Optimizing vegetative passionfruit propagation and assessing substrate effects have been explored in several studies. However, assessments concerning wild Passiflora genus species focusing on plant conservation are still scarce. In this sense, this study aimed to evaluate the vegetative growth of 54 genotypes from the cuttings of two passion 'red flower' (Passiflora trintae Sacco) at the farthest points of the city of Vitória da Conquista, Bahia. The cuttings were subjected to the three different substrates: i) soil with manure, ii) washed sand, and iii) vermiculite. All experiments were carried out under greenhouse conditions in the Southwest area of the state of Bahia, Brazil. The study followed a completely randomized design, in which genotypes from two plant populations were evaluated at three distinct time points (30, 60, and 90 days) based on five variables related to survival and vegetative growth. Vermiculite resulted in the highest cutting survival rates across all three evaluation periods, consistently outperforming other assessed variables. Additionally, this study identified superior genotypes with enhanced rooting and vegetative vigor potential.

Passiflora racemosa, commonly known as the passion flower, is primarily cultivated for its ornamental value. This research explores the medicinal and biological applications of the leaf extract in methanol for the first time. The toxicity test of leaf methanol extract and powdered leaf was performed in vivo on albino mice in compliance with OECD standards. The powdered-leaf and leaf methanol extract exhibited no toxicity. The antioxidant assay was conducted by the DPPH method, yielding an IC50 of 0.59 μg/mL, which signifies a very strong antioxidant capacity. The antidiabetic assay was accomplished using DNSA, and an IC50 obtained was 1.686 μg/mL, indicating a very strong antidiabetic activity. The total phenol content (TPC) was 60.127 ± 2.445 mg/g GAE, determined by the FCR reagent. The TFC was 398.215 ± 18.330 mg/g QE, determined by the AlCl3 colorimetric technique. The TFC was observed to be higher compared to the TPC in the extract. The antimicrobial properties were assessed by the well-diffusion technique against pathogenic bacteria and fungi. The antimicrobial properties were not observed for the tested microorganism. The major metabolites identified by GC/MS were 9,12,15-Octadecatrienoic acid (Z,Z,Z),n-hexadecanoic acid, phytol, melezitose, d-ascorbic acid, and benzoic acid. Consequently, the leaves of this plant can serve as an antioxidant and antidiabetic agent. This research establishes a foundation for subsequent, more comprehensive investigations into the extraction of active metabolites for therapeutic purposes.

Abstract Passiflora incarnata, known as purple passion fruit, is valued in the pharmaceutical industry for its high concentration of C-glycosylated flavonoids, compounds with anxiolytic, sedative and antioxidant properties. However, phytoparasitic nematodes, such as Meloidogyne javanica , can negatively affect the production of these metabolites. This study aimed to evaluate the penetration and reproductive capacity of M. javanica in roots of P. incarnata and assess the effects of nematode infection on flavonoid content in plant leaves. Experiments were carried out under laboratory and greenhouse conditions using a completely randomized design. The penetration test was conducted using a 2 × 5 factorial arrangement. The first factor was plant species ( P. incarnata and tomato), and the second factor was evaluation time (5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 days after inoculation). All plants were inoculated with 2000 eggs and eventual second-stage juveniles (J2) of M. javanica . For the reproduction test, plants were inoculated with 500–5000 eggs + J2. After 70 days, roots were assessed for nematode population density and leaves for flavonoid content. Flavonoids were quantified against a standard curve of quercetin. A progressive reduction in J2 penetration was observed in P. incarnata , with no female formation, suggesting a resistance response to the pathogen. The highest total nematode number in P. incarnata was 1684 individuals. Conversely, tomato plants (control) had total nematode numbers of 9155 and 14,753 in trials 1 and 2, respectively. Despite the limited multiplication of the nematode on P. incarnata , inoculated plants showed a significant reduction in flavonoid content, particularly when inoculated with 3700 eggs + J2. These findings indicate that M. javanica can penetrate P. incarnata roots but fails to reproduce efficiently. Nevertheless, the parasite may compromise the plant’s therapeutic properties by reducing flavonoid production, potentially affecting its economic value. Significance of the study What is already known on this subject? Passiflora incarnata , known as purple passion fruit, is a species of growing importance in the pharmaceutical industry due to its high levels of C-glycosylated flavonoids (e.g. quercetin), which possess anxiolytic, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Although various species of the genus Passiflora have been reported to be susceptible to root-knot nematodes ( Meloidogyne spp.), information about the interaction between Meloidogyne javanica and P. incarnata remains scarce. Previous studies described the presence of root galls in P. incarnata cultivated in commercial areas, suggesting susceptibility to these pathogens. What are the new findings? This study demonstrated that M. javanica can penetrate but exhibits limited reproductive capacity on roots of P. incarnata , suggesting a potential mechanism of tolerance or low compatibility between plant and pathogen. However, despite the low multiplication rate, nematode infection was sufficient to reduce total flavonoid contents in plant leaves. The lowest flavonoid content was detected in plants inoculated with 3700 eggs + J2, revealing that metabolic damage can occur even under low nematode densities. What are the expected impacts on horticulture? The results suggest that, despite its inefficient reproduction, M. javanica can compromise the phytochemical quality of P. incarnata , directly affecting the plant’s commercial and therapeutic value. From the perspective of medicinal horticulture, this effect represents a relevant challenge, given that infected plants, even when visually healthy, can show a reduction in essential bioactive compounds, such as quercetin. These findings underscore the importance of integrated management strategies, such as the use of resistant genotypes and biological control practices, to preserve the yield and quality of medicinal species of commercial interest. This knowledge contributes to the advancement of sustainable cultivation of medicinal plants and the genetic improvement of species of the genus Passiflora .

