Pongamia Research Articles

Exploring malapari (Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre) from the Eastern part of Indonesia

Abstract Malapari (Pongamia pinnata (L) Pierre) is a plant species widely distributed throughout Indonesia and can be both a renewable energy and medicinal source. Malapari-related research, such as exploration, characterization, seed production capacity, and propagation (both generative and vegetative) has been done in the western part of Indonesia but not in the eastern part. As a result, exploration was carried out in the east part of Indonesia to locate new malapari population. The population’s morphological characters were also examined, and a dendrogram was used to analyze the characters. Plant samples from Bali, the Maluku Islands, and Nusa Tenggara Islands were investigated, characterized, and gathered. The fruits and cuttings (as plant materials) were collected for ex-situ conservation purposes. The natural distribution of malapari in eastern Indonesia are presented, along with their morphological characters and the dendrogram indicating no apparent distinction between them. The conservation and sustainable usage of this plant might benefit from these findings.

Photocatalytic and eco-emission applications of green synthesized ZnO-CB nanoparticles

Herein, we report the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles (ZnO-CB NPs) by employing the solution combustion method using an aqueous extract of brinjal calyxes as fuel. Characterization techniques, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), UV–visible spectroscopy, and Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), were used to investigate the structural, optical, and morphological properties of synthesized nanoparticles, respectively. Highly porous hexagonal crystalline ZnO-CB NPs with less than 7 nm particle size were obtained. The photocatalytic performance of synthesized material is measured with Malachite green (MG), Basic brown 1 (BB1), and Acid orange 36 (AO36) as benchmark dyes. It showed that the synthesized material worked effectively under pH 10 with UV light irradiation. The synthesized ZnO-CB NP shows good removal effectiveness of the MG, BB1, and AO36 dyes with 99.3 %, 99.6 %, and 99.5 %, respectively, which can be promising photocatalysts for ecological applications such as wastewater remediation. Further, the synthesized ZnO-CB NP was used as blends in the methyl ester of Millettia pinnata oil (MPME), which is blended 20 % with commercial diesel (MPME20). The synthesized ZnO-CB NP was added to the MPME20 in varying amounts to ascertain its effects on the quality of emissions of various greenhouse gases such as hydrocarbons, COx, and NOx. Moreover, brake thermal efficiency (BTHE) and brake-specific fuel consumption (BSFC) were studied for the blends. The blend MPME20 with 25 mg of ZnO-CB NP, i.e., MPME20-25 mg, ZnO-CB, displays the best performance and reduced emissions.

Oilseed viability: A crucial factor for the success of the biodiesel industry

The oil derived from the seeds of the pongamia plant (Pongamia pinnata) has the potential to produce biodiesel. However, pongamia oil's high viscosity and conradson carbon residue make it unsuitable to use directly as a fuel in the already existing diesel engines. As a result, the experiments were carried out to determine the effectiveness of employing pongamia seeds with varying levels of seed viability for biodiesel production through transesterification process. The study looked at the relationship between seed physiological characteristics and extracted oil qualities in view of production of biodiesel through single step trasesterification process. The decreased seed viability was reflected in feedstock qualities such as free fatty acids (FFAs), saponification value (SV), iodine value (IV), cetane number (CN), and antioxidant enzyme activity. The pongamia seed lot exhibited >60 % germination rates contained oil with low FFAs, low SV and high IV. The oil's low free fatty acid content (1.8 %) aids biodiesel production via a single-step alkali-based trans-esterification method. Thus, seed lots with higher viability enhance fuel properties, but decreasing FFAs in pongamia oil increases fuel production capabilities of seeds. Seeds with good viability exhibited lower oil oxidation potential due to higher antioxidant enzyme activity. The rapid viability evaluation test kit can be used at any stage of seed storage to determine whether oilseeds are suitable for biodiesel production. These findings will enable energy plantation growers to increase their profits by providing the biodiesel sector with high-quality feedstock.

Pongamia pinnata seed extract-mediated green synthesis of silver nanoparticle loaded nanogel for estimation of their antipsoriatic properties.

