Glucosinolate Content Research Articles

Mitigating salt stress in “Friariello Napoletano” (Brassica rapa subsp. sylvestris L. Janch. var. esculenta Hort.): The potential of biochar for sustainable agriculture

The agricultural sector is therefore called upon to seek efficient and sustainable strategies to improve plant resilience and tolerance to sub-optimal growth conditions. In many coastal areas of the Mediterranean, saline stress causes serious problems to vegetable crops. In this scenario, the use of upgraded agrochemicals such as plant biostimulants, biochar and plant nutrition regulators could be beneficial. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effects of amending the soil with different concentrations of poplar-derived biochar (0 %, 1 % and 2 % by volume), on the productive and qualitative response of an ecotype of “Friariello Napoletano” (Brassica rapa subsp. sylvestris L. Janch. var. esculenta Hort.) under different levels of saline irrigation (0, 30, 60 and 120 mM NaCl, giving an electrical conductivity values of 0.05, 2.09, 6.09 and 9.70 dS m–1). The experiment was conducted in an unheated greenhouse, using pot plants grown in soil with a randomized complete-block experimental design arranged in a 4 × 3 factorial scheme with three replications. Productive and physiological results (ACO2, gs, E, SPAD index) highlighted a highly glycophytic response of Friariello. Biochar integration, besides increasing total production and glucosinolate content, led to a significant reduction in toxic ion content (Na+and Cl−) under saline conditions compared to control plants. Regardless of salinity effect, the application of biochar resulted in an increase in fresh yield and photosynthetic activity (ACO2) of 12.8 % and 29.3 % respectively. The promising results underscore the potential role of biochar as a sustainable strategy for mitigating salt stress in Friariello Napoletano and potentially other vegetable crops in salt-affected regions. However, it needs to be clarified which adaptive mechanisms triggered by biochar improves production performance even and especially under sub-optimal growing conditions.

Identification of volatile and flavor metabolites in three varieties of broccoli sprouts

Broccoli sprouts are promising functional food sources and their taste and flavor play a pivotal role in the acceptance of consumers. In this study, the flavor profiles of three varieties of broccoli sprouts, namely Bi Lv, You Xiu, and Lv Hua, were comprehensively characterized using HS-SPME-GC/MS analysis. A total of 364 volatile and flavor components across 15 chemical classes were successfully identified. The results revealed a majority of volatile metabolites exhibiting upregulation during the germination process, leading to an enhancement in taste intensity after germination, particularly for umami and sweet tastes, which was associated with an increase in associated amino acids and sugar content. Although the total glucosinolate content in broccoli sprouts has decreased compared to seeds, it remains the primary contributor to the bitterness of broccoli sprouts. The present study elaborated on the flavor contribution of broccoli sprouts, supporting the cultivation and consumption of them as a nutritious food.

Influence of Electrical Conductivity on Plant Growth, Nutritional Quality, and Phytochemical Properties of Kale (Brassica napus) and Collard (Brassica oleracea) Grown Using Hydroponics

Kale (Brassica napus) and collard (Brassica oleracea) are two leafy greens in the family Brassicaceae. The leaves are rich sources of numerous health-beneficial compounds and are commonly used either fresh or cooked. This study aimed to optimize the nutrient management of kale and collard in hydroponic production for greater yield and crop quality. ‘Red Russian’ kale and ‘Flash F1’ collard were grown for 4 weeks after transplanting in a double polyethylene-plastic-covered greenhouse using a nutrient film technique (NFT) system with 18 channels. Kale and collard were alternately grown in each channel at four different electrical conductivity (EC) levels (1.2, 1.5, 1.8, and 2.1 mS·cm−1). Fresh and dry yields of kale increased linearly with increasing EC levels, while those of collard did not increase when EC was higher than 1.8 mS·cm−1. Kale leaves had significantly higher P, K, Mn, Zn, Cu, and B than the collard at all EC levels. Additionally, mineral nutrients (except N and Zn) in leaf tissue were highest at EC 1.5 and EC 1.8 in both the kale and collard. However, the changing trend of the total N and NO3- of the leaves showed a linear trend; these levels were highest under EC 2.1, followed by EC 1.8 and EC 1.5. EC levels also affected phytochemical accumulation in leaf tissue. In general, the kale leaves had significantly higher total anthocyanin, vitamin C, phenolic compounds, and glucosinolates but lower total chlorophylls and carotenoids than the collard. In addition, although EC levels affected neither the total chlorophyll or carotenoid content in kale nor glucosinolate content in either kale or collard, other important health-beneficial compounds (especially vitamin C, anthocyanin, and phenolic compounds) in kale and collard leaves reduced with the increasing EC levels. In conclusion, the kale leaf had more nutritional and phytochemical compounds than the collard. An EC level of 1.8 mS·cm−1 was the optimum EC level for the collard, while the kale yielded more at 2.1 mS·cm−1. Further investigations are needed to optimize nitrogen nutrition for hydroponically grown kale.