A new species of genus Passiflora is described following targeted fieldwork to the eastern Andes of Boyacá department in Colombia between June 2021 and December 2023. This new species shows taxonomic relation to the widely distributed P. alnifolia and P. chelidonea, for which it was invariably identified during previous herbarium collections. However, following new living material and detailed studies of specimens found both in situ and grown ex situ by the authorial team it was soon deduced that these maintain consistent differences warranting recognition as new species separate from the Passiflora alnifolia alliance. This paper introduces Passiflora mamapachae sp. nov., a new species of subgenus Decaloba supersect. Decaloba, found within a small regional distribution containing montane transitional forests of Boyacá. Its inherent morphology, ecology and distribution, including comments on its association with the other species from this taxonomic alliance are here discussed.

Genetic diversity and population structure of sour passion fruit in Brazil

<i>Passiflora incarnata</i> (passion flower) is a climbing plant with pharmacologically active compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids and glycosides that exhibit anxiolytic properties. This literature review explores the potential of passion flower as a natural alternative for managing anxiety in oral surgery. In this field, patient anxiety significantly impacts cooperation, pain perception and surgical outcomes. Unlike conventional benzodiazepines, passion flower modulates the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) system without causing significant cognitive impairment or dependence, making it an attractive option for mild to moderate anxiety management. Clinical evidence from randomized controlled trials demonstrates that passion flower effectively reduces preoperative anxiety in dental and surgical settings, performing comparably to traditional anxiolytics like midazolam and oxazepam, but with fewer side effects and minimal psychomotor impairment. The anxiolytic mechanisms are believed to involve GABAergic modulation, regulation of monoamine neurotransmitters and antioxidant effects, which contribute to its calming influence. Despite promising results, challenges remain regarding the standardization of formulations, dosage, pharmacokinetics and long-term safety. Ethical considerations could emphasize the importance of informed consent, transparency and respect for patient autonomy when integrating passion flower into clinical practice. Cultural attitudes toward herbal remedies also influence acceptance and trust. In general, this review highlights the need for larger, multicenter trials and standardized preparations to establish passion flower's efficacy and safety conclusively. With further research and careful clinical integration, passion flower may become a valuable adjunct or alternative to conventional anxiolytics in oral surgery, improving patient comfort and surgical outcomes through a gentler, natural approach to anxiety management.