This research describes the eco-friendly green synthesis of silver nanoparticles employing Pongamia pinnata seed extracts loaded with nanogel formulations (AgNPs CUD NG) to improve the retention, accumulation, and the penetration of AgNPs into the epidermal layer of psoriasis. AgNPs were synthesized using the Box-Behnken design. Optimized AgNPs and AgNPs CUD NG were physico-chemically evaluated using UV-vis spectroscopy, SEM, FT-IR, PXRD, viscosity, spreadability, and retention studies. It was also functionally assessed using an imiquimod-induced rat model. The entrapment efficiency of AgNPs revealed ~ 79.35%. Physico-chemical parameters announced the formation of AgNPs via surface plasmon resonance and interaction between O-H, C = O, and amide I carbonyl group of protein extract and AgNO3. Optimized AgNPs showed spherical NPs ~ 116nm with better physical stability and suitability for transdermal applications. AgNPs CUD NG revealed non-Newtonian, higher spreadability, and better extrudability, indicating its suitability for a transdermal route. AgNPs CUD NG enhanced the retention of AgNPs on the psoriatic skin compared to normal skin. Optimized formulations exhibit no irritation by the end of 72h, indicating formulation safety. AgNPs CUD NG at a dose of 1 FTU showed significant recovery from psoriasis with a PASI score of ~ 0.8 compared to NG base and marketed formulations. Results indicated that seed extract-assisted AgNPs in association with CUD-based NG formulations could be a promising nanocarrier for psoriasis and other skin disorders.

THE HABITAT CHARACTERISTICS OF JAVAN LUTUNG (Trachypithecus auratus) IN BANDEALIT COASTAL FOREST AT MERU BETIRI NATIONAL PARK, EAST JAVA, INDONESIA

Javan lutung (Trachypithecus auratus) is an endemic primate species which mostly occurs in protected areas, such as the Bandealit Resort of Meru Betiri National Park (MBNP), East Java, Indonesia. However, scientific information related to the habitat characteristics of T. auratus in this resort is limited. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate the habitat characteristics of T. auratus based on the vegetation stratification in the Bandealit coastal forest of MBNP. This research was conducted in March, April, May, and September 2022 using the scan sampling methods at two sites, including Site I (Camping Ground Block) and Site II (Wisma Block). The data on tree species was collected using a plot method (40 m x 20 m). Furthermore, we used the Spatially Explicit Individual-based Forest Simulator (SexI-FS) version 2.1.0 to construct the stratification profile. Based on the results, there were 17 individuals of T. auratus found in two sites along the observation. This species is recorded as occupying seven tree species, including Alstonia scholaris, A. spectabilis, Calophyllum inophyllum, Dracontomelon sp., Pongamia pinnata, Syzigium sp. and Terminalia catappa. According to stratification, T. auratus was found in Stratum B (21-30 m) to Stratum C (5-20 m) at all sites. Furthermore, this species was widely distributed in Stratum C for locomotion, foraging, social activities and self-protection. Meanwhile, T. auratus was observed using A. spectabilis in Stratum B as a sleeping tree in the afternoon and evening. These results can be the basis for in-situ conservation strategies for T. auratus species in MBNP, particularly for habitat management based on occupied vegetation.

Statistical Optimization of Biodiesel Production from Non-edible Pongamia Pinnata Oil

Statistical Optimization of Biodiesel Production from Non-edible Pongamia Pinnata Oil

Restoring a dry tropical forest through assisted natural regeneration: enhancing tree diversity, structure, and carbon stock