Phytochemical Composition and Functional Properties of Brassicaceae Microgreens: Impact of In Vitro Digestion.

The aim of this study was to compare the concentration of phenolic compounds, glucosinolates, proteins, sugars and vitamin C between kohlrabi (Brassica oleracea var. acephala gongylodes), Savoy cabbage (B. oleracea sabauda), Brussels sprouts (B. oleracea gemmifera), cauliflower (B. oleracea botrytis), radish (Raphanus sativus) and garden cress (Lepidium sativum) microgreens for their antioxidant and hypoglycemic potential. In addition, we applied an in vitro-simulated system of human digestion in order to track the bioaccessibility of the selected phenolic representatives, and the stability of the microgreens' antioxidant and hypoglycemic potential in terms of α-amylase and α-glucosidase inhibition after each digestion phase. Using spectrophotometric and RP-HPLC methods with statistical analyses, we found that garden cress had the lowest soluble sugar content, while Savoy cabbage and Brussels sprouts had the highest glucosinolate levels (76.21 ± 4.17 mg SinE/g dm and 77.73 ± 3.33 mg SinE/g dm, respectively). Brussels sprouts were the most effective at inhibiting protein glycation (37.98 ± 2.30% inhibition). A very high positive correlation (r = 0.830) between antiglycation potential and conjugated sinapic acid was recorded. For the first time, the antidiabetic potential of microgreens after in vitro digestion was studied. Kohlrabi microgreens best inhibited α-amylase in both initial and intestinal digestion (60.51 ± 3.65% inhibition and 62.96 ± 3.39% inhibition, respectively), and also showed the strongest inhibition of α-glucosidase post-digestion (19.22 ± 0.08% inhibition). Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and radish had less stable α-glucosidase than α-amylase inhibitors during digestion. Kohlrabi, Savoy cabbage, and garden cress retained inhibition of both enzymes after digestion. Kohlrabi antioxidant capacity remained unchanged after digestion. The greatest variability was seen in the original samples, while the intestinal phase resulted in the most convergence, indicating that digestion reduced differences between the samples. In conclusion, this study highlights the potential of various microgreens as sources of bioactive compounds with antidiabetic and antiglycation properties. Notably, kohlrabi microgreens demonstrated significant enzyme inhibition after digestion, suggesting their promise in managing carbohydrate metabolism and supporting metabolic health.

Season-dependent variation in the contents of glucosinolates and S-methyl-L-cysteine sulfoxide and their hydrolysis in Brassica oleracea

Season-dependent variation in the contents of glucosinolates and S-methyl-L-cysteine sulfoxide and their hydrolysis in Brassica oleracea

Effects of Postharvest SO2 Treatment on Longan Aril Flavor and Glucosinolate Metabolites.

