Important Plant Research Articles

94 Associative effects of two potent anti-methanogenic Moringa oleifera accessions mixed at various proportions on in vitro rumen fermentation and methane inhibition

Abstract Moringa is an important anti-methanogenic plant with a potential to develop as multipurpose feed additives. Previous studies identified two potent accessions (accession 07633 designated as A3 and accession collected from Pretoria designated as A11) with high methane (CH4) inhibition characteristics. Two metabolite ion features (MIFs) 4.44_609.1462 and MIF 4.53_433.1112 were identified as bioactive MIFs associated with greater methane inhibition in Moringa accession A3 and A11, respectively. Two separate studies were conducted with an aim to name the MIF associated with methane inhibition and evaluate the benefit of mixing plant extract from A3 and A11 in different proportions to exploit their additive or synergistic effect in inhibiting CH4 emission. In study 1, software and online tools such as MS-DIAl, MS-FINDER, and the mass bank database were used to identify the MIF 4.44_609.1462 and MIF 4.53_433.1112, and the two MIFs were tentatively named as Hesperidin and Isovitexin, respectively (Figure 1). In study 2, the Moringa plant extracts from A3 and A11 were mixed in the following proportion A3100:A110, A380:A1120, A360:A1140, A350:A1150, A340:A1160, A320:A1180, and A30:A11100 proportions (A3:A11), and applied at a rate 50 mg/kg DM of Eragrostis curvula hay incubated in an Incoshake incubator to determine their effect on in vitro gas production and CH4, and in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) of the hay. In each incubation run, the sole or a mixture of the Moringa plant extract treatments were added to the test feed and incubated in 125 mL serum bottles with four replications per treatment, and the incubation was repeated for three runs. A Chi–square (☐2) test were used to determine the presence of an associative effect for mixtures combined at different proportion. Generally, the mixture resulted in less (P < 0.05) CH4 volume, slightly improved or no effect on IVOMD, propionate concentration decreased acetate while increasing propionate concentration, with higher CH4 inhibition, and % CH4 inhibition was significantly greater when the two accessions were mixed in 50% proportion (Figure 2). Specifically, associative effects were recorded when the two accessions are mixed in 50% proportion in terms of greater CH4 inhibition, propionic acid concentration and total volatile fatty acid production (TVFA), as well as reduction in CH4 per unit TVFA and C2:C3 ratio (Table 1). Therefore a 50% binary cocktail of M. oleifera accession A3 and A11 (A350:A1150) plant extracts can be used as feed additive for CH4 inhibition without affecting the feed fermentation adversely when compared with the sole accession leaf extracts or other proportions of binary cocktails. Detailed mechanisms of action, however, need to be confirmed.

Assessment of anticoagulant potential of Halocnemum strobilaceum (Pall.) against black rat (Rattus rattus Lin.) from Algeria

BackgroundBlack rats (Rattus rattus; Rodentia: Muridae) cause significant damage to agricultural and human health, and they are considered a reservoir for a variety of diseases. ObjectivesThe current study aimed to evaluate the toxicity of oral anticoagulants derived from Halocnemum strobilaceum (Pall.) M. Bieb. to these dangerous animals. MethodFour selected doses (100, 150, 200 and 300 mg/day/kg of individual weight) and one control were utilized, with 10 repetitions of each dose (5 ♂ and 5 ♀). The extract was powdered on dates as bait. ResultsUPLC-ESI/MS-MS chromatography identified three distinct coumarins (coumaric acid, p-coumaric acid and 4-hydroxycoumarin). The results showed that the fourth dose used caused the highest number of deaths (100 % after three days of treatment). In contrast, after 48 h of therapy, all rats examined showed lethargy, anorexia and unconsciousness, followed by rapid death at 72 h in the treated individuals. The LD50 was recorded at 146.4 mg.kg−1 with a LT50 of 59.37 h. At the end of the experiment, the autopsies of all deceased individuals allowed us to observe the bleeding of their internal organs. The analysis of PT and aPTT demonstrated that the halophyte under investigation possesses anticoagulant activity that increased with the concentration. Histological sections of the liver revealed cellular alteration and significant necrosis. As well, the kidneys had vascular occlusion with an inflammatory filtrate. ConclusionsTo reduce food losses and wastes caused by these pests, H. strobilaceum will be an important plant for use in protecting against invasive rodents, especially in environmental and stored product programs focused at eradicating rodent pests.

