Chromosomal Distribution Research Articles

The Stilbene Synthase Family in Arachis: A Genome-Wide Study and Functional Characterization in Response to Stress.

Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) and its wild relatives are among the few species that naturally synthesize resveratrol, a well-known stilbenoid phytoalexin that plays a crucial role in plant defense against biotic and abiotic stresses. Resveratrol has received considerable attention due to its health benefits, such as preventing and treating various human diseases and disorders. Chalcone (CHS) and Stilbene (STS) Synthases are plant-specific type III Polyketide Synthases (PKSs) that share the same substrates and are key branch enzymes in the biosynthesis of flavonoids and stilbenoids, respectively. Although resveratrol accumulation in response to external stimulus has been described in peanut, there are no comprehensive studies of the CHS and STS gene families in the genus Arachis. In the present study, we identified and characterized 6 CHS and 46 STS genes in the tetraploid peanut and an average of 4 CHS and 22 STS genes in three diploid wild species (Arachis duranensis, Arachis ipaënsis and Arachis stenosperma). The CHS and STS gene and protein structures, chromosomal distributions, phylogenetic relationships, conserved amino acid domains, and cis-acting elements in the promoter regions were described for all Arachis species studied. Based on gene expression patterns of wild A. stenosperma STS genes in response to different biotic and abiotic stresses, we selected the candidate AsSTS4 gene, which is strongly induced by ultraviolet (UV) light exposure, for further functional investigation. The AsSTS4 overexpression in peanut hairy roots significantly reduced (47%) root-knot nematode infection, confirming that stilbene synthesis activation in transgenic plants can increase resistance to pathogens. These findings contribute to understanding the role of resveratrol in stress responses in Arachis species and provide the basis for genetic engineering for improved production of valuable secondary metabolites in plants.

Molecular cytogenetics of four species of Calendula (Asteraceae)

For the first time, a comparative molecular cytogenetic study of four species of Calendula L. (Asteraceae): C. officinalis, C. stellata, C. tripterocarpa, and C. arvensis was carried out. In each species, chromosome numbers were determined: C. stellata (2n = 2х = 14), C. officinalis (2n = 4x = 32), C. tripterocarpa (2n = 2x = 30), and C. arvensis (2n = 4x = 44), and also specific chromosome localization of 45S and 5S rDNA clusters was revealed with the use of fluorescence in situ hybridization. An additional polymorphic minor 45S rDNA hybridization signal was found in the C. officinalis karyotype, which was located median in the short arm of one chromosome. The patterns of chromosome distribution of the major sites of 45S and 5S rDNA in karyotypes of the studied species confirmed the hybrid origin of C. arvensis (2n = 4x = 44) which could be a result of the introgressive hybridization of two other species: C. stellata (2n = 2x = 14) and C. tripterocarpa (2n = 2x = 30) during speciation.

Genome-wide characterization of the tomato UDP-glycosyltransferase gene family and functional identification of SlUDPGT52 in drought tolerance

Abiotic stresses are major factors constraining the growth, development and productivity of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), the most cultivated vegetable crop worldwide. Uridine diphosphate glycosyltransferases (UDPGTs or UGTs) are essential enzymes that utilize 5-uridine diphosphate as a glycosyl donor molecule to facilitate the catalysis of glycosylation reactions across diverse substrates, thereby playing a pivotal role in conferring abiotic stress tolerance. Currently, there is a limited understanding of the structure and functions of the UDPGT gene family in tomato. In this work, 106 members of the SlUDPGT gene family were identified through in silico analysis, besides, their protein sequence properties, phylogenetic relationships, gene structure, chromosomal distribution, cis-acting elements, tissue expression and hormone- and stress-induced expression were comprehensively investigated. The expression of representative SlUDPGTs under abiotic stress and exogenous hormone treatments, including salt, polyethylene glycol, methyl viologen, gibberellic acid, jasmonic acid, abscisic acid and brassinolide, was investigated through qRT‒PCR analysis. Numerous cis-acting elements linked to stress and hormone signaling were present in the promoter regions of SlUDPGTs. According to microarray data, most SlUDPGT genes were responsive to hormones and abiotic stresses, while certain SlUDPGTs were specifically differentially expressed under Botrytis cinerea and tomato spotted wilt virus infection. Additionally, diverse expression profiles of SlUDPGTs were observed in various tissues and developmental stages. Furthermore, CRISPR/Cas9-mediated knockout of SlUDPGT52 led to enhanced drought tolerance due to enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging. These findings lay the foundations for the future functional characterization of specific UDPGT gene family members, assisting the biotechnology-mediated improvement of tomato and other horticultural crops.

