Plants

22 pages, 3825 KB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide Analysis Reveals Chitinases as Putative Defense-Related Proteins Against Fungi in the Genomes of Coffea arabica and Its Progenitors

by Fernanda Rodrigues Silva, Mario Lucio V. de Resende, Katia V. Xavier, Jeremy T. Brawner and Mariana de Lima Santos

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3130; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203130 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Chitinases have been demonstrated to enhance plant resistance to fungi in various pathosystems. Although there is evidence of the effectiveness of these proteins in coffee–fungus interactions, no genome-wide identification or characterization of coffee chitinases has been performed. In this study, we employed phylogenetic [...] Read more.

Chitinases have been demonstrated to enhance plant resistance to fungi in various pathosystems. Although there is evidence of the effectiveness of these proteins in coffee–fungus interactions, no genome-wide identification or characterization of coffee chitinases has been performed. In this study, we employed phylogenetic analysis, domain architecture, gene structure analysis, and subcellular localization to identify and characterize putative genes and proteins in the genomes of Coffea arabica and its progenitors, Coffea canephora and Coffea eugenioides. A total of 113, 47, and 69 putative chitinase proteins were identified in C. arabica, C. canephora, and C. eugenioides, respectively. These chitinases were classified according to their catalytic domains, GH18 and GH19, and into Classes I, II, III, IV, and V, as determined through phylogenetic analysis based on the Arabidopsis thaliana classification. Furthermore, based on orthologous analysis, we identified ten, six, and seven putative chitinases associated with fungal defense responses in C. arabica, C. canephora, and C. eugenioides, respectively. These findings are valuable for future studies focusing on coffee chitinases, particularly on genetic programs involved in plant pathogen resistance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics in Modern Plant Science)

24 pages, 1668 KB

Open AccessArticle

Elucidating the Mechanistic Role of Exogenous Melatonin in Salt Stress Tolerance of Maize (Zea mays L.) Seedlings: An Integrated Physiological, Metabolomic, and Proteomic Profiling Analysis

by Zhichao Wang, Linhao Zong, Qiqi Cai, Yinjie Fu, Zhiping Gao and Guoxiang Chen

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3129; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203129 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Maize (Zea mays L.), as a globally significant cereal crop, exhibits high sensitivity to salt stress during early seedling stages. Although melatonin (MT) has demonstrated potential in mitigating abiotic stresses, the specific mechanisms underlying MT-mediated alleviation of salt stress in maize seedlings [...] Read more.

Maize (Zea mays L.), as a globally significant cereal crop, exhibits high sensitivity to salt stress during early seedling stages. Although melatonin (MT) has demonstrated potential in mitigating abiotic stresses, the specific mechanisms underlying MT-mediated alleviation of salt stress in maize seedlings remain unclear. In this study, we established four treatment groups: control (CK), melatonin treatment (MT), salt stress (NaCl), and combined treatment (NaCl_MT). Metabolomic and proteomic analyses were performed, supplemented by photosynthesis-related experiments as well as antioxidant-related experiments. Metabolomic analysis identified key metabolites in MT-mediated salt stress mitigation. Both metabolomic and proteomic analyses underscored the critical roles of photosynthetic and antioxidant pathways. Salt stress significantly decreased the net photosynthetic rate (Pn) by 67.7%, disrupted chloroplast ultrastructure, and reduced chlorophyll content by 41.6%. Conversely, MT treatment notably mitigated these detrimental effects. Moreover, MT enhanced the activities of antioxidant enzymes by approximately 10–20% and reduced the accumulation of oxidative stress markers by around 10–25% in maize seedlings under salt stress. In conclusion, this study conducted a systematic and multidimensional investigation into the mitigation of salt stress in maize seedlings by MT. Our results revealed that MT enhances antioxidant systems, increases chlorophyll content, and alleviates damage to chloroplast ultrastructure, thereby improving photosystem II performance and strengthening photosynthesis. This ultimately manifests as improved seedling phenotypes under salt stress. These findings provide a meaningful entry point for breeding salt-tolerant maize varieties and mitigating the adverse effects of salinized soil on maize growth and yield. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Abiotic Stress Responses in Plants—Second Edition)

19 pages, 1450 KB

Open AccessArticle

Bryophytes of the Loess Cliffs in the Pannonian Area of Austria

by Harald G. Zechmeister and Michaela Kropik

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3128; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203128 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Austrian loess cliffs represent unique habitats supporting a rich bryophyte flora, including numerous rare and endangered species. We conducted a comprehensive survey of 86 loess cliff sites in the Pannonian area of Lower Austria, Burgenland, and Vienna, recording 79 bryophyte species. The results [...] Read more.