SO2 fumigation treatment (commonly known as sulfur treatment, ST) is a key method in the postharvest preservation of imported and exported fresh longan fruits, effectively reducing pericarp browning and enhancing color. Nonetheless, distinctive aromas, often referred to as "sulfur flavor", may develop in the aril during the extended preservation period. This study employed "Caopu" longan as the test material and patented SO2-releasing paper (ZL201610227848.7) as a treatment to perform a 35-day low-temperature (5 °C) storage of the fruit. The changes in glucosinolates (GSLs) and associated metabolites in the aril of treated fruit (ST) were examined utilizing ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) detection and widely targeted metabolomics technology. The findings indicated that following 35 days of storage, nearly all control (CK) fruit pericarp turned to brown, resulting in an edible fruit rate of 75.41% and a commercial fruit rate of 0%. In contrast, the treated (ST) fruit demonstrated an edible fruit rate and a commercial rate of 99.44%, while the pericarp color changed from dark yellow-brown to light earthy yellow. The sulfur-containing metabolites identified in longan fruit aril predominantly consist of amino acids and their derivatives (60.44%), followed by alkaloids (15.38%), nucleotides and their derivatives (1.10%), and other types (23.08%), which include GSLs. SO2 treatment significantly reduced the content of oxidized glutathione in fruit aril but increased the content of GSLs and related amino acids and their derivatives. Via screening, 19 differential sulfur-containing metabolites were obtained between ST and CK, including 11 GSLs. The identified differential metabolites of GSLs were all increased, primarily comprising aliphatic GSLs, such as 1-hydroxymethyl glucosinolate, 2-Propenyl glucosinolate (Sinigrin), and 4-Methylsulfinylbutyl glucosinolate (Glucoraphanin). Pathway analysis showed that these differential metabolites were mainly involved in coenzyme factor synthesis, cysteine and methionine metabolism, and amino acid synthesis, among other pathways. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to reveal the causes of the special flavor of longan aril after SO2 treatment, which is a great concern for longan consumers. Moreover, this study provides a scientific basis for exploring the reasons and mechanisms for the development of the sulfur flavor in the SO2-treated fruits during postharvest storage.

The effect of nitrogen management on seed yield and quality in traditional and canola-quality white mustard

The article presents the results of a three-year field study that was conducted in Poland to evaluate the yield and quality of seeds and oil from traditional (SAM) and canola-quality white mustard (SAC) in response to different N fertilizer rates (0, 40, 80, 120, and 160 kg ha–1). Seed yields were 25% higher in SAM than SAC. The seeds of SAC contained more crude fat (by 3%) and crude fiber (by 6%) than the seeds of SAM. In turn, the seeds of SAM were a richer source of total protein (by 7%). The content of glucosinolates (GSLs) was 8–10 times lower in the seeds of SAC than SAM. The seeds of both mustard cultivars were most abundant in γ-tocopherol (γ-T) (90–94%). The seeds of SAC were characterized by a higher content of γ-T and a lower α-T/γ-T ratio than SAM seeds. White mustard oil contained mostly MUFAs (69–75%). However, C22:1 accounted for more than 50% of MUFAs in the oil SAM. In the oil SAC, the proportion of C22:1 did not exceed 6%, whereas C18:1 accounted for nearly 85% of total MUFAs. Nitrogen fertilization induced a significant increase in seed yields (by 33%), a decrease in crude fat content (by 3–4%), and an increase in total protein content (by 4%), and crude fiber content (by 7%). Nitrogen decreased GSL levels by 31% in SAM seeds. In SAC, N fertilization induced differences in the qualitative composition of GSLs, but did not affect the total GSL content of seeds. Higher N rates increased the content of α-T and γ-T, the α-T/γ-T ratio, and total T content. Nitrogen fertilization decreased the content of C18:3 in the seeds of the SAM. In SAC, the application of N decreased the content of C18, C18:1, and C18:3, and increased the biosynthesis of C18:2, C20:1, and C22:1.

Stress physiology of Moringa oleifera under tropospheric ozone enrichment: An ecotype-specific investigation into growth, nonstructural carbohydrates, and polyphenols.