Cell-type specific localization and biological activity of the volatiles from the endemic species Chaerophyllum coloratum L.

Main conclusionNew findings are presented for Chaerophyllum coloratum L. on the volatile composition of the essential oil, based on data of hydrosol and fresh plant material, light and electron microscopy of leaves, and cytotoxic and antiviral activity.The widespread Apiaceae family includes many well-known and economically important plants that are cultivated as food or spices. Many produce essential oils and are generally a source of secondary metabolites and compounds that have numerous applications in daily life. In this study, the chemical composition of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), ultrastructure and biological activity of the Mediterranean endemic species Cheaerophyllum coloratum L. are investigated, as literature data for this plant species are generally very scarce. The essential oil and hydrosol were extracted from the air-dried leaves by hydrodistillation and the chemical composition of both extracts was analysed by GC–MS in conjunction with headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME) of VOCs from the hydrosol and the fresh plant material. In the composition of the essential oil, the oxygenated sesquiterpenes spathulenol and caryophyllene oxide were the most abundant components. In the fresh plant material, non-oxygenated sesquiterpenes dominated, with β-caryophyllene and germacrene D being the main components. The hydrosol was dominated by monoterpenes, with the oxygenated monoterpene p-cymen-8-ol being the most abundant. Light and electron micrographs of the leaf of C. coloratum show secretory structures, and we hypothesize that glandular leaf trichomes, secretory epidermal cells and secretory canals are involved in the production of volatiles and their secretion on the leaf surface. Since the biological potential of C. coloratum is poorly investigated, we tested its cytotoxic activity on cancer and healthy cell lines and its antiviral activity on plants infected with tobacco mosiac virus (TMV). Our results dealing with the composition, ultrastructure and biological activity show that C. coloratum represent a hidden valuable plant species with a potential for future research.

Introduction and Evaluation of <i>Moringa oleifera</i> (Lam) Growth in Two Districts of Bale Zone, Oromia Region, Southeast Ethiopia

Moringa oleifera is one of the most important plants which has to be introduced, conserved and promoted for its social, economic and environmental benefits. Study was conducted aimed to introduce M. oleifera through evaluating its growth performance under the field condition of mid-altitude areas of Bale, Ethiopia. The experiment was laid-out using randomized complete block design with three replications on two locations. In the study the necessary plant growth traits namely survival rate, plant height and diameters (at breast height and root collar) were collected and analyzed by Genstat software. As to results except survival rate other growth performance traits of the studied species were statistically influenced by location in the subsequent years of monitoring period. With this, the mean value of survival rate recorded at Dello-menna was > 80% whereas at Goro it was < 80% throughout the years of study period. For plant height the recorded mean values were found between 65 cm to 370.30 cm and 58.30 to 296.70 cm range in the respective Dello-menna and Goro sites. Breast height diameter ranged from 0.747 cm to 6.533cm at Goro site and from 1.00 cm to 8.983cm at Dello-menna. In terms of root collar diameter, the values ranged from 1.933 cm to 9.867 cm and from 1.410 cm to 4.592 cm at Dello-menna and Goro sites, respectively. The values pointed that M. oleifera had showed a promising growth and development over both locations with relatively the higher performance at Dello-menna site than Goro. Therefore, the species could be demonstrated, promoted and scaled-up to the farming community of Dello-menna, Goro and other areas with similar agro-ecology. However, the nutritive value of the species in response to the studied locations has remained the focus of future research area.

Eco-friendly Synthesis of Silver-Doped Reduced Graphene Oxide Nanocomposite, The Characterization, and Evaluation of Electrochemical Activity

In this study, Orobanche aegyptiaca Pers., which is an important holoparasite plant, was used for green synthesis of reduced graphene oxide silver nanocomposites (rGO-AgNCs). The obtained rGO-AgNCs were characterizated using UV–Vis spectroscopy, Fourier transformation infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-Ray diffractiometer (XRD), Scanning electron microscope (SEM), Transmission electron microscope (TEM), and X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The synthesized rGO-AgNCs structure were used to modify carbon paste electrode (rGO-AgNCs@CPE) for electrochemical determination of metronidazole (MNZ). It was observed that the obtained rGO-AgNCs@CPE showed higher sensitivity in MNZ determination than the unmodified CPE, and DPV measurements showed a low detection limit of 0.039 μM over a linear concentration range of 5–300 μM. Real sample analysis of the proposed sensor shows that it responds well in MNZ analysis of human urine.