Deforestation is a key factor in global climate change, severely impacting ecosystem services. Effective implementation of reducing emissions from deforestation and forest degradation (REDD+) initiatives is essential for mitigating this change. Reforestation is a sustainable way to mitigate deforestation effects. We studied the impact of assisted natural regeneration (ANR) on restoring dry forest land, increasing biodiversity, structure, and carbon stock. Reforestation units were established at a multiple row planting system in a dry tropic region. We selected 63 plots, each 20 m × 20 m, categorized into multiple row–mixed plantation (MRMP) and multiple row–unmixed plantation (MRUP). We measured tree height and diameter at breast height (DBH) and evaluated biodiversity indices, including the Shannon–Weiner Index (SWI), species richness, evenness, and Important Value Index (IVI). Carbon stock was estimated using allometric equations. We identified 931 individual trees representing 27 species, 24 genera, and 14 families. MRMP showed significantly higher biodiversity, species richness, and evenness than MRUP. Terminalia arjuna was the most dominant species (IVI=124.45), followed by Khaya senegalensis (53.84). Survival rates exceeded 90 % for T. arjuna, K. senegalensis, Madhuca longifolia, and Pongamia pinnata (p<0.001). No significant differences were observed in tree DBH, tree height, tree density, basal area, and carbon stock among the plantation categories. The species Albizia saman exhibited a high diameter increment rate (4.07 ± 1.55 cm/year), followed by K. senegalensis (3.83 ± 0.43 cm/year). A mean value of 5.63 ± 1.13 MgC/ha of carbon stock was stored, while 20.66 ± 4.13 Mg/ha of atmospheric CO2 was sequestered. The results highlight that promoting mixed tree species in multiple rows to enhance biodiversity and optimize carbon regulation. This technique should be popularized to restore the dry forest landscape across the region.

Copperized Karanj Seed (Pongamia pinnata) Oil as an Alternative to Chemical Preservative in Plywood Manufacturing

Most chemicals used in wood preservation are toxic to the environment. Use of synthetic preservatives are highly prevalent in plywood manufacture. Wood, which is the basic raw material for plywood manufacture, being ligno-cellulosic material is liable to degradation due to microbiological organisms and other biological wood destroying organisms causing significant loss. Therefore, it is necessary to develop an alternate naturally available preservative which will be effective for plywood manufacture. Karanj or Pongamia pinnata is known for its anti-fungal and pesticide properties that make it an ideal material as wood preservative. Therefore, an attempt was made to develop an eco-friendly green preservative using naturally available plant resources with high toxicity to wood destroying organisms and low toxicity to humans. Copper was incorporated into Karanj seed extractive and 12mm thick plywood samples were prepared at different concentrations 0.5% to 5% of preservative which were subjected to tests for efficacy study and mechanical properties as per Indian Standards. From the results obtained in this study, it can be concluded that 3% concentration of the preservative can be utilized in plywood manufacture which can resist against wood borers and termites. Concentration above 3% of the preservative interfere with the bonding properties of the resin and significantly reduces glue shear strength.

Comparative analysis of lipid and flavonoid biosynthesis between Pongamia and soybean seeds: genomic, transcriptional, and metabolic perspectives

BackgroundSoybean (Glycine max) is a vital oil-producing crop. Augmenting oleic acid (OA) levels in soybean oil enhances its oxidative stability and health benefits, representing a key objective in soybean breeding. Pongamia (Pongamia pinnata), known for its abundant oil, OA, and flavonoid in the seeds, holds promise as a biofuel and medicinal plant. A comparative analysis of the lipid and flavonoid biosynthesis pathways in Pongamia and soybean seeds would facilitate the assessment of the potential value of Pongamia seeds and advance the genetic improvements of seed traits in both species.ResultsThe study employed multi-omics analysis to systematically compare differences in metabolite accumulation and associated biosynthetic genes between Pongamia seeds and soybean seeds at the transcriptional, metabolic, and genomic levels. The results revealed that OA is the predominant free fatty acid in Pongamia seeds, being 8.3 times more abundant than in soybean seeds. Lipidomics unveiled a notably higher accumulation of triacylglycerols (TAGs) in Pongamia seeds compared to soybean seeds, with 23 TAG species containing OA. Subsequently, we identified orthologous groups (OGs) involved in lipid biosynthesis across 25 gene families in the genomes of Pongamia and soybean, and compared the expression levels of these OGs in the seeds of the two species. Among the OGs with expression levels in Pongamia seeds more than twice as high as in soybean seeds, we identified one fatty acyl-ACP thioesterase A (FATA) and two stearoyl-ACP desaturases (SADs), responsible for OA biosynthesis, along with two phospholipid:diacylglycerol acyltransferases (PDATs) and three acyl-CoA:diacylglycerol acyltransferases (DGATs), responsible for TAG biosynthesis. Furthermore, we observed a significantly higher content of the flavonoid formononetin in Pongamia seeds compared to soybean seeds, by over 2000-fold. This difference may be attributed to the tandem duplication expansions of 2,7,4ʹ-trihydroxyisoflavanone 4ʹ-O-methyltransferases (HI4ʹOMTs) in the Pongamia genome, which are responsible for the final step of formononetin biosynthesis, combined with their high expression levels in Pongamia seeds.ConclusionsThis study extends beyond observations made in single-species research by offering novel insights into the molecular basis of differences in lipid and flavonoid biosynthetic pathways between Pongamia and soybean, from a cross-species comparative perspective.