Ozone (O3) is an oxidative pollutant that significantly threatens plant development and ecological dynamics. The present study explores the impact of O3 on Moringa (Moringa oleifera) ecotypes when exposed to ambient and elevated O3 levels. Elevated O3 concentrations resulted in significant reductions in total biomass for all ecotypes. Photosynthetic parameters, including stomatal conductance (gsto), CO2 assimilation (Pn), and carboxylation efficiency (K), decreased under elevated O3 in some ecotypes, indicating a detrimental effect on carbon assimilation. Nonstructural carbohydrate (NSC) levels in roots varied among ecotypes, with significant reductions in starch content observed under elevated O3, suggesting a potential shift towards soluble sugar accumulation and reallocation for antioxidant defense. Secondary metabolite analysis revealed increased polyphenol production, particularly quercetin derivatives, under elevated O3 in specific ecotypes, highlighting their role in mitigating oxidative stress. Interestingly, the glucosinolate content also varied, with some ecotypes exhibiting increased levels, suggesting a complex regulatory mechanism in response to O3 exposure. The study underscores the intrinsic variability among Moringa ecotypes in response to O3 stress, emphasizing the importance of genetic diversity for adaptation. The findings indicate that Moringa's metabolic plasticity, including shifts in NSC and SM production, plays a crucial role in its defense mechanisms against O3-induced oxidative stress. These insights are vital for optimizing the cultivation and utilization of Moringa in diverse environmental conditions, particularly in regions with elevated O3 levels.

Domestication and engineering of pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.): challenges and opportunities for sustainable bio-based feedstocks.

Pennycress, as an emerging oilseed crop with high oil content, faces challenges but offers potential for sustainable bioproducts; ongoing research aims to enhance its traits and quality. Pennycress (Thlaspi arvense L.) is an emerging oilseed crop with many advantages, such as high seed oil (27-39%) and monounsaturated fatty acid (55.6%) content, making it an attractive candidate to produce sustainable bioproducts. However, several challenges are associated with domesticating pennycress, including high silicle shatter, which reduces seed yield during harvest, non-uniformed germination rate and high contents of erucic acid and glucosinolates, which have adverse health effects on humans and animals. Pennycress, which can be easily and rapidly transformed using the floral dip method under vacuum, can achieve trait improvements. Ongoing research for pennycress domestication using mutation breeding, including ethylmethylsulfonate treatment and genome editing, aims to improve its quality. Pennycress can be used as an excellent platform for producing industrially important fatty acids such as hydroxy and epoxy fatty acids and docosahexaenoic acid. In conclusion, pennycress is a promising oilseed crop with multiple advantages and potential applications. Continuous improvements in quality and engineering for producing high-value bio-based feedstocks in pennycress will establish it as a sustainable and economically valuable crop.

Overview of Phytochemical Composition of Brassica oleraceae var. capitata Cultivars.

The Brassicaceae family includes a wide range of horticultural crops of economic and traditional importance, consumed either fresh, cooked, or fermented. Cabbage (Brassica oleraceae var. capitata) is one of the most important crops of the family. The present review analyzes the most important phytochemicals present in cabbage, focusing on variation of phytochemical composition between cultivars of B. oleraceae var. capitata f. alba, B. oleraceae var. capitata f. rubra, B. oleraceae var. capitata f. acuta, and B. oleraceae var. capitata f. sabauda. Cabbage form and cultivars significantly affect phytochemical compositions. B. oleraceae var. capitata f. rubra cultivars are generally great sources of phenolic compounds, especially anthocyanins, whereas B. oleraceae var. capitata f. alba cultivars display the highest concentration of glucosinolates; nevertheless, their levels are also dependent on the specific cultivar. B. oleraceae var. capitata f. acuta cultivars may be considered advantageous due to their high glucosinolate content and consistent phytochemical composition. Recognizing the benefits of specific cultivars can be valuable for consumers seeking a healthier lifestyle, as well as for scientists aiming to enhance cultivars through breeding programs or use plants' extracts to produce high quality pigments and dietary supplements.