Effects of classical and organomineral fertilizer applications on pollen quality and quantity in gemlik olive cultivar

Olive is one of the important plants worldwide in terms of economic and cultural conditions. It is used in fresh consumption, olive oil, cosmetic and pharmaceutic fields and unique numinous plants. Olive can maintain its life for many years even in barren conditions but for an economic cultivation, fertile and preferred cultivars should be used in orchards and optimum maintenance conditions should be provided. At the same time the climate change is also convert the usual behavior of the plants. This study aims to determine the effects of classic and organomineral fertilizers on pollen quality and quantity parameters. In this study, classical fertilizers like Urea+MgSO4 and KNO3+H3BO3+ZnSO4 with Raykat Start, Raykat Growth and Fitomare organomineral fertilizers were sprayed foliarly before flowering on Gemlik olive cultivar and pollen studies were conducted on the flowers formed at full flowering. Within the study, effects of the treatments were evaluated on pollen viability and germination levels, the amount of pollen produced in one flower and the normally developed pollen ratio. As a result of this study, fertilization treatments positively affected pollen quality and quantity with regard to control treatment. In this context, the pollen viability level differed between 74.15% and 89.92%, the pollen germination level between 45.48% and 70.35% and pollen per flower was between 307.238 and 446.761. The lowest data were obtained from control treatments, while the highest were from Raykat group fertilizers. Especially, the 54% increase in pollen germination level with Raykat growth fertilization was one of the most important results of this study. In conclusion, it was determined that the foliar spray of organomineral fertilizers enhanced the pollen properties. Raykat Start, Raykat Growth and Fitomare organomineral fertilizers used in this study significantly increased pollen quality and quantity.

IMPACT OF DIFFERENT ZINC APPLICATION METHODS AND PHOSPHORUS DOSES ON GROWTH, YIELD AND GRAIN ZINC CONTENTS OF WHEAT

Wheat is a staple crop of around half of the world's population. About 30 percent of the world’s population is suffering from Zn deficiency. Zn deficiency problems can be encountered by agronomic and genetic biofortification. Phosphorus (P) is an important plant macronutrient and has an antagonistic relationship with Zn. A field study was performed to evaluate the impact of different Zn application methods and P doses on growth, yield, and grain Zn contents of wheat at the Agronomic Research Farm, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan, using a high accumulation wheat variety Zincol-2016. Three doses of P (100, 150, and 200% of recommended P) along with three Zn application methods (seed priming, soil mixing, and foliar application) were applied to wheat using randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replicates under split-plot arrangement. All agronomic practices were kept normal and uniform for all treatments. Parameters including growth, yield, and Zn content in wheat grains were monitored using standard protocols. The results were evaluated using Fisher’s analysis of variance at a 5% probability level. A comparison of means of treatments was performed using the least significant difference (LSD) test. The highest value of SPAD reading (56.38) was noted in treatment where Zn was applied as priming and P was applied at 200%. Maximum crop growth rate (63.17) was observed in P3 where Zn was applied as mix in soil. Maximum spike length (14.25), spikelets per spike (17.67), and Zn concentration were observed in P3 as a result of foliar application of Zn. Highest grain weight per spike (1.89g), no. of tillers (691.01), grain yield (4.09 t ha-1), biological yield (11.01 t ha-1), harvest index (36.54%) and NDVI (0.42 were observed in P3 where Zn was applied as soil mix.

Mycorrhizal fungi in Annona muricata L. rhizosphere in two agricultural production systems in Nayarit, Mexico

Mycorrhizal symbiosis is the association between the roots of several plant species and soil fungi of the Glomeromycotina subphylum. This symbiosis plays a crucial role in plant growth, development, and defense; therefore, understanding the abundance and diversity of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) species associated with plants of economic importance is of utmost concern. The objective of this study was to compare the abundance and composition of AMF communities in two Annona muricata cultivation sites, and in propagated soil, under different agricultural practices. The first cultivation site is under technified management with periodic fertilization and irrigation (TS), while the second cultivation site is under agroecological management without fertilization, irrigation, and with the presence of livestock (non-technified site; NTS). The extracted spores from the collected samples and the trap cultures were taxonomically identified based on their morphology. 13 species associated with A. muricata belonging to seven genera were identified in soil samples. The most abundant species were Funneliformis geosporum, Acaulospora kentinensis and Rhizophagus intraradices with a relative abundance of 45.9, 19.0 and 15.8%, respectively. In the propagation substrates, only 69% of the AMF species found in the field were identified. 11 species of AMF were found in the site with non-technified agronomic management, while only five species were found in the technified site.

