricultural production. In this regard, the [...] Read more.

Over the past few decades, heavy metal contamination in soil and water has increased due to anthropogenic activities. The higher exposure of crop plants to heavy metal stress reduces growth and yield, and affect the sustainability of agricultural production. In this regard, the use of silicon (Si) supplementation offers a promising prospect since numerous studies have reported the beneficial role of Si in mitigating stresses imposed by biotic as well as abiotic factors including heavy metal stress. The fundamental mechanisms involved in the Si-mediated heavy metal stress tolerance include reduction of metal ions in soil substrate, co-precipitation of toxic metals, metal-transport related gene regulation, chelation, stimulation of antioxidants, compartmentation of metal ions, and structural alterations in plants. Exogenous application of Si has been well documented to increase heavy metal tolerance in numerous plant species. The beneficial effects of Si are particularly evident in plants able to accumulate high levels of Si. Consequently, to enhance metal tolerance in plants, the inherent genetic potential for Si uptake should be improved. In the present review, we have discussed the potential role and mechanisms involved in the Si-mediated alleviation of metal toxicity as well as different approaches for enhancing Si-derived benefits in crop plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Responses and Tolerance to Metal/Metalloid Toxicity)

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17 pages, 2296 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Root System Characteristics on Black Spruce Seedling Responses to Limiting Conditions

by Clémentine Pernot, Nelson Thiffault and Annie DesRochers

Plants 2019, 8(3), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030070 - 19 Mar 2019

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 4532

Abstract

Roots directly affect planted seedling adaptation to new growing conditions at reforestation sites. To test the influence of root characteristics on the short-term response of seedlings to limiting resources (water, nutrient, or oxygen), we conducted two experiments. We compared (1) the growth and [...] Read more.

Roots directly affect planted seedling adaptation to new growing conditions at reforestation sites. To test the influence of root characteristics on the short-term response of seedlings to limiting resources (water, nutrient, or oxygen), we conducted two experiments. We compared (1) the growth and physiology of three types of four-year-old black spruce (Picea mariana (Mill.) BSP) seedlings (Containerized, highly developed initial roots restricted to a plug; bareroot, less developed but unrestricted initial roots; deeply-planted containerized, restricted initial and adventitious roots) to different combinations of irrigation and fertilization. We also investigated (2) the cellular plasticity of adventitious and initial roots to three irrigation regimes including flooding. Bareroot seedlings had better relative growth rates in height than containerized seedlings, probably due to their larger initial size. On the other hand, containerized seedlings took better advantage of fertilization, as shown by a higher relative growth rate in diameter compared to bareroot seedlings and were less affected by water limitation, possibly due to the root plug acting as an additional water reserve capacity. For containerized seedlings, the presence of adventitious roots was beneficial to height growth and physiological performances compared to seedlings with initial roots only. Adventitious roots showed great cell plasticity, particularly under flooding conditions. Full article

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9 pages, 555 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of Total Phenolic Content, In Vitro Antioxidant and Antibacterial Activity of Ruta graveolens L. Extracts Obtained by Choline Chloride Based Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents

by Valentina Pavić, Dora Flačer, Martina Jakovljević, Maja Molnar and Stela Jokić

Plants 2019, 8(3), 69; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030069 - 18 Mar 2019

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 4975

Abstract

Rue (R. graveolens) has been an extensively studied medicinal plant due to its rich phytochemicals content, such as furanocoumarins and flavonoids. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of varying extraction conditions on the total phenolic content, the [...] Read more.

Rue (R. graveolens) has been an extensively studied medicinal plant due to its rich phytochemicals content, such as furanocoumarins and flavonoids. The aim of this study was to determine the effects of varying extraction conditions on the total phenolic content, the antioxidant and antibacterial property of rue leaves crude extracts using deep eutectic solvents with different water content. These extraction conditions include the temperature and the extraction time. The extract obtained at 30 °C, with 20% water and at 90 min, with 13.3 µg mL⁻¹ concentration, was found to possess the highest total phenolic content (38.24 ± 0.11 mg of GAE g⁻¹ of DM) and the highest antioxidant activity (72.53 ± 0.31%). In this study, the same extract showed the best antibacterial efficiency against all the tested strains, especially gram-negative P. aeruginosa. Full article

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19 pages, 4640 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Selenium Biofortification Differentially Affects Sulfur Metabolism and Accumulation of Phytochemicals in Two Rocket Species (Eruca Sativa Mill. and Diplotaxis Tenuifolia) Grown in Hydroponics

by Stefano Dall’Acqua, Andrea Ertani, Elizabeth A.H. Pilon-Smits, Marta Fabrega-Prats and Michela Schiavon

Plants 2019, 8(3), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030068 - 16 Mar 2019

Cited by 37 | Viewed by 5225

Abstract

Biofortification can be exploited to enrich plants in selenium (Se), an essential micronutrient for humans. Selenium as selenate was supplied to two rocket species, Eruca sativa Mill. (salad rocket) and Diplotaxis tenuifolia (wild rocket), at 0–40 μM in hydroponics and its effects on [...] Read more.

