Plants

11 pages, 1010 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Species-Specific Plant-Derived Nanoparticle Characteristics

by Akvilė Viršilė, Giedrė Samuolienė, Kristina Laužikė, Emilija Šipailaitė, Zbigniev Balion and Aistė Jekabsone

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3139; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223139 - 16 Nov 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2365

Abstract

Medicinal and agricultural plants contain numerous phytochemical compounds with pronounced biological effects on human health. They are known to encapsulate most of their characteristic bioactive compounds within membranous elements of intercellular communication known as exosomes. These nanovesicles serve as capsules protecting their biological [...] Read more.

Medicinal and agricultural plants contain numerous phytochemical compounds with pronounced biological effects on human health. They are known to encapsulate most of their characteristic bioactive compounds within membranous elements of intercellular communication known as exosomes. These nanovesicles serve as capsules protecting their biological activity and improving their penetration into the tissue. Therefore, the application of plant exosome preparations holds considerable potential for cosmetics and pharmacy, but the quality and consistency of plant material for exosome isolation is of critical importance. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to evaluate yield, size distribution patterns, and antioxidant properties between nanovesicle preparations of the following portfolio of medicinal plants: Kalanchoe daigremontiana, Artemisia absinthium, Hypericum perforatum, Silybum marianum, Chelidonium majus, and Scutellaria baicalensis. Results showed that nanoparticle yield, size distribution, and antioxidant activities were specific to plant species. Compared to other plants, nanoparticle preparations from Artemisia absinthium were distinguished by remarkably higher yield and concentration, while the highest antioxidant activity of plant-derived nanoparticle preparations per weight and per particle was determined to occur in Chelidonium majus and Hypericum perforatum samples. Results showed no significant correlation in DPPH (2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) free radical scavenging activity and FRAP (ferric reducing antioxidant power) between plant material and nanoparticle preparations. More detailed biochemical analysis of exosome preparations is necessary to validate their biological activity and its relation to source plant cells. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Selected Papers from the 3rd International Conference on Scientific Actualities and Innovations in Horticulture (SAIH2022))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

24 pages, 1890 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Traditional Ethnobotanical Knowledge of the Central Lika Region (Continental Croatia)—First Record of Edible Use of Fungus Taphrina pruni

by Ivana Vitasović-Kosić, Antonija Hodak, Łukasz Łuczaj, Mara Marić and Josip Juračak

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3133; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223133 - 16 Nov 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2047

Abstract

This study analyzed the use of plants and fungi, some wild and some cultivated, in three municipalities of Lika-Senj County (Perušić, Gospić and Lovinac). The range of the study area was about 60 km. Forty in-depth semi-structured interviews were performed. The use of [...] Read more.

This study analyzed the use of plants and fungi, some wild and some cultivated, in three municipalities of Lika-Senj County (Perušić, Gospić and Lovinac). The range of the study area was about 60 km. Forty in-depth semi-structured interviews were performed. The use of 111 plant taxa from 50 plant families and five taxa of mushrooms and fungi belonging to five families was recorded (on average 27 taxa per interview). The results showed quite large differences between the three studied areas in terms of ethnobotanical and ecological knowledge. In the Perušić area, (101 taxa mentioned), some people still use wild plants on a daily basis for various purposes. The most commonly noted plants are Prunus spinosa, Taraxacum spp., Rosa canina, Urtica dioica, Juglans regia and Fragaria vesca. In the Lovinac region, people used fewer species of plants (76 species mentioned). The most common species used there are: Rosa canina, Achillea millefolium, Cornus mas, Crataegus monogyna, Sambucus nigra and Prunus domestica. In the town of Gospić, the collection and use of plants was not so widespread, with only 61 species mentioned, the most common being: Achillea millefolium, Cornus mas, Sambucus nigra, Viola sp., Prunus domestica and Rosa canina. The medicinal use of herbal tea Rubus caesius and Cydonia oblonga against diarrhea was well known in the study area and is used medicinally, mainly in the rural parts of the Gospić area. The consumption of the Sorbus species (S. aria, S. domestica and S. torminalis) is an interesting local tradition in Perušić and Lovinac. Species that are difficult to find in nature today and are no longer used include: Veratrum sp., Rhamnus alpinum ssp. fallax, Gentiana lutea and Ribes uva-crispa. The use of Chenopodium album has also died out. We can assume that the differences in ethnobotanical knowledge between the three studied areas are partly due to minor differences in climate and topography, while other causes lie in the higher degree of rurality and stronger ties to nature in the Lovinac and Perušić areas. The most important finding of the study is the use of the parasitic fungus Taphrina pruni (Fuckel) Tul. as a snack. The use of Helleborus dumetorum for ethnoveterinary practices is also worth noting. The traditional use of plants in the study area shows many signs of abandonment, and therefore efforts must be made to maintain the knowledge recorded in our study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemistry)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1349 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Effects of Essential Oil Fumigation on Potato Sprouting at Room-Temperature Storage

by Jena L. Thoma, Charles L. Cantrell and Valtcho D. Zheljazkov

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3109; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223109 - 15 Nov 2022

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1803

Abstract

As a global staple, potato plays an important role in meeting human dietary needs and alleviating malnutrition. Potato sprouting during storage is a major issue that threatens food security by increasing food waste and must therefore be controlled. Biopesticides, including essential oils (EOs), [...] Read more.

As a global staple, potato plays an important role in meeting human dietary needs and alleviating malnutrition. Potato sprouting during storage is a major issue that threatens food security by increasing food waste and must therefore be controlled. Biopesticides, including essential oils (EOs), have a history of use as potato sprout suppressants, and interest in their use has been renewed in response to stricter regulations on CIPC, the dominant chemical sprout suppressant over the last half-century. We evaluated twenty-one EOs as potential sprout suppressants in cv. Ranger Russet potatoes at room-temperature storage. Treatment with Artemisia herba-alba EO was the most effective at suppressing both sprout length and sprout number over a 90-day storage period. GC—MS—FID analysis of A. herba-alba EO revealed the presence of α-thujone, hexadecenoic acid, β-thujone, camphor, sabinene, and camphene at amounts >1%. Cistus ladanifer, Ocimum basilicum, Ormenis mixta, and Salvia sclarea EOs significantly reduced sprout length for shorter storage periods, whereas Cinnamomum zeylanicum (bark) and Laurus nobilis EOs also significantly reduced sprout number. Syzygium aromaticum (clove) EO did not significantly suppress sprouting at room temperature. These results indicate the potential of certain EOs to be used as sprout suppressants for room-temperature potato storage, providing needed alternatives for both organic and conventional potato industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Essential Oils of Plants (Chemical Composition, Variation and Properties))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 5340 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Fruit Morphology and Ripening-Related QTLs in a Newly Developed Introgression Line Collection of the Elite Varieties ‘Védrantais’ and ‘Piel de Sapo’

by Miguel Santo Domingo, Carlos Mayobre, Lara Pereira, Jason Argyris, Laura Valverde, Ana Montserrat Martín-Hernández, Jordi Garcia-Mas and Marta Pujol

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3120; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223120 - 15 Nov 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1679

Abstract

Melon is an economically important crop with widely diverse fruit morphology and ripening characteristics. Its diploid sequenced genome and multiple genomic tools make this species suitable to study the genetic architecture of fruit traits. With the development of this introgression line population of [...] Read more.

Melon is an economically important crop with widely diverse fruit morphology and ripening characteristics. Its diploid sequenced genome and multiple genomic tools make this species suitable to study the genetic architecture of fruit traits. With the development of this introgression line population of the elite varieties ‘Piel de Sapo’ and ‘Védrantais’, we present a powerful tool to study fruit morphology and ripening traits that can also facilitate characterization or pyramidation of QTLs in inodorous melon types. The population consists of 36 lines covering almost 98% of the melon genome, with an average of three introgressions per chromosome and segregating for multiple fruit traits: morphology, ripening and quality. High variability in fruit morphology was found within the population, with 24 QTLs affecting six different traits, confirming previously reported QTLs and two newly detected QTLs, FLQW5.1 and FWQW7.1. We detected 20 QTLs affecting fruit ripening traits, six of them reported for the first time, two affecting the timing of yellowing of the rind (EYELLQW1.1 and EYELLQW8.1) and four at the end of chromosome 8 affecting aroma, abscission and harvest date (EAROQW8.3, EALFQW8.3, ABSQW8.3 and HARQW8.3). We also confirmed the location of several QTLs, such as fruit-quality-related QTLs affecting rind and flesh appearance and flesh firmness. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Genetics, Genomics and Breeding of Vegetable Crops)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 2279 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Application of Biostimulants in Tomato Plants (Solanum lycopersicum) to Enhance Plant Growth and Salt Stress Tolerance

by Stella Gedeon, Andreas Ioannou, Raffaella Balestrini, Vasileios Fotopoulos and Chrystalla Antoniou

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3082; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223082 - 14 Nov 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4347

Abstract

Under the era of climate change, plants are forced to survive under increasingly adverse conditions. Application of biostimulants in plants is shown to mitigate the deleterious effects of abiotic stresses including salinity, enhancing plant tolerance and performance. The present study focuses on the [...] Read more.

Under the era of climate change, plants are forced to survive under increasingly adverse conditions. Application of biostimulants in plants is shown to mitigate the deleterious effects of abiotic stresses including salinity, enhancing plant tolerance and performance. The present study focuses on the effects of five biostimulants based on biocompost and biofertilizer compounds that have been applied to tomato plants grown in the presence (salt-stressed plants) or absence of salt stress (control plants). To study the beneficial effects of the biostimulants in tomato plants, a series of analyses were performed, including phenotypic and agronomic observations, physiological, biochemical and enzymatic activity measurements, as well as gene expression analysis (RT-qPCR) including genes involved in antioxidant defense (SlCu/ZnSOD, SlFeSOD, SlCAT1, SlcAPX), nitrogen (SlNR, SlNiR, SlGTS1) and proline metabolism (p5CS), potassium transporters (HKT1.1, HKT1.2), and stress-inducible TFs (SlWRKY8, SlWRKY31). Among all the biostimulant solutions applied to the plants, the composition of 70% biofertilizer and 30% biocompost (Bf70/Bc30) as well as 70% biocompost and 30% biofertilizer (Bc70/Bf30) formulations garnered interest, since the former showed growth promoting features while the latter displayed better defense responses at the time of harvesting compared with the other treatments and controls. Taken together, current findings provide new insight into the beneficial effects of biostimulants, encouraging future field studies to further evaluate the biostimulant effects in plants under a real environment which is compromised by a combination of abiotic and biotic stresses. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 2237 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Profiling Cannabinoid Contents and Expression Levels of Corresponding Biosynthetic Genes in Commercial Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) Cultivars

by Ae Lim Kim, Young Jae Yun, Hyong Woo Choi, Chang-Hee Hong, Hyun Joo Shim, Jeong Hwan Lee and Young-Cheon Kim

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3088; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223088 - 14 Nov 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2862

Abstract

Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) is widely cultivated and studied for its psychoactive and medicinal properties. As the major cannabinoids are present in acidic forms in Cannabis plants, non-enzymatic processes, such as decarboxylation, are crucial for their conversion to neutral active cannabinoid forms. [...] Read more.

Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) is widely cultivated and studied for its psychoactive and medicinal properties. As the major cannabinoids are present in acidic forms in Cannabis plants, non-enzymatic processes, such as decarboxylation, are crucial for their conversion to neutral active cannabinoid forms. Herein, we detected the levels of cannabidivarin (CBDV), cannabidiol (CBD), cannabichromene (CBC), and Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (Δ9-THC) in the leaves and vegetative shoots of five commercial Cannabis cultivars using a combination of relatively simple extraction, decarboxylation, and high-performance liquid chromatography analyses. The CBDV, CBC, and Δ9-THC levels were 6.3–114.9, 34.4–187.2, and 57.6–407.4 μg/g, respectively, and the CBD levels were the highest, ranging between 1.2–8.9 μg/g in leaf and vegetative shoot tissues of Cannabis cultivars. Additionally, correlations were observed between cannabinoid accumulation and transcription levels of genes encoding key enzymes for cannabinoid biosynthesis, including CsCBGAS, CsCBDAS, CsCBCAS, and CsTHCAS. These data suggest that the high accumulation of cannabinoids, such as CBC, Δ9-THC, and CBD, might be derived from the transcriptional regulation of CsCBGAS and CsCBDAS in Cannabis plants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Studies on Cannabis sativa and Cannabinoids)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

25 pages, 1841 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Recent Developments in the Application of Plant Growth-Promoting Drought Adaptive Rhizobacteria for Drought Mitigation

by Ayomide Emmanuel Fadiji, Ma. del Carmen Orozco-Mosqueda, Sergio de los Santos-Villalobos, Gustavo Santoyo and Olubukola Oluranti Babalola

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3090; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223090 - 14 Nov 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2567

Abstract

Drought intensity that has increased as a result of human activity and global warming poses a serious danger to agricultural output. The demand for ecologically friendly solutions to ensure the security of the world’s food supply has increased as a result. Plant growth-promoting [...] Read more.