Computational identification, characterization, and expression analysis of MLO genes in two powdery mildew resistant and susceptible lines of sunflower

Sunflower is one of the major oilseeds producing crops in the world. However, the crop production is affected by powdery mildew in the tropics, caused by a fungal pathogen Golovinomyces latisporus. A step towards developing genetic resistance is by identifying potential genes involved. The MLO genes when silenced provide durable and broad-spectrum resistance. In this study, we identified the MLO gene family in the genome of Sunflower using computational methods. We analyzed the chromosomal distribution, gene structure conserved motifs, and phylogenetic relationship of sunflower MLO genes with MLO genes of other species. A total of 38 MLO genes were identified which are distributed unevenly on the chromosomes with varied intron/exon gene structures. These were phylogenetically distributed into six different groups. The cis elements identified in the promoter region had hormone responsive, stress responsive, development related elements along with transcription factors. We developed recombinant inbred lines by crossing H. annuus and H. praecox (F7 generation). Further, we performed RNAseq analysis of transcriptomes sequenced from powdery mildew infected leaf samples of PMR-16 (resistant) and PMS-27 (susceptible) varieties of the recombinant inbred lines. Expression analysis revealed 12 differentially expressed genes between both varieties. Our results can be used as a reference for future functional studies.

Nuclear-cytoplasmic asynchrony in oocyte maturation caused by TUBB8 variants via impairing microtubule function: a novel pathogenic mechanism

BackgroundTUBB8, a crucial gene encoding microtubule protein, plays a pivotal role in cellular processes. Deleterious TUBB8 variants have been shown to significantly hinder oocyte maturation. In this study, we conducted an in vitro investigation using TUBB8 mutant mouse oocytes to elucidate the pathogenic mechanisms of TUBB8 variants in oocyte nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation.MethodsA mutant model was successfully established in mouse oocytes via microinjection to further investigate the effects of four novel discovered TUBB8 mutations on the nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation of mouse oocytes. Immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy were performed to observe the cortical polarity and spindle and of mutant oocytes. Active mitochondrial staining was performed to analyze mitochondrial distribution patterns. Endoplasmic reticulum and Ca2+ staining were conducted to assess ER distribution and cytoplasmic calcium ion concentration in oocytes.ResultsIn mouse oocytes, TUBB8 variants (p.A313V, p.C239W, p.R251Q, and p.G96R) resulted in a reduction of the first polar body extrusion rate, disruption of spindle assembly, and abnormal chromosome distribution. Additionally, these variants induced oocyte organelle abnormalities, including anomalies in mitochondrial redistribution and endoplasmic reticulum stress compared to the wild-type.ConclusionDeleterious TUBB8 variants could disrupt microtubule function, affecting critical processes such as spindle assembly, chromosome distribution, and organelle rearrangement during oocyte meiosis. These disruptions culminate in compromised nuclear-cytoplasmic maturation, consequently giving rise to oocyte maturation defects.

Evaluation for Parental Polymorphism and Identification of Microsatellites Linked to Drought Tolerance in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)