Biofortification can be exploited to enrich plants in selenium (Se), an essential micronutrient for humans. Selenium as selenate was supplied to two rocket species, Eruca sativa Mill. (salad rocket) and Diplotaxis tenuifolia (wild rocket), at 0–40 μM in hydroponics and its effects on the content and profile of sulphur (S)-compounds and other phytochemicals was evaluated. D. tenuifolia accumulated more total Se and selenocysteine than E. sativa, concentrating up to ~300 mg Se kg⁻¹ dry weight from 10–40 μM Se. To ensure a safe and adequate Se intake, 30 and 4 g fresh leaf material from E. sativa grown with 5 and 10–20 μM Se, respectively or 4 g from D. tenuifolia supplied with 5 μM Se was estimated to be optimal for consumption. Selenium supplementation at or above 10 μM differentially affected S metabolism in the two species in terms of the transcription of genes involved in S assimilation and S-compound accumulation. Also, amino acid content decreased with Se in E. sativa but increased in D. tenuifolia and the amount of phenolics was more reduced in D. tenuifolia. In conclusion, selenate application in hydroponics allowed Se enrichment of rocket. Furthermore, Se at low concentration (5 μM) did not significantly affect accumulation of phytochemicals and plant defence S-metabolites. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selenium Metabolism and Accumulation in Plants)

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15 pages, 2319 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Isoform-Specific NO Synthesis by Arabidopsis thaliana Nitrate Reductase

by Marie Agatha Mohn, Besarta Thaqi and Katrin Fischer-Schrader

Plants 2019, 8(3), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030067 - 16 Mar 2019

Cited by 50 | Viewed by 5747

Abstract

Nitrate reductase (NR) is important for higher land plants, as it catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the nitrate assimilation pathway, the two-electron reduction of nitrate to nitrite. Furthermore, it is considered to be a major enzymatic source of the important signaling molecule nitric [...] Read more.

Nitrate reductase (NR) is important for higher land plants, as it catalyzes the rate-limiting step in the nitrate assimilation pathway, the two-electron reduction of nitrate to nitrite. Furthermore, it is considered to be a major enzymatic source of the important signaling molecule nitric oxide (NO), that is produced in a one-electron reduction of nitrite. Like many other plants, the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana expresses two isoforms of NR (NIA1 and NIA2). Up to now, only NIA2 has been the focus of detailed biochemical studies, while NIA1 awaits biochemical characterization. In this study, we have expressed and purified functional fragments of NIA1 and subjected them to various biochemical assays for comparison with the corresponding NIA2-fragments. We analyzed the kinetic parameters in multiple steady-state assays using nitrate or nitrite as substrate and measured either substrate consumption (nitrate or nitrite) or product formation (NO). Our results show that NIA1 is the more efficient nitrite reductase while NIA2 exhibits higher nitrate reductase activity, which supports the hypothesis that the isoforms have special functions in the plant. Furthermore, we successfully restored the physiological electron transfer pathway of NR using reduced nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NADH) and nitrate or nitrite as substrates by mixing the N-and C-terminal fragments of NR, thus, opening up new possibilities to study NR activity, regulation and structure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nitric Oxide Signaling in Plants)

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13 pages, 5012 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Suitable Antibiotics for Bacterium Control in Micropropagation of Cherry Rootstock Using a Modified Leaf Disk Diffusion Method and E Test

by Chenglin Liang, Rendun Wu, Yu Han, Tian Wan and Yuliang Cai

Plants 2019, 8(3), 66; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030066 - 16 Mar 2019

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 9268

Abstract

Bacterial contamination is a major and constant threat to the establishment and subculture of in vitro plant culture. In this study, we used a slightly modified qualitative disk diffusion method to screen optimal antibiotics to control the growth of bacterial contaminants isolated from [...] Read more.

Bacterial contamination is a major and constant threat to the establishment and subculture of in vitro plant culture. In this study, we used a slightly modified qualitative disk diffusion method to screen optimal antibiotics to control the growth of bacterial contaminants isolated from explants of cherry rootstock ‘Gisela 6’. Bacterial susceptibility to eight different antibiotics was tested. The results showed that tetracycline was the most effective antibiotic for controlling bacterial growth; cefotaxime, carbenicillin, kanamycin, and streptomycin were less effective, whereas ampicillin, penicillin, and cefazolin did not inhibit growth of the isolated bacteria. Using the quantitative E test, the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) of tetracycline was determined to be 1.0 µg mL⁻¹. We also measured the F_v/F_m values, chlorophyll content, and enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase and peroxidase to explore the effect of different tetracycline concentrations, 0, 0.064, 0.5, 1.0, 16, and 256 µg mL⁻¹, on the growth of bacteria and explants over 30 days. Results indicated that 1.0 µg mL⁻¹ tetracycline was effective in restricting bacterial growth, with non-significant negative effects on explants at low concentrations, but were enhanced negative effects at high concentrations. The application of the disk diffusion method and E test enabled the identification of an antibiotic and its MIC value effective for eliminating bacterial contaminants while causing minimal damage to explants, indicating a high potential of these methods to control bacterial contaminants in in vitro plant culture. Full article