Drought intensity that has increased as a result of human activity and global warming poses a serious danger to agricultural output. The demand for ecologically friendly solutions to ensure the security of the world’s food supply has increased as a result. Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) treatment may be advantageous in this situation. PGPR guarantees the survival of the plant during a drought through a variety of processes including osmotic adjustments, improved phytohormone synthesis, and antioxidant activity, among others and these mechanisms also promote the plant’s development. In addition, new developments in omics technology have improved our understanding of PGPR, which makes it easier to investigate the genes involved in colonizing plant tissue. Therefore, this review addresses the mechanisms of PGPR in drought stress resistance to summarize the most current omics-based and molecular methodologies for exploring the function of drought-responsive genes. The study discusses a detailed mechanistic approach, PGPR-based bioinoculant design, and a potential roadmap for enhancing their efficacy in combating drought stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Systemic Signaling during Abiotic Stress in Plants)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2972 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Orphan Genes in Crop Improvement: Enhancing Potato Tuber Protein without Impacting Yield

by Rezwan Tanvir, Lei Wang, Amy Zhang and Ling Li

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3076; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223076 - 13 Nov 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2060

Abstract

Qua-Quine Starch (QQS), an Arabidopsis thaliana orphan gene, and its interactor, Arabidopsis Nuclear Factor Y subunit C4 (AtNF-YC4), can increase the total leaf and seed protein in different plants. Despite their potential in developing protein-rich crop varieties, their influence on the [...] Read more.

Qua-Quine Starch (QQS), an Arabidopsis thaliana orphan gene, and its interactor, Arabidopsis Nuclear Factor Y subunit C4 (AtNF-YC4), can increase the total leaf and seed protein in different plants. Despite their potential in developing protein-rich crop varieties, their influence on the protein content of the stem, modified stem, and tuber was never investigated. Potato (Solanum tuberosum) is one of the most valuable food crops worldwide. This staple food is rich in starch, vitamins (B₆, C), phenolics, flavonoids, polyamines, carotenoids, and various minerals but lacks adequate proteins necessary for a healthy human diet. Here we expressed A. thaliana QQS (AtQQS) and overexpressed S. tuberosum NF-YC4 (StNF-YC4) in potatoes to determine their influence on the composition and morphological characteristics of potato tubers. Our data demonstrated higher protein and reduced starch content in potato tubers without significantly compromising the tuber yield, shape, and numbers, when QQS was expressed or StNF-YC4 was overexpressed. Publicly available expression data, promoter region, and protein–protein interaction analyses of StNF-YC4 suggest its potential functionality in potato storage protein, metabolism, stress resistance, and defense against pests and pathogens. The overall outcomes of this study support QQS and NF-YC4’s potential utilization as tools to enhance tuber protein content in plants. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2190 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Essential Oils: Useful Tools in Storage-Pest Management

by Ľudovít Cagáň, Miroslava Apacsová Fusková, Daniela Hlávková and Oxana Skoková Habuštová

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3077; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223077 - 13 Nov 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1618

Abstract

This study aimed to verify the level of repellent and mortality effect of two chemical substances (DEET and 2-undecanone) and seven essential oils (EOs), Allium sativum, Artemisia annua, Ocimum basilicum, Lavandula angustifolia, Eucalyptus globulus, Pinus sylvestris, and [...] Read more.

This study aimed to verify the level of repellent and mortality effect of two chemical substances (DEET and 2-undecanone) and seven essential oils (EOs), Allium sativum, Artemisia annua, Ocimum basilicum, Lavandula angustifolia, Eucalyptus globulus, Pinus sylvestris, and Curcuma longa. The storage pests Tribolium confusum, Tenebrio molitor, and Acanthoscelides obtectus were exposed to various concentrations in an olfactometer-and-mortality test. The effects were recorded 24–48–72 h after the treatments were applied. A. sativum, E. globulus, and L. augustifolia were found to have significant repellence effects. A substantial lethal effect was observed for A. sativum, E. globulus, and O. basilicum. We also found that even if the most efficient EOs were diluted to low concentrations, they still produced repellent and mortality effects. The presented results indicate that A. sativum and O. basilicum were the most effective against T. confusum and T. molitor; simultaneously, L. angustifolia and C. longa showed high activity against A. obtectus. All of these efficient EOs could be applied as effective bio-control agents in various stored conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytotoxic Activity and Application of Plant Essential Oils)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 2125 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Exploring Contact Toxicity of Essential Oils against Sitophilus zeamais through a Meta-Analysis Approach

by Fernanda Achimón, Maria L. Peschiutta, Vanessa D. Brito, Magalí Beato, Romina P. Pizzolitto, Julio A. Zygadlo and María P. Zunino

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3070; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223070 - 13 Nov 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2183

Abstract

Sitophilus zeamais is a primary pest of maize. Our aim was to perform a qualitative review and meta-analyses with 56 scientific articles published from 1 January 2000 to 1 October 2022 dealing with direct (topical application) and indirect (impregnation of essential oils, EOs, [...] Read more.

Sitophilus zeamais is a primary pest of maize. Our aim was to perform a qualitative review and meta-analyses with 56 scientific articles published from 1 January 2000 to 1 October 2022 dealing with direct (topical application) and indirect (impregnation of essential oils, EOs, onto filter paper or maize grains) contact toxicity of EOs against S. zeamais. Three independent meta-analyses of single means of LD₅₀ (direct contact) and LC₅₀ (indirect contact) were conducted using a random effect model. Essential oils more frequently evaluated were those belonging to Asteraceae, Apiaceae, Lamiaceae, Myrtaceae, Piperaceae, and Rutaceae. The LC₅₀ global mean values were 33.19 µg/insect (CI₉₅ 29.81–36.95) for topical application; 0.40 µL/cm² (CI₉₅ 0.25–0.65) for filter paper indirect contact; and 0.50 µL/g maize (CI₉₅ 0.27–0.90) for maize grains indirect contact. The species Carum carvi, Salvia umbratica, Ilicium difengpi, Periploca sepium, Cephalotaxus sinensis, Murraya exotica, Rhododendron anthopogonoides, Ruta graveolens, Eucalyptus viminalis, Ocotea odorifera, Eucalyptus globulus, Eucalyptus dunnii, Anethum graveolens, Ilicium verum, Cryptocarya alba, Azadirachta indica, Chenopodium ambrosioides, Cupressus semperivens, Schinus molle, Piper hispidinervum, Mentha longifolia, and Croton pulegiodorus showed LC₅₀ or LD₅₀ values lower than the global means, indicating good insecticidal properties. Our results showed that EOs have great potential to be used as bioinsecticides against S. zeamais. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Topics in Botanical Biopesticides)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 842 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Nutritive and Phytochemical Composition of Aromatic Microgreen Herbs and Spices Belonging to the Apiaceae Family

by Maria Giordano, Spyridon A. Petropoulos, Marios C. Kyriacou, Giulia Graziani, Armando Zarrelli, Youssef Rouphael and Christophe El-Nakhel

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3057; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223057 - 11 Nov 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 1760

Abstract

Microgreens represent a new generation of food products, commonly used to garnish and embellish culinary dishes, and recently associated with an increasing interest in their nutraceutical and phytochemical profiles. Four Apiaceae species: Pimpinella anisum L. (anise), Anthriscus cerefolium L. (chervil), Carum carvi L. [...] Read more.

Microgreens represent a new generation of food products, commonly used to garnish and embellish culinary dishes, and recently associated with an increasing interest in their nutraceutical and phytochemical profiles. Four Apiaceae species: Pimpinella anisum L. (anise), Anthriscus cerefolium L. (chervil), Carum carvi L. (caraway), and Anethum graveolens L. (dill) were assessed for fresh yield, macro- and microminerals, total chlorophylls, total ascorbic acid, carotenoids, polyphenols, and their antioxidant activity. Anise was the species yielding the most (2.53 kg m⁻²) and having the highest lutein content (18.4 µg g⁻¹ dry weight (DW)). Chervil and dill were characterized by the highest total ascorbic acid content (~151 mg AA g⁻¹ fresh weight (FW)). The phenolic profile highlighted the presence of five flavonoid derivatives and 12 phenolic acid derivatives, with quinic acid derivatives being the most abundant phenols in the species tested. In addition, anise, caraway, and dill proved to be considerably rich in total polyphenols (~11056 μg g⁻¹ DW). Caraway and dill were characterized by the highest antioxidant activity measured by the DPPH and ABTS methods, whereas the FRAP method revealed caraway as having the highest antioxidant activity. Such results highlight the potential of Apiaceae species as an alternative to other families which are commonly used for microgreens production. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemical and Nutritional Analyses of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (MAP))

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 4099 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Relative Water Content, Proline, and Antioxidant Enzymes in Leaves of Long Shelf-Life Tomatoes under Drought Stress and Rewatering

by Cristina Patanè, Salvatore L. Cosentino, Daniela Romano and Stefania Toscano

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3045; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223045 - 10 Nov 2022

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 3003

Abstract

Some physiological, oxidative, and antioxidant enzymatic patterns were assessed in plants of three local Sicilian landraces of long shelf-life tomatoes (‘Custonaci’, ‘Salina’, and ‘Vulcano’), as compared to the commercial tomato hybrid ‘Faino’ (control). Three water treatments were considered in open-field: DRY (no irrigation); [...] Read more.

Some physiological, oxidative, and antioxidant enzymatic patterns were assessed in plants of three local Sicilian landraces of long shelf-life tomatoes (‘Custonaci’, ‘Salina’, and ‘Vulcano’), as compared to the commercial tomato hybrid ‘Faino’ (control). Three water treatments were considered in open-field: DRY (no irrigation); IRR (long-season full irrigation); REW (drought/rewatering cycles). During the growing season, soil water deficit (SWD) was estimated, and relative water content (RWC), specific leaf area (SLA), proline and malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and glutathione peroxidase (GPX), catalase (CAT), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities were measured in leaves. Differently from control, RWC in local landraces exhibited a similar pattern in REW and DRY, indicating a low capacity to re-hydrate after rewatering. Positive correlation of proline content vs. SWD in all local landraces highlights an osmotic adjustment occurring in these tomatoes in response to limited soil water content. Long shelf-life tomatoes suffered minor oxidative stress due to severe soil water deficit, as revealed by the lower levels of MDA with respect to the control. Significant correlation of CAT vs. SWD for all tomatoes indicates that this antioxidant enzyme, among those analyzed, may be considered as a biomarker for a water stress condition more than for oxidative stress due to water deficit. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiological and Biochemical Adjustments in Response to Abiotic Stressors Associated with Climate Change)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 1505 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The 5-Aminolevulinic Acid (5-ALA) Supplement Enhances PSII Photochemical Activity and Antioxidant Activity in the Late Growth Promotion of Pseudostellaria heterophylla

by Julin Ma, Meng Sun, Lingling Qiu, Yinfeng Xie, Yingli Ma and Wenchao Liang

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3035; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223035 - 10 Nov 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1274

Abstract

This study focused on the physiological regulation and mechanism of exogenous 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) in the late growth of P. heterophylla. In the middle of May, different concentrations of 5-ALA (0, 10, 20, 50 mg·L⁻¹) were sprayed on the leaves. [...] Read more.