Impact of Green Manures in Mitigating Heavy Metal Toxicity: A Review

The contamination of soil with heavy metals poses a serious threat to both ecology and public health. Human activity, such as mining, excessive fertilizer application, and industrial processes, are among the various sources of heavy metal pollution. There are various green manure plant species used as potential for mitigating heavy metal toxicity, certain legume plants like Albizia leibbeck L., Bauhinia purpurea L., Dalbergia sissoo, Millettia peguensis Ali, and Pongamia pinnata are being looked for applications in phytoremediation. Various techniques such as bioremediation, phytoextraction, phytofiltration, phytovolatilization, rhizofiltration, phytodegradation, and phyto desalinization are employed to address environmental pollution. Phytoremediation, in particular, aims to collect pollutants from the environment and convert them into forms that can be easily extracted from plant tissues. Contamination by heavy metals is a severe environmental matter. However, there are various contemporary methods that offer potential solutions to address this issue. One such approach involves the use of biochar to decrease the bioavailability of heavy metals in soil. By binding to them reducing their availability for plant absorption and entry into the food chain. Genetic engineering permits researchers to insert genes into plants that improve their acceptance of heavy metals or increase their ability to accumulate them (phytoextraction). Consequently, the utilization of these conventional methods in phytoremediation has demonstrated the most favourable and sustainable outcomes, ensuring an eco-friendly approach for the ecosystem.

STRUKTUR DAN KOMPOSISI HUTAN PANTAI KAWASAN WISATA ALAM HATUSUA BEACH NEGERI HATUSUA, KECAMATAN KAIRATU, KABUPATEN SERAM BAGIAN BARAT

Research on the structure and composition of the coastal forest in the Hatusua Beach natural tourist area in Hatusua State has the aim of knowing the vegetation potential, both in terms of structure and composition of the forest contained in the coastal forest specifically in the Hatusua Beach natural tourist area in Hatusua State, West Kairatu Seram District. This research was carried out using a survey method combining strip techniques and vertically plotted lines with the coastline. The research results show that structurally there are 5 growth strata, namely strata A, Strata B, Strata C, Strata D, Strata E with each strata having similarities both vertically and horizontally. Meanwhile, the composition of vegetation types in the Hatusua Beach area in the Hatusua State Coastal Forest based on growth level has a number of types including; 9 types of seedlings, 14 types of weaning, 12 types of poles, 18 types of trees. For tall trees ranging from 20 – 31 meters, the important value index value is dominated by Pongamia pinnata with a value of 58.13, Intsia bijuga 41.31, Cerbera manghas 38.86, Tamarindus indica 27.93, and Pterocarpus indicus with a value of 34.55, with a species richness category. According to Shannon winner species diversity, a value of ≤ 1 is categorized as low.