Organic Nitrogen Nutrition Does Not Increase Glucosinolate Concentrations in Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica)

Concentrations of specific secondary metabolites can be higher in organically grown crops. This may be linked to organic nitrogen (N) nutrition that provides a gradual supply of N to crops over the growing season. This study examined whether organic N nutrition influenced the concentration of glucosinolates in broccoli crops. Nitrogen release patterns were determined from three synthetic (Rustica, 12% N; calcium nitrate, 15.5% N; urea, 46% N) and two organic fertilizers in an incubation experiment. Broccoli seedlings were then grown in two N dose response pot trials with different N source or application timing treatments to investigate growth and glucosinolate responses. Synthetic fertilizers released 84 to 89% of total N after 28 days, while chicken manure pellets and composted cow manure had only released 52% and 13% of total N, respectively, after 91 days. Broccoli yield and N content were generally higher in synthetic fertilizer treatments. Glucosinolate concentrations were generally higher in the synthetic fertilizer treatments, and only sinigrin and glucoiberin concentrations in the 800 kg ha−1 N application rate of organic fertilizer matched those in the corresponding synthetic fertilizer treatment. Broccoli head weight was reduced when N was applied fortnightly compared to basal and weekly N applications, but glucosinolate concentrations were not significantly different. Overall, there was no evidence that organic (chicken manure) N nutrition, or the rate of N supply to broccoli plants, affect glucosinolate concentrations.

Assessment of bioactive compounds, antioxidant properties and morphological parameters in selected microgreens cultivated in soilless media

The study investigated the effect of soilless media (burlap), on the morphological traits and antioxidant activities of microgreens from Brassicaceae, Amaranthaceae, and Linaceae families. The results revealed significant variations were observed in the selected morphological, biochemical composition, and antioxidant capacity of the microgreens. The radish sango and microgreens showed superior morphological characteristics compared to other microgreens. The elemental composition analysis revealed consistent moisture, ash, fat, fiber, and protein content across all families. The results revealed significant variations in the biochemical composition and antioxidant capacity of the microgreens, depending on the growing medium and between microgreens. Notably, microgreens differed in photosynthetic pigment profiles, with flaxseed and cabbage showing the highest chlorophyll content of 26.59 to 27.18 µg/g, FW and carotenoid content in a range of 3.74 to 6.39 µg/g, FW was observed in microgreens. The radish sango and beetroot microgreens exhibited elevated anthocyanin levels of 27.94–28.25 µmol/100 g, FW. Biochemical analysis indicated varying levels of ascorbic acid (177.58 to 256.46 mg/100 g, FW), total glucosinolate content (4.09 to 47.38 µmol/g, FW), phenolic content (131.44 to 298.56 mg GAE/100 g, FW), and flavonoid content (10.94 to 18.14 mg QUE/100 g, FW) were observed in selected microgreens families. Radish sango microgreens demonstrated the highest DPPH (76.82%, FW) and ABTS (88.49%, FW) radical scavenging activities, indicating superior antioxidant potential. The study showed that Brassicaceae microgreens are particularly rich in bioactive and antioxidant properties. Additionally, studies could assess the economic feasibility and scalability of soilless cultivation methods for microgreens to support their inclusion in sustainable agricultural practices and health-promoting diets.

Effects of different rapeseed varieties on egg production performance, egg quality, hormone levels, follicle development, and thyroid function in hens