This study focused on the physiological regulation and mechanism of exogenous 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) in the late growth of P. heterophylla. In the middle of May, different concentrations of 5-ALA (0, 10, 20, 50 mg·L⁻¹) were sprayed on the leaves. The effects of 5-ALA on tuberous root growth, antioxidant enzyme system, gas exchange, photosynthetic pigment contents and photosynthetic characteristics were measured from 23 May to 13 June. A concentration of 20 mg·L⁻¹ of 5-ALA led to a significant increase in the yield of fresh root and biomass allocation at 38.12% and 25.07%, respectively, in comparation with the control (0 mg·L⁻¹). The moderate concentration of 5-ALA statistically stimulated antioxidation activities. 5-ALA treatment enhanced photosynthetic activity and reduced photodamage. Compared to the control, there were increases in the chlorophyll fluorescence parameters of P. heterophylla under 5-ALA treatment. Moreover, 20 mg·L⁻¹ of 5-ALA significantly changed the kinetic parameters of fluorescence. It enhanced the light absorption and distribution efficiency of PSII and the activities of leaves, resulting in alleviating photoinhibition by the excess excitation energy. The correlation indicated that there was a significant positive correlation between the yield of tuberous roots and biomass allocation, P_n and catalase (CAT), and a negative correlation between the yield of tuberous roots and malondialdehyde (MDA). The appropriate 5-ALA concentration in the late growth stage of P. heterophylla effectively enhanced the net photosynthetic capacity, mainly resulting from the enhancement of PSII photochemical activity to promote the increases in excitation energy absorption, capture and electron transfer efficiency of the leaves. Finally, 5-ALA treatment can increase the photochemical activity of PSII in the whole leaf and ultimately delay the senescence of P. heterophylla. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

16 pages, 1288 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Impact of Water Supply Reduction and Cold Storage on Phenolic Compounds from Mango (Mangifera indica L. cv. Cogshall) Pulp and Peel

by Rémy Rosalie, Jacques Joas, Christian Mertz, Laurent Dufossé and Mathieu Léchaudel

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3038; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223038 - 10 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1046

Abstract

The impacts of water supply reduction and cold storage were investigated on the peels and pulps of cv. Cogshall mangoes, regarding their phenolic compound contents. Phenolics identification was operated using HPLC-MSn for both compartments revealing an unbalanced repartition. Peels had a richer and [...] Read more.

The impacts of water supply reduction and cold storage were investigated on the peels and pulps of cv. Cogshall mangoes, regarding their phenolic compound contents. Phenolics identification was operated using HPLC-MSn for both compartments revealing an unbalanced repartition. Peels had a richer and more complex profile, counting xanthone glycoside (mangiferin), flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol) and majorly gallotannins. Pulps presented smaller amounts of phenolics and a simpler profile majorly represented by gallotannins and gallic acid derivatives. During fruit ripening, the phenolic contents decreased in both compartments, but faster in the pulp. This behavior can be attributed to the oxidative stress observed in mango pulp during ripening. Cutting down the water supply during the fruit growth triggered an increase in phenolic contents of both the peels and pulp of mango fruits. This increase affected all compounds. Cold storage at 12 or 7 °C led to an increase in mangiferin and flavonoids contents in the fruit peel, interpreted as a stress-response reaction. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemistry)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 9277 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Phytochemical Profile and Antioxidant Capacity of Viscum album L. Subsp. album and Effects on Its Host Trees

by Eva Kleszken, Cornelia Purcarea, Annamaria Pallag, Floricuta Ranga, Adriana Ramona Memete, Florina Miere (Groza) and Simona Ioana Vicas

Plants 2022, 11(22), 3021; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11223021 - 09 Nov 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 2820

Abstract

Viscum album L. subsp. album is a hemiparasitic plant that is recognized as a medicinal plant due to its beneficial effects, including anti-tumor activity, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hepatotoxic, hypoglycemic, and antimicrobial properties as well as for lowering blood pressure. On the other hand, mistletoe [...] Read more.

Viscum album L. subsp. album is a hemiparasitic plant that is recognized as a medicinal plant due to its beneficial effects, including anti-tumor activity, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-hepatotoxic, hypoglycemic, and antimicrobial properties as well as for lowering blood pressure. On the other hand, mistletoe is a biotic stressor for both deciduous trees and conifers. Our main aim was to evidence the influence of mistletoe on the content of chlorophylls, proline, total phenols, flavonoids, and antioxidant capacity of leaves from tree host trees (Malus domestica, Prunus domestica, and Populus alba) that grow on the northwest of Romania. In addition, HPLC-DAD-MS-ESI+ was used to analyze the phenolic acid and flavonoid profiles of V. album L. subsp. album leaves according to their parasitized hosts. A significant decrease in chlorophyll a level of approximately 32% was detected in poplars infested with mistletoe, followed by infested apples and plums with pigment reductions of 29.25% and 9.65%, respectively. The content of total phenols and flavonoids in the parasitized trees was higher compared to the non-parasitized ones. In the case of poplar, which presented the highest incidence of mistletoe infestation (70.37%), the content of total phenols in the leaves was two times higher compared to non-infested leaves. Based on HPLC chromatographic analysis, leaves of mistletoe growing on apple (VAM) had the highest content of phenolic acids (7.833 mg/g dw), followed by mistletoe leaves on poplar (VAO) and plum (VAP) (7.033 mg/g dw and, respectively, 5.559 mg/g dw). Among the flavonols, the predominant component was Rhamnazin glucosides in the amount of 1.025 ± 0.08 mg/g dw in VAO, followed by VAP and VAM (0.514 ± 0.04 and 0.478 ± 0.04 mg/g dw, respectively). Although our results show that mistletoe negatively influences the host trees, it is still a valuable plant that must be exploited to bring benefits to human health. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Integrated Metabolomics and Plant Chemical Diversity)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 3460 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Unintended Genomic Outcomes in Current and Next Generation GM Techniques: A Systematic Review

by Philomena Chu and Sarah Zanon Agapito-Tenfen

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2997; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212997 - 07 Nov 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2920

Abstract

Classical genetic engineering and new genome editing techniques, especially the CRISPR/Cas technology, increase the possibilities for modifying the genetic material in organisms. These technologies have the potential to provide novel agricultural traits, including modified microorganisms and environmental applications. However, legitimate safety concerns arise [...] Read more.

Classical genetic engineering and new genome editing techniques, especially the CRISPR/Cas technology, increase the possibilities for modifying the genetic material in organisms. These technologies have the potential to provide novel agricultural traits, including modified microorganisms and environmental applications. However, legitimate safety concerns arise from the unintended genetic modifications (GM) that have been reported as side-effects of such techniques. Here, we systematically review the scientific literature for studies that have investigated unintended genomic alterations in plants modified by the following GM techniques: Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated gene transfer, biolistic bombardment, and CRISPR-Cas9 delivered via Agrobacterium-mediated gene transfer (DNA-based), biolistic bombardment (DNA-based) and as ribonucleoprotein complexes (RNPs). The results of our literature review show that the impact of such techniques in host genomes varies from small nucleotide polymorphisms to large genomic variation, such as segmental duplication, chromosome truncation, trisomy, chromothripsis, breakage fusion bridge, including large rearrangements of DNA vector-backbone sequences. We have also reviewed the type of analytical method applied to investigate the genomic alterations and found that only five articles used whole genome sequencing in their analysis methods. In addition, larger structural variations detected in some studies would not be possible without long-read sequencing strategies, which shows a potential underestimation of such effects in the literature. As new technologies are constantly evolving, a more thorough examination of prospective analytical methods should be conducted in the future. This will provide regulators working in the field of genetically modified and gene-edited organisms with valuable information on the ability to detect and identify genomic interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Transformation and Genome Editing)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 532 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Phytochemicals and Inflammation: Is Bitter Better?

by Dorin Dragoș, Madalina Petran, Teodora-Cristiana Gradinaru and Marilena Gilca

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2991; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212991 - 06 Nov 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2447

Abstract

The taste of a herb influences its use in traditional medicine. A molecular basis for the taste-based patterns ruling the distribution of herbal (ethno) pharmacological activities may not be excluded. This study investigated the potential correlations between the anti-inflammatory activity (AIA) and the [...] Read more.

The taste of a herb influences its use in traditional medicine. A molecular basis for the taste-based patterns ruling the distribution of herbal (ethno) pharmacological activities may not be excluded. This study investigated the potential correlations between the anti-inflammatory activity (AIA) and the phytocompound taste and/or its chemical class. The study relies on information gathered by an extensive literature (articles, books, databases) search and made public as PlantMolecularTasteDB. Out of a total of 1527 phytotastants with reliably documented taste and structure available in PlantMolecularTasteDB, 592 (for each of which at least 40 hits were found on PubMed searches) were included in the statistical analysis. A list of 1836 putative molecular targets of these phytotastants was afterwards generated with SwissTargetPrediction tool. These targets were systematically evaluated for their potential role in inflammation using an international databases search. The correlations between phytochemical taste and AIA, between chemical class and AIA, and between the taste and the number of inflammation related targets were statistically analyzed. Phytochemical taste may be a better predictor of AIA than the chemical class. Bitter phytocompounds have a higher probability of exerting AIA when compared with otherwise phytotastants. Moreover, bitter phytotastants act upon more inflammation related targets than non-bitter tasting compounds. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemistry)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

14 pages, 2077 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Antifungal Potential of Canarian Plant Extracts against High-Risk Phytopathogens

by Carolina P. Reyes, Samuel Rodríguez Sabina, Rocío López-Cabeza, Cristina G. Montelongo, Cristina Giménez, Ignacio A. Jiménez, Raimundo Cabrera and Isabel L. Bazzochi

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2988; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212988 - 05 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1694

Abstract

Phytopathogens are responsible for great losses in agriculture. In particular, Fusarium, Alternaria and Botrytis are fungal diseases that affect crops worldwide. In the search for eco-friendly solutions to pest control, plants and their chemo-biodiversity are promising sources of biopesticides for integrated pest [...] Read more.

Phytopathogens are responsible for great losses in agriculture. In particular, Fusarium, Alternaria and Botrytis are fungal diseases that affect crops worldwide. In the search for eco-friendly solutions to pest control, plants and their chemo-biodiversity are promising sources of biopesticides for integrated pest management. The aim of the present study is to report the evaluation of sixteen plant species from the Canary Islands Archipelago against the phytopathogenic fungi Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum, and Alternaria alternata. The plants were selected on the basis of their traditional uses in medicine and/or pest control, as well as on scientific studies reporting their uses in crop protection. Their growth inhibition (% I), in an in vitro test-assay on mycelium, was used to identify six ethanolic plant extracts displaying activity (% I > 30% at 1 mg/mL) against at least one of the assayed fungi. The most effective plant extracts were further fractionated by liquid–liquid partition, using solvents of increasing polarity. This procedure led to an improvement of the bioactivity against the phytopathogens, even affecting the hexane fraction from S. canariensis and achieving an 83.93% of growth inhibition at 0.5 mg/mL on B. cinerea. These findings identified five plant-derived extracts as potential candidates for the future development of new biofungicides, which could be applied in integrated pest management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Extracts as Biological Protective Agents)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 3039 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Light Quality Impacts Vertical Growth Rate, Phytochemical Yield and Cannabinoid Production Efficiency in Cannabis sativa

by Victorio Morello, Vincent Desaulniers Brousseau, Natalie Wu, Bo-Sen Wu, Sarah MacPherson and Mark Lefsrud

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2982; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212982 - 04 Nov 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 6435

Abstract

Light is one of the most crucial parameters for enclosed cannabis (Cannabis sativa) production, as it highly influences growth, secondary metabolite production, and operational costs. The objective of this study was to investigate and evaluate the impact of six light spectra [...] Read more.