COMPREHENSIVE STUDY ON PONGAMIA GLABRA VENT. SEED OIL: EXTRACTION, CHARACTERIZATION, AND ANTIFUNGAL ACTIVITY ASSESSMENT

Dandruff remains a prevalent issue globally, impacting individuals across diverse demographics. Its manifestation, characterized by the shedding of scalp skin cells leading to visible flakes, presents in dry and oily forms, each with distinct attributes. While the prevalence peaks during puberty, various factors such as humidity, trauma, and stress exacerbate symptoms. Malassezia yeast overgrowth, thriving in sebum-rich areas, plays a pivotal role, with environmental triggers further complicating the condition. Addressing dandruff necessitates multifaceted approaches, including understanding its pathophysiology and exploring diverse treatment modalities. This study focuses on Pongamia glabra Vent. seed oil, commonly known as karanj oil, extracted via a comprehensive methodology involving hydrodistillation and cold expression techniques. Characterization of the oil revealed specific properties, including appearance, odor, taste, solubility, and specific gravity, essential for evaluating its quality and suitability for various applications. Additionally, screening for antifungal activity against Malassezia furfur demonstrated promising results, with karanj oil exhibiting significant efficacy, highlighting its potential as a natural alternative for combating fungal infections associated with dandruff.

Some Unreported Medicinal Uses of Plants from the Tribal Area of Southern Rajasthan

Hitherto unreported folk medicinal uses of 41 species of plants belonging to 29 families used by the tribals of Southern Rajasthan have been dealt in this paper. Some plants with important ethnomedicinal new uses are Aegle marmelos, Leucas aspera and Pongamia pinnata in migraine; Acacia leucophloea as contraceptive; Borassus flabelifer, Grewia orientalis and Ziziphus xylopyra in developing complete sterility in female while Cocculus villosus in male; Citrus medica in kidney stone; Crinum asiaticum in breast cancer; Cryptolepis buchanani in piles; Gardenia turgida and Luffa acutangula as antidote in animal bite; lchnocarpus frutescens in swollen gums; Lannea coromandelica in earache; Nyctanthes arbortristis in obesity; Euphorbia acaulis, Grewia dumine, Xeromphis spinosa in skin diseases and Clitoris ternatea in colic. The plant part used and mode of administration in also given.

Optimisation and in-vivo evaluation of extracted Karanjin loaded liposomal topical formulation for treatment of psoriasis in tape-stripped mouse model

Aim The present work is focus on development of anti-psoriasis activity of Karanjin (isolated from Pongamia pinnata seed oil) loaded liposome based lotion for enhancement of skin permeation and retention. Method Karanjin was isolated using liquid-liquid extraction method and characterised by HPLC analysis and partition coefficient. Further, isolated Karanjin was loaded into liposomes using thin-film hydration technique and optimised by Box-Behnken design. Selected optimised batch was characterised their mean diameter, PDI, zeta potential, and entrapment efficiency, morphology (by TEM), FTIR and ex-vivo skin retention. Additionally, Karanjin loaded liposomes were formulated into lotion and characterise their rheological, spreadability, texture, ex-vivo skin permeation & retention, stability and anti-psoriatic activity in mouse tail model. Result The yield of Karanjin from seed oil was 0.1% w/v and have lipophilic nature. The optimised liposomal formulation showed 195 ± 1.8 nm mean diameter, 0.271 ± 0.02 PDI, −27.0 ± 2.1 mV zeta potential and 61.97 ± 2.5% EE. TEM image revel the spherical shap of liposome surrounded by single phospholipid bilayer and no interection between drug and excipients. Further, lotion was prepared by 0.1% w/v carbopol and found to 615 mPa.sec viscosity, good thixotropic behaviour, spreadability and texture. There was 22.44% increase in drug permeation for Karanjin loaded liposomal lotion compared to pure Karanjin lotion, confirm by ex-vivo permeation and retention. While, in-vivo study revel the liposomal lotion of Karanjin was found to have 16.09% higher drug activity then 5% w/w conventional Karanjin lotion. Conclusion Karanjin loaded liposomal lotion have an effective anti-psoriatic agent and showed better skin permeation and retention than the conventional Karanjin lotion.