Antimicrobial Photodynamic Therapy (aPDT) has become a potential alternative for treating multidrug‐resistant bacterial skin infections, such as those caused by methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which are at high risk in aging individuals. One of the main components of aPDT is an agent known as a photosensitizer (PS). Some plants with high flavonoid content are reported as PS. In the genus Passiflora, flavonoids are predominant, but their photosensitizing activity has yet to be described. This study investigates the photosensitizing potential of extracts from Passiflora edulis, Passiflora alata, and Passiflora cincinnata. The butanolic fraction of P. cincinnata undergoes in vivo evaluation against intradermal MRSA infection in a senescent murine model (C57BL/6). In vitro assays determine the photoactivatable concentrations and their cytotoxicity. In vivo, MRSA‐infected mice are divided into control, P. cincinnata‐treated, and aPDT‐treated groups. Subsequent assessments include cytokine levels, bacterial load, and cellular infiltrate in the ear. The P. cincinnata‐treated group exhibits improved bacterial control, reduced leukocyte infiltration, and less weight loss. The aPDT group demonstrates a unique cytokine correlation profile, featuring more negative correlations among pro‐inflammatory cytokines and interleukin‐10. P. cincinnata emerges as an effective photosensitizer for aPDT in a senescent model and highlights the potential of underexplored plant‐derived photosensitizers.

Two rare endemic species of genus Passiflora (Passifloraceae) from Ecuador have been studied and illustrated. This study has uncovered a new consistently unipetalous species closely related to the Ecuadorean P. unipetala. Field studies have shown maintainable vegetative and floral differences between the new species from Bolívar province proposed here as Passiflora nosferatu sp.nov. and P. unipetala found just west of Quito in Pichincha province. A comparison between P. unipetala and P. nosferatu has been provided, along with notes on the conservation, distribution, ecology and taxonomy of these two species. In addition, this study provides new and improved notes on P. brachyantha, a species of P. supersect. Tacsonia found only in southern Ecuador. This species is showing an alarming decline in population and distribution, where much of its original forest has been destroyed. Two new populations were observed, though recent road construction has already damaged both these localities leaving the future of the species uncertain.

The Tenementals are a Glasgow rock group. This record, released last autumn, is the band's debut. It is what was once called 'a concept album', a journey through Glasgow's radical history in song. And good songs they are too. The record starts with an overview, 'The Owl of Minerva', an aggressive musical flow of ideas. David Archibald's Glaswegian inflections have the enveloping fervour of a table-sharing stranger in a Glasgow pub; the band--Bob Anderson (drums), Simon Whittle (guitar) and Mark Ferrari (bass)--drive him on remorselessly. The songs that follow are equally energising but in different ways, shadowing a variety of historical moments and bringing in the rest of the band and their instruments (cellos, voice, keyboards, harp, theremin). The next track, 'A Passion Flower's Lament', is a sweet, swirling elegy, sung by Jen Cunnion as a homage to the Glaswegians who went to Spain to fight for the Republicans.

The passion flower bee, Protandrena (Anthemurgus) passiflorae (Robertson) is a monolectic, host-plant specialist of the passion flower plant Passiflora lutea L. Using a single adult male individual, we generated long-read PacBio HiFi, HiC, and short-read RNA sequencing data to build a well-annotated, chromosome-level genome assembly for this species. The final nuclear genome is 249 Mb with 150 × coverage and with most of the genome scaffolding into 12 chromosomes. The scaffold N50 is 21.4 Mb and the genome has a Benchmarking Universal Single-Copy Ortholog score of 97.2% for 5991 hymenopteran genes. BRAKER3 annotation of the genome identified 12,098 genes and 15,353 total transcripts and found that 20.27% of the genome is made up of repetitive elements. We resolved a mitochondrial genome of 12.7 kb. The P. passiflorae genome represents one of only a few published andrenid bee genomes and one of the first monolectic bees. This new high-quality genome will serve as a valuable resource for investigating the genomic basis of specialization and for providing a useful resource for studying pollinator health and conservation.

