Resistant Crops Research Articles

Bioinoculant-induced plant resistance is modulated by interactions with resident soil microbes

BackgroundEntomopathogenic fungi are increasingly used as bio-inoculants to enhance crop growth and resistance. When applied to rhizosphere soil, they interact with resident soil microbes, which can affect their ability to colonize and induce resistance in plants as well as modify the structure of the resident soil microbiome, either directly through interactions in the rhizosphere or indirectly, mediated by the plant. The extent to which such direct versus indirect interactions between bio-inoculants and soil microbes impact microbe-induced resistance in crops remains unclear. This study uses a split-root system to examine the effects of direct versus indirect (plant-mediated) interactions between an entomopathogenic fungus, Metarhizium brunneum, and resident soil microbes on induced resistance in tomato against two-spotted spider mites. Additionally, the study explores how these interactions influence the composition and diversity of soil fungal and bacterial communities.ResultsResident soil microbes reduced the efficacy of M. brunneum to induce resistance against spider mites. This reduction occurred not only when resident microbes directly interacted with the bio-inoculant but also when they were spatially separated within the root system, indicating plant-mediated effects. M. brunneum inoculation did not affect rhizosphere microbial diversity but led to changes in fungal and bacterial community composition, even when these communities were not in direct contact with the inoculant.ConclusionsThis research highlights the impact of both direct and plant-mediated interactions between bio-inoculants and resident soil microbes on bio-inoculant-induced pest resistance in crop plants and underscores the importance of assessing potential adverse effects of fungal bio-inoculants on native soil communities.

Perceptions of Farmers about Socio-economic Impacts of Drought: A Case Study of Mastung District, Balochistan

Drought is one of the most complicated natural disasters, affecting more people than any other natural disaster. There has been an increasing trend in the number of disasters reported globally over last few decades. Balochistan is among the areas which are arid and drought affected. This study was conducted in Balochistan region with the help of 200 samples of farmers from Mastung District. The farmers were interviewed helping study drought perception in the selected area. The objectives of this study were to find the impact of Mastung district drought how it has impacted the people in the region and what strategies people of Mastung district are taking to overcome this drought. Analysis shows the residents of Mastung District had a fair amount of understanding of climate changes. A vast majority of respondents (95.5%) reported experiencing drought occasionally. The vast majority of respondents 96%, reported that climate change is influencing drought intensity and frequency. The results about effect of drought on household income show that drought has impacted household income and caused significant challenges for the households. Almost all the respondents have reported decrease of livestock numbers due to drought. Results show that drought has a largely negative impact on crop yield, with most of respondents reported moderate declines in crop yield due to drought. A vast majority (98%) of respondents indicated that drought has moderately reduced employment opportunities in the area. All of the respondents confirmed that drought causes malnutrition among children. 57 % of farmers think that there are disputes over water for irrigation use in Mastung District. There are some drought mitigation strategies adopted by local people including storing grains, storing crop residue for livestock and the use of drought resistant crop were other coping strategies. The government and non-governmental organizations should assist the local population in strengthening the communities' resilience by increasing their capacity for adaptation in order to lessen the effects of drought.

Nanoparticles as catalysts of agricultural revolution: enhancing crop tolerance to abiotic stress: a review

Ensuring global food security and achieving sustainable agricultural productivity remains one of the foremost challenges of the contemporary era. The increasing impacts of climate change and environmental stressors like drought, salinity, and heavy metal (HM) toxicity threaten crop productivity worldwide. Addressing these challenges demands the development of innovative technologies that can increase food production, reduce environmental impacts, and bolster the resilience of agroecosystems against climate variation. Nanotechnology, particularly the application of nanoparticles (NPs), represents an innovative approach to strengthen crop resilience and enhance the sustainability of agriculture. NPs have special physicochemical properties, including a high surface-area-to-volume ratio and the ability to penetrate plant tissues, which enhances nutrient uptake, stress resistance, and photosynthetic efficiency. This review paper explores how abiotic stressors impact crops and the role of NPs in bolstering crop resistance to these challenges. The main emphasis is on the potential of NPs potential to boost plant stress tolerance by triggering the plant defense mechanisms, improving growth under stress, and increasing agricultural yield. NPs have demonstrated potential in addressing key agricultural challenges, such as nutrient leaching, declining soil fertility, and reduced crop yield due to poor water management. However, applying NPs must consider regulatory and environmental concerns, including soil accumulation, toxicity to non-target organisms, and consumer perceptions of NP-enhanced products. To mitigate land and water impacts, NPs should be integrated with precision agriculture technologies, allowing targeted application of nano-fertilizers and nano-pesticides. Although further research is necessary to assess their advantages and address concerns, NPs present a promising and cost-effective approach for enhancing food security in the future.