Piscicidal Effects of Extracts of Karenja Plant Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre and Vat plant Clerodendrum viscosum (Vent.) on singhi Fish Heteropneustes Fossilis (Bloch)

The piscicidal properties of the seed, leaf and bark of the indigenous plants, karenja Pongamia pinnata (L.) Pierre and vat Clerodendrum viscosum (Vent.) were studied on the predatory fish Singhi, Heteropneustes fossilis (Bloch) under laboratory conditions. Distilled water, 50% ethyl alcohol and absolute ethyl alcohol extracts of the plant parts of the plants were tested in this experiment. The altered behaviour due to the effects of the extracts was noted, initially hyperactivity, losing stamina and in the later period, after a few hours, the affected fishes becoming sluggish and inactive. Mortality data varied depending upon the toxicity of the plant parts, extracts and concentrations. On the basis of concentrations, the relative toxicity of the piscicides on H. fossilis for P. pinnata was found to be in the order of seed &gt; bark &gt; leaf and for C. viscosum, seed &gt; leaf &gt; bark. The toxicity of seed and leaf extracts of C. viscosum was greater than P. pinnata but opposite for bark extract for the fish. On the basis of LC50 values the toxicity of both the plant parts were similar as to seed &gt; bark &gt; leaf. The Chittagong Univ. J. B. Sci.,Vol. 7(1 &amp;2):65-78 , 2012.

Assessment of biorational larvicides and botanical oils against Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Diptera: Culicidae) larvae in laboratory conditions

Mosquitoes are known vectors that transmit deadly diseases to millions of people across the globe. The reliance on synthetic insecticides has been the sole way to combat mosquito vectors for decades. In recent years, the extensive use of conventional insecticides in mosquito suppression has led to significant pesticide resistance and serious human health hazards. In this light, investigating the potential application of biorational compounds for vector management has drawn significant attention. We, hereby, evaluated the efficacy of three microbial derivative biorational insecticides, abamectin, spinosad, and buprofezin, and two botanical oils, neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) and karanja oil (Pongamia pinnata Linn.) against the Culex quinquefasciatus under laboratory conditions. The fourth-instar C. quinquefasciatus larvae were exposed to different concentrations of the selected larvicides and lethality was estimated based on LC50 and LT50 with Probit analysis. All larvicides showed concentration-dependent significant effects on survival and demonstrated larvicidal activity against C. quinquefasciatus larvae. However, abamectin exerted the highest toxicity (LC50 = 10.36 ppm), exhibited statistically significant effects on C. quinquefasciatus larval mortality, followed by spinosad (LC50 = 21.32 ppm) and buprofezin (LC50 = 56.34 ppm). Abamectin caused larval mortality ranged from 30.00 to 53.33 % and 53.00–70.00 % at 06 and 07 h after treatment (HAT), respectively. In the case of botanicals, karanja oil (LC50 = 216.61 ppm) was more lethal (more than 1.5 times) and had a shorter lethal time than neem oil (LC50 = 330.93 ppm) and showed a classic pattern of relationship between concentrations and mortality over time. Overall, the present study highlighted the potential of deploying new generation biorational pesticides and botanicals in mosquito vector control programs.

Taxonomic Notes on a few Plants

Correct names of 3 plants namely Pongamia glabra Vent. var. xerocarpa Prain, Sterculia campanulata Wall. ex Mast. var. glabrifolia Kurz and Limnophila hirsura Benth. var. scaberrima Kurz are discussed in this paper. Notes on their distribution as well as the nature of type specimens of the last two taxa are also given.

Molecular cloning and characterization of a salt overly sensitive3 (SOS3) gene from the halophyte Pongamia.