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23 pages, 1034 KiB

Open AccessReview

Environmental Factors Influence Plant Vascular System and Water Regulation

by Mirwais M. Qaderi, Ashley B. Martel and Sage L. Dixon

Plants 2019, 8(3), 65; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030065 - 15 Mar 2019

Cited by 79 | Viewed by 12808

Abstract

Developmental initiation of plant vascular tissue, including xylem and phloem, from the vascular cambium depends on environmental factors, such as temperature and precipitation. Proper formation of vascular tissue is critical for the transpiration stream, along with photosynthesis as a whole. While effects of [...] Read more.

Developmental initiation of plant vascular tissue, including xylem and phloem, from the vascular cambium depends on environmental factors, such as temperature and precipitation. Proper formation of vascular tissue is critical for the transpiration stream, along with photosynthesis as a whole. While effects of individual environmental factors on the transpiration stream are well studied, interactive effects of multiple stress factors are underrepresented. As expected, climate change will result in plants experiencing multiple co-occurring environmental stress factors, which require further studies. Also, the effects of the main climate change components (carbon dioxide, temperature, and drought) on vascular cambium are not well understood. This review aims at synthesizing current knowledge regarding the effects of the main climate change components on the initiation and differentiation of vascular cambium, the transpiration stream, and photosynthesis. We predict that combined environmental factors will result in increased diameter and density of xylem vessels or tracheids in the absence of water stress. However, drought may decrease the density of xylem vessels or tracheids. All interactive combinations are expected to increase vascular cell wall thickness, and therefore increase carbon allocation to these tissues. A comprehensive study of the effects of multiple environmental factors on plant vascular tissue and water regulation should help us understand plant responses to climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Ecology)

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16 pages, 9718 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Meta-Analysis of Salt Stress Transcriptome Responses in Different Rice Genotypes at the Seedling Stage

by Weilong Kong, Hua Zhong, Ziyun Gong, Xinyi Fang, Tong Sun, Xiaoxiao Deng and Yangsheng Li

Plants 2019, 8(3), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030064 - 12 Mar 2019

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 5800

Abstract

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most important staple food crops worldwide, while its growth and productivity are threatened by various abiotic stresses, especially salt stress. Unraveling how rice adapts to salt stress at the transcription level is vital. It [...] Read more.

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) is one of the most important staple food crops worldwide, while its growth and productivity are threatened by various abiotic stresses, especially salt stress. Unraveling how rice adapts to salt stress at the transcription level is vital. It can provide valuable information on enhancing the salt stress tolerance performance of rice via genetic engineering technologies. Here, we conducted a meta-analysis of different rice genotypes at the seedling stage based on 96 public microarray datasets, aiming to identify the key salt-responsive genes and understand the molecular response mechanism of rice under salt stress. In total, 5559 genes were identified to be differentially expressed genes (DEGs) under salt stress, and 3210 DEGs were identified during the recovery process. The Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment results revealed that the salt-response mechanisms of shoots and roots were different. A close-knit signaling network, consisting of the Ca²⁺ signal transduction pathway, the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade, multiple hormone signals, transcription factors (TFs), transcriptional regulators (TRs), protein kinases (PKs), and other crucial functional proteins, plays an essential role in rice salt stress response. In this study, many unreported salt-responsive genes were found. Besides this, MapMan results suggested that TNG67 can shift to the fermentation pathway to produce energy under salt stress and may enhance the Calvin cycle to repair a damaged photosystem during the recovery stage. Taken together, these findings provide novel insights into the salt stress molecular response and introduce numerous candidate genes for rice salt stress tolerance breeding. Full article

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20 pages, 3248 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seed Germination in Cistus ladanifer: Heat Shock, Physical Dormancy, Soil Temperatures and Significance to Natural Regeneration

by Luís Silva Dias, Isabel Pires Pereira and Alexandra Soveral Dias

Plants 2019, 8(3), 63; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030063 - 12 Mar 2019

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4516

Abstract

Seeds of Cistus ladanifer experience bursts of germination following fires. The effects of heat shock from 10 °C to 150 °C on seed germination were investigated by final germination plus the number of days required for germination to start and finish, and symmetry [...] Read more.