This study was to evaluate the effects of rapeseed (Brassica napus L.) from China with different content of glucosinolate (Gls) and erucic acid (EA) on laying hens. A total of 600 laying hens at 33 wk of age were randomly divided into 5 treatments containing a control diet and 4 diets with 11.5% rapeseed. The 11.5% rapeseed diets varied in Gls and EA levels: 1) Deyou no. 6 (DY6) with Gls at 22.67 μmol/g and EA at 0.7%, 2) Mianbangyou no. 1 (MB1) with Gls at 43.23 μmol/g and EA at 3.5%, 3) Deyou no. 5 (DY5) with Gls at 74.66 μmol/g and EA at 16.20%, 4) Xiheyou no. 3 (XH3) with Gls at 132.83 μmol/g and EA at 44.60%. Each group had eight replicates and each replicate had 15 hens. The trial lasted for 12 wk with 4 wk withdrawal. From 1 to 8 wk of the trial, 11.5% rapeseed reduced average daily feed intake (ADFI) compared to the control group (P = 0.002), and egg-laying rate of XH3 rapeseed was lower than that of DY6 rapeseed (P = 0.006), and egg weight of MB1, DY5, and XH3 rapeseed were lower than that of the control group (P < 0.01). Egg mass was reduced by 11.5% rapeseed (P = 0.004) and egg mass of XH3 and DY5 rapeseed were lower than that of DY6 rapeseed (P < 0.01). Feed conversion ratio (FCR) of 11.5% rapeseed was higher than that the control group and FCR is higher in XH3 rapeseed than in DY6 rapeseed from 1 to 8 wk (P < 0.01). At wk 8, the lightness value of eggshell color of XH3 rapeseed was significantly lower than that of the control and DY5 rapeseed (P = 0.012). Xiheyou no. 3 rapeseed had a higher redness value of eggshell color than the control and MB1 and DY5 rapeseed (P = 0.008). Albumen height of DY5 rapeseed was lower than that of the control group at wk 8 (P = 0.012). Mianbangyou no. 1 and DY5 rapeseed decreased Haugh unit at wk 4 and 8, respectively (P = 0.011, P = 0.024). Serum E2 content was decreased by 11.5% rapeseed (P = 0.003). Thyroid index increased as the Gls and EA content increased (P = 0.008). The smallest hierarchical follicle numbers of XH3 and MB1 rapeseed were lower than that of the control group (P = 0.009). After 4 wk withdrawal, the egg weight, egg mass, and FCR did not recover (P = 0.011, P = 0.033, P = 0.024, respectively). In conclusion, 11.5% rapeseed decreased egg production performance which might be caused by decreasing hormone levels, and high Gls and EA rapeseed had a lower performance than low Gls and EA rapeseed.

Effect of sodium selenite on the synthesis of glucosinolates and antioxidant capacity in Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L.ssp.pekinensis).

Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa ssp. pekinensis) is a globally cultivated and consumed leafy vegetable due to its abundant plant secondary metabolites and antioxidant compounds, including flavonoids, ascorbic acids, glucosinolates, and vitamins, which have been reported to confer health-promoting effects. Glucosinolates components in leaves of Chinese cabbage plantlets under different concentrations of sodium selenite (0, 30, and 50μmol/L) were analyzed. Seven glucosinolates were identified and quantified using UHPLC-QTOF-MS. Finally, treatments with 30 and 50μmol/L Na2SeO3 solution significantly increased the levels of total selenium content as well as total phenols, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and DPPH free radical scavenging ability in Chinese cabbage seedlings. Our results revealed that 30μmol/L Na2SeO3 effectively enhanced aliphatic glucosinolate levels and total glucosinolate content while causing a significant reduction in indole glucosinolates. Furthermore, downregulation was observed for BrCYP79F1, BrBCAT4, and BrMAM1 genes associated with aliphatic glucosinolate synthesis. Conversely, BrMYB28 and BrCYP83A1 genes exhibited significant upregulation. Thus, the positive influence of Na2SeO3 on glucosinolate biosynthesis in Chinese cabbage can be attributed to the upregulation of key genes related to this process.

Effects of Drying Methods on the Phytochemical Contents, Antioxidant Properties, and Anti-Diabetic Activity of Nasturtium officinale R.Br. (Betong Watercress) from Southern Thailand.

Nasturtium officinale R.Br. (Betong watercress) contains high levels of secondary metabolites that offer health benefits. However, fresh-cut watercress has a short shelf life. This study aimed to assess the effect of drying methods on the phytochemical contents, antioxidant activity, and anti-diabetic activity of Betong watercress. The watercress was dried using three methods: roasting (R, 50 °C, 40 min); roasting and drying (RD, 40 min roasting at 50 °C and 1 h drying at 80 °C); and blanching, roasting, and drying (BRD, 30 s blanching at 80 °C, 20 min roasting at 50 °C, and 1 h drying at 80 °C). Aqueous extracts from each drying method were analyzed for total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, total glucosinolate content, antioxidant activities (FRAP, DPPH, and ABTS assays), and α-amylase enzyme inhibition. From the results, the R method provided the highest level of total phenolic, total flavonoid, and total glucosionolate content compared to the RD and BRD methods. Similarly, antioxidant activities and α-amylase enzyme inhibition were highest in the R method, followed by the RD and BRD methods. Our results demonstrate that roasting of Betong watercress without the addition of blanching or drying effectively preserves the phytochemical contents, antioxidant activities, and anti-diabetic activity.