Aims: To identify the ready-to-use polymorphic microsatellite markers associated with drought tolerance for marker-assisted backcross breeding through a polymorphism survey between Jyothi and Chuvannamodan rice varieties.
 Place and Duration of Study: Centre for plant biotechnology and molecular biology, Thrissur, Kerala, India, during January to May 2023.
 Methodology: The genomic DNA of Jyothi and Chuvannamodan was isolated by following CTAB (Cetyltrimethyl Ammonium Bromide) method with modification. Isolated DNA from both varieties was subjected to PCR amplification using 208 Simple Sequence Repeats (SSRs) primer pairs distributed in 12 chromosomes. The amplified PCR products were electrophoresed in 3% agarose gel and separated fragments were visualized and documented in the Gel Documentation System. Different allele sizes produced by the same SSRs primers between two varieties are identified as polymorphic markers. Polymorphism per-cent was calculated, and frequency distribution and chromosome distribution of polymorphic markers were analyzed.
 Results: A total of 208 SSR primers were surveyed for the parental polymorphism. Out of which, 85 SSR primers exhibited clear polymorphism between Jyothi and Chuvannamodan and the remaining 123 were monomorphic primers. The amplicon size ranged from 83bp (RM430) to 495bp (RM18919) among the different primers. The survey revealed maximum parental polymorphism on chromosome 4 (69.23%), followed by chromosome 5 (64.28%), and minimum polymorphism on chromosome 8 (21.73%). The average per cent of polymorphism between the parents was 40.86%. Among the 85 polymorphic markers, 66 had dinucleotide repeats, 17 had trinucleotide repeats, and 1 had tetranucleotide repeats.
 Markers with dinucleotide repeats showed higher level of polymorphism. A group of 28 polymorphic markers were identified to be linked with traits including root-related traits, grain yield, leaf rolling and leaf drying under drought conditions.
 Conclusion: The polymorphic markers identified in the present study form the basis for tagging drought-tolerant QTLs/genes, fine mapping of those genes, and subsequently in marker-assisted breeding programs. The polymorphic markers linked with the QTLs for grain yield under drought can be pyramided in Jyothi through marker-assisted backcross breeding.

Genome-Wide Identification and Preliminary Functional Analysis of BAM (β-Amylase) Gene Family in Upland Cotton.

The β-amylase (BAM) gene family encodes important enzymes that catalyze the conversion of starch to maltose in various biological processes of plants and play essential roles in regulating the growth and development of multiple plants. So far, BAMs have been extensively studied in Arabidopsis thaliana (A. thaliana). However, the characteristics of the BAM gene family in the crucial economic crop, cotton, have not been reported. In this study, 27 GhBAM genes in the genome of Gossypium hirsutum L (G. hirsutum) were identified by genome-wide identification, and they were divided into three groups according to sequence similarity and phylogenetic relationship. The gene structure, chromosome distribution, and collinearity of all GhBAM genes identified in the genome of G. hirsutum were analyzed. Further sequence alignment of the core domain of glucosyl hydrolase showed that all GhBAM family genes had the glycosyl hydrolase family 14 domain. We identified the BAM gene GhBAM7 and preliminarily investigated its function by transcriptional sequencing analysis, qRT-PCR, and subcellular localization. These results suggested that the GhBAM7 gene may influence fiber strength during fiber development. This systematic analysis provides new insight into the transcriptional characteristics of BAM genes in G. hirsutum. It may lay the foundation for further study of the function of these genes.

Exportin-mediated nucleocytoplasmic transport maintains Pch2 homeostasis during meiosis.

The meiotic recombination checkpoint reinforces the order of events during meiotic prophase I, ensuring the accurate distribution of chromosomes to the gametes. The AAA+ ATPase Pch2 remodels the Hop1 axial protein enabling adequate levels of Hop1-T318 phosphorylation to support the ensuing checkpoint response. While these events are localized at chromosome axes, the checkpoint activating function of Pch2 relies on its cytoplasmic population. In contrast, forced nuclear accumulation of Pch2 leads to checkpoint inactivation. Here, we reveal the mechanism by which Pch2 travels from the cell nucleus to the cytoplasm to maintain Pch2 cellular homeostasis. Leptomycin B treatment provokes the nuclear accumulation of Pch2, indicating that its nucleocytoplasmic transport is mediated by the Crm1 exportin recognizing proteins containing Nuclear Export Signals (NESs). Consistently, leptomycin B leads to checkpoint inactivation and impaired Hop1 axial localization. Pch2 nucleocytoplasmic traffic is independent of its association with Zip1 and Orc1. We also identify a functional NES in the non-catalytic N-terminal domain of Pch2 that is required for its nucleocytoplasmic trafficking and proper checkpoint activity. In sum, we unveil another layer of control of Pch2 function during meiosis involving nuclear export via the exportin pathway that is crucial to maintain the critical balance of Pch2 distribution among different cellular compartments.

Genome-Wide Extrachromosomal Circular DNA Profiling of Paired Hepatocellular Carcinoma and Adjacent Liver Tissues.