Light is one of the most crucial parameters for enclosed cannabis (Cannabis sativa) production, as it highly influences growth, secondary metabolite production, and operational costs. The objective of this study was to investigate and evaluate the impact of six light spectra on C. sativa (‘Babbas Erkle Cookies’ accession) growth traits and secondary metabolite (cannabinoid and terpene) profiles. The light spectra evaluated included blue (430 nm), red (630 nm), rose (430 + 630 nm, ratio 1:10), purple (430 + 630 nm, ratio 2:1), and amber (595 nm) LED treatments, in addition to a high-pressure sodium (HPS, amber-rich light) treatment as a control. All the LED light treatments had lower fresh mean inflorescence mass than the control (HPS, 133.59 g plant⁻¹), and monochromatic blue light yielded the least fresh inflorescence mass (76.39 g plant⁻¹). Measurement of Δ9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) concentration (%) and total yield (g plant⁻¹) showed how inflorescence mass and THC concentration need to be analyzed conjointly. Blue treatment resulted in the highest THC concentration (10.17% m/m), yet the lowest THC concentration per plant (1.44 g plant⁻¹). The highest THC concentration per plant was achieved with HPS (2.54 g plant⁻¹). As with THC, blue light increased cannabigerol (CBG) and terpene concentration. Conversely, blue light had a lesser impact on cannabidiol (CBD) biosynthesis in this C. sativa chemotype. As the combined effects of the light spectrum on both growth traits and secondary metabolites have important ramifications for the industry, the inappropriate spectral design could cause a reduction in cannabinoid production (20–40%). These findings show promise in helping producers choose spectral designs that meet specific C. sativa production goals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Responses of Plants to Environmental Stresses Volume II)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1114 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Utilization of Novel Perilla SSR Markers to Assess the Genetic Diversity of Native Perilla Germplasm Accessions Collected from South Korea

by Zhen Yu Fu, Kyu Jin Sa, Hyeon Park, So Jung Jang, Yeon Joon Kim and Ju Kyong Lee

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2974; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212974 - 03 Nov 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1243

Abstract

The Perilla crop is highly regarded in South Korea, both as a health food and traditional food. However, there is still a lack of Perilla SSR primer sets (PSPSs) for studying genetic variation among accessions of cultivated and weedy types of Perilla crop [...] Read more.

The Perilla crop is highly regarded in South Korea, both as a health food and traditional food. However, there is still a lack of Perilla SSR primer sets (PSPSs) for studying genetic variation among accessions of cultivated and weedy types of Perilla crop (CWTPC) from South Korea. In this study, 30 PSPSs were newly developed based on transcriptome contigs in P. frutescens, and 17 of these PSPSs were used to study the genetic diversity, phylogenetic relationships and structure population among 90 accessions of the CWTPC collected from South Korea. A total of 100 alleles were detected from selected 17 PSPSs, with an average of 5.9 alleles per locus. The gene diversity (GD) ranged from 0.164 to 0.831, with an average of 0.549. The average GD values from the cultivated var. frutescens, weedy var. frutescens, and weedy var. crispa, were 0.331, 0.588, and 0.389 respectively. In addition, most variance shown by Perilla SSR markers was within a population (73%). An analysis of the population structure and phylogenetic relationships showed that the genetic relationship among accessions of the weedy var. frutescens and weedy var. crispa is closer than that for the accessions of the cultivated var. frutescens. Based on association analysis between 17 PSPSs and three seed traits in 90 Perilla accessions, we detected 11 PSPSs that together were associated with the seed size and seed hardness traits. Therefore, the newly developed PSPSs will be useful for analyzing genetic variation among accessions of the CWTPC, association mapping, and selection of important morphological traits in Perilla crop breeding programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Marker-Assisted Technologies for Crop Breeding)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 4798 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Liposomal Formulation of Botanical Extracts may Enhance Yield Triggering PR Genes and Phenylpropanoid Pathway in Barley (Hordeum vulgare)

by Géza Hegedűs, Barbara Kutasy, Márta Kiniczky, Kincső Decsi, Ákos Juhász, Ágnes Nagy, József Péter Pallos and Eszter Virág

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2969; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212969 - 03 Nov 2022

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 1857

Abstract

This work aimed to study the plant conditioning effect and mode of action of a plant-based biostimulant used in organic farming. This new generation plant biostimulant, named ELICE16INDURES^®, is rich in plant bio-active ingredients containing eleven supercritical botanical extracts encapsulated in [...] Read more.

This work aimed to study the plant conditioning effect and mode of action of a plant-based biostimulant used in organic farming. This new generation plant biostimulant, named ELICE16INDURES^®, is rich in plant bio-active ingredients containing eleven supercritical botanical extracts encapsulated in nano-scale liposomes. The dose–response (10 to 240 g ha⁻¹) relationship was tested in a field population of autumn barley (Hordeum vulgare) test crop, and underlying molecular mechanisms were studied. Applying nanotechnology, cell-identical nanoparticles may help the better uptake and delivery of active ingredients increasing resilience, vitality, and crop yield. The amount of harvested crops showed a significant increase of 27.5% and 39.9% interconnected to higher normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) of 20% and 25% after the treatment of low and high dosages (20 and 240 g ha⁻¹), respectively. Illumina NextSeq 550 sequencing, gene expression profiling, and KEGG-pathway analysis of outstanding dosages indicated the upregulation of pathogenesis-related (PR) and other genes—associated with induced resistance—which showed dose dependency as well. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Activities and Constituents of Plant-Derived Natural Products and Their Application)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

11 pages, 1269 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Response of Duckweed Lemna minor to Microplastics and Its Potential Use as a Bioindicator of Microplastic Pollution

by Ula Rozman and Gabriela Kalčíková

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2953; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212953 - 02 Nov 2022

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 3119

Abstract

Biomonitoring has become an indispensable tool for detecting various environmental pollutants, but microplastics have been greatly neglected in this context. They are currently monitored using multistep physico-chemical methods that are time-consuming and expensive, making the search for new monitoring options of great interest. [...] Read more.

Biomonitoring has become an indispensable tool for detecting various environmental pollutants, but microplastics have been greatly neglected in this context. They are currently monitored using multistep physico-chemical methods that are time-consuming and expensive, making the search for new monitoring options of great interest. In this context, the aim of this study was to investigate the possibility of using an aquatic macrophyte as a bioindicator of microplastic pollution in freshwaters. Therefore, the effects and adhesion of three types of microplastics (polyethylene microbeads, tire wear particles, and polyethylene terephthalate fibers) and two types of natural particles (wood dust and cellulose particles) to duckweed Lemna minor were investigated. The results showed that fibers and natural particles had no effect on the specific growth rate, chlorophyll a content, and root length of duckweed, while a significant reduction in the latter was observed when duckweed was exposed to microbeads and tire wear particles. The percentage of adhered particles was ten times higher for polyethylene microbeads than for other microplastics and natural particles, suggesting that the adhesion of polyethylene microbeads to duckweed is specific. Because the majority of microplastics in freshwaters are made of polyethylene, the use of duckweed for their biomonitoring could provide important information on microplastic pollution in freshwaters. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Duckweed: Research Meets Applications)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

20 pages, 1747 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Analytical Quality by Design (AQbD) Approach to the Development of Analytical Procedures for Medicinal Plants

by Geonha Park, Min Kyoung Kim, Seung Hyeon Go, Minsik Choi and Young Pyo Jang

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2960; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212960 - 02 Nov 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 4970

Abstract

Scientific regulatory systems with suitable analytical methods for monitoring quality, safety, and efficacy are essential in medicinal plant drug discovery. There have been only few attempts to adopt the analytical quality by design (AQbD) strategy in medicinal plants analysis over the last few [...] Read more.

Scientific regulatory systems with suitable analytical methods for monitoring quality, safety, and efficacy are essential in medicinal plant drug discovery. There have been only few attempts to adopt the analytical quality by design (AQbD) strategy in medicinal plants analysis over the last few years. AQbD is a holistic method and development approach that understands analytical procedure, from risk assessment to lifecycle management. The enhanced AQbD approach reduces the time and effort necessary to develop reliable analytical methods, leads to flexible change control through the method operable design region (MODR), and lowers the out-of-specification (OOS) results. However, it is difficult to follow all the AQbD workflow steps in the field of medicinal plants analysis, such as defining the analytical target profiles (ATPs), identifying critical analytical procedure parameters (CAPPs), among others, because the complexity of chemical and biological properties in medicinal plants acts as a barrier. In this review, various applications of AQbD to medicinal plant analytical procedures are discussed. Unlike the analysis of a single compound, medicinal plant analysis is characterized by analyzing multiple components contained in biological materials, so it will be summarized by focusing on the following points: Analytical methods showing correlations within analysis parameters for the specific medicinal plant analysis, plant raw material diversity, one or more analysis targets defined for multiple phytochemicals, key analysis attributes, and analysis control strategies. In addition, the opportunities available through the use of design-based quality management techniques and the challenges that coexist are also discussed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Phytochemistry of Aromatic and Medicinal Plants)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 6538 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Calcium and Boron Fertilization Improves Soybean Photosynthetic Efficiency and Grain Yield

by Tatiani Mayara Galeriani, Gabriel Oliveira Neves, João Henrique Santos Ferreira, Rafael Neres Oliveira, Sirlene Lopes Oliveira, Juliano Carlos Calonego and Carlos Alexandre Costa Crusciol

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2937; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212937 - 01 Nov 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3076

Abstract

Foliar fertilization with calcium (Ca) and boron (B) at flowering can promote flower retention and pod fixation, thereby increasing the number of pods per plant and, in turn, crop productivity. The objective of this work was to investigate the effects of Ca + [...] Read more.

Foliar fertilization with calcium (Ca) and boron (B) at flowering can promote flower retention and pod fixation, thereby increasing the number of pods per plant and, in turn, crop productivity. The objective of this work was to investigate the effects of Ca + B fertilization during flowering on the nutritional, metabolic and yield performance of soybean (Glycine max L.) The treatments consisted of the presence and the absence of Ca + B fertilization in two growing seasons. Crop nutritional status, gas exchange parameters, photosynthetic enzyme activity (Rubisco), total soluble sugar content, total leaf protein concentration, agronomic parameters, and grain yield were evaluated. Foliar Ca + B fertilization increased water use efficiency and carboxylation efficiency, and the improvement in photosynthesis led to higher leaf sugar and protein concentrations. The improvement in metabolic activity promoted a greater number of pods and grains plant⁻¹, culminating in higher yields. These results indicate that foliar fertilization with Ca + B can efficiently improve carbon metabolism, resulting in better yields in soybean. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Crop Physiology and Crop Production)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 5433 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Molecular Mechanisms Underlying Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) Tolerance to Cadmium: A Case Study of Proteome and Metabolome of Four Different Flax Genotypes

by Veronika Berková, Miroslav Berka, Miroslav Griga, Romana Kopecká, Miroslava Prokopová, Markéta Luklová, Jiří Horáček, Iva Smýkalová, Petr Čičmanec, Jan Novák, Břetislav Brzobohatý and Martin Černý

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2931; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212931 - 31 Oct 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2265

Abstract

Cadmium is one of the most toxic heavy metal pollutants, and its accumulation in the soil is harmful to agriculture. Plants have a higher cadmium tolerance than animals, and some species can be used for phytoremediation. Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) can accumulate [...] Read more.

Cadmium is one of the most toxic heavy metal pollutants, and its accumulation in the soil is harmful to agriculture. Plants have a higher cadmium tolerance than animals, and some species can be used for phytoremediation. Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) can accumulate high amounts of cadmium, but the molecular mechanism behind its tolerance is unknown. Here, we employed four genotypes representing two fiber cultivars, an oilseed breeding line, and a transgenic line overexpressing the metallothionein domain for improved cadmium tolerance. We analyzed the proteome of suspensions and the proteome and metabolome of seedling roots in response to cadmium. We identified more than 1400 differentially abundant proteins representing putative mechanisms in cadmium tolerance, including metal-binding proteins and transporters, enzymes of flavonoid, jasmonate, polyamine, glutathione metabolism, and HSP70 proteins. Our data indicated the role of the phytohormone cytokinin in the observed responses. The metabolome profiling found that pipecolinic acid could be a part of the cadmium accumulation mechanism, and the observed accumulation of putrescine, coumaric acid, cinnamic acid, and coutaric acid confirmed the role of polyamines and flavonoids in tolerance to cadmium. In conclusion, our data provide new insight into cadmium tolerance and prospective targets for improving cadmium tolerance in other plants. Full article

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

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 4908 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Responses of Forest Net Primary Productivity to Climatic Factors in China during 1982–2015

by Ziqiang Du, Xuejia Liu, Zhitao Wu, Hong Zhang and Jie Zhao

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2932; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212932 - 31 Oct 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 1610

Abstract

Forest ecosystems play an important role in the global carbon cycle. Clarifying the large-scale dynamics of net primary productivity (NPP) and its correlation with climatic factors is essential for national forest ecology and management. Hence, this study aimed to explore the effects of [...] Read more.