Seeds of Cistus ladanifer experience bursts of germination following fires. The effects of heat shock from 10 °C to 150 °C on seed germination were investigated by final germination plus the number of days required for germination to start and finish, and symmetry of cumulative germination. The occurrence of physical dormancy in C. ladanifer seeds was investigated by a variety of methods, including imbibition, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy, and use of dyes. The significance of responses of C. ladanifer seeds to fires was investigated essentially by abstracting existing literature and by using fire effects models and simulations. Parameters of germination were variously affected by heat treatments—positively in the range 80–100 °C, negatively above 130 °C. Non-dormancy was consistently found in about 30% of seeds but no evidence was obtained to support the existence of physical dormancy in the dormant fraction of C. ladanifer seeds. Two complementary processes seem to be in place in seeds response to fire. A direct fire-driven increase in germination of virtually all seeds in response to the appropriate heat load produced by fire or, in the absence of such heat loads, the germination of the non-dormant fraction provided that above-ground vegetation burns. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Seed Behavior in Soil)

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17 pages, 17518 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Structural Evidence of Programmed Cell Death Induction by Tungsten in Root Tip Cells of Pisum sativum

by Ioannis-Dimosthenis S. Adamakis and Eleftherios P. Eleftheriou

Plants 2019, 8(3), 62; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030062 - 11 Mar 2019

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5730

Abstract

Previous studies have shown that excess tungsten (W), a rare heavy metal, is toxic to plant cells and may induce a kind of programmed cell death (PCD). In the present study we used transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) [...] Read more.

Previous studies have shown that excess tungsten (W), a rare heavy metal, is toxic to plant cells and may induce a kind of programmed cell death (PCD). In the present study we used transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) to investigate the subcellular malformations caused by W, supplied as 200 mg/L sodium tungstate (Na₂WO₄) for 12 or 24 h, in root tip cells of Pisum sativum (pea), The objective was to provide additional evidence in support of the notion of PCD induction and the presumed involvement of reactive oxygen species (ROS). It is shown ultrastructurally that W inhibited seedling growth, deranged root tip morphology, induced the collapse and deformation of vacuoles, degraded Golgi bodies, increased the incidence of multivesicular and multilamellar bodies, and caused the detachment of the plasma membrane from the cell walls. Plastids and mitochondria were also affected. By TEM, the endoplasmic reticulum appeared in aggregations of straight, curved or concentric cisternae, frequently enclosing cytoplasmic organelles, while by CLSM it appeared in bright ring-like aggregations and was severely disrupted in mitotic cells. However, no evidence of ROS increase was obtained. Overall, these findings support the view of a W-induced vacuolar destructive PCD without ROS enhancement. Full article

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17 pages, 5740 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Arabidopsis Natural Accessions Display Adaptations in Inflorescence Growth and Vascular Anatomy to Withstand High Salinity during Reproductive Growth

by Sahar Sellami, Rozenn Le Hir, Michael R. Thorpe, Emilie Aubry, Nelly Wolff, Françoise Vilaine, Faiçal Brini and Sylvie Dinant

Plants 2019, 8(3), 61; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030061 - 11 Mar 2019

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 3585

Abstract

Plant responses to abiotic stresses entail adaptive processes that integrate both physiological and developmental cues. However, the adaptive traits that are involved in the responses to a high soil salinity during reproductive growth are still poorly studied. To identify new clues, we studied [...] Read more.

Plant responses to abiotic stresses entail adaptive processes that integrate both physiological and developmental cues. However, the adaptive traits that are involved in the responses to a high soil salinity during reproductive growth are still poorly studied. To identify new clues, we studied the halophyte, Thellungiella salsuginea, and three Arabidopsis accessions, known as tolerant or salt-sensitive. We focused on the quantitative traits associated with the stem growth, sugar content, and anatomy of the plants subjected to the salt treatment, with and without a three-day acclimation, applied during the reproductive stage. The stem growth of Thellungiella salsuginea was not affected by the salt stress. By contrast, salt affected all of the Arabidopsis accessions, with a natural variation in the effect of the salt on growth, sugar content, and stem anatomy. In response to the high salinity, irregular xylem vessels were observed, independently of the accession’s tolerance to salt treatment, while the diameter of the largest xylem vessels was reduced in the tolerant accessions. The stem height, growth rate, hexoses-to-sucrose ratio, and phloem-to-xylem ratio also varied, in association with both the genotype and its tolerance to salt stress. Our findings indicate that several quantitative traits for salt tolerance are associated with the control of inflorescence growth and the adjustment of the phloem-to-xylem ratio. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Phloem Development)

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12 pages, 2268 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Arabidopsis altered in stress response2 is Impaired in Resistance to Root and Leaf Necrotrophic Fungal Pathogens

by Louise F. Thatcher and Karam B. Singh

Plants 2019, 8(3), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030060 - 11 Mar 2019

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3422

Abstract

The Arabidopsis thaliana Glutathione S-transferase Phi8 (GSTF8) gene is recognised as a marker for early defence and stress responses. To identify regulators of these responses, a forward genetic screen for Arabidopsis mutants with up-regulated GSTF8 promoter activity was conducted by screening [...] Read more.