A high concentration of sodium (Na+) is the primary stressor for plants in high salinity environments. The Salt Overly Sensitive (SOS) pathway is one of the best-studied signal transduction pathways, which confers plants the ability to export too much Na+ out of the cells or translocate the cytoplasmic Na+ into the vacuole. In this study, the Salt Overly Sensitive3 (MpSOS3) gene from Pongamia (Millettia pinnata Syn. Pongamia pinnata), a semi-mangrove, was isolated and characterized. The MpSOS3 protein has canonical EF-hand motifs conserved in other calcium-binding proteins and an N-myristoylation signature sequence. The MpSOS3 gene was significantly induced by salt stress, especially in Pongamia roots. Expression of the wild-type MpSOS3 but not the mutated nonmyristoylated MpSOS3-G2A could rescue the salt-hypersensitive phenotype of the Arabidopsis sos3-1 mutant, which suggested the N-myristoylation signature sequence of MpSOS3 was required for MpSOS3 function in plant salt tolerance. Heterologous expression of MpSOS3 in Arabidopsis accumulated less H2O2, superoxide anion radical (O2-), and malondialdehyde (MDA) than wild-type plants, which enhanced the salt tolerance of transgenic Arabidopsis plants. Under salt stress, MpSOS3 transgenic plants accumulated a lower content of Na+ and a higher content of K+ than wild-type plants, which maintained a better K+/Na+ ratio in transgenic plants. Moreover, no development and growth discrepancies were observed in the MpSOS3 heterologous overexpression plants compared to wild-type plants. Our results demonstrated that the MpSOS3 pathway confers a conservative salt-tolerant role and provided a foundation for further study of the SOS pathway in Pongamia.

Comparison of photocatalytic vs conventional transesterification for biodiesel preparation from fish waste oil using green TiO2/SiO2 catalyst

This work has focused on various aspects that include environmental beingness, conservation of energy, and compatibility of TiO2 over the porous material SiO2. The current work describes the single pot green synthesis of TiO2/SiO2 photocatalyst using pongamia pinnata leaf extract. Core shell formation of TiO2 over SiO2 was displayed in SEM pictures confirming the uniform coating of TiO2 on SiO2. Fish waste oil was employed as the bioresource for the FAME preparation through phototransesterification and conventional transesterification methodologies using the composite catalyst. At the fixed reaction conditions (catalyst weight = 30 mg, and oil: methanol = 1:5), TiO2/SiO2 catalyst showed good catalytic activity in both photoinduced and conventional transesterification methods (97.5% and 98.6% respectively into 94.5% and 95.65% FAME respectively). The resulting biodiesel was tested according to ASTM standards which showed the viscosity of the photocatalytic biodiesel (5.6 mm2/S) and transesterification biodiesel (4.5 mm2/S) was higher and calorific value (<45 MJ/kg) was also marginally less compared to fossil diesel. The future scope of the work would be to increase the HHV and studies on automobile parameters of the prepared biodiesel.

MpNAC1, a transcription factor from the mangrove associate Millettia pinnata, confers salt and drought stress tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis and rice

Pongamia (Millettia pinnata Syn. Pongamia pinnata), a mangrove associate plant, exhibits good stress tolerance, making it a treasure of genetic resources for crop improvement. NAC proteins are plant-specific transcription factors, which have been elucidated to participate in the regulation and tolerance of abiotic stresses (such as salt and drought). Here, we identified a salt-induced gene from Pongamia, MpNAC1, which encodes an NAC factor sharing five highly conserved domains with other NACs and exhibits close homology to AtNAC19/AtNAC55/AtNAC72 in Arabidopsis. MpNAC1 showed nuclear localization and transcriptional activator activity. MpNAC1-overexpressing Arabidopsis exhibited significantly stronger salt and drought tolerance compared with wild-type plants. The expression levels of stress-responsive genes were activated in transgenic Arabidopsis. Furthermore, the heterologous expression of MpNAC1 also enhanced the salt and drought tolerance of transgenic rice. The major agronomic traits, such as plant height and tiller number, panicle length, grain size, and yield, were similar between the transgenic lines and wild type under normal field growth conditions. RNA-Seq analysis revealed that MpNAC1 significantly up-regulated stress-responsive genes and activated the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, resulting in increased stress tolerance. Taken together, the MpNAC1 increased salt and drought stress tolerance in transgenic plants and did not retard the plant growth and development under normal growth conditions, suggesting the potential of MpNAC1 in breeding stress-resilient crops.