Transient salinity stress promotes secondary metabolites and antioxidant enzymes in Brassica plants

This study investigated salinity stress time-dependent responses of pak choi (Brassica campestris L.), arugula (Eruca sativa Mill.), and red frill (Brassica juncea L.), focusing on growth parameters, secondary metabolites, and antioxidant activities. Salinity stress (NaCl) solution with electrical conductivity (EC) of 12.6 dS∙m⁻¹ was introduced to the rhizosphere at the specific time: from 2:00 pm on day 6 to 2:00 pm on day 7 (1st week (W)), 2:00 pm on day 13 to 2:00 pm on day 14 (2nd W), and 2:00 pm on day 20 to 2:00 pm on day 21 (3rd W). Plant growth parameters were assessed at 1, 2, and 3 weeks after transplantation (WAT), showing detailed changes over time. Pak choi exhibited a significant increase in biomass at 2nd W, whereas arugula and red frill showed no marked differential reactions. Glucosinolates (GLS), phenolic compounds, and antioxidant activities were analyzed at 2 and 3 WAT. Maximum GLS concentrations in pak choi and arugula plants occurred in the 3rd W under 3 WAT. Phenolic concentrations in the arugula peaked under the 2nd W treatment. Regarding pak choi, the 1st W treatment at 3 WAT and 2nd W treatment at 2 WAT exhibited maximum DPPH scavenging activity and peroxidase (POD). The 2nd W treatment at 2 WAT indicated the highest total phenol concentration and POD activity in arugula. Red frill exhibited significantly elevated total glucosinolate concentrations under salinity conditions at 3rd W. This analysis reveals how salinity stress affects growth and biochemical responses in these vegetables, offering insights for optimizing cultivation under saline conditions.

Effects of foliar and root application of Zn and Fe bio-nanofertilizers on the glucosinolate, Zn and Fe contents of Pak choi (Brassica rapa Subsp. Chinensis) grown under hydroponic and pot cultivation

Pak choi is a rich source of minerals and health beneficial compounds such as glucosinolates (GSLs). This study is focused on implementing sustainable agronomic approaches to optimize pre-harvest cultivation and improve plant growth and nutritional value. Therefore, the aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of foliar and root fertilization of algae capped ZnO and γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles on the growth and content of GSLs, Zn and Fe of Pak choi grown under hydroponic floating system and pot conditions. The foliar application of ZnO (77 nm) and γ-Fe2O3 (68 nm) nanoparticles functionalized with an Arthrospira platensis extract increased fresh weight (39.71 %), plant height (42.77 %), leaves number (26.47 %), root length (33.33 %), and Zn (10-fold) and Fe (2-fold) contents in hydroponic plants. The same treatment also improved plant fresh weight (31.73 %), and Zn (6-fold) and Fe (2-fold) in pot cultivated Pak choi. Six GSLs were detected, which were also enhanced by the joint application of nanoparticles and microalgae extract. The results revealed a high synergy between the ZnO- and γ-Fe2O3 nanoparticles and the A. platensis extract to increase plant growth and Zn and Fe micronutrients and glucosinolates in Pak choi grown under hydroponic and pot systems.

Integrative Analyses of Metabolites and Transcriptome Reveal the Metabolic Pattern of Glucosinolates in Potherb Mustard (Brassica juncea var. multiceps).