Austrian loess cliffs represent unique habitats supporting a rich bryophyte flora, including numerous rare and endangered species. We conducted a comprehensive survey of 86 loess cliff sites in the Pannonian area of Lower Austria, Burgenland, and Vienna, recording 79 bryophyte species. The results highlight that Austrian loess cliffs, despite their small spatial extent, are key refugia for light-demanding, desiccation-tolerant bryophytes. Hilpertia velenovskyi, a critically endangered species, was recorded at six new sites, expanding its known Austrian distribution. Our study also documents the first Austrian occurrences of several Pterygoneurum species. Seven bryophyte communities were distinguished: Aloinetum rigidae, Hilpertio velenovskyi–Pterygoneuretum compacti, and the newly described subassociations Didymodontetum glauci didymodontetosum cordati and Eurhynchietum schleicheri didymodontetosum cordati, as well as Pterygoneuro–Acaulonetum triquetri ass. nov. Multivariate analyses suggest carbonate content as the most consistent environmental driver. Despite their ecological significance, loess cliffs are increasingly threatened by habitat loss, overgrowth by vascular plants, and shading from invasive trees. Our study provides a detailed syntaxonomic and ecological framework for bryophyte communities on loess cliffs, underlining their role as refugia for rare species and the urgent need to protect remaining sites in the Pannonian region. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Bryophyte Biology, 2nd Edition)

15 pages, 6920 KB

Open AccessArticle

A Cryopreservation and Regeneration Protocol for Embryogenic Callus of Larix olgensis

by Chen Wang, Wenna Zhao, Yu Liu, Hao Dong, Yajing Ning, Chengpeng Cui, Hanguo Zhang, Meng Li and Shujuan Li

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3127; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203127 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Larix olgensis is a valuable timber species in northern China, typically propagated through somatic embryogenesis (SE). However, long-term subculture can lead to a loss of embryogenic potential. This study aimed to establish a simple and stable protocol for the cryopreservation and regeneration of [...] Read more.

Larix olgensis is a valuable timber species in northern China, typically propagated through somatic embryogenesis (SE). However, long-term subculture can lead to a loss of embryogenic potential. This study aimed to establish a simple and stable protocol for the cryopreservation and regeneration of L. olgensis embryogenic callus (EC) that preserves its SE potential and regenerative capacity. The slow-freezing method was employed for cryopreservation. A cryopreservation protocol for L. olgensis EC was developed by optimizing the preculture duration and conditions, cryoprotectant composition and thawing temperature. The results showed that optimal outcomes were achieved using a 24 h stepwise preculture on medium containing 0.2 and 0.4 mol∙L⁻¹ sucrose, followed by cryoprotectant treatment with 0.4 mol∙L⁻¹ sucrose, 2.5% (v/v) dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and 10% polyethylene glycol 6000 (PEG₆₀₀₀), and thawing at 37 °C. EC cryopreserved using this protocol achieved a 100% recovery rate. Moreover, the cryopreserved recoverable EC successfully underwent SE, progressing through germination and rooting. Cryopreservation duration (storage duration in liquid nitrogen) did not affect cell viability and proliferation rate, confirming the protocol’s suitability for long-term cryopreservation of L. olgensis EC. This study provides a valuable reference for the cryopreservation and regeneration of L. olgensis EC, with potential applications for other coniferous species. It establishes a robust foundation for the large-scale propagation of conifers. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sexual and Asexual Reproduction in Forest Plants—2nd Edition)

30 pages, 1755 KB

Open AccessArticle

First Phenotypic Characterization of the Edible Fruits of Lardizabala biternata: A Baseline for Conservation and Domestication of a Neglected and Endemic Vine

by Jaime Herrera and Leonardo D. Fernández

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3126; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203126 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Lardizabala biternata is a culturally valued, endemic vine of the Chilean Winter Rainfall–Valdivian Forest biodiversity hotspot, traditionally harvested for its sweet, edible fruits. Despite its ecological singularity as the sole species in a monotypic genus, the species remains biologically and agronomically understudied, with [...] Read more.

Lardizabala biternata is a culturally valued, endemic vine of the Chilean Winter Rainfall–Valdivian Forest biodiversity hotspot, traditionally harvested for its sweet, edible fruits. Despite its ecological singularity as the sole species in a monotypic genus, the species remains biologically and agronomically understudied, with no formal cultivation systems. There is currently no baseline information on its fruit morphology, which limits the design of conservation strategies and the development of its agronomic potential. This study provides the first phenotypic characterisation of L. biternata fruits, aimed at supporting germplasm evaluation, ex situ conservation, and sustainable domestication of this rare species. A total of 205 fruits were sampled across two seasons and two geographically distant populations. We measured 14 traits, including weight, length, diameter, pulp content, and seed metrics, and analysed morphological variation using t-tests, ANOVA, regression, and principal component analysis or PCA. Fruits averaged 21.0 g in weight, 54.2 mm in length, and 23.8 mm in diameter. Edible pulp constituted 44.4% of total fruit weight and showed strong positive correlations with fruit size, seed number, and seed weight. Significant differences were observed across seasons and populations, with cooler, wetter conditions associated with larger fruits and higher pulp yield. Our findings reveal substantial morphological variability and climate sensitivity, providing a crucial baseline for selecting desirable traits. This work informs ongoing efforts