Forest ecosystems play an important role in the global carbon cycle. Clarifying the large-scale dynamics of net primary productivity (NPP) and its correlation with climatic factors is essential for national forest ecology and management. Hence, this study aimed to explore the effects of major climatic factors on the Carnegie–Ames–Stanford Approach (CASA) model-estimated NPP of the entire forest and all its corresponding vegetation types in China from 1982 to 2015. The spatiotemporal patterns of interannual variability of forest NPP were illustrated using linear regression and geographic information system (GIS) spatial analysis. The correlations between forest NPP and climatic factors were evaluated using partial correlation analysis and sliding correlation analysis. We found that over thirty years, the average annual NPP of the forests was 887 × 10¹² g C/a, and the average annual NPP per unit area was 650.73 g C/m²/a. The interannual NPP of the entire forest and all its corresponding vegetation types significantly increased (p < 0.01). The increase in the NPP of evergreen broad-leaved forests was markedly substantial among forest types. From the spatial perspective, the NPP of the entire forest vegetation gradually increased from northwest to southeast. Over the years, the proportions of the entire forest and all its corresponding vegetation types with a considerable increase in NPP were higher than those with a significant decrease, indicating, generally, improvements in forest NPP. We also found climatic factors variably affected the NPP of forests over time considering that the rise in temperature and solar radiation improved the interannual forest NPP, and the decline in precipitation diminished the forest NPP. Such varying strength of the relationship between the interannual forest NPP and climatic factors also varied across many forest types. Understanding the spatiotemporal pattern of forest NPP and its varying responses to climatic change will improve our knowledge to manage forest ecosystems and maintain their sustainability under a changing environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Morphology and Function, Geometric Morphometrics, and Modelling: Decoding the Mathematical Secrets of Plants)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 1633 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Bioprospecting Soil Bacteria from Arid Zones to Increase Plant Tolerance to Drought: Growth and Biochemical Status of Maize Inoculated with Plant Growth-Promoting Bacteria Isolated from Sal Island, Cape Verde

by Catarina Cruz, Paulo Cardoso, Jacinta Santos, Diana Matos and Etelvina Figueira

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2912; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212912 - 29 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1858

Abstract

Climate change and anthropogenic activities are responsible for extensive crop yield losses, with negative impact on global agricultural production. The occurrence of extreme weather events such as drought is a big challenge for agriculture, negatively impacting crops. Thus, methodologies reducing crop dependence on [...] Read more.

Climate change and anthropogenic activities are responsible for extensive crop yield losses, with negative impact on global agricultural production. The occurrence of extreme weather events such as drought is a big challenge for agriculture, negatively impacting crops. Thus, methodologies reducing crop dependence on water will be a great advantage. Plant roots are colonized by soil bacteria, that can establish beneficial associations with plants, increasing crop productivity and plant tolerance to abiotic stresses. The aim of this study was to promote plant growth and to increase crop tolerance to drought by inoculation with osmotolerant bacterial strains. For that, bacteria were isolated from plants growing in Sal Island (Cape Verde) and identified. The osmotolerance and plant-growth promotion (PGP) abilities of the strains were determined. A maize seed cultivar tolerant to drought was inoculated with the strains evidencing best PGP capacity and osmo-tolerance. Results evidenced the ability of some bacterial strains increasing the development and inducing osmotolerance in plants. These results evidence the potential of osmotolerant bacteria to further increase the level of tolerance of maize varieties tolerant to drought, decreasing the dependence of this crop on irrigation, and open new perspectives to growth maize in drought affected areas and to use water more efficiently. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Growth Promoting Bacteria)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

21 pages, 2841 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Cannabinol: History, Syntheses, and Biological Profile of the Greatest “Minor” Cannabinoid

by Chiara Maioli, Daiana Mattoteia, Hawraz Ibrahim M. Amin, Alberto Minassi and Diego Caprioglio

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2896; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212896 - 28 Oct 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5307

Abstract

Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) is an outstanding source of bioactive natural products, with more than 150 different phytocannabinoids isolated throughout the decades; however, studies of their bioactivity have historically concentrated on the so-called “big four” [∆⁹-THC (1a), CBD [...] Read more.

Cannabis (Cannabis sativa L.) is an outstanding source of bioactive natural products, with more than 150 different phytocannabinoids isolated throughout the decades; however, studies of their bioactivity have historically concentrated on the so-called “big four” [∆⁹-THC (1a), CBD (2a), CBG (3a) and CBC (4a)]. Among the remaining products, which have traditionally been referred to as “minor cannabinoids”, cannabinol (CBN, 5a) stands out for its important repercussions and implications on the global scientific landscape. Throughout this review, we will describe why CBN (5a) deserves a prominent place within the so-called “cannabinome”, providing an overview on its history, the syntheses developed, and its bioactivity, highlighting its promising pharmacological potential and the significant impact that the study of its chemistry had on the development of new synthetic methodologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exploring the Universe of Natural Products: Recent Advances in Synthesis, Isolation and Structural Elucidation II)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 6248 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Bioassay Guided Fractionation Protocol for Determining Novel Active Compounds in Selected Australian Flora

by Janice Mani, Joel Johnson, Holly Hosking, Beatriz E. Hoyos, Kerry B. Walsh, Paul Neilsen and Mani Naiker

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2886; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212886 - 28 Oct 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5357

Abstract

A large variety of unique and distinct flora of Australia have developed exceptional survival methods and phytochemicals and hence may provide a significant avenue for new drug discovery. This study proposes a bioassay guided fractionation protocol that maybe robust and efficient in screening [...] Read more.

A large variety of unique and distinct flora of Australia have developed exceptional survival methods and phytochemicals and hence may provide a significant avenue for new drug discovery. This study proposes a bioassay guided fractionation protocol that maybe robust and efficient in screening plants with potential bioactive properties and isolating lead novel compounds. Hence, five native Australian plants were selected for this screening process, namely Pittosporum angustifolium (Gumbi gumbi), Terminalia ferdinandiana (Kakadu plum, seeds (KPS), and flesh (KPF)), Cupaniopsis anacardioides (Tuckeroo, seeds (TKS) and flesh (TKF)), Podocarpus elatus (Illawarra plum, seeds (IPS) and flesh (IPF)) and Pleiogynium timoriense (Burdekin plum, seeds (BPS) and flesh (BPF)). The methanolic extracts of the plants samples were analysed for Total phenolic content (TPC) and antioxidant capacity measure by FRAP. The highest values were found in the KPF which were 12,442 ± 1355 mg GAE/ 100 g TPC and 16,670 ± 2275 mg TXE/100 g antioxidant capacity. Extracts of GGL was deemed to be most potent with complete cell inhibition in HeLa and HT29, and about 95% inhibition in HuH7 cells. Comparative activity was also seen for KPS extract, where more than 80% cell inhibition occurred in all tested cell lines. Dose-dependent studies showed higher SI values (0.72–1.02) in KPS extracts than GGL (0.5–0.73). Microbial assays of the crude extracts were also performed against five bacterial strains commonly associated with causing food poisoning diseases were selected (Gram positive—Staphylococcus aureus and Gram negative—Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bacteria). KPF extracts were effective in suppressing microbial growth of all tested bacterial strains except for P. aeruginosa, while TKS and TKF were only slightly effective against S. aureus. Due to the potential of the GGL crude extract to completely inhibit the cells compared to KPS, it was further fractionated and tested against the cell lines. HPLC phenolic profiling of the crude extracts were performed, and numerous peak overlaps were evident in the fruit extracts. The KPF extracts demonstrated the strongest peaks which was coherent with the fact that it had the highest TPC and antioxidant capacity values. A high occurrence of t-ferulic acid in the GGL extracts was found which may explain the cytotoxic activity of GGL extracts. Peaks in KPS and KPF extracts were tentatively identified as gallic acid, protocatechuic acid, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid and syringic acid and possibly ellagic acid. HPLC time-based fractionation of the GGL extract (F1–F5) was performed and Dose dependent cytotoxic effects were determined. It was construed that F1, having the highest SI value for HeLa, HT29 and HuH7 (1.60, 1.41 and 1.67, respectively) would be promising for further fractionation and isolation process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Bioactive Compounds and Prospects for Their Use in Beverages)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

19 pages, 3121 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

CsMYB Transcription Factors Participate in Jasmonic Acid Signal Transduction in Response to Cold Stress in Tea Plant (Camellia sinensis)

by Zhaolan Han, Chen Zhang, Huan Zhang, Yu Duan, Zhongwei Zou, Lin Zhou, Xujun Zhu, Wanping Fang and Yuanchun Ma

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2869; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212869 - 27 Oct 2022

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 1845

Abstract

Low-temperature stress is an increasing problem for the cultivation of tea (Camellia sinensis), with adverse effects on plant growth and development and subsequent negative impacts on the tea industry. Methyl jasmonate (MeJA), as a plant inducer, can improve the cold-stress tolerance [...] Read more.

Low-temperature stress is an increasing problem for the cultivation of tea (Camellia sinensis), with adverse effects on plant growth and development and subsequent negative impacts on the tea industry. Methyl jasmonate (MeJA), as a plant inducer, can improve the cold-stress tolerance in tea plants. R2R3-MYB transcription factors (TFs) are considered potentially important regulators in the resistance to cold stress in plants. However, the molecular mechanisms, by which MYB TFs via the jasmonic acid pathway respond to cold stress in the tea plant, remain unknown. In this study, physiological and biochemical assays showed that exogenous MeJA application could effectively promote ROS scavenging in the tea plant under cold stress, maintaining the stability of the cell membrane. Sixteen R2R3-MYB TFs genes were identified from the tea plant genome database. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis showed that three CsMYB genes were strongly induced under a combination of MeJA and cold-stress treatment. Subcellular localization assays suggest CsMYB45, CsMYB46, and CsMYB105 localized in the nucleus. Exogenous MeJA treatment enhanced the overexpression of CsMYB45, CsMYB46, and CsMYB105 in E. coli and improved the growth and survival rates of recombinant cells compared to an empty vector under cold stress. Yeast two-hybrid and bimolecular fluorescence complementation experiments confirmed that CsMYB46 and CsMYB105 interacted with CsJAZ3, CsJAZ10, and CsJAZ11 in the nucleus. Taken together, these results highlight that CsMYB45, CsMYB46, and CsMYB105 are not only key components in the cold-stress signal response pathway but also may serve as points of confluence for cold stress and JA signaling pathways. Furthermore, our findings provide new insight into how MYB TFs influence cold tolerance via the jasmonic acid pathway in tea and provide candidate genes for future functional studies and breeding. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tea Plants Response to Abiotic Stress)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 1182 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Indoor Vegetable Production: An Alternative Approach to Increasing Cultivation

by Peter A. Y. Ampim, Eric Obeng and Ernesto Olvera-Gonzalez

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2843; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212843 - 25 Oct 2022

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 4618

Abstract

As the world’s population is increasing exponentially, human diets have changed to less healthy foods resulting in detrimental health complications. Increasing vegetable intake by both rural and urban dwellers can help address this issue. However, these communities often face the challenge of limited [...] Read more.

As the world’s population is increasing exponentially, human diets have changed to less healthy foods resulting in detrimental health complications. Increasing vegetable intake by both rural and urban dwellers can help address this issue. However, these communities often face the challenge of limited vegetable supply and accessibility. More so, open field vegetable production cannot supply all the vegetable needs because biotic and abiotic stress factors often hinder production. Alternative approaches such as vegetable production in greenhouses, indoor farms, high tunnels, and screenhouses can help fill the gap in the supply chain. These alternative production methods provide opportunities to use less resources such as land space, pesticide, and water. They also make possible the control of production factors such as temperature, relative humidity, and carbon dioxide, as well as extension of the growing season. Some of these production systems also make the supply and distribution of nutrients to crops easier and more uniform to enhance crop growth and yield. This paper reviews these alternative vegetable production approaches which include hydroponics, aeroponics, aquaponics and soilless mixes to reveal the need for exploring them further to increase crop production. The paper also discusses facilities used, plant growth factors, current challenges including energy costs and prospects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil-Plant-Water System and Interactions)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

29 pages, 4097 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Soil Fertility Clock—Crop Rotation as a Paradigm in Nitrogen Fertilizer Productivity Control

by Witold Grzebisz, Jean Diatta, Przemysław Barłóg, Maria Biber, Jarosław Potarzycki, Remigiusz Łukowiak, Katarzyna Przygocka-Cyna and Witold Szczepaniak

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2841; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212841 - 25 Oct 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 2130

Abstract

The Soil Fertility Clock (SFC) concept is based on the assumption that the critical content (range) of essential nutrients in the soil is adapted to the requirements of the most sensitive plant in the cropping sequence (CS). This provides a key way to [...] Read more.