Geographical and genetic clines in Dracocephalum kotschyi X Dracocephalum oligadenium hybrids: landscape genetics and genocline analyses

Conservation and management of medicinally important plants are among the necessary tasks all over the world. The genus Dracocephalum (Lamiaceae) contains about 186 perennials, or annual herb species that have been used for their medicinal values in different parts of the world as an antihyperlipidemic, analgesic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, as well as anticancer medicine. Producing detailed data on the genetic structure of these species and their response against climate change and human landscape manipulation can be very important for conservation purposes. Therefore, the present study was performed on six geographical populations of two species in the Dracocephalum genus, namely, Dracocephalum kotschyi, and Dracocephalum oligadenium, as well as their inter-specific hybrid population. We carried out, population genetic study, landscape genetics, species modeling, and genetic cline analyses on these plants. We present here, new findings on the genetic structure of these populations, and provide data on both geographical and genetic clines, as well as morphological clines. We also identified genetic loci that are potentially adaptive to the geographical spatial features and genocide conditions. Different species distribution modeling (SDM) methods, used in this work revealed that bioclimatic variables related to the temperature and moisture, play an important role in Dracocephalum population’s geographical distribution within IRAN and that due to the presence of some potentially adaptive genetic loci in the studied plants, they can survive well enough by the year 2050 and under climate change. The findings can be used for the protection of these medicinally important plant.

The Impact of a Non-Pathogenic Strain of Fusarium Oxysporum on Structural and Biochemical Properties of Flax Suspension Cultures.

Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) is an important crop plant with pharmaceutical significance. It is described in pharmacopoeias (the United States Pharmacopeia and the European Pharmacopoeia), which confirms that it (especially the seeds) is a valuable medicinal product. Similar to flax seeds, which accumulate bioactive compounds, flax in vitro cultures are also a rich source of flavonoids, phenolics, lignans and neolignans. In the present study, flax suspension cultures after treatment of the non-pathogenic Fusarium oxysporum strain Fo47 were established and analyzed. The study examined the suitability of Fo47 as an elicitor in flax suspension cultures and provided interesting data on the impact of these endophytic fungi on plant metabolism and physiology. Two flax cultivars (Bukoz and Nike) and two compositions of media for flax callus liquid cultures were tested. Biochemical analysis revealed enhanced levels of secondary metabolites (total flavonoid and total phenolic content) and photosynthetically active pigments in the flax callus cultures after treatment with the non-pathogenic fungal strain F. oxysporum Fo47 when compared to control, untreated cultures. In cultures with the selected, optimized conditions, FTIR analysis was performed and revealed changes in the structural properties of cell wall polymers after elicitation of cultures with F. oxysporum Fo47. The plant cell wall polymers were more strongly bound, and the crystallinity index (Icr) of cellulose was higher than in control, untreated samples. However, lignin and pectin levels were lower in the flax callus liquid cultures treated with the non-pathogenic strain of Fusarium when compared to the untreated control. The potential application of the non-pathogenic strain of F. oxysporum for enhancing the synthesis of desired secondary metabolites in plant tissue cultures is discussed.