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) develops through multiple mechanisms. While recent studies have shown the presence of extrachromosomal circular DNA (eccDNA) in most cancer types, the eccDNA expression pattern and its association with HCC remain obscure. We aimed to investigate this problem. The genome-wide eccDNA profiles of eight paired HCC and adjacent non-tumor tissue samples were comprehensively elucidated based on Circle-seq, and they were further cross-analyzed with the RNA sequencing data to determine the association between eccDNA expression and transcriptome dysregulation. A total of 60,423 unique eccDNA types were identified. Most of the detected eccDNAs were smaller than 1 kb, with a length up to 182,363 bp and a mean sizes of 674 bp (non-tumor) and 813 bp (tumor), showing a greater association with gene-rich rather than with gene-poor regions. Although there was no statistical difference in length and chromosome distribution, the eccDNA patterns between HCC and adjacent non-tumor tissues showed significant differences at both the chromosomal and single gene levels. Five of the eight HCC tissues showed significantly higher amounts of chromosome 22-derived eccDNA expression compared to the non-tumor tissue. Furthermore, two genes, SLC16A3 and BAIAP2L2, with a higher transcription level in tumor tissues, were related to eccDNAs exclusively detected in three HCC samples and were negatively associated with survival rates in HCC cohorts from public databases. These results indicate the existence and massive heterogeneity of eccDNAs in HCC and adjacent liver tissues, and suggest their potential association with dysregulated gene expression.

Identification of the High-Affinity Potassium Transporter Gene Family (HKT) in Brassica U-Triangle Species and Its Potential Roles in Abiotic Stress in Brassica napus L.

Members of the high-affinity potassium transporter (HKT) protein family regulate the uptake and homeostasis of sodium and potassium ions, but little research describes their roles in response to abiotic stresses in rapeseed (Brassica napus L.). In this study, we identified and characterized a total of 36 HKT genes from the species comprising the triangle of U model (U-triangle species): B. rapa, B. nigra, B. oleracea, B. juncea, B. napus, and B. carinata. We analyzed the phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, motif compositions, and chromosomal distributions of the HKT family members of rapeseed. Based on their phylogenetic relationships and assemblage of functional domains, we classified the HKT members into four subgroups, HKT1;1 to HKT1;4. Analysis of the nonsynonymous substitutions (Ka), synonymous substitutions (Ks), and the Ka/Ks ratios of HKT gene pairs suggested that these genes have experienced strong purifying selective pressure after duplication, with their evolutionary relationships supporting the U-triangle theory. Furthermore, the expression profiles of BnaHKT genes varies among potassium, phytohormone and heavy-metal treatment. Their repression provides resistance to heavy-metal stress, possibly by limiting uptake. Our results systematically reveal the characteristics of HKT family proteins and their encoding genes in six Brassica species and lay a foundation for further exploration of the role of HKT family genes in heavy-metal tolerance.

Evolutionary insights and expression dynamics of the CaNFYB transcription factor gene family in pepper (Capsicum annuum) under salinity stress.

Introduction: The Capsicum annuum nuclear factor Y subunit B (CaNFYB) gene family plays a significant role in diverse biological processes, including plant responses to abiotic stressors such as salinity. Methods: In this study, we provide a comprehensive analysis of the CaNFYB gene family in pepper, encompassing their identification, structural details, evolutionary relationships, regulatory elements in promoter regions, and expression profiles under salinity stress. Results and discussion: A total of 19 CaNFYB genes were identified and subsequently characterized based on their secondary protein structures, revealing conserved domains essential for their functionality. Chromosomal distribution showed a non-random localization of these genes, suggesting potential clusters or hotspots for NFYB genes on specific chromosomes. The evolutionary analysis focused on pepper and comparison with other plant species indicated a complex tapestry of relationships with distinct evolutionary events, including gene duplication. Moreover, promoter cis-element analysis highlighted potential regulatory intricacies, with notable occurrences of light-responsive and stress-responsive binding sites. In response to salinity stress, several CaNFYB genes demonstrated significant temporal expression variations, particularly in the roots, elucidating their role in stress adaptation. Particularly CaNFYB01, CaNFYB18, and CaNFYB19, play a pivotal role in early salinity stress response, potentially through specific regulatory mechanisms elucidated by their cis-elements. Their evolutionary clustering with other Solanaceae family members suggests conserved ancestral functions vital for the family's survival under stress. This study provides foundational knowledge on the CaNFYB gene family in C. annuum, paving the way for further research to understand their functional implications in pepper plants and relative species and their potential utilization in breeding programs to enhance salinity tolerance.