The Arabidopsis thaliana Glutathione S-transferase Phi8 (GSTF8) gene is recognised as a marker for early defence and stress responses. To identify regulators of these responses, a forward genetic screen for Arabidopsis mutants with up-regulated GSTF8 promoter activity was conducted by screening a mutagenized population containing a GSTF8 promoter fragment fused to the luciferase reporter gene (GSTF8:LUC). We previously identified several enhanced stress response (esr) mutants from this screen that conferred constitutive GSTF8:LUC activity and increased resistance to several pathogens and/or insects pests. Here we identified a further mutant constitutively expressing GSTF8:LUC and termed altered in stress response2 (asr2). Unlike the esr mutants, asr2 was more susceptible to disease symptom development induced by two necrotrophic fungal pathogens; the root pathogen Fusarium oxysporum, and the leaf pathogen Alternaria brassicicola. The asr2 allele was mapped to a 2.1 Mbp region of chromosome 2 and narrowed to four candidate loci. Full article

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14 pages, 1902 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ginger and Turmeric Essential Oils for Weed Control and Food Crop Protection

by María Dolores Ibáñez and María Amparo Blázquez

Plants 2019, 8(3), 59; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030059 - 10 Mar 2019

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 8285

Abstract

Ginger and turmeric are two food ingredients that are in high demand due to their flavor and positive effects on health. The biological properties of these spices are closely related to the aromatic compounds they contain. The chemical compositions of their essential oils [...] Read more.

Ginger and turmeric are two food ingredients that are in high demand due to their flavor and positive effects on health. The biological properties of these spices are closely related to the aromatic compounds they contain. The chemical compositions of their essential oils and their in vitro phytotoxic activity against weeds (Portulaca oleracea, Lolium multiflorum, Echinochloa crus-galli, Cortaderia selloana, and Nicotiana glauca) and food crops (tomato, cucumber, and rice) were studied. Forty-one compounds, accounting for a relative peak area of 87.7% and 94.6% of turmeric and ginger essential oils, respectively, were identified by Gas Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry analysis. Ginger essential oil with α-zingiberene (24.9 ± 0.8%), β-sesquiphelladrene (11.7 ± 0.3%), ar-curcumene (10.7 ± 0.2%), and β-bisabolene (10.5 ± 0.3%) as the main compounds significantly inhibited the seed germination of P. oleracea, L. multiflorum, and C. selloana at the highest dose (1 µL/mL) assayed, as well as the hypocotyl and radicle growth of the weeds. Turmeric essential oil with ar-turmerone (38.7 ± 0.8%), β-turmerone (18.6 ± 0.6%), and α-turmerone (14.2 ± 0.9%) as principal components significantly inhibited the seed germination of C. selloana and hypocotyl and radicle growth of weeds (the latter in particular) at the highest dose, whereas it did not affect either the seed germination or seedling growth of the food crops. Turmeric essential oil can be an effective post-emergent bioherbicide against the tested weeds without phytotoxicity to crops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Phytochemicals on Crop Protection and Biotechnology)

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18 pages, 2489 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Profiling the Abiotic Stress Responsive microRNA Landscape of Arabidopsis thaliana

by Joseph L. Pegler, Jackson M. J. Oultram, Christopher P. L. Grof and Andrew L. Eamens

Plants 2019, 8(3), 58; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030058 - 10 Mar 2019

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 6202

Abstract

It is well established among interdisciplinary researchers that there is an urgent need to address the negative impacts that accompany climate change. One such negative impact is the increased prevalence of unfavorable environmental conditions that significantly contribute to reduced agricultural yield. Plant microRNAs [...] Read more.

It is well established among interdisciplinary researchers that there is an urgent need to address the negative impacts that accompany climate change. One such negative impact is the increased prevalence of unfavorable environmental conditions that significantly contribute to reduced agricultural yield. Plant microRNAs (miRNAs) are key gene expression regulators that control development, defense against invading pathogens and adaptation to abiotic stress. Arabidopsis thaliana (Arabidopsis) can be readily molecularly manipulated, therefore offering an excellent experimental system to alter the profile of abiotic stress responsive miRNA/target gene expression modules to determine whether such modification enables Arabidopsis to express an altered abiotic stress response phenotype. Towards this goal, high throughput sequencing was used to profile the miRNA landscape of Arabidopsis whole seedlings exposed to heat, drought and salt stress, and identified 121, 123 and 118 miRNAs with a greater than 2-fold altered abundance, respectively. Quantitative reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) was next employed to experimentally validate miRNA abundance fold changes, and to document reciprocal expression trends for the target genes of miRNAs determined abiotic stress responsive. RT-qPCR also demonstrated that each miRNA/target gene expression module determined to be abiotic stress responsive in Arabidopsis whole seedlings was reflective of altered miRNA/target gene abundance in Arabidopsis root and shoot tissues post salt stress exposure. Taken together, the data presented here offers an excellent starting platform to identify the miRNA/target gene expression modules for future molecular manipulation to generate plant lines that display an altered response phenotype to abiotic stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue The Role of MicroRNAs in Plants)

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14 pages, 3960 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cycloartane-Type Triterpenes and Botanical Origin of Propolis of Stingless Indonesian Bee Tetragonula sapiens

by Niken Pujirahayu, Toshisada Suzuki and Takeshi Katayama

Plants 2019, 8(3), 57; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030057 - 08 Mar 2019

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 5689

Abstract

This study clarifies the chemical constituents and botanical origin of Tetragonula sapiens Cockerell bee propolis collected from Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. Propolis samples and resin of Mangifera indica were extracted with 99% ethanol to obtain an ethanol extract of propolis (EEP) and an ethanol [...] Read more.