The Soil Fertility Clock (SFC) concept is based on the assumption that the critical content (range) of essential nutrients in the soil is adapted to the requirements of the most sensitive plant in the cropping sequence (CS). This provides a key way to effectively control the productivity of fertilizer nitrogen (N_f). The production goals of a farm are set for the maximum crop yield, which is defined by the environmental conditions of the production process. This target can be achieved, provided that the efficiency of N_f approaches 1.0. Nitrogen (in fact, nitrate) is the determining yield-forming factor, but only when it is balanced with the supply of other nutrients (nitrogen-supporting nutrients; N-SNs). The condition for achieving this level of N_f efficiency is the effectiveness of other production factors, including N-SNs, which should be set at ≤1.0. A key source of N-SNs for a plant is the soil zone occupied by the roots. N-SNs should be applied in order to restore their content in the topsoil to the level required by the most sensitive crop in a given CS. Other plants in the CS provide the timeframe for active controlling the distance of the N-SNs from their critical range. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Improving Fertilizer Use Efficiency–Methods and Strategies for the Future)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

13 pages, 4565 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Pre- or Post-Harvest Treatment with MeJA Improves Post-Harvest Storage of Lemon Fruit by Stimulating the Antioxidant System and Alleviating Chilling Injury

by Ling Liao, Sichen Li, Yunjie Li, Zehao Huang, Jiahao Li, Bo Xiong, Mingfei Zhang, Guochao Sun and Zhihui Wang

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2840; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212840 - 25 Oct 2022

Cited by 12 | Viewed by 1765

Abstract

Cold storage preserves lemon fruit quality; however, it can result in significant chilling injury (CI). The effects of pre- and post-harvest methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatments at four concentrations (0, 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 mM) on CI and sensory quality of lemons during 80 [...] Read more.

Cold storage preserves lemon fruit quality; however, it can result in significant chilling injury (CI). The effects of pre- and post-harvest methyl jasmonate (MeJA) treatments at four concentrations (0, 0.1, 0.3, and 0.5 mM) on CI and sensory quality of lemons during 80 d of storage at 7–10 °C were investigated. Both pre- and post-harvest MeJA treatments reduced CI, weight loss (WL) and maintained higher firmness, total soluble solids (TSS), and total acidity (TA) than in the controls. Antioxidant enzyme activities decreased in the control fruit but increased in both pre- and post-harvest MeJA-treated fruit. In addition, phospholipase D (PLD) and lipoxygenase (LOX) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were higher in the control than in the MeJA-treated fruit. Pre-harvest MeJA treatment generally preserved fruit better than post-harvest MeJA treatment, with the best results observed when MeJA was applied at 0.3 mM, which enhanced the antioxidant system of the lemon fruits, thus reducing the post-harvest incidence of chilling injury. These results have important implications for improved fruit quality post-harvest. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Postharvest Physiology and Biochemistry of Fruits and Vegetables)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 1675 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Activity of Aqueous Extracts from Native Plants of the Yucatan Peninsula against Fungal Pathogens of Tomato In Vitro and from Croton chichenensis against Corynespora cassiicola on Tomato

by Felicia Amalia Moo-Koh, Jairo Cristóbal-Alejo, José María Tun-Suárez, Irma Leticia Medina-Baizabal, Alejandra Anahi Arjona-Cruz and Marcela Gamboa-Angulo

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2821; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212821 - 24 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1925

Abstract

Plant extracts are a valuable alternative to control pathogens of horticultural crops. In the present study, four species of pathogenic fungi were isolated from leaf spots on Solanum lycopersicum and identified by traditional and molecular techniques as Alternaria alternata ITC24, Corynespora cassiicola [...] Read more.

Plant extracts are a valuable alternative to control pathogens of horticultural crops. In the present study, four species of pathogenic fungi were isolated from leaf spots on Solanum lycopersicum and identified by traditional and molecular techniques as Alternaria alternata ITC24, Corynespora cassiicola ITC23, Curvularia lunata ITC22, and Fusarium equiseti ITC32. When 11 aqueous extracts from eight native plants of the Yucatan Peninsula were tested against the four fungi in vitro, the extract from Croton chichenensis roots was most active, inhibiting mycelial growth (79–100%), sporulation (100%), and conidial germination (71–100%) at 3% (w/v). A logarithmic–diagrammatic scale of the pathosystem C. cassiicola–S. lycopersicum was established and used to assess disease severity on inoculated tomato plants in a greenhouse after treatment with the aqueous extract from C. chichenensis roots at 12% (w/v). After 21 days, the disease severity was 57% lower than on the control without extract applied. This dose of the extract was not phytotoxic to tomato leaves and was compatible with the beneficial organisms Bacillus subtilis CBCK47 and Trichodema asperellum Ta13-17. The antifungal efficacy of C. chichenensis is highly promising for incorporation into integrated disease management of tomato crops. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Protection and Biotic Interactions)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

18 pages, 3907 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

The Effects of Temperature and Water on the Seed Germination and Seedling Development of Rapeseed (Brassica napus L.)

by Asma Haj Sghaier, Ákos Tarnawa, Hussein Khaeim, Gergő Péter Kovács, Csaba Gyuricza and Zoltán Kende

Plants 2022, 11(21), 2819; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11212819 - 23 Oct 2022

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 9893

Abstract

The seed germination and seedling growth of rapeseed are crucial stages in plant life, especially when facing abiotic stresses. In the present work, the effects of water and temperature on seed germination and seedling growth were investigated in a rapeseed crop (Brassica [...] Read more.

The seed germination and seedling growth of rapeseed are crucial stages in plant life, especially when facing abiotic stresses. In the present work, the effects of water and temperature on seed germination and seedling growth were investigated in a rapeseed crop (Brassica napus L.). The plants were examined under different temperature levels (5 °C, 10 °C, 15 °C, 20 °C, 25 °C, 30 °C, and 35 °C) and water levels (twenty-nine levels based on either one-milliliter intervals or as a percentage of the thousand-kernel weight (TKW)). Moreover, planting densities and antifungal application techniques were investigated in the study. The findings demonstrated substantial variations between all the growth parameters investigated at all the tested temperatures, and 20 °C was considered the optimum within a broad range of 15–25 °C. Water availability plays a significant role in germination, which can be initiated at 0.65 mL, corresponding to 500% of the TKW. The method of TKW is a more accurate aspect of water application because of the consideration of the seed weight and size. The optimal water range for the accumulation of dry weight, 3.85–5.9 mL (2900–4400% of TKW), was greater than that required for seedling growth, 1.45–3.05 mL (1100–2300% of TKW). Twenty to twenty-five seeds per 9 cm Petri dish exhibited the most outstanding values compared to the others, which provides an advantage in breeding programs, especially when there are seed limitations. Seed priming is a more effective antifungal application strategy. These data can be incorporated into future rapeseed germination in vitro studies, breeding programs, and sowing date predictions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Evaluation of Stress Factors in Crops’ Life)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

30 pages, 19838 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

An Integrative Review on the Main Flavonoids Found in Some Species of the Myrtaceae Family: Phytochemical Characterization, Health Benefits and Development of Products

by Vinícius Tadeu da Veiga Correia, Pâmela Rocha da Silva, Carla Mariele Silva Ribeiro, Ana Luiza Coeli Cruz Ramos, Ana Carolina do Carmo Mazzinghy, Viviane Dias Medeiros Silva, Afonso Henrique Oliveira Júnior, Bruna Vieira Nunes, Ana Luiza Santos Vieira, Lucas Victor Ribeiro, Ana Cardoso Clemente Filha Ferreira de Paula, Júlio Onésio Ferreira Melo and Camila Argenta Fante

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2796; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202796 - 21 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2424

Abstract

This integrative review aims to identify the main flavonoids present in some species of the Myrtaceae family. Studies published between 2016 and 2022 were selected, specifically those which were fully available and written in Portuguese, English, or Spanish, and which were related to [...] Read more.

This integrative review aims to identify the main flavonoids present in some species of the Myrtaceae family. Studies published between 2016 and 2022 were selected, specifically those which were fully available and written in Portuguese, English, or Spanish, and which were related to the fruits araçá (Psidium cattleianum), cambuí (Myrciaria floribunda), gabiroba (Campomanesia xanthocarpa), jabuticaba (Plinia cauliflora), and jambolan (Syzygium cumini). Scientific studies were gathered and selected in Google Scholar, Scielo, and Science Direct indexed databases, out of which 14 were about araçá, 7 concerned cambuí, 4 were about gabiroba, 29 were related to jabuticaba, and 33 concerned jambolan, when we observed the pre-established inclusion criteria. Results showed that the anthocyanins, such as cyanidin, petunidin, malvidin, and delphinidin, were the mostly identified class of flavonoids in plants of the Myrtaceae family, mainly relating to the purple/reddish color of the evaluated fruits. Other compounds, such as catechin, epicatechin, quercetin, and rutin were also identified in different constituent fractions, such as leaves, peel, pulp, seeds, and in developed products, such as jams, desserts, wines, teas, and other beverages. It is also worth noting the positive health effects verified in these studies, such as anti-inflammatory qualities for jambolan, antidiabetic qualities for gabiroba, antioxidant qualities for araçá, and cardioprotective actions for jabuticaba, which are related to the presence of these phytochemicals. Therefore, it is possible to point out that flavonoids are important compounds in the chemical constitution of the studied plants of the Myrtaceae family, with promising potential in the development of new products by the food, chemical, and pharmaceutical industries due to their bioactive properties. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Review Papers in Phytochemistry)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2501 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Impacts of the Invasive Alien Carpobrotus spp. on Coastal Habitats on a Mediterranean Island (Giglio Island, Central Italy)

by Michele Mugnai, Renato Benesperi, Daniele Viciani, Giulio Ferretti, Michele Giunti, Francesca Giannini and Lorenzo Lazzaro

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2802; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202802 - 21 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1560

Abstract

Carpobrotus acinaciformis and C. edulis are well-known invasive alien plants native to South Africa, whose detrimental effects on native communities are widely documented in the Mediterranean basin and thus largely managed in coastal ecosystems. Most of the literature on these species focuses on [...] Read more.

Carpobrotus acinaciformis and C. edulis are well-known invasive alien plants native to South Africa, whose detrimental effects on native communities are widely documented in the Mediterranean basin and thus largely managed in coastal ecosystems. Most of the literature on these species focuses on their impacts on habitats of sandy coastal dunes, while the effects of Carpobrotus spp. invasion on other habitats such as rocky cliffs and coastal scrubs and garrigues are almost neglected. We present a study case conducted on a small Mediterranean island where Carpobrotus spp. invaded three different natural habitats listed within the Habitat Directive 92/43/CEE (Natura 2000 codes 1240, 1430, and 5320). We surveyed the presence and abundance of native species and Carpobrotus spp. on 44 permanent square plots of 4 m² in invaded and uninvaded areas in each of the three habitats. We found impacts on plant alpha diversity (intended as the species diversity within each sampled plot) in all the habitats investigated in terms of a decrease in species richness, Shannon index, and abundance. Invaded communities also showed a severe change in species composition with a strong homogenization of the floras of the three habitats. Finally, the negative effect of invasion emerged even through the analyses of beta diversity (expressing the species diversity among sampled plots of the same habitat type), with Carpobrotus spp. replacing a large set of native species. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Feature Papers in Plant Ecology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

18 pages, 2977 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Insights from a Multi-Omics Integration (MOI) Study in Oil Palm (Elaeis guineensis Jacq.) Response to Abiotic Stresses: Part Two—Drought

by André Pereira Leão, Cleiton Barroso Bittencourt, Thalliton Luiz Carvalho da Silva, Jorge Cândido Rodrigues Neto, Ítalo de Oliveira Braga, Letícia Rios Vieira, José Antônio de Aquino Ribeiro, Patrícia Verardi Abdelnur, Carlos Antônio Ferreira de Sousa and Manoel Teixeira Souza Júnior

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2786; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202786 - 20 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 1578

Abstract

Drought and salinity are two of the most severe abiotic stresses affecting agriculture worldwide and bear some similarities regarding the responses of plants to them. The first is also known as osmotic stress and shows similarities mainly with the osmotic effect, the first [...] Read more.