DNA BARCODING ANALYSIS OF THE ASTERACEAE SPECIES FROM KAZAKHSTAN

Asteraceae is the largest family of flowering plants in the world, containing more than 1.900 genera and more than 32.000 individual species. Many members of the Asteraceae family are important for medicinal, ornamental, and economic purposes. In Kazakhstan, the family is represented by 146 genera and 883 species. Many species of Asteraceae are currently being used for medicinal purposes in Kazakhstan. The species of this family including Artemisia dracunculus, Pentanema caspicum, Achillea nobilis, Leuzea altaica, Klasea cardunculus, and their derivatives are effective in the treatment of diseases, possess anti-fatigue, and anti-inflammatory properties. They also have immunomodulatory properties that can to reduce inflammation, speed up wound healing, and boost the immune system in response to bacterial or viral infection. Commercially important plants of the Asteraceae family include food crops, aside from consumption, the seeds, roots, etc. can be used to produce cooking oil and spices. Other commercially important species of the Asteraceae family are members of the Tanacetum genera, which have insecticidal properties. Given the many valuable members of the Asteraceae described above, a method to authenticate an Asteraceae species is essential to ensure drug and food safety. DNA barcoding is a method that uses a short piece of DNA sequence from a standard locus as a tool for species identification. In our study DNA was extracted from plant material using the CTAB method, followed by the selection of universal barcode primers (ITS, matK, rbcL) based on established literature. The result of PCR products were purified and subjected to Sanger sequencing. The assembled sequences were compared with existing DNA sequences using BLAST function of the National Center for Biotechnology (NCBI), with outgroup sequences (Acicarpha tribuloides, Alseuosmia macrophylla) and were analyzed in MEGA 11. Maximum Likelihood analysis was conducted using 24 different nucleotide substitution models including ITS (K2+G), matK (GTR+G), rbcL (K2+G). Basic indicators of genetic diversity were evaluated, including nucleotide divergence (Pi), the proportion of conservative (C), polymorphic, and segregating (S) regions. The ITS regions showed the highest divergence (Pi = 0.127), with conservative regions accounting for 68.7% and polymorphic regions varying within 29.6%. The rbcL regions showed higher conservatism (Pi = 0.02), with 94.6% conservative regions and only 5.4% variable regions. The matK regions exhibited intermediate values (Pi = 0.052), with 87.5% conservative and 12.5% variable regions. The G+C content of the aligned sequences ranged from 34.9% to 55.0%. The effectiveness of the BLAST tool in identifying identical sequences in the NCBI database was limited at the species level for the chloroplast DNA markers rbcL and matK. However, using the ITS DNA marker, the search within the NCBI database successfully identified only the species Achillea millefolium and Achillea nobilis with 100% accuracy. Intra-specific discrepancies were observed for other species such as Psephellus sibiricus (99.37%), Scorzonera parviflora (99.37%), Klasea cardunculus (99.79%). All investigated DNA barcodes were tested successfully identified species at the genus level with 100% accuracy.

Beyond morphogenesis and secondary metabolism: function of Velvet proteins and LaeA in fungal pathogenesis.

Velvet proteins, as well as the epigenetic regulator LaeA, are conserved in numerous fungal species, where, in response to environmental cues, they control several crucial cellular processes, including sexual and asexual morphogenesis, secondary metabolism, response to oxidative stress, and virulence. During the last two decades, knowledge of their mechanism of action as well as understanding their functional roles, has greatly increased, particularly in Aspergillus species. Research efforts from multiple groups followed, leading to the characterization of other Velvet and LaeA homologs in species of other fungal genera, including important opportunistic plant and animal pathogens. This review focuses mainly on the current knowledge of the role of Velvet and LaeA function in fungal pathogenesis. Velvet proteins and LaeA are unique to fungi, and for this reason, additional knowledge of these critical regulatory proteins will be important in the development of targeted control strategies to decrease the detrimental impact of fungal pathogens capable of causing disease in plants and animals.

The Comparative Effects of Phosphorus-Enriched Organomineral Fertilization on Some Chemical Properties of Calcareous Soils

ABSTRACT Phosphorus is a very important plant nutrient for the development of plants and its production is not unlimited in the world. In addition, excessive use can lead to soil and water pollution. In this respect, phosphorus should be used effectively in plant production, especially in calcareous soils. The aim of this study was to comparatively determine the effects of phosphorus-enriched organomineral fertilization (p-OMF), chemical phosphorus fertilization (CF), and organic fertilization (OF) on some chemical properties of a calcareous soil. The experiment was established in Söke county of Aydın province in the Southwest of Türkiye. In this study, four doses of dairy manure (DM1: 10, DM2: 20, DM3:30, and DM4: 40 t ha−1) in OF, four phosphorus doses (P1: 10, P2: 20, P3:30, and P4: 40 kg P ha−1) in the CF system, and sixteen different doses of OMF formed by the combinations of these two fertilizers were applied excluding control. According to the main research findings, p-OMFs increased the soil organic matter (SOM), salinity, total nitrogen (N), available phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) by 60.1%, 20.9%, 22.1%, 140%, and 17.2%, respectively. They also decreased soil pH by 4%. As a result, it was determined that the most effective organomineral fertilizer combination that maintains soil properties at appropriate levels in calcareous soils is DM3+P2 (30 t ha−1 dairy manure +20 kg P ha−1).