Advances in Plant Epigenetic Regulation of Abiotic Stress Response

With global climate change and increasing environmental pollution, plants are facing increasingly severe abiotic stresses, such as drought, salinization and heavy metal pollution. These stresses not only affect plant growth and development, but also pose a threat to agricultural production and ecosystem stability. In order to adapt to these unfavorable environments, plants have evolved a series of complex response mechanisms, among which epigenetic regulation, as an important means of regulation, has gradually attracted the attention of researchers. By modifying gene expression without modifying the DNA sequence, epigenetic control uses a variety of techniques, including DNA methylation, histone modification, and non-coding RNAs (ncRNA). These mechanisms are crucial for plant responses to abiotic stresses and can significantly enhance plant resistance and adaptive capabilities. DNA methylation can enhance plant resistance by controlling the expression of stress response-related genes; histone modification can regulate plant physiological responses by altering the structure of chromatin and affecting the accessibility of genes; and ncRNAs, especially microRNAs and siRNAs, can regulate plant physiological responses by targeting the expression of stress response-related genes. In-depth study of the role of plant epigenetic regulation in abiotic stress response is of great theoretical and practical significance for improving crop resistance and ensuring food security

Research progress of CRISPR technology in plant abiotic stress

In recent years, the agricultural sector has faced immense challenges due to prolonged droughts, excessive soil salinity, and extreme temperature fluctuations, which have collectively stunted crop growth and significantly reduced yields. Such environmental stressors not only impact agricultural productivity but also pose a substantial threat to global food security. To address these challenges, advancements in gene editing have introduced CRISPR (clusters of regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) tools, with CRISPR-Cas9 emerging as a particularly powerful and widely adopted technology. This tool offers high precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, enabling targeted genetic modifications that can enhance crop resilience and facilitate the development of superior varieties. This paper discusses the fundamental principles and unique characteristics of CRISPR-Cas9 technology, providing a comprehensive summary of its applications in strengthening crop resistance to various abiotic stresses, including drought, salinity, and extreme temperatures. Additionally, it addresses the technology's limitations, outlining the areas that require further refinement to optimize its agricultural impact and broaden its applicability.

Computational and experimental approaches to explore defense related enzymes conferring resistance in Fusarium infected chilli plants by regulating plant metabolism through nutritional products.

Nutritional status being the first line of defense for host plants, determines their susceptibility or resistance against invading pathogens. In recent years, the applications of plant nutrient related products have been documented as one of the best performers and considered as alternatives or/and supplements in plant disease management compared to traditional chemicals. However, knowledge about application of plant nutrient related products for the management of destructive fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. capsici and their impact on the components of the antioxidant defense system, especially in chilli plants, still needs to be discovered. Therefore, in this current study, we aimed to evaluate two nutrient fertilizers viz. Krystafeed and Micro Plus at three different concentrations by soil drenching method for their effects against the Fusarium wilt of chilli and investigate the components of the antioxidant defense system of chilli plants. Correlation and computational analysis on the components of antioxidant defense system in various pathways were performed to predict the suitable binding sites of mineral ions. Results indicated that the combination of Krystafeed and Micro Plus was found the most effective with (27.01, 26.59%) disease incidence, followed by Micro Plus (29.56, 32.35%) and Krystafeed (38.21, 41.15%), both in greenhouse and field conditions, respectively. Moreover, the combination of Krystafeed and Micro Plus significantly increased the concentration of SOD (27.53, 108.96)%, POD (37.29, 45.65)%, CAT (19.33, 95.33)%, H2O2 (22.13, 118.98)%, TPC (27.39, 17.37)%, chlorophyll a (21.80, 35.74)%, chlorophyll b (57.57, 18.25)%, total chlorophyll (30.21, 19.83)%, Tocopherol (13.08, 33.66)%, TrxR (5.03, 36.56)%, MDA (13.84, 54.79)%, ascorbate (4.72, 17.28)%, Proline (5.94, 59.31)%, and phytoalexin (Capsidiol) (11.33, 55.08)% in the treated plants of resistant and susceptible chilli varieties, respectively, as compared to the untreated plants. Pearson's correlation heat-map analysis showed that all the enzymes of antioxidant defense system were found positively correlated with each other. It is concluded that the improvement of crop resistance by the application of plant nutrient related products may be viable alternatives to synthetic chemicals for managing Fusarium wilt disease of chilli and potentially other pathogens.