ABSTRACT Background Passiflora cincinnata, P. setacea and P. trintae are endemic species that are important in north-eastern Brazil for their ecological, extractive, medicinal, and ornamental qualities. Climate change, and land use and land cover change are the main causes of diminishing their natural distribution ranges. Aim The primary goal of this study was to assess the impact of global climate change on the potential geographic distribution of three endemic Passiflora species (P. cincinnata, P. setacea, and P. trintae) in Brazil. Methods To model climate suitability, occurrence data for naturally occurring P. cincinnata, P. setacea and P. trintae populations were used to train four species distribution models using bioclimatic variables as response variables. The consensus among the resulting set of projections with current climate (1970–2000) was compared with projected climate for three future time periods: 2021–2040; 2041–2060 and 2061–2080. Results Our analyses indicated a reduction in climatically suitable areas for the three Passiflora species in projected future climates, with the remaining areas being concentrated in the semi-arid region in northern Brazil. Conclusions The establishment of new conservation areas in the semi-arid region of north-eastern Brazil, where future climate appears amenable for the three species, is recommended to minimise losses of genetic diversity associated with the projected reduction of climatically suitable habitats.

Abstract Passiflora ligularis (P. ligularis) is a species of the genus Passiflora distributed from Mexico to Bolivia, particularly along the Andes, found at altitudes between 1500 and 2500 m above sea level. This plant is of significant economic importance due to the commercialization of its fruits as food, and it has also been widely used in folk medicine. This systematic review was conducted, using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science. The search focused on experimental research articles examining the pharmacological properties of P. ligularis. Studies were included if they investigated the biological activities or composition of P. ligularis, excluding reviews, meta-analyses, and non-experimental articles. A total of 1992 articles were identified, with 14 meeting the inclusion criteria. These studies explored the antioxidant, antimicrobial, hypoglycemic, and neuroprotective activities of P. ligularis. In vitro studies confirmed its potent antioxidant and antimicrobial effects, while in vivo studies demonstrated its efficacy in reducing blood glucose levels, managing lipid metabolism, and providing neuroprotection. Additionally, pharmaceutical technologies, such as gold nanoparticles and self-emulsifying systems, were developed to enhance the therapeutic effects of P. ligularis extracts. The evaluation of P. ligularis highlights its broad-spectrum pharmacological activities and potential as a natural therapeutic agent. The integration of advanced pharmaceutical technologies further enhances its clinical applicability, offering a promising alternative to conventional treatments.

ABSTRACTThe use of substrate borne vibrational playback to control insect pests is a rapidly growing line of research targeting many problematic species. Among the control approaches currently being tested, vibrational deterrent playbacks that aim to prevent feeding and to drive pests away from the target area are comparatively under‐explored. In experiments involving an introduced pest of New Zealand orchards, the passion vine hopper (PVH, Scolypopa australis), we investigated PVH anti‐predator behaviour and alarm call responses and the potential use of alarm calls as vibration‐based deterrent stimuli. We used laser‐Doppler vibrometry and video recordings to assess the vibrational and behavioural responses of PVH to the presence of a predator (Maratus griseus jumping spider), serendipitously discovering a new female call possibly involved in mate rejection. In our tests, we did not find evidence of any vibrational alarm calls in PVH, which showed a significantly reduced rate of general vibration‐based signalling and reduced propensity to call overall compared to control recordings. Instead, PVH responded to a predator threat with a rapid jumping escape response in 87.5% of attacks. We also tested the efficacy of three deterrent vibrational playbacks on driving PVH movement away from a source point, finding that a broad‐band white noise playback spanning 301–688 Hz induced significant movement away from the playback source compared with silent controls. As preliminary proof of concept, we hope these results will assist in developing successful vibrational deterrence for PVH.