Dual catalytic potential of isoeugenol synthase in Asarum sieboldii Miq. (AsIGS): Unveiling isoeugenol preference in vitro and eugenol production in vivo, with insights into hydrogen bonding influence

Asarum sieboldii Miq. is an important medicinal plant valued for its diverse health benefits in the pharmaceutical industry. In the present study, we isolated and characterized isoeugenol synthase from A. sieboldii (AsIGS), an essential enzyme involved in the biosynthesis of volatile phenylpropenes. We hoped to elucidate the secondary metabolic network of eugenol in A. sieboldii plants, which constructed the prerequisite for quality improvement of the well-known TCM Asari Radix et Rhizoma. Bioinformatics analysis revealed high similarity between the DNA sequences of AsIGS and isoeugenol synthase genes from other plants, and that the association of the candidate protein AsIGS with the PIP reductase family. Moreover, the AsIGS protein displayed a molecular weight of about 34.96 kDa, with a theoretical isoelectric point of 6.01 and an average hydrophobicity of −0.092, indicating the protein’s partial acidity, stability, and hydrophilic nature. Phylogenetic analysis showed that AsIGS had a close relationship with isoeugenol synthases and fewer eugenol synthases found in other species. Alphafold2 predicted the structure of the AsIGS protein, and CB-Dock2 predicted the binding sites of the ASIGS-NADPH-coniferyl acetate ternary complex. In vitro enzymatic assay results demonstrated that the optimal temperature of the AsIGS-involved catalysis for coniferyl acetate was 30 °C, and several kinetics parameters were Km (12.21 mM), Vmax (27.9 U/mg), kcat (76.26 s-1), and kcat/Km (6.49 s-1·mM-1). Furthermore, it was also determined that the AsIGS protein had varying performance at different pH levels. While the candidate protein converted coniferyl acetate into both isoeugenol and eugenol at pH 5.5, it just catalyzed the production of isoeugenol at pH 6.5. However, isoeugenol has never been detected in A. sieboldii. Altering AsIGS expression in transgenic plants impacted only eugenol contents. Compared with wild type, overexpression of AsIGS increased eugenol content by 23.3 %, while RNAi-induced down-regulation of AsIGS decreased it by 25.3 %. Taken together, these results confirmed that the AsIGS gene was involved in the biosynthesis of eugenol in A. sieboldii with a dual catalytic potential.

Comparative plastome analyses and evolutionary relationships of 25 East Asian species within the medicinal plant genus Scrophularia (Scrophulariaceae)

BackgroudScrophularia L., a genus of the Scrophulariaceae, is a group of important medicinal plants used for eliminating heat and detoxifying. East Asia has an abundance of potentially medicinal Scrophularia species, and it serves as a secondary diversity center of the genus. However, the genomic resources available for germplasm identification and pharmaceutical exploration of East Asian Scrophularia are insufficient, hindering its commercial and industrial development. Additionally, the interspecific relationships of most East Asian Scrophularia species remain unclear.MethodsIn this study, we sequenced the leaves of 25 East Asian species of the genus Scrophularia, assembled and annotated the complete chloroplast genomes, and subsequently performed comparative and phylogenetic analyses on these genomes.Results and discussionThe conserved plastome length of these 25 species ranged from 151,582 bp to 153,239 bp, containing a total of 132 coding genes, including 18 duplicated genes and 114 unique genes. Through genome alignment of these 25 species, 38-53 repeated sequences and 7 shared SSRs were identified, along with regions with high nucleotide polymorphism (Pi), which could potentially serve as molecular markers for species identification. The genome structure, gene content, and arrangement showed conservation, while variations were observed in the IR boundary regions and IGS. Phylogenetic inferences based on whole plastomes or on coding sequences (CDS) only yielded congruent results. We categorized the 25 East Asian Scrophularia species into six distinct clades and further explored their interspecies relationships using morphological characteristics, such as flower color, the relative position of stamens and corolla, and plant height. This could lay a genetic basis for future resource development of Scrophularia in East Asia.