Synthetic Microbial Communities Enhance Pepper Growth and Root Morphology by Regulating Rhizosphere Microbial Communities

Synthetic microbial community (SynCom) application is efficient in promoting crop yield and soil health. However, few studies have been conducted to enhance pepper growth via modulating rhizosphere microbial communities by SynCom application. This study aimed to investigate how SynCom inoculation at the seedling stage impacts pepper growth by modulating the rhizosphere microbiome using high-throughput sequencing technology. SynCom inoculation significantly increased shoot height, stem diameter, fresh weight, dry weight, chlorophyll content, leaf number, root vigor, root tips, total root length, and root-specific surface area of pepper by 20.9%, 36.33%, 68.84%, 64.34%, 29.65%, 27.78%, 117.42%, 35.4%, 21.52%, and 39.76%, respectively, relative to the control. The Chao index of the rhizosphere microbial community and Bray–Curtis dissimilarity of the fungal community significantly increased, while Bray–Curtis dissimilarity of the bacterial community significantly decreased by SynCom inoculation. The abundances of key taxa such as Scedosporium, Sordariomycetes, Pseudarthrobacter, norankSBR1031, and norankA4b significantly increased with SynCom inoculation, and positively correlated with indices of pepper growth. Our findings suggest that SynCom inoculation can effectively enhance pepper growth and regulate root morphology by regulating rhizosphere microbial communities and increasing key taxa abundance like Sordariomycetes and Pseudarthrobacter, thereby benefiting nutrient acquisition, resistance improvement, and pathogen resistance of crops to ensure sustainability.

Management Strategies for Defoliators in Castor Crop

This study aims to identify effective IPM practices for controlling castor defoliators due to their significant potential to reduce castor bean yields. Defoliation caused by castor defoliators in their larval stage results in a decrease in productivity. This research focuses on implementing green and sustainable Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies that combine biological, cultural, mechanical, and chemical control methods to reduce pest damage effectively. The identified main strategies include the utilization of natural enemies and parasitoids, changing the habitat, crop rotation, and the selective use of insecticides. The outcomes reveal that an integrated approach not only suppresses defoliator abundance but also improves castor crop resistance while maintaining a balance between yield and environment. These integrated pest management (IPM) practices provide suitable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly methods for castor farmers aiming to control defoliators.

Exploring the link between soil health and crop productivity.

Understanding the complex interactions of plants and soils in the face of global food security and environmental degradation challenges is critical to the future of sustainable agriculture. This review discusses the important link between soil health and crop productivity by providing and comprehensive assessment of soil properties and management methods. By examining the physical, chemical, and biological properties of soil, it uncovers the key limitations posed by the soil environment on crop growth. The review highlights how soil texture, nutrient availability, and moisture levels directly impact on root growth, water uptake, and nutrient use efficiencies, while also exploring how diverse cropping systems enhance soil ecology and biodiversity. By utilizing state-of-the-art bioinformatics, we offer an in-depth exploration of rhizosphere microbial communities, emphasizing the functions of phosphate-solubilizing and nitrogen-fixing bacteria in promoting vital nutrient cycles. The potential of using microbial fertilizers to increase crop resistance to disease and stress hold a major premise for future sustainability in agriculture. In this regard, this review highlights the long-term impacts of crop cultivation on soil microbial diversity, revealing intricate selection processes between crops and their microbial partners in shaping crop-soil-microbe interactions. In terms of soil management, practical nutrient management strategies are proposed based on soil testing, emphasizing the benefits of organic farming and conservation tillage for soil health. Modern precision agricultural tools and remote sensing technologies are encouraged to be refined for effective nutrient management. At the policy level, we evaluate international guidelines aimed at fostering agricultural sustainability, suggesting new research pathways for crop-soil dynamics and offering approaches for developing soil health indicators in the face of global environmental challenges.