Chloroplasts are essential organelles in plants and eukaryotic algae, responsible for photosynthesis, fatty acid synthesis, amino acid production, and stress responses. The genus Passiflora, known for its species diversity and dynamic chloroplast (cp) genome evolution, serves as an excellent model for studying structural variations. This study investigates evolutionary relationships within Passiflora by sequencing 11 new chloroplast genomes, assessing selective pressures on cp genes, and comparing plastid and nuclear phylogenies. Passiflora cp genomes showed significant variations in size, gene content, and structure, ranging from 132,736 to 163,292 base pairs, especially in Decaloba. Structural rearrangements and species-specific repeat patterns were identified. Selective pressure tests revealed significant adaptive evolution in certain lineages, with several genes, including clpP and petL, under positive selection. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed the monophyly of subgenera Astrophea, Passiflora, and Decaloba, while Deidamioides appeared polyphyletic. Nuclear phylogenetic analysis based on 35S rDNA sequences supported the monophyly of Astrophea but showed inconsistencies within subgenus Passiflora compared to cp genome data. This study highlights the evolutionary complexity of Passiflora cp genomes, demonstrating significant structural variations and adaptive evolution. The findings underscore the effectiveness of plastid phylogenomics in resolving phylogenetic relationships and provide insights into adaptive mechanisms shaping cp genome diversity in angiosperms.

In 2009, a plant species from Tarapoto, Peru, was introduced into cultivation and identified as Passiflora hastifolia. However, a subsequent expedition to Bolivia, which included a visit to the type location of P. hastifolia, prompted a re-evaluation of the source material. This investigation revealed that the Peruvian material was incorrectly identified, leading to the recognition of a new species which is here described as Passiflora asprantha. The study provides a detailed comparison between P. hastifolia from Bolivia and the previously misidentified specimens circulating in popular cultivation under that name. Key differences in morphology, such as the acute apices of the leaf for P. hastifolia versus the ovoid apices in the Peruvian accessions; and flower structure which is pink-purple in P. hastifolia but fully white in the new species, are highlighted. Additionally, this paper includes notes on the ecology and distribution of the newly instated Passiflora asprantha, noting its specific habitat preferences and geographical range. This discovery contributes to the understanding of biodiversity within the Passiflora genus and underscores the importance of accurate species identification in botanical research.

ABSTRACT Characterizing and predicting genetic diversity within the genus Passiflora is critical for promoting diversified strategies in genetic improvement programs. The present study aimed to characterize the morphology of pollen grains and seeds, and to infer the 2C DNA content using flow cytometry in species of the genus Passiflora with ornamental potential. For the morphological characterization of pollen grains and seeds, 11 and 12 descriptors were used, respectively. The data obtained were analyzed using ANOVA and grouped according to the Scott-Knott method. To study genetic diversity, the Mahalanobis distance matrix, and the UPGMA agglomerative method were used. For the morphological characterization of pollen and seeds, the results indicated significant differences across all descriptors. Four descriptors were particularly remarkably divergent: colpus width, equatorial axis, polar axis length, and the number of ornaments on the seeds. The species were grouped into three clusters in the dendrogram using the clustering method. 2C DNA content values demonstrated high interspecific variability, possibly due to chromosomal number and size. These results enabled the detection of genetic diversity, the significance of the biological trait values, and a better knowledge of interspecific gene interactions, all of which aid the selection of ornamental parent plants.

Background:Periodontal osseous defects, which are the sequelae of periodontitis, are often treated with open flap debridement and bone replacement grafts (BRG). Although various grafts are available for clinical use, none of them fulfill the ideal properties of the BRG, which underscores the need for newer regenerative materials. One such material, which is highly investigated, is the flavonoid. Flavonoids are phytochemical compounds that possess anti inflammatory, antioxidant, osteogenic, osteoprotective, and anti tumorogenic properties. Chrysin, a flavonoid obtained from the passion flower, honey, and mushrooms, has anti inflammatory properties, osteogenic potential, and accelerates wound healing. Thus, this study aims to analyze bone regeneration in a critical size defect treated with chrysin incorporated modified chitosan scaffold in a rat model.Materials and Methods:In this study, 18 male Wistar rats were enrolled, and they were allocated into three groups: Group I (defect only), Group II (defect treated with chitosan scaffolds), and Group III (defect treated with chrysin incorporated chitosan scaffolds). The outcomes were analyzed with radiographic and histologic parameters.Results:On comparison between the groups, there was a statistically significant increase in the loose connective tissue in the chrysin group (Group III) (P = 0.032) in the 4th week. The radiological parameters for bone regeneration (P = 0.91), histological woven bone formation (P = 0.15), and mineralization were not statistically significant, but the results were more predictable in the chrysin group when compared to the other two groups.Conclusions:Thus, the present study reported that the chrysin molecule incorporated into the scaffold enhanced early wound healing and woven bone apposition. There was no statistically significant difference between the chrysin incorporated scaffold and the chitosan only scaffold, but the results showed a positive response in the chrysin incorporated group (Group III) when compared to the other 2 group.