Aegle marmelos – Modern Herbal medicine

AegleMarmelos, also known as bael in India, is a plant belonging to the Rutaceae family. It has been used to treat diseases since ancient times. Its various parts, such as fruit, leaves, and bark, stem, and roots, are used in various diseases. It contains a wide range of alkaloids, which are used to treat various ailments. Its medicinal properties include anti-diarrheal, anti-dyestradiol, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-radiol, radio protective, and anti pyretic. It also has analgesic properties, analgesic properties, constipation properties, respiratory infection properties, antioxidant properties, hepatoprotection properties, wound healing properties, and many more. This plant is considered to be one of the most important medicinal plants in the field due to its medicinal properties. It is used in herbalism and is an easily accessible source of healthcare in rural and tribal regions. In this review, we have attempted to summarise the phytochemicals and pharmacological studies of an important medicinal plant, AegleMarmelos. Oxidative Stress and Inflammation are critical factors that play a role in nearly all life style disorders including diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, ulcers and cancer. The aim of this study was to isolate and catalyze the catheterization of furanocoatrimin from the earlobes L.

Phylogenomics analysis of Scutellaria (Lamiaceae) of the world

BackgroundScutellaria, a sub-cosmopolitan genus, stands as one of the Lamiaceae family’s largest genera, encompassing approximately 500 species found in both temperate and tropical montane regions. Recognized for its significant medicinal properties, this genus has garnered attention as a research focus, showcasing anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective qualities. Additionally, it finds application in agriculture and horticulture. Comprehending Scutellaria’s taxonomy is pivotal for its effective utilization and conservation. However, the current taxonomic frameworks, primarily based on morphological characteristics, are inadequate. Despite several phylogenetic studies, the species relationships and delimitations remain ambiguous, leaving the genus without a stable and reliable classification system.ResultsThis study analyzed 234 complete chloroplast genomes, comprising 220 new and 14 previously published sequences across 206 species, subspecies, and varieties worldwide. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted using six data matrices through Maximum Likelihood and Bayesian Inference, resulting in a robustly supported phylogenetic framework for Scutellaria. We propose three subgenera, recommending the elevation of Section Anaspis to subgeneric rank and the merging of Sections Lupulinaria and Apeltanthus. The circumscription of Subgenus Apeltanthus and Section Perilomia needs to be reconsidered. Comparative analysis of chloroplast genomes highlighted the IR/SC boundary feature as a significant taxonomic indicator. We identified a total of 758 SSRs, 558 longer repetitive sequences, and ten highly variable regions, including trnK–rps16, trnC–petN, petN–psbM, accD–psaI, petA–psbJ, rpl32–trnL, ccsA–ndhD, rps15–ycf1, ndhF, and ycf1. These findings serve as valuable references for future research on species identification, phylogeny, and population genetics.ConclusionsThe phylogeny of Scutellaria, based on the most comprehensive sample collection to date and complete chloroplast genome analysis, has significantly enhanced our understanding of its infrageneric relationships. The extensive examination of chloroplast genome characteristics establishes a solid foundation for the future development and utilization of Scutellaria, an important medicinal plant globally.

Effect of D-mannitol and Gibberellic Acid on Physiological Parameters, Early Seedling Growth Characteristics, and Some of the Most Important Chemical Components of Barberry (Berberis vulgaris L.)