This study clarifies the chemical constituents and botanical origin of Tetragonula sapiens Cockerell bee propolis collected from Southeast Sulawesi, Indonesia. Propolis samples and resin of Mangifera indica were extracted with 99% ethanol to obtain an ethanol extract of propolis (EEP) and an ethanol extract of M. indica resin (EEM). Column chromatography, thin-layer chromatography (TLC), and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were developed and used for the separation and isolation of compounds from the ether-soluble fraction. The structure of the compounds was determined by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopic analysis, and their molecular weight analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). The HPLC chromatogram of the EEP was then compared with the HPLC chromatogram of EEM to investigate the botanical origin of propolis. Five compounds were isolated from the EEP, and their structures were determined as mangiferolic acid, cycloartenol, ambonic acid, mangiferonic acid, and ambolic acid, which are cycloartane-type triterpenes. The characteristic peak of the HPLC chromatograms of EEP and EEM showed a similar pattern, which is that the main components of propolis were also found in M. indica resin. These results suggested that the propolis from Southeast Sulawesi was rich in cycloartane-type triterpenes, and the plant source of the propolis could be Mangifera indica (mango). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Phytochemicals on Crop Protection and Biotechnology)

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13 pages, 672 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Role of Nitrate Reductase in NO Production in Photosynthetic Eukaryotes

by Manuel Tejada-Jimenez, Angel Llamas, Aurora Galván and Emilio Fernández

Plants 2019, 8(3), 56; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030056 - 06 Mar 2019

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 11836

Abstract

Nitric oxide is a gaseous secondary messenger that is critical for proper cell signaling and plant survival when exposed to stress. Nitric oxide (NO) synthesis in plants, under standard phototrophic oxygenic conditions, has long been a very controversial issue. A few algal strains [...] Read more.

Nitric oxide is a gaseous secondary messenger that is critical for proper cell signaling and plant survival when exposed to stress. Nitric oxide (NO) synthesis in plants, under standard phototrophic oxygenic conditions, has long been a very controversial issue. A few algal strains contain NO synthase (NOS), which appears to be absent in all other algae and land plants. The experimental data have led to the hypothesis that molybdoenzyme nitrate reductase (NR) is the main enzyme responsible for NO production in most plants. Recently, NR was found to be a necessary partner in a dual system that also includes another molybdoenzyme, which was renamed NO-forming nitrite reductase (NOFNiR). This enzyme produces NO independently of the molybdenum center of NR and depends on the NR electron transport chain from NAD(P)H to heme. Under the circumstances in which NR is not present or active, the existence of another NO-forming system that is similar to the NOS system would account for NO production and NO effects. PII protein, which senses and integrates the signals of the C–N balance in the cell, likely has an important role in organizing cell responses. Here, we critically analyze these topics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nitric Oxide Signaling in Plants)

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30 pages, 649 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Bioactive Profile of Various Salvia officinalis L. Preparations

by Martina Jakovljević, Stela Jokić, Maja Molnar, Midhat Jašić, Jurislav Babić, Huska Jukić and Ines Banjari

Plants 2019, 8(3), 55; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030055 - 06 Mar 2019

Cited by 87 | Viewed by 10441

Abstract

Salvia officinalis L., also known as the “Salvation Plant”, has been long used and well-documented in traditional medicine around the globe. Its bioactive compounds, and especially its polyphenol profile, have been extensively researched and reviewed. However, sage’s beneficial effects reach much further, and [...] Read more.

Salvia officinalis L., also known as the “Salvation Plant”, has been long used and well-documented in traditional medicine around the globe. Its bioactive compounds, and especially its polyphenol profile, have been extensively researched and reviewed. However, sage’s beneficial effects reach much further, and nowadays, with a range of new extraction techniques, we are discovering new components with new therapeutic effects, especially in the context of neurodegenerative diseases and various carcinomas. This review describes the bioactive profile of various sage preparations depending on the extraction techniques and extraction parameters, and this review lists the newest research findings on its health effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemistry)

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13 pages, 1141 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Occurrence of Nine Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids in Senecio vulgaris L. Depending on Developmental Stage and Season

by Jens Flade, Heidrun Beschow, Monika Wensch-Dorendorf, Andreas Plescher and Wim Wätjen

Plants 2019, 8(3), 54; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030054 - 05 Mar 2019

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 5108

Abstract

The contamination of phytopharmaceuticals and herbal teas with toxic plants is an increasing problem. Senecio vulgaris L. is a particularly noxious weed in agricultural and horticultural crops due to its content of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). Since some of these compounds are carcinogenic, [...] Read more.