Chitosan hydrogel microspheres loaded with Bacillus subtilis promote plant growth and reduce chromium uptake

Cr contamination can lead to reduced crop yields and threaten food security. Eliminating soil Cr contamination or improving crop resistance to Cr is challenging in terms of costly, environment and biodiversity risk. Here, we used chitosan hydrogel microspheres loaded with Bacillus subtilis to cope with plant stress caused by Cr contamination. The addition of chitosan hydrogel microspheres loaded with Bacillus subtilis increased shoot biomass by 88 % and decreased the plant Cr concentration by 17 %. The bacterial chitosan hydrogel microsphere treatment enhanced the decomposition of organic matter and facilitated the uptake of nutrients by the plants. It also significantly increased the abundance of anti-heavy metal stress functional bacteria (Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, and Chloroflexi), strongly promoting interactions and correlations between microbes. This technology of bacterial-chitosan hydrogel microspheres presents promising opportunities for sustainable strategies for addressing heavy metal pollution and enhancing agricultural productivity.

Sustainable pest management strategies for agriculture in Pakistan: a review

The agriculture sector of Pakistan’s economy faces significant challenges, including water scarcity, land degradation, climate change, and pest infestations, all of which threaten crop production and rural livelihoods. Historically, pest management has heavily relied on chemical pesticides, such as organophosphates and pyrethroids. While these provide short-term solutions, their extensive use has led to environmental degradation, health risks, and the development of resistance in cotton and vegetable crops. In response, integrated pest management (IPM) has emerged as an ecological approach that combines biological, cultural, mechanical, and selective chemical controls to regulate pest populations while minimizing environmental damage. This study reviews pest control practices in Pakistan, with a particular focus on the National IPM Programme and Farmer Field Schools. Successful programs under these initiatives have reduced pesticide use by 87% and increased crop yields by 10-25%. Case studies highlight the effectiveness of biological controls, such as Trichogramma wasps and Beauveria bassiana fungi, which have resulted in reduced pesticide use and yield improvements of up to 18%. However, challenges persist, including farmer education, a lack of facilities for maintaining biological control agents, and climate-induced shifts in pest populations. The study also emphasizes the potential of precision agriculture technologies, such as drones, remote sensing, and AI-driven monitoring systems, for pest surveillance and targeted interventions. Policy recommendations include providing institutional support, enhancing farmer capacity, investing in biopesticides and genetically modified organisms, and fostering collaboration among government agencies, research organizations, and farmers to ensure the long-term sustainability and resilience of agriculture in Pakistan.

Laboratory Methodology for Screening of Cruciferous Host for Egg Laying Preference of Diamondback Moth, Plutella xylostella (L.)

Background: Diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella (L.), significantly damages Cole crops worldwide, causing major yield losses and management costs. Efficient control measures, including host plant resistance are imperative. While molecular methods offer insights into resistance mechanisms, conventional screening methods remain advantageous. Here, we present a novel laboratory-based oviposition preference screening method for DBM, significantly shortening screening time in resistance breeding. Methods: We studied DBM’s oviposition preferences among cruciferous hosts and plant tissues. Extract was prepared from leaves and heads of dark green and light green cabbage varieties, as well as cauliflower. Aluminum egg-laying sheets were treated with these extracts and introduced into mating boxes with insects. Egg-laying was monitored over seven days, with the number of eggs recorded daily. Result: DBM adults preferred light green cabbage for egg laying (1238±10.54 eggs), with no significant difference between leaf and head tissues. Dark green cabbage was the second choice (514.5±15.78 eggs), while cauliflower was the least preferred (217±37.2 eggs). Interestingly, DBM exhibited varying preferences between leaf and head tissues, with cauliflower heads being favored over leaves. Additionally, we observed distinct day-wise egg laying trends, providing insights into DBM’s oviposition behavior over time. This study demonstrates the efficiency of lab-based screening in identifying resistant crop varieties, aiding sustainable pest management and crop production and highlights the importance of considering host plant selection and tissue specificity in screening of genotype for resistance breeding programs.