Background: One of the important medicinal plants and agricultural products in Asia, particularly in Iran, is barberry, and both salinity and drought can cause osmotic or ionic imbalance in plant cells. In order to study the impacts of D-Mannitol and gibberellic acid on seed germination, physiological parameters, early seedling growth characteristics, and some of the most important chemical ingredients of barberry, one experiment is designed. Methods: The experimental design was Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with three replicates, and drought stress was done by D-mannitol at various stress levels, namely, 0 MPa, 40 MPa, and 80 MPa, and the reaction of studied cultivar was assessed on the basis of experimental characteristics associated to germination and seedling growth, and Gibberellic acid treatments were 0 mgL-1, 300 mgL-1, 600 mgL-1, and 900 mgL-1. Results: The effects of D-mannitol were significant in germination percentage, germination rate, seedling vigor index, chlorophyll a, total chlorophyll, leaf dry weight and total sugar. Experimental treatments such as germination percentage, germination rate, and total chlorophyll were also influenced by the application of gibberellic acid. The interaction between D-mannitol and gibberellic acid had significant effect on peroxidase activity. The highest germination percentage, germination rate, seedling vigor index, catalase activity, peroxide activity, and Chlorophyll a were obtained for 0 MPa application of D-Mannitol, followed by usage of 40 MPa, and 80 Mpa, respectively. The maximum total chlorophyll, relative water content, and leaf dry weight were also related to control treatment (0 MPa D-Mannitol), while the higher values of proline content, carotenoids and total sugar were obtained for 80 MPa application of D-Mannitol. The maximum values of germination rate, germination percentage, seedling vigor index, peroxidase activity, and chlorophyll a were related to control treatment (0 mgL-1 gibberellic acid), and the highest CAT activity was related to the application of 300 mgL-1 gibberellic acid. The highest total chlorophyll content and relative water content were related to 0 mgL-1 gibberellic acid, while the maximum praline content and leaf dry weight were obtained for the application of 600 mgL-1 and 0 mgL-1 gibberellic acid. There was not any significant difference in carotenoids between gibberellic acid treatments, while the application of 900 mgL-1 gibberellic acid obtained the highest value of total sugar of barberry. Conclusion: Conclusively, on the basis of the results, the application of 80 MPa D-Mannitol and 600 mgL-1 could be recommended as they can increase the absorption of nutrients and water.

Comparative analysis of codon usage bias in the chloroplast genomes of eighteen Ampelopsideae species (Vitaceae)

BackgroundThe tribe Ampelopsideae plants are important garden plants with both medicinal and ornamental values. The study of codon usage bias (CUB) facilitates a deeper comprehension of the molecular genetic evolution of species and their adaptive strategies. The joint analysis of CUB in chloroplast genomes (cpDNA) offers valuable insights for in-depth research on molecular genetic evolution, biological resource conservation, and elite breeding within this plant family.ResultsThe base composition and codon usage preferences of the eighteen chloroplast genomes were highly similar, with the GC content of bases at all positions of their codons being less than 50%. This indicates that they preferred A/T bases. Their effective codon numbers were all in the range of 35–61, which indicates that the codon preferences of the chloroplast genomes of the 18 Ampelopsideae plants were relatively weak. A series of analyses indicated that the codon preference of the chloroplast genomes of the 18 Ampelopsideae plants was influenced by a combination of multiple factors, with natural selection being the primary influence. The clustering tree generated based on the relative usage of synonymous codons is consistent with some of the results obtained from the phylogenetic tree of chloroplast genomes, which indicates that the clustering tree based on the relative usage of synonymous codons can be an important supplement to the results of the sequence-based phylogenetic analysis. Eventually, 10 shared best codons were screened on the basis of the chloroplast genomes of 18 species.ConclusionThe codon preferences of the chloroplast genome in Ampelopsideae plants are relatively weak and are primarily influenced by natural selection. The codon composition of the chloroplast genomes of the eighteen Ampelopsideae plants and their usage preferences were sufficiently similar to demonstrate that the chloroplast genomes of Ampelopsideae plants are highly conserved. This study provides a scientific basis for the genetic evolution of chloroplast genes in Ampelopsideae species and their suitable strategies.

Phytosociological Investigation and Medicinally Important Plants of Sanjay -Dubri Tiger Reserve Sidhi, Madhya Pradesh, India

This paper offers a thorough Phytosociological analysis of the Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve inMadhya Pradesh, India, with an emphasis on the wide variety of plant species that make up this specialecosystem. The researcher has characterized and cataloged a large number of species of plants,including some of great medicinal significance, by means of surveys in the field and data analysis.Traditional healthcare practices in the area have long depended on these medicinally significant plants.The current study, 142 species of higher plants from 119 genera and 48 families has been identified.Upon taxonomic classification of the families, genera, and species, it was seen that the flora wasdominated by dicots, with 126 species, while the monocots were represented by 16 species. The resultsalso indicated that the large number of plants was belonged to the family Fabaceae and then Poaceae.The floras identified in this study add to the ecosystem's total area of 139.4 square meters. The researchalso enlisted the plants on the basis of their economic as well as medicinal importance. Among tree andherbs Diospyros melanoxylon and Shorea robusta had high frequency, respectively. This studyhighlights the necessity of conservation and sustainable management for the preservation ofbiodiversity and cultural heritage while offering insightful information on the various plant species foundin the Sanjay-Dubri Tiger Reserve and their therapeutic value.