The contamination of phytopharmaceuticals and herbal teas with toxic plants is an increasing problem. Senecio vulgaris L. is a particularly noxious weed in agricultural and horticultural crops due to its content of toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs). Since some of these compounds are carcinogenic, the distribution of this plant should be monitored. The amount of PAs in S. vulgaris is affected by various factors. Therefore, we investigated the occurrence of PAs depending on the developmental stage and season. A systematic study using field-plot experiments (four seasons, five developmental stages of the plants: S1 to S5) was performed and the PA concentration was determined via LC-MS/MS analysis. The total amount of PAs in the plant increased with the plant development, however, the total PA concentrations in µg/g dry matter remained nearly unchanged, whilst trends for specific PAs were observed. The concentrations of PA-N-oxides (PANOs) were much higher than that of tertiary PAs. Maximal amounts of the PA total were 54.16 ± 4.38 mg/plant (spring, S5). The total amount of PAs increased strongly until later developmental stages. Therefore, even small numbers of S. vulgaris may become sufficient for relevant contaminations set out by the maximal permitted daily intake levels recommended by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Full article

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

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15 pages, 2778 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Transcriptomic and GC-MS Metabolomic Analysis to Characterize Color and Aroma Formation during Tepal Development in Lycoris longituba

by Yuanzheng Yue, Jiawei Liu, Tingting Shi, Min Chen, Ya Li, Juhua Du, Haiyan Jiang, Xiulian Yang, Huirong Hu and Lianggui Wang

Plants 2019, 8(3), 53; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030053 - 28 Feb 2019

Cited by 28 | Viewed by 4242

Abstract

Lycoris longituba, belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family, is a perennial bulb bearing flowers with diverse colors and fragrance. Selection of cultivars with excellent colored and scented flowers has always been the breeding aim for ornamental plants. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying color [...] Read more.

Lycoris longituba, belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family, is a perennial bulb bearing flowers with diverse colors and fragrance. Selection of cultivars with excellent colored and scented flowers has always been the breeding aim for ornamental plants. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying color fading and aroma production during flower expansion in L. longituba remain unclear. Therefore, to systematically investigate these important biological phenomena, the tepals of L. longituba from different developmental stages were used to screen and analyze the metabolic components and relevant genes. Utilizing the Illumina platform, a total of 144,922 unigenes were obtained from the RNA-Seq libraries. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis indicated that the phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways might play important roles during color and aroma changes. Metabolomic analysis identified 29 volatile organic components (VOCs) from different developmental stages of L. longituba tepals, and orthogonal partial least-squares discriminate analysis (OPLS-DA) revealed that trans-β-ocimene—a terpene—was the most important aroma compound. Meanwhile, we found the content of anthocyanin was significantly reduced during the tepal color fading process. Then, we identified two dihydroflavonol-4-reductase (DFR) and three terpene synthase (TPS) genes, for which expression changes coincided with the production patterns of anthocyanins and trans-β-ocimene, respectively. Furthermore, a number of MYB and bHLH transcription factors (TFs) which might be involved in color- and aroma-formation were also identified in L. longituba tepal transcriptomes. Taken together, this is the first comprehensive report of the color and fragrance in tepals of L. longituba and these results could be helpful in understanding these characteristics and their regulation networks. Full article

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20 pages, 4044 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comprehensive Analysis of the Chitinase Family Genes in Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum)

by Jun Cao and Xiaona Tan

Plants 2019, 8(3), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030052 - 28 Feb 2019

Cited by 29 | Viewed by 5873

Abstract

Chitinase catalyzes the hydrolysis of chitin β-1,4 linkages. However, plants cannot produce chitin, suggesting that plant chitinases do not have the same function as animals. This study investigated the chitinase gene family in tomato and divided into eight groups via phylogenetic analyses with [...] Read more.

Chitinase catalyzes the hydrolysis of chitin β-1,4 linkages. However, plants cannot produce chitin, suggesting that plant chitinases do not have the same function as animals. This study investigated the chitinase gene family in tomato and divided into eight groups via phylogenetic analyses with Arabidopsis and rice members. Conserved gene structures and motif arrangements indicated their functional relevance with each group. These genes were nonrandomly distributed across the tomato chromosomes, and tandem duplication contributed to the expansion of this gene family. Synteny analysis also established orthology relationships and functional linkages between Arabidopsis and tomato chitinase genes. Several positive selection sites were identified, which may contribute to the functional divergence of the protein family in evolution. In addition, differential expression profiles of the tomato chitinase genes were also investigated at some developmental stages, or under different biotic and abiotic stresses. Finally, functional network analysis found 124 physical or functional interactions, implying the diversity of physiological functions of the family proteins. These results provide a foundation for the exploration of the chitinase genes in plants and will offer some insights for further functional studies. Full article