Abstract Passiflora is one of the main genera of the family Passifloraceae. It is distributed throughout tropical and subtropical regions, with 157 species found in Brazil, 84 of them in the Atlantic domain. The Serra da Bocaina mountain range is fully contained within this domain, in the states of Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. The present work was designed to examine the diversity patterns of Passiflora species in Serra da Bocaina and contribute to knowledge concerning ecological aspects and their influence on species distributions. Bibliographic surveys and scientific collection expeditions were carried out in three protected areas within the Serra da Bocaina Range. Statistical analyses were undertaken to establish the richness patterns within the altitudinal classes and phytophysiognomies in the range, and examine similarities among the different areas. Twenty-three species belonging to the genus Passiflora were recorded. High species richness was encountered at low elevations and in the hillside forest phytophysiognomy. Similarity analyses generated groups that were segregated by restinga species, rare species, and generalist species, related to the phytophysiognomies along the altitudinal gradient. The data were not consistent with other altitudinal gradient studies and suggested the preference of lianas for specific phytophysiognomies.

Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa Degener is a species of economic importance belonging to the genus Passiflora, native to Brazil. It has some alkaloids, flavonoids, carotenoids, minerals, vitamins A, C, and D with anxiolytic, antihypertensive, sedative, and analgesic properties. Its seeds contain essential fatty acids, which can be useful in the food and cosmetic industry. Due to the characteristics mentioned above and the continuous processes of evolution and domestication to which this species is continually subjected, a wide phenotypic and genetic variability has been reported, which has been conserved by Andean farmers. Boyacá is one of the departments of Colombia with a great agricultural vocation, and favorable agroecological conditions for the cultivation of Passifloras. Thus, the objective of this study was to perform the agromorphological characterization of 21 passion fruit cultivars from the municipality of Miraflores, Boyacá. The agromorphological evaluation was carried out using 31 quantitative descriptors and 29 qualitative descriptors, and descriptive, correlation, multivariate, cluster analyses, and the application of an index for the selection of superior genotypes were used. The fruits of the cultivars had an average weight of 159.46 g, reaching a maximum of 235.69 g, with an average pulp percentage of 49.19% and a maximum of 64.25%. The average °Brix content was 12.87°, with a maximum of 15.37°. The presence of anthocyanin pigments was recorded in 43% in the stem of the cultivars, and 62% had dark green leaves. The selection index allowed six cultivars to be identified for their outstanding agronomic characteristics, especially those related to fruit quality; therefore, they can be included in passion fruit improvement programs in Miraflores, Colombia.

Passion flower extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) protrude from leaves and facilitate mutualistic interactions with insects; however, how age cues control EFN growth remains poorly understood. Here, we examined leaf and EFN morphology and development of two Passiflora species with distinct leaf shapes, and compared the phenotype of these to transgenics with manipulated activity of the age-dependent miR156, which targets several SQUAMOSA PROMOTER-BINDING PROTEIN-LIKE (SPL) transcription factors. Low levels of miR156 correlated with leaf maturation and EFN formation in Passiflora edulis and P. cincinnata. Accordingly, manipulating miR156 activity affected leaf heteroblasty and EFN development. miR156-overexpressing leaves exhibited less abundant and tiny EFNs in both Passiflora species. EFN abundance remained mostly unchanged when miR156 activity was reduced, but it led to larger EFNs in P. cincinnata. Transcriptome analysis of young leaf primordia revealed that miR156-targeted SPLs may be required to properly express leaf and EFN-associated genes. Importantly, altered miR156 activity impacted sugar profiles of the nectar and modified ecological relationships between EFNs and ants. Our work provides evidence that the miR156/SPL module indirectly regulates EFN development in an age-dependent manner and that the EFN development program is closely associated with the heteroblastic developmental program of the EFN-bearing leaves.