Potherb mustard (Brassica juncea var. multiceps) is one of the most commonly consumed leafy vegetable mustards, either fresh or in pickled form. It is rich in glucosinolates, whose hydrolyzed products confer potherb mustard's distinctive flavor and chemopreventive properties. In this study, the composition and content of glucosinolates, as well as the hydrolysis pattern of sinigrin were investigated in potherb mustard leaves of different varieties. Variations in the glucosinolate profile and accumulation were observed among the potherb mustard varieties studied, with sinigrin being the predominant one in all varieties, accounting for 81.55% to 97.27%. Sinigrin tended to be hydrolyzed to isothiocyanate (ITC) rather than epithionitrile (EPN) in potherb mustard, while 3-butenyl nitrile (SIN-NIT) could be hardly detected. Transcriptome analysis revealed a higher expression level of numerous genes involved in aliphatic glucosinolate biosynthesis in X11 compared to X57, corresponding to the higher aliphatic glucosinolate accumulation in X11 (91.07 µmol/g) and lower level in X57 (25.38 µmol/g). ESM1 is known to repress nitrile formation and favor isothiocyanate production during glucosinolate hydrolysis. In this study, all four ESM1s showed a higher expression level in X11 compared to X57, which may determine the hydrolysis pattern of sinigrin in potherb mustard. Altogether, our findings shed light on the glucosinolate metabolic pattern in potherb mustard, which will also facilitate the engineering of metabolic pathways at key checkpoints to enhance bioactive compounds for tailored flavor or pharmaceutical needs.

Sulfate and chloride ions differentially affect sulfur and glucosinolate metabolism in Lepidium latifolium L.

Lepidium latifolium sprouts contain higher and differential glucosinolates (GLS) than the mature plants. Treatment of Lepidium sprouts with elevated MgSO4 (0.5 mmol/L and 1 mmol/L) resulted in the enhancement of both primary sulfur compounds (sulfate, glutathione, thiols) and secondary sulfur compound (glucosinolates). Conversely, higher MgCl2 (0.5 mmol/L and 1 mmol/L) exhibited a significant (p ≤ 0.05) decrease in these metabolites indicating a differential response to sulfate and chloride ions. The expression of sulfate transporters (SULTR1; 1 and SULTR1; 2) were up-regulated suggesting a transcriptional response to sulfate availability. The secondary GLS metabolism revealed that sulfate treatment positively influenced GLS levels, while chloride treatment led to a significant (p ≤ 0.05) reduction. Expression analysis of GLS-regulating genes (MYB28, MYB29, MYB34, MYB51) further supported these findings. Another carrier metal ion, Zn2+ (ZnSO4 and ZnCl2) significantly (p ≤ 0.05) differed in the effects than Mg2+, although in the similar trend. The combination of SO42− and Cl− (MgSO4:MgCl2 and ZnSO4:ZnCl2 (1:1)) produced synergistic effects in sulfate and GLS, different from individual ions. The study also suggested the role of myrosinase in maintaining sulfur homeostasis corroborated with the expression of myrosinase-encoding genes (TGG1 and TGG2). These findings suggest valuable insights into S-metabolism regulating the metabolic content of GLS. The study provides sulfate supplementation as an important strategy for the bio-fortification of GLS in Lepidium latifolium.

Field evaluation and characterization of a novel biostimulant for broccoli (Brassica oleracea var. italica) cultivation under drought and salt stress which increases antioxidant, glucosinolate and phytohormone content

Anthropogenic global warming is affecting crop yield and thus compromising food security. Drought and salinization of the irrigation water or soil are increasingly frequent in most arable land, specifically in arid and semiarid areas such as the Mediterranean basin. Many crops have been displaced or their yield has plummeted in recent years, causing food shortages and price increases. In a context of global population growth and reduction in the availability of natural resources used in agriculture, finding novel tools that help farmers to maintain yield in an increasingly arid and saline scenario is of pivotal importance. This is particularly important in organic agriculture, where the number of available tools is very limited. Biostimulants are substances or microorganisms of natural origin whose function is to stimulate plant processes related to nutrient absorption, nutrient use efficiency, tolerance to abiotic stress or the quality of the agricultural products obtained. In the present work, we have evaluated, in field, the agronomic effectiveness of a novel biostimulant formulation in a cruciferous crop of great interest in the Mediterranean basin (broccoli) under control conditions, water and salt stress. Our research has shown that our product had a positive effect on broccoli production and in delaying flowering time. We have also found that the application of our biostimulant increased enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense under drought conditions. Similarly, when exposed to salinity, the biostimulant increased the concentration of different phytohormones and glucosinolates. Taken together, our biostimulant increases the tolerance of broccoli to salt stress and water limitation by increasing the antioxidant response, the level of glucosinolates and eliciting the hormonal response.