Gene Identification for Phototropin-dependent Photoprotection in Chlamydomonas Reinhardtii

Photosynthetic organisms convert solar energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis, generating carbohydrates and lipids that are valuable for biofuels. Algae, renowned for their rapid growth and efficiency, have developed mechanisms to adapt to varying light conditions, ensuring their survival and prosperity. Among these mechanisms, photoprotection strategies such as Non-Photochemical Quenching (NPQ) enhance their tolerance to high light intensities. Excessive light intensity can cause detrimental overexcitation of the photosystems. In Chlamydomonas, one of the proteins, LHCSR3, provides a quick protective response known as energy-dependent quenching (qE), the fastest and most important component of NPQ. Deletion of LHCSR3 leads to cell death under high light conditions. Recent research has shown that blue light, perceived by phototropin (PHOT), mediates the photoprotection of the photosynthetic machinery under high light conditions in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. Deletion of PHOT leads to compromised expression of LHCSR3 under high light conditions, therefore leading to cell death. However, the downstream signaling components of the PHOT-LHCSR3 pathway remain largely undiscovered. The objective of this project was to identify and characterize new actors involved in PHOT-dependent photoprotection in Chlamydomonas. Using forward genetics and omics analysis, we built a mutant library that could survive under high light intensity in a phot background. We also identified 8 putative PHOT-dependent photoprotection downstream signaling components. Overall, this project brings new insights into the acclimation of photosynthesis to high light. The mutant library could be further used for additional research. Furthermore, understanding photoprotection will not only help increase microalgae biofuel production productivity but could also provide new insights into the genetic engineering of crops for high light resistance.

The palmitoyl-CoA ligase Fum16 is part of a Fusarium verticillioides fumonisin subcluster involved in self-protection.

Fusarium verticillioides produces the mycotoxin fumonisin B1 (FB1), which disrupts sphingolipid biosynthesis by inhibiting ceramide synthase and affects the health of plants, animals, and humans. The means by which F. verticillioides protects itself from its own mycotoxin are not completely understood. Some fumonisin (FUM) cluster genes do not contribute to the biosynthesis of the compound, but their function has remained enigmatic. Recently, we showed that FUM17, FUM18, and FUM19 encode two ceramide synthases and an ATP-binding cassette transporter, respectively, which play a role in antagonizing the toxicity mediated by FB1. In the present work, we uncovered functions of two adjacent genes, FUM15 and FUM16. Using homologous and heterologous expression systems, in F. verticillioides and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, respectively, we provide evidence that both contribute to protection against FB1. Our data indicate a potential role for the P450 monooxygenase Fum15 in the modification and detoxification of FB1 since the deletion and overexpression of the respective gene affected extracellular FB1 levels in both hosts. Furthermore, relative quantification of ceramide intermediates and an in vitro enzyme assay revealed that Fum16 is a functional palmitoyl-CoA ligase. It co-localizes together with the ceramide synthase Fum18 to the endoplasmic reticulum, where they contribute to sphingolipid biosynthesis. Thereby, FUM15-19 constitute a subcluster within the FUM biosynthetic gene cluster dedicated to the fungal self-protection against FB1.IMPORTANCEThe study identifies a five-gene FUM subcluster (FUM15-19) in Fusarium verticillioides involved in self-protection against FB1. FUM16 (palmitoyl-CoA ligase), FUM17, and FUM18 (ceramide synthases) enzymatically supplement ceramide biosynthesis, while FUM19 (ATP-binding cassette transporter) acts as a repressor of the FUM cluster. The evolutionary conservation of FUM15 (P450 monooxygenase) in Fusarium and Aspergillus FUM clusters is discussed, and its effect on extracellular FB1 levels in both native (F. verticillioides) and heterologous (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) hosts is highlighted. These findings enhance our understanding of mycotoxin self-protection mechanisms and could inform strategies for predicting biological activity of unknown secondary metabolites, managing mycotoxin contamination, and developing resistant crop cultivars.

Vermicompost as Organic Amendment: Effects on Some Soil Physical, Biological Properties and Crops Performance on Acidic Soil: A Review