Systematic analysis and functional verification of citrus glutathione S-transferases reveals that CsGSTF1 and CsGSTU18 contribute negatively to citrus bacterial canker

Citrus bacterial canker (CBC) is resulted from Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri (Xcc) infection and poses a significant threat to citrus production. Glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) are critical in maintaining redox homeostasis in plants, especially in relation to abiotic and biotic stress responses. However, the function of GSTs in resisting CBC remains unclear. Here, citrus glutathione S-transferases were investigated applying a genome-wide approach. In total, 69 CsGSTs belonging to seven classes were identified, and the phylogeny, chromosomal distribution, gene structures and conserved motifs were analyzed. Several CsGSTs responded to Xcc infection, as observed in the upregulation of CsGSTF1 and CsGSTU18 in the CBC-sensitive ‘Wanjincheng’ variety but not in the resistant ‘Kumquat’ variety. CsGSTF1 and CsGSTU18 were localized at the cytoplasm. Transient overexpression of CsGSTF1 and CsGSTU18 mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging, whereas the virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) of CsGSTF1 and CsGSTU18 caused strong CBC resistance and ROS burst. The present study investigated the characterization of citrus GST gene family, and discovered that CsGSTF1 and CsGSTU18 negatively contributed to CBC through modulating ROS homeostasis. These findings emphasize the significance of GSTs in infection resistance in plants.

Genome-wide identification and expression analysis of heat shock protein gene family in cassava.

Heat shock proteins are important molecular chaperones that are involved in plant growth and stress responses. However, members of the Hsp family have been poorly studied in cassava. In this study, 225 MeHsp genes were identified in the cassava genome, and their genetic structures exhibited relatively conserved features within each subfamily. The 225 MeHsp genes showed random chromosomal distribution, and at least 74 pairs of segmentally duplicated MeHsp genes. Eleven tandemly duplicated MeHsp genes were identified. Cis-element analysis revealed the importance of MeHsps in plant adaptations to the environment. The prediction of protein interactions suggested that MeHsp70-20 may play a critical regulatory role in the interactive network. Furthermore, the expression profiles of MeHsps in different tissues and cell subsets were analyzed using bulk transcriptomics and single-cell transcriptomic data. Several subfamily genes exhibited unique expression patterns in the transcriptome and were selected for detailed analysis of the single-cell transcriptome. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) revealed the expression patterns of these genes under temperature stress, further supporting the prediction of cis-acting elements. This study provides valuable information for understanding the functional characteristics of MeHsp genes and the evolutionary relationships between MeHsps.

Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the Copper Transporter (COPT/Ctr) Gene Family in Kandelia obovata, a Typical Mangrove Plant.

The copper transporter (COPT/Ctr) gene family plays a critical part in maintaining the balance of the metal, and many diverse species depend on COPT to move copper (Cu) across the cell membrane. In Arabidopsis thaliana, Oryza sativa, Medicago sativa, Zea mays, Populus trichocarpa, Vitis vinifera, and Solanum lycopersicum, a genome-wide study of the COPT protein family was performed. To understand the major roles of the COPT gene family in Kandelia obovata (Ko), a genome-wide study identified four COPT genes in the Kandelia obovata genome for the first time. The domain and 3D structural variation, phylogenetic tree, chromosomal distributions, gene structure, motif analysis, subcellular localization, cis-regulatory elements, synteny and duplication analysis, and expression profiles in leaves and Cu were all investigated in this research. Structural and sequence investigations show that most KoCOPTs have three transmembrane domains (TMDs). According to phylogenetic research, these KoCOPTs might be divided into two subgroups, just like Populus trichocarpa. KoCOPT gene segmental duplications and positive selection pressure were discovered by universal analysis. According to gene structure and motif analysis, most KoCOPT genes showed consistent exon-intron and motif organization within the same group. In addition, we found five hormones and four stress- and seven light-responsive cis-elements in the KoCOPTs promoters. The expression studies revealed that all four genes changed their expression levels in response to copper (CuCl2) treatments. In summary, our study offers a thorough overview of the Kandelia obovata COPT gene family's expression pattern and functional diversity, making it easier to characterize each KoCOPT gene's function in the future.