Drought and salinity are two of the most severe abiotic stresses affecting agriculture worldwide and bear some similarities regarding the responses of plants to them. The first is also known as osmotic stress and shows similarities mainly with the osmotic effect, the first phase of salinity stress. Multi-Omics Integration (MOI) offers a new opportunity for the non-trivial challenge of unraveling the mechanisms behind multigenic traits, such as drought and salinity resistance. The current study carried out a comprehensive, large-scale, single-omics analysis (SOA) and MOI studies on the leaves of young oil palm plants submitted to water deprivation. After performing SOA, 1955 DE enzymes from transcriptomics analysis, 131 DE enzymes from proteomics analysis, and 269 DE metabolites underwent MOI analysis, revealing several pathways affected by this stress, with at least one DE molecule in all three omics platforms used. Moreover, the similarities and dissimilarities in the molecular response of those plants to those two abiotic stresses underwent mapping. Cysteine and methionine metabolism (map00270) was the most affected pathway in all scenarios evaluated. The correlation analysis revealed that 91.55% of those enzymes expressed under both stresses had similar qualitative profiles, corroborating the already known fact that plant responses to drought and salinity show several similarities. At last, the results shed light on some candidate genes for engineering crop species resilient to both abiotic stresses. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Responses to Environmental Stresses)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 7883 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Eucalyptus cinerea and E. nicholii by-Products as Source of Bioactive Compounds for Agricultural Applications

by Paola Malaspina, Marina Papaianni, Marta Ranesi, Flavio Polito, Cristina Danna, Pierluca Aicardi, Laura Cornara, Sheridan L. Woo and Vincenzo De Feo

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2777; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202777 - 20 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1611

Abstract

The cultivation of different species of Eucalyptus has recently expanded in Liguria (Italy) due to the growing demand of the North European floricultural market. Eucalyptus tree branches are cut and selected for their quality, resulting in large amounts of waste biomass to be [...] Read more.

The cultivation of different species of Eucalyptus has recently expanded in Liguria (Italy) due to the growing demand of the North European floricultural market. Eucalyptus tree branches are cut and selected for their quality, resulting in large amounts of waste biomass to be disposed of. The aim of our study was to evaluate the phytotoxic and antimicrobial activities of essential oils (EOs) from pruning wastes of E. cinerea (EC) and E. nicholii (EN), for potential applications in agriculture. Phytochemical analyses showed eucalyptol (1,8-cineole) as the major component in both EOs, but the EO yield of EN was higher than that of EC, in agreement with a significantly higher oil gland density on EN leaves. EOs from both species showed phytotoxicity on both weeds tested, but no significant inhibition on horticultural crop seed germination, except for Raphanus sativus. The EO from EC showed the strongest antibacterial activity, while the EO from EN showed the strongest antifungal activity. Concluding, EOs from Eucalyptus pruning may be used as possible alternatives to synthetic herbicides and pesticides, acting as antimicrobial and antifungal agents, thus representing a safe strategy for crop management programs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Natural Products from Plants and Associated Microbes)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 1831 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Organic Mulches as an Alternative to Conventional Under-Vine Weed Management in Mediterranean Irrigated Vineyards

by Carlos Cabrera-Pérez, Francisco Valencia-Gredilla, Aritz Royo-Esnal and Jordi Recasens

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2785; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202785 - 20 Oct 2022

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 1746

Abstract

Vineyard growth and grape yield can be significantly reduced by weeds, especially when these are located in the under-vine zone. Traditional weed management consists of recurrent tillage, which is associated with soil erosion and high fuel consumption, or herbicide applications, associated with damage [...] Read more.

Vineyard growth and grape yield can be significantly reduced by weeds, especially when these are located in the under-vine zone. Traditional weed management consists of recurrent tillage, which is associated with soil erosion and high fuel consumption, or herbicide applications, associated with damage to the environment and human health. In order to find alternative weed management methods, three field trials were carried out in Raimat (Lleida, NE Spain) with the aim of evaluating the suppressive effect of four mulches against weeds. Treatments included (1) straw mulch of Medicago sativa L., (2) straw mulch of Festuca arundinacea (L.) Schreb, (3) straw mulch of Hordeum vulgare L., (4) chopped pine wood mulch of Pinus sylvestris L., (5) mechanical cultivation and (6) herbicide application. The results showed that all mulches were efficient at controlling weeds (<20% of weed coverage) in the first year, compared with the two traditional methods, as long as the percentage of soil covered by mulches was high (>75%). In this way, pine mulch stood out above the straw mulches, as it achieved high soil cover during the three growing seasons of the study (>80%), with weed coverage values under 18%. This, together with the multiple benefits of mulches (improvements in the water balance and increases in soil organic matter, among others), make them a sustainable tool to be considered as an alternative to traditional under-vine weed management in vineyards. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Methods and Innovative Strategies for Weed Management)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

28 pages, 5529 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

The Use of PGPB to Promote Plant Hydroponic Growth

by Ashley A. Stegelmeier, Danielle M. Rose, Benjamin R. Joris and Bernard R. Glick

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2783; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202783 - 20 Oct 2022

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 8148

Abstract

Improvements to the world’s food supply chain are needed to ensure sufficient food is produced to meet increasing population demands. Growing food in soilless hydroponic systems constitutes a promising strategy, as this method utilizes significantly less water than conventional agriculture, can be situated [...] Read more.

Improvements to the world’s food supply chain are needed to ensure sufficient food is produced to meet increasing population demands. Growing food in soilless hydroponic systems constitutes a promising strategy, as this method utilizes significantly less water than conventional agriculture, can be situated in urban areas, and can be stacked vertically to increase yields per acre. However, further research is needed to optimize crop yields in these systems. One method to increase hydroponic plant yields involves adding plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) into these systems. PGPB are organisms that can significantly increase crop yields via a wide range of mechanisms, including stress reduction, increases in nutrient uptake, plant hormone modulation, and biocontrol. The aim of this review is to provide critical information for researchers on the current state of the use of PGPB in hydroponics so that meaningful advances can be made. An overview of the history and types of hydroponic systems is provided, followed by an overview of known PGPB mechanisms. Finally, examples of PGPB research that has been conducted in hydroponic systems are described. Amalgamating the current state of knowledge should ensure that future experiments can be designed to effectively transition results from the lab to the farm/producer, and the consumer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Agricultural Microbiology)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 1456 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Unravelling Phytochemical and Bioactive Potential of Three Hypericum Species from Romanian Spontaneous Flora: H. alpigenum, H. perforatum and H. rochelii

by Mihai Babotă, Oleg Frumuzachi, Andrei Mocan, Mircea Tămaș, Maria Inês Dias, José Pinela, Dejan Stojković, Marina Soković, Alexandru Sabin Bădărău, Gianina Crișan, Lillian Barros and Ramona Păltinean

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2773; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202773 - 19 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1727

Abstract

Hypericum perforatum L., also known as St. John’s Wort, is recognized worldwide as a valuable medicinal herb; however, other Hypericum species were intensively studied for their bioactive potential. To fill the research gap that exists in the scientific literature, a comparative evaluation between [...] Read more.

Hypericum perforatum L., also known as St. John’s Wort, is recognized worldwide as a valuable medicinal herb; however, other Hypericum species were intensively studied for their bioactive potential. To fill the research gap that exists in the scientific literature, a comparative evaluation between H. alpigenum Kit., H. perforatum L. and H. rochelii Griseb. & Schenk was conducted in the present study. Two types of herbal preparations obtained from the aerial parts of these species were analyzed: extracts obtained through maceration and extracts obtained through magnetic-stirring-assisted extraction. LC-DAD-ESI-MSⁿ analysis revealed the presence of phenolic acids, flavan-3-ols and flavonoid derivatives as the main constituents of the above-mentioned species. Moreover, all extracts were tested for their antioxidant, enzyme-inhibitory and antimicrobial potential. Our work emphasizes for the first time a detailed description of H. rochelii phenolic fractions, including their phytochemical and bioactive characterization. In comparison with the other two studied species, H. rochelii was found as a rich source of phenolic acids and myricetin derivatives, showing important antioxidant, anticholinesterase and antibacterial activity. The study offers new perspectives regarding the chemical and bioactive profile of the less-studied species H. alpigenum and H. rochelii. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Antioxidant Activity in Plants, Plant-Derived Bioactive Compounds and Foods)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 2303 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Broccoli Sprouts and Their Influence on Thyroid Function in Different In Vitro and In Vivo Models

by Paweł Paśko, Paweł Zagrodzki, Krzysztof Okoń, Ewelina Prochownik, Mirosław Krośniak and Agnieszka Galanty

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2750; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202750 - 18 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2932

Abstract

Broccoli sprouts are a super vegetable; however, they have possible negative effects on thyroid function, which is especially important for patients with hypothyroidism. As the data on this issue are scarce, this study aimed to determine the safety and possible beneficial effect of [...] Read more.

Broccoli sprouts are a super vegetable; however, they have possible negative effects on thyroid function, which is especially important for patients with hypothyroidism. As the data on this issue are scarce, this study aimed to determine the safety and possible beneficial effect of broccoli sprouts both in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro model comprised the evaluation of the impact of broccoli sprouts on normal and neoplastic thyroid cells and the determination of their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant (IL-6, TNF-alpha, NO, and SOD) potential in macrophages. The in vivo model concerned the histopathological analysis of thyroid glands in healthy rats and rats with hypothyroidism (induced by iodine deficiency or sulfadimethoxine ingestion) fed with broccoli sprouts. The results of our study indicated that broccoli sprouts decreased the viability of thyroid cancer cells and prevented inflammation. The results also confirmed the satisfactory safety profile of the sprouts, both in vitro and in vivo; however, a further in-depth evaluation of this problem is still needed. Information on the influence of brassica vegetables on thyroid function is of great importance in terms of public health, particularly when taking into account that the risk of iodine deficiency, hypothyroidism, and thyroid cancer in the global population is still increasing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Extracts and Their Cytotoxic Activities)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

23 pages, 1733 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

Towards an Eco-Friendly Coffee Rust Control: Compilation of Natural Alternatives from a Nutritional and Antifungal Perspective

by Nora E. Torres Castillo, Yovanina Aguilera Acosta, Lizeth Parra-Arroyo, María Adriana Martínez-Prado, Verónica M. Rivas-Galindo, Hafiz M. N. Iqbal, A. Damiano Bonaccorso, Elda M. Melchor-Martínez and Roberto Parra-Saldívar

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2745; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202745 - 17 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2852

Abstract

Hemileia vastatrix (HV) is the pathogen responsible for the coffee leaf rust (CLR) disease that has spread globally. CLR causes losses of up to a billion dollars annually and affects all types of crops regardless of their production regime (organic or inorganic). Additionally, [...] Read more.

Hemileia vastatrix (HV) is the pathogen responsible for the coffee leaf rust (CLR) disease that has spread globally. CLR causes losses of up to a billion dollars annually and affects all types of crops regardless of their production regime (organic or inorganic). Additionally, smallholders produce approximately 80% of coffee in developing countries. The condition causes losses of up to a billion dollars annually. It affects all types of crops regardless of their production regime (organic or inorganic). Approximately 80% of coffee is produced by smallholders in developing countries. Until the 90s, shaded-production systems and native varieties were encouraged; however, the rapid spread of CLR has forced farmers to migrate towards inorganic schemes, mainly due to a lack of knowledge about natural alternatives to pesticides that can be implemented to control HV. Therefore, the purpose of this article is to compile the currently existing options, emphasizing two key factors that guarantee efficient rust control: selective fungicidal activity against HV and the nutrition of coffee crops. Thus, by comprehending how these natural compounds (such as plant, bacteria, fungi, animals, or algae metabolites) impact coffee rust proliferation. Furthermore, since a various range of biochar effects contributes to the control of foliar fungal pathogens through modification of root exudates, soil properties, and nutrient availability, which influence the growth of antagonist microorganisms, we present a review of the pathogen-suppressive effects of biochar, and new control strategies suitable for organic schemes can be developed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioactive Molecules from Mexican Flora)

► Show Figures

Graphical abstract

12 pages, 2347 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Long−Distance Wind Dispersal Drives Population Range Expansion of Solidago canadensis

by Zheng Zhang, Guangyue Wen, Dexiao Bu, Guojun Sun and Sheng Qiang

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2734; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202734 - 16 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1360

Abstract

Canada goldenrod (Solidago canadensis L.) is a serious invasive alien plant species that exerts negative effects on natural and agricultural ecosystems in China. Few studies have addressed the dispersal of S. canadensis to explain how it rapidly spreads to large areas over [...] Read more.