One of the most precious natural resources is soil, which provides ecological functions necessary for life's survival and sustenance. Therefore, preserving and enhancing soil health is crucial for agricultural and ecological sustainability. However, careless application of mineral fertilizer lowers fertility and organic matter and has negative impacts on the environment, ground water quality, and soil health, whereas the use of organic amendments is essential for enhancing soil health. In order to improve the physical, biological, and crop productivity of acidic soil, this review emphasizes the potential of vermicompost as a soil conditioner. Thus, adding organic amendments to soil is a management tactic that can boost microbial populations, activity, and variety, enhances soil fertility and improve soil structure. Vermicompost (VC) is one type of organic amendment that is created when earthworms and soil microorganisms interact. The end product has a high degree of maturity, high porosity, aeration, drainage, water storage capacity, and microbial activity. As a result, applying this amendment encourages biological activity, which raises the soils' potential for production both directly through increased nutrient availability and indirectly through improved physical characteristics. Similarly, the addition of vermicompost (VC) to soil raised its pH levels, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and total organic carbon; it also enhanced the soil's cation exchange capacity, microbial biomass carbon, micronutrient content, and nitrogen content, all of which increased crop yield. In addition to raising crop yield and improving soil quality and nutrient availability, vermicompost also strengthens crop resistance to pests and diseases. By adding essential nutrients, humic acids, growth-regulating hormones, and enzymes to the soil, it acts as an organic fertilizer that improves plant nutrition, photosynthesis, and overall crop quality.

Potential Involvement of Buchnera aphidicola (Enterobacteriales, Enterobacteriaceae) in Biotype Differentiation of Sitobion avenae (Hemiptera: Aphididae).

Buchnera aphidicola, an obligate endosymbiont of most aphid species, can influence aphids' host adaptability through amino acid metabolism, potentially mediating biotype differentiation. However, its role in the biotype differentiation of Sitobion avenae remains unclear. To address this issue, six S. avenae biotypes were tested in this study. Buchnera abundance varied among biotypes fed on different wheat/barley varieties (i.e., Zhong 4 wumang, 186-TM12-34; Dulihuang, Zaoshu No.3, Xiyin No.2). The reduction in Buchnera abundance through antibiotic (rifampicin) treatment altered the virulence of five S. avenae biotypes. Based on transcriptome analysis, the differential expression of three genes (i.e., LeuB, TrpE, and IlvD) related to leucine, tryptophan, isoleucine, and valine metabolism was detected between different biotypes. Principal component analysis showed that leucine and tryptophan deficiencies most significantly impacted nymph development duration and aphid fecundity. Additionally, a neighbor-joining phylogenetic tree indicated the genetic differentiation of Buchnera among different biotypes. These results suggest Buchnera-mediated amino acid metabolism is correlated with biotype differentiation in S. avenae, although the precise mechanisms by which Buchnera influences this differentiation require further investigation. This study can offer a theoretical basis for the development of resistant crops, leading to the sustainable control of this aphid and reduced reliance on chemical insecticides.

Pulp or Potential? Magneto-Priming as a Seed Priming Technique Has Little Effect on Seedling Performance but Results in Significant Alteration of trans-Zeatin and cis-Zeatin in Soybean (Glycine max)

Magneto-priming (MP) has been reported as a sustainable method to enhance crop yield and resistance to adverse environmental conditions; however, any physiochemical basis for these findings remains unavailable. In the present study, soybean (Glycine max) seeds (n = 232) were exposed to a static magnetic field (SMF) of 150–205 mT for 60 min. The effect of SMF exposure on seedling mass, hypocotyl length, radicleemergence rate, total seedling height, leaf area, chlorophyl content, and physiological attributes was evaluated. Differential analysis of the cytokinin (CK) profile of seedling tissues was achieved using ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray-ionization high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-(ESI)-HRMS/MS). Results indicate that MP seedlings achieved radicle emergence earlier; however, no other statistically significant differences could be established. The absence in significant improvement in the agronomic and physiological attributes measured is in stark contrast to the results reported in other studies. Nonetheless, significant differences were found in the concentrations of trans-Zeatin (tZ) and cis-Zeatin (cZ) between control and MP plants. These results are incongruent as it would be assumed that insignificant differences in agronomic and physiological properties would align with phytohormone profiles. Future work should be performed to determine if there are any meaningful bioeffects that can be assigned to MP-generated hormone changes.