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

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15 pages, 445 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of the Proximate Composition, Vitamins (Ascorbic Acid, α-Tocopherol and Retinol), Anti-Nutrients (Phytate and Oxalate) and the GC-MS Analysis of the Essential Oil of the Root and Leaf of Rumex crispus L.

by Oladayo Amed Idris, Olubunmi Abosede Wintola and Anthony Jide Afolayan

Plants 2019, 8(3), 51; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030051 - 28 Feb 2019

Cited by 49 | Viewed by 7321

Abstract

Medicinal plants are a pertinent and effective remedy, employed in indigenous healthcare systems by traditional healers. This study focused on proximate parameters, minerals, vitamins, anti-nutrients and essential oil of the root and leaf of the medicinal plant; R. crispus, using the standard [...] Read more.

Medicinal plants are a pertinent and effective remedy, employed in indigenous healthcare systems by traditional healers. This study focused on proximate parameters, minerals, vitamins, anti-nutrients and essential oil of the root and leaf of the medicinal plant; R. crispus, using the standard food analysis techniques. The result reveals that the moisture content of the leaf (7.57 ± 0.40%) and root (7.59 ± 0.08%) was not significantly different. The leaf has a higher ash, crude fat, fibre and mineral content than the root, except the carbohydrate (57.74 ± 3.06%) and Ca (1190.0 ± 0 mg/100g) values which are quite higher in the root. Traces of phytate was found in the leaf (1.15 ± 0.74%) and root (1.38 ± 0.27%) of R. crispus. The highest value of retinol, ascorbic acid and α-tocopherol was found in dried leaf (1.29 ± 0.014 mg retinol/100g), fresh leaf (159.73 ± 26.77 mg ascorbic acid/100g) and fresh root (54.90 ± 0.39 mg α-tocopherol/100g) respectively. The principal compound in the essential oil of the leaf are; 5-Eicosene, (E)-, docos-1-ene, trans-5-Octadecene, tetradecane while those found in the root are; 1-Heptacosanol, 4-Methyloctane, ethylcyclohexane, eucalyptol, m-Xylene, octadecane, phytol, and tetradecane. The research reveals that R. crispus may not only be used for medicinal purposes but could also be suitable for a complementary diet. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Phytochemicals on Crop Protection and Biotechnology)

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15 pages, 1623 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Green Ultrasound Assisted Extraction of trans Rosmarinic Acid from Plectranthus scutellarioides (L.) R.Br. Leaves

by Duangjai Tungmunnithum, Laurine Garros, Samantha Drouet, Sullivan Renouard, Eric Lainé and Christophe Hano

Plants 2019, 8(3), 50; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants8030050 - 27 Feb 2019

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 5253

Abstract

Painted nettle (Plectranthus scutellarioides (L.) R.Br.) is an ornamental plant belonging to Lamiaceae family, native of Asia. Its leaves constitute one of the richest sources of trans-rosmarinic acid, a well-known antioxidant and antimicrobial phenolic compound. These biological activities attract interest from [...] Read more.

Painted nettle (Plectranthus scutellarioides (L.) R.Br.) is an ornamental plant belonging to Lamiaceae family, native of Asia. Its leaves constitute one of the richest sources of trans-rosmarinic acid, a well-known antioxidant and antimicrobial phenolic compound. These biological activities attract interest from the cosmetic industry and the demand for the development of green sustainable extraction processes. Here, we report on the optimization and validation of an ultrasound-assisted extraction (USAE) method using ethanol as solvent. Following preliminary single factor experiments, the identified limiting extraction parameters (i.e., ultrasound frequency, extraction duration, and ethanol concentration) were further optimized using a full factorial design approach. The method was then validated following the recommendations of the association of analytical communities (AOAC) to ensure the precision and accuracy of the method used to quantify trans-rosmarinic acid. Highest trans-rosmarinic acid content was obtained using pure ethanol as extraction solvent following a 45-minute extraction in an ultrasound bath operating at an ultrasound frequency of 30 kHz. The antioxidant (in vitro radical scavenging activity) and antimicrobial (directed toward Staphylococcus aureus ACTT6538) activities were significantly correlated with the trans-rosmarinic acid concentration of the extract evidencing that these key biological activities were retained following the extraction using this validated method. Under these conditions, 110.8 mg/g DW of trans-rosmarinic acid were extracted from lyophilized P. scutellarioides leaves as starting material evidencing the great potential of this renewable material for cosmetic applications. Comparison to other classical extraction methods evidenced a clear benefit of the present USAE method both in terms of yield and extraction duration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Lamiaceae Species: Biology, Ecology and Practical Uses)

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Plants, Volume 8, Issue 3 (March 2019) – 28 articles

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