Comprehensive genomic characterisation of the NAC transcription factor family and its response to drought stress in Eucommia ulmoides.

The NAC transcription factor family enhances plant adaptation to environmental challenges by participating in signalling pathways triggered by abiotic stressors and hormonal cues. We identified 69 NAC genes in the Eucommia ulmoides genome and renamed them according to their chromosomal distribution. These EuNAC proteins were clustered into 13 sub-families and distributed on 16 chromosomes and 2 scaffolds. The gene structures suggested that the number of exons varied from two to eight among these EuNACs, with a multitude of them containing three exons. Duplicated events resulted in a large gene family; 12 and four pairs of EuNACs were the result of segmental and tandem duplicates, respectively. The drought-stress response pattern of 12 putative EuNACs was observed under drought treatment, revealing that these EuNACs could play crucial roles in mitigating the effects of drought stress responses and serve as promising candidate genes for genetic engineering aimed at enhancing the drought stress tolerance of E. ulmoides. This study provides insight into the evolution, diversity, and characterisation of NAC genes in E.ulmoides and will be helpful for future characterisation of putative EuNACs associated with water deficit.

Systematic analysis of the expansin gene family in Nelumbo reveals candidate seed development responsive members in lotus (Nelumbo nucifera)

Expansins (EXPs) are plant cell wall proteins that not only induce cell wall extension in a pH-dependent manner, but also regulate plant growth and development process, as well as stress tolerance. This study systematically analyzed the EXP gene family in Nelumbo, and 62 genes, including 29 and 33 members were identified in the N. nucifera and N. lutea genomes, respectively. These genes could be classified into four subfamilies, including α-expansin (EXPA), β-expansin (EXPB), expansin-like A (EXLA), and expansin-like B (EXLB), with 40, 11, 5, and 6 members, respectively. Physicochemical analysis, motif structure, and chromosomal distribution of these genes were evaluated. Evolutionary analysis within or between the two Nelumbo genomes revealed strong purifying selection among the EXP genes, with segmental duplication emerging as the primary driver of the EXP gene family expansion in lotus. Moreover, synteny analysis conducted between lotus and other species has revealed that EXP genes exhibit varying evolutionary patterns across different plant species. Subcellular localization assay demonstrated that NnEXP proteins were localized in the cell wall. NnEXP gene expression analysis revealed that most members were expressed in at least one lotus tissue, and qRT-PCR indicated that some genes were differently expressed in lotus seeds at different developmental stages. Furthermore, the transient overexpression of NnEXPA2 has been demonstrated to enhance cell expansion during the early development of lotus seed cotyledons. This study not only forms a basis for functional characterization of lotus EXP genes, but also provides useful genetic resources for future lotus breeding.

IMPORTANCE OF KNOWLEDGE ABOUT CONDUCT, CARE AND PREVENTION IN DENTAL TREATMENT IN PATIENTS WITH DOWN SYNDROME: a literature review

Down Syndrome, also known as Trisomy 21, was recognized in 1866 and proven in 1958. Down Syndrome is characterized by incorrect chromosomal distribution, with 3 main chromosomal changes possible: Simple or standard trisomy. Translocation or Mosaicism. It is estimated that the incidence of Down Syndrome is 3% of the world population. Being one of the main causes of intellectual disability, patients with DS also have similar physical characteristics, in addition to the common presence of systemic changes and changes in the oral cavity. Dental care in patients with DS must be early, thus avoiding the worsening of oral changes. During dental care, it is extremely important that the dentist uses techniques that facilitate treatment, offering greater comfort for the patient. Techniques similar to those used in pediatric dentistry can be used. In addition to these techniques, other means can be used, such as, in more extreme cases, general anesthesia, which is not recommended for these syndromic patients due to some physical changes that generally make orotracheal intubation difficult; the use of conscious sedation through the administration of benzodiazepines or the inhalation of nitrous oxide gas, being considered a good resource, making it possizle to carry out simpler procedures such as prophylaxis to less complex surgeries.

Genome wide identification and expression profiling of PYL genes in barley

PYLs (pyrabactin resistance1/PYR1-like) sense ABA, an essential phytohormone that regulates plant growth and stress responses. PYLs act as the main controllers of ABA stress signaling in plants. In this study, a total of 10 HvPYLs were discovered in the barley genome using an in silico genome search technique. These HvPYLs were then grouped into 3 subfamilies based on a phylogenetic analysis that compared them to the genomes of Arabidopsis, Brachypodium, rice, and maize. These HvPYLs demonstrated conserved motif compositions and identical protein structures across clades. Additionally, this study includes detailed investigations of gene structure variations, chromosomal distributions, cis-regulatory elements, protein-protein interactions, expression profiles in different tissues, and stress responses. We identified various cis-elements in the HvPYL promoter regions related to plant development and stresses indicating their potential roles in development and stress management. Our analysis of the interaction network has identified that HvPYLs can interact with key components of the ABA signaling pathway, demonstrating the critical regulatory functions of HvPYL genes in managing stress and growth in barley. These findings provide a basis for future research aimed at exploring the functions of PYL genes, with the ultimate goal of enhancing stress tolerance in barley and other related species.

Large-Scale Identification and Characterization Analysis of VQ Family Genes in Plants, Especially Gymnosperms.

VQ motif-containing (VQ) proteins are a class of transcription regulatory cofactors widely present in plants, playing crucial roles in growth and development, stress response, and defense. Although there have been some reports on the member identification and functional research of VQ genes in some plants, there is still a lack of large-scale identification and clear graphical presentation of their basic characterization information to help us to better understand this family. Especially in gymnosperms, the VQ family genes and their evolutionary relationships have not yet been reported. In this study, we systematically identified 2469 VQ genes from 56 plant species, including bryophytes, gymnosperms, and angiosperms, and analyzed their molecular and evolutionary features. We found that amino acids are only highly conserved in the VQ domain, while other positions are relatively variable; most VQ genes encode relatively small proteins and do not have introns. The GC content in Poaceae plants is the highest (up to 70%); these VQ proteins can be divided into nine subgroups. In particular, we analyzed the molecular characteristics, chromosome distribution, duplication events, and expression levels of VQ genes in three gymnosperms: Ginkgo biloba, Taxus chinensis, and Pinus tabuliformis. In gymnosperms, VQ genes are classified into 11 groups, with highly similar motifs in each group; most VQ proteins have less than 300 amino acids and are predicted to be located in nucleus. Tandem duplication is an important driving force for the expansion of the VQ gene family, and the evolutionary processes of most VQ genes and duplication events are relatively independent; some candidate VQ genes are preliminarily screened, and they are likely to be involved in plant growth and stress and defense responses. These results provide detailed information and powerful references for further understanding and utilizing the VQ family genes in various plants.

Molecular Structure, Biochemical Functions, Genetics, and Emerging Clinical Relevance of Glucose Transporters

In the human body, glucose acts as a major energy-producing fuel and regulator of energy homeostasis, enzyme functions, and gene transcription. The selective permeability of the lipid bilayer structure of the cell membrane makes it mandatory for glucose to require transport proteins for its transit into the cells. These include solute carrier integral membrane proteins such as glucose transporters (GLUTs) and sodium-glucose transporters. GLUTs belong to the major facilitator superfamily with a 12 transmembrane spanner topology, with GLUT1–13 sharing the same transmembrane sequence but variable transmembrane loops and terminal cytoplasmic ends of carbon and nitrogen. Phylogenetic analysis classifies GLUTs into three classes, with each class showing an affinity for a specific substrate. The tightly coupled relationship between glucose homeostasis and the nearly ubiquitous GLUTs has led to the investigation of their diverse roles in embryonic development, adult physiology, and clinical disorders including but not limited to inborn errors, diabetes mellitus, metabolic syndrome, and cancers. The current review is pivoted around the studies focusing on the structure and functions of members of the GLUT family, their chromosomal and organ-specific distribution, as well as the current evidence of their clinical implications and prospective therapeutic roles, specifically in cancers and metabolic disorders. The literature for the present work was retrieved from databases including Google Scholar, Web of Science, and PubMed.