EFFECT OF AFLATOXIN EXPOSURE IN LIVESTOCK AND PUBLIC HEALTH: REVIEW

Aflatoxins are toxic metabolites produced by the fungi Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus flavus, which commonly infest various nutritious foods and animal feed. Given the widespread occurrence of aflatoxins and their significant impact on livestock and public health, understanding the mechanisms of toxicity, routes of exposure and economic implications is crucial. This review aims to investigate the causes and effects of aflatoxin exposure on both human and animal health while proposing strategies for preventing and controlling contamination. Aflatoxin contamination impacts the entire food chain, affecting the production, storage, processing, trade and consumption of both plant and animal products. Its consequences extend to human health, livestock welfare, agricultural productivity, environmental integrity and trade, particularly in regions with inadequate aflatoxin control measures. Aflatoxicosis can result in acute mortality, cancer, immune suppression and other chronic health issues. Effective control measures include pre-harvest interventions, careful management during harvest and post-harvest decontamination. Strategies such as selecting resistant crop varieties, employing biological decontamination using microorganisms, physically removing contaminated materials and chemically inactivating aflatoxins are crucial for prevention. Regulating aflatoxin levels in food and feed is essential for protecting public health and promoting equitable trade, necessitating the establishment and enforcement of maximum allowable limits.

Genome-wide analysis of the laccase gene family in Arachis hypogaea and functional characterization of AhLAC63 involved in lignin biosynthesis and abiotic stress.

Plant laccases (LACs) play a vital role in lignification and participate in multiple biotic/abiotic stress responses. However, little is known about their role in lignin deposition and stress resistance in cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). In this study, 80 putative peanut laccase genes (AhLACs) were identified and clustered into seven distinct phylogenetic groups. While the AhLAC members of group VI were lost, a novel specific group VIII was discovered in peanut. AhLACs within same group generally have similar gene structures and protein motif organizations. Expression pattern and subcellular cellular analysis revealed that AhLAC63 is a candidate gene involved in lignification and abiotic stress response. In addition, introducing AhLAC63 into the Arabidopsis laccase mutant (lac4 lac11) restored its lignin contents and abiotic stress tolerance. Moreover, the overexpression of AhLAC63 significantly altered phenylpropanoid metabolism flux and increased lignin content in peanut hairy roots. This study not only enables the further exploration of LAC biological functions in peanut, but also provides new gene resources for improving stress resistance in crops.

The influence of Pseudomonas syringae pv. aptata on the functional characteristics of the microgametophyte of beetroot varieties with different levels of resistance to bacteriosis

Relevance. An increase in the spread of bacteriosis on beetroot in the conditions of the Moscow region carries an epidemiological danger, which actualizes research on the development of a method-ology for evaluating table beet plants for resistance to bacteriosis in the early stages of ontogenesis. The aim of the research. To identify the nature of the relationship between the reaction of sporophyte and microgametophyte to infection with Pseudomonas syringae pv. aptata (Psa) bacterium of beet-root varieties with different resistance of root crops to bacteriosis.Materials and methods. Objects of research: beetroot plants of the Marusya and Krasny Barhat varietal populations, collection strain Psa 1-21. Using phytopathological methods and methods of gamete breeding, plant resistance was assessed in various variants of infection of sporophyte and gametophyte with suspension and culture filtrate of Psa.Results. The average volume of the affected area of the Psa root crops of the Marusya variety was 3.5 times greater than that of the Krasny Barhat variety (Vp = 53 mm3), which is characterized by alignment and absence of susceptible forms (Vp >300 mm3). The Marusya variety has a wide intrapopulation polymorphism in the stability of root crops and leaves, where most genotypes showed medium or high susceptibility to the pathogen. Both varieties showed an increase of 10-30% relative to the control of pollen viability at high (CFU 12*108 cl/ml) and low (CFU 2.4*108 cl/ml) concentrations of the pathogen. The positive effect of Psaon the growth of pollen tubes was noted: in the Marusya variety, as the concentration increased, the stimulating effect increased, in the Krasny Barhat variety, it gradually decreased. When adding a 2.5-fold diluted Psa culture filtrate, the susceptible Marusya variety showed an increase in pollen viability (by 3%), and the resistant Krasny Barhat variety showed a 24% decrease relative to the control. According to the growth rate of the pollen tube, the 4:6 dilution was also differentiating, where the average length of the tubes of the susceptible variety exceeded the control by 10%, and in the stable variety it was 18% lower than the control variant.Conclusion. An inverse relationship was revealed between the resistance of sporophyte to Psa and changes in the functional parameters of the microgametophyte of beetroot varieties Marusya and Krasny Barhat under the influence of a phytopathogen. The results obtained indicate the prospects for the development of a methodology for the selection of bacteriosis-resistant genotypes of beetroot by the reaction of microgametophyte.