Canada goldenrod (Solidago canadensis L.) is a serious invasive alien plant species that exerts negative effects on natural and agricultural ecosystems in China. Few studies have addressed the dispersal of S. canadensis to explain how it rapidly spreads to large areas over long distances. Here, we quantify the dispersal of S. canadensis via wind by capturing in situ−stained diaspores. The diaspores were trapped and counted along 11 radiating transects from the center of a dispersal source. Solidago canadensis diaspores could be dispersed in all directions from the source, traveling longer distances and in greater amounts in the downwind direction than the upwind one. With a source including about 58 million diaspores and a wind speed at Beaufort scale 4, the dispersal distance in the prevailing wind direction (PWD) was at least 2000 m. Diaspores shattered at a rate of approximately 3% daily with the common wind speed of scale 4, indicating that dispersal could last for more than a month. A mechanistic model was used to fit the dispersal curve along the PWD. Although the model slightly underestimated long−distance dispersal, it still demonstrated the potential of long−distance dispersal with great source strength. Wind−dispersed diaspores to new areas persisted over winter and were able to form new plants at a density of about 2 plants per m² at 500 m away from the source. Further experiments showed that the dispersed amount of S. canadensis diaspores was significantly positively correlated with the temperature and wind speed, but significantly negatively correlated with relative humidity, which indicated that, during a day, the maximum dispersal usually occurred in the afternoon when the temperature was the highest and the relative humidity the lowest. In addition, for an already existent population patch, the patch range can expand 2−4 m per year, mainly depending on the seedlings recruited from the rhizomes. These results provide insights into the long−distance dispersal of S. canadensis by wind and its effects on the range expansion process. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Science Research in Nanjing Agricultural University: Commemorating the University’s 120th Anniversary)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 2191 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Characterization of Forage Quality, Phenolic Profiles, and Antioxidant Activity in Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.)

by Daniela Horvat, Marija Viljevac Vuletić, Luka Andrić, Renata Baličević, Marija Kovačević Babić and Marijana Tucak

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2735; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202735 - 16 Oct 2022

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 1921

Abstract

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is one of the most important forage species and is recently more in focus for human consumption mainly due to its content of bioactive phenolics. Samples of the seventeen alfalfa cultivars/populations were collected at the Agricultural Institute Osijek [...] Read more.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) is one of the most important forage species and is recently more in focus for human consumption mainly due to its content of bioactive phenolics. Samples of the seventeen alfalfa cultivars/populations were collected at the Agricultural Institute Osijek with the aim to evaluate their forage quality, phenolic profiles, and antioxidant potential. Significant differences (p < 0.05) existed among studied alfalfa in all analyzed traits. The cultivar OS 99 and populations L7 and L20 were characterized by high crude protein content (22.5–24.7%) and the lowest neutral (40.2–42.9%) and acid detergent fibres (33–35.5%). The soluble-free phenolics from alfalfa leaves were extracted by methanol while insoluble cell-wall bound phenolics were released by alkaline hydrolysis. The bound phenolic extract showed a stronger DPPH scavenging capacity (20.8 mg TE/g dm) than the soluble (11.4 mg TE/g dm). The HPLC data revealed that more phenolics were found in the bound (3638.0 μg/g dm) than in the soluble form (912.3 μg/g dm). In the soluble extract of the alfalfa leaves, the major compound was catechin (338.3 μg/g dm), while rutin, epicatechin, and ferulic acid were minor ones. In the bound phenolic extract, the most abundant was ferulic (2198.2 μg/g dm) and p-coumaric acid (983.7 μg/g dm), followed by myricetin, apigenin, and quercetin. The principal component analysis revealed that alfalfa cultivars/populations were better discriminated based on the data on phenolics, rather than on forage quality. The cultivars/populations Florida 66, OS 66, L 40, L 42, Seed Force 4, and Torlesse were the most interesting in terms of phenolic health-promoting characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Breeding and Cultivation Management of Legumes)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

15 pages, 6739 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Evaluation of the Phytochemical Composition of Phenolic and Triterpene Compounds in Fruit of Large Cranberries (Vaccinium macrocarpon Aiton) Grown in Latvia

by Rima Šedbarė, Dace Siliņa and Valdimaras Janulis

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2725; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202725 - 15 Oct 2022

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1272

Abstract

We carried out a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the phytochemical composition of the fruits of large cranberry cultivars ‘Ben Lear’, ‘Bergman’, ‘Kalnciema agra’, ‘Lemunyon’, ‘Pilgrim’, ‘Stevens’, and ‘Tina’ grown in Latvian climatic conditions. The following predominant compounds were found in cranberry fruit [...] Read more.

We carried out a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the phytochemical composition of the fruits of large cranberry cultivars ‘Ben Lear’, ‘Bergman’, ‘Kalnciema agra’, ‘Lemunyon’, ‘Pilgrim’, ‘Stevens’, and ‘Tina’ grown in Latvian climatic conditions. The following predominant compounds were found in cranberry fruit samples: peonidin-3-O-galactoside, peonidin-3-O-arabinoside, cyanidin-3-O-galactoside, cyanidin-3-O-arabinoside, myricetin-3-galactoside, quercetin-3-galactoside, quercetin-3-α-L-arabinofuranoside, quercetin 3-rhamnoside, ursolic acid, and oleanolic acid. During the berry ripening period (from 16 August until 15 September), a trend of decreasing amounts of compounds was found in the fruit samples of the studied cranberry cultivars: the total amount of proanthocyanidins decreased by 1.3 times, the total amount of the identified flavonols decreased by 1.3 times, the total amount of triterpenoids decreased by 1.2 times, and the total amount of chlorogenic acid decreased by 1.7 times. During the period from 16 August until 15 September, the total amount of anthocyanins in the cranberry fruit samples increased by 2.6 to 17 times. The highest total amount of anthocyanins (5305.80 ± 27 µg/g) was detected in fruit samples of the cranberry cultivar ‘Kalnciema agra’ collected on 15 September. The amount of biologically active compounds in cranberry fruit samples varies during berry ripening. Thus, the choice of the picking time is one of the factors that determines the phytochemical composition of raw cranberry material. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Natural Resources of Berry and Medicinal Plants Volume II)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

22 pages, 15459 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperEditor’s ChoiceReview

A Review of the Chemistry and Biological Activities of Acmella oleracea (“jambù”, Asteraceae), with a View to the Development of Bioinsecticides and Acaricides

by Eleonora Spinozzi, Marta Ferrati, Cecilia Baldassarri, Loredana Cappellacci, Margherita Marmugi, Alice Caselli, Giovanni Benelli, Filippo Maggi and Riccardo Petrelli

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2721; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202721 - 14 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 3260

Abstract

Human pathologies, environmental pollution, and resistance phenomena caused by the intensive use of chemical pesticides have shifted the attention of the agrochemical industries towards eco-friendly insecticides and acaricides. Acmella oleracea (L.) R. K. Jansen (jambù) is a plant native to South America, widely [...] Read more.

Human pathologies, environmental pollution, and resistance phenomena caused by the intensive use of chemical pesticides have shifted the attention of the agrochemical industries towards eco-friendly insecticides and acaricides. Acmella oleracea (L.) R. K. Jansen (jambù) is a plant native to South America, widely distributed and cultivated in many countries due to its numerous pharmacological properties. This review analyzes literature about the plant, its uses, and current knowledge regarding insecticidal and acaricidal activity. Acmella oleracea has proven to be a potential pesticide candidate against several key arthropod pest and vector species. This property is inherent to its essential oil and plant extract, which contain spilanthol, the main representative of N-alkylamides. As a result, there is a scientific basis for the industrial exploitation of jambù in the preparation of green insecticides. However, studies related to its toxicity towards non-target species and those aimed at formulating and developing marketable products are lacking. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insecticidal Activity of Plant Secondary Metabolites)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

12 pages, 1313 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

A Model Nutrition Control System in Potato Tissue Culture and Its Influence on Plant Elemental Composition

by Chandiona Munthali, Rintaro Kinoshita, Kazumitsu Onishi, Aurelie Rakotondrafara, Kakeru Mikami, Masanori Koike, Masayuki Tani, Jiwan Palta and Daigo Aiuchi

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2718; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202718 - 14 Oct 2022

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2226

Abstract

Low or excessive soil fertility is a major constraint to potato production. The influence of each individual nutrient element on potato plants under field studies remains ambiguous due to the influence of environmental variations. Creating an in vitro model plant with deficient or [...] Read more.

Low or excessive soil fertility is a major constraint to potato production. The influence of each individual nutrient element on potato plants under field studies remains ambiguous due to the influence of environmental variations. Creating an in vitro model plant with deficient or excessive nutrient content will provide a more controlled study and allow for a better understanding of how the concentration of one element can affect the uptake of other elements. Here we designed a tissue culture-based nutrition control system to systematically analyze the effects of essential nutrients on potato plants. Insufficient or excessive nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) contents were created by modifying the Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium. Deficient to toxic plant nutrient statuses were successfully defined by the evaluation of dry biomass and morphological symptoms. The results showed that plant shoot growth, nutrient uptake and content, and nutrient interactions were all significantly impacted by the changes in the MS media nutrient concentrations. These tissue culture systems can be successfully used for further investigations of nutrient effects on potato production in response to biotic and abiotic stresses in vitro. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plant Nutrition)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

17 pages, 2567 KiB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Edible Wild Vegetables Urtica dioica L. and Aegopodium podagraria L.–Antioxidants Affected by Processing

by Layla Engelhardt, Tobias Pöhnl and Susanne Neugart

Plants 2022, 11(20), 2710; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants11202710 - 14 Oct 2022

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2220

Abstract

Urtica dioica L. and Aegopodium podagraria L., also known as stinging nettle and ground elder, are edible wild green vegetables rich in bioactive and antioxidant polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals. Antioxidant activity assays (TEAC-, DPPH-, and TPC-assay) in combination with HPLC measurements, to qualify [...] Read more.

Urtica dioica L. and Aegopodium podagraria L., also known as stinging nettle and ground elder, are edible wild green vegetables rich in bioactive and antioxidant polyphenols, vitamins, and minerals. Antioxidant activity assays (TEAC-, DPPH-, and TPC-assay) in combination with HPLC measurements, to qualify and quantify their chemical compositions, were used. Firstly, the drying methods affected the antioxidant activity of further processing stages, and outcomes were dependent on the species. Secondly, cooking increased the antioxidant activity due to higher concentrations of bioactive compounds, and released bound compounds through the rupture of cell structures. Furthermore, fridge storage (3 days at 7 °C) resulted in the lowest antioxidant activity, compared to freezer storage (30 days at −20 °C). Added 5-caffeoylquinic acid (0.3 mM) led to an increased antioxidant activity, most noticeably in freeze-dried samples. Synergistic effects of 5-caffeoylquinic acid were primary found in freeze-dried samples, analyzed fresh or after storage in the fridge. Metal-chelates can lower the antioxidant activity in plant matrices. Edible wild green vegetables are rich in polyphenols and processing can even increase their concentrations to boost the potential health effects. In general, selected quantified phenolics are not solely responsible for the antioxidant activity; minerals, processing, and interactions in plant matrices also contribute decisively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Antioxidant Activity of Plant Extracts)

► Show Figures

Figure 1

Journal Menu

Journal Browser

Editor’s Choice Articles

Further Information

Guidelines

MDPI Initiatives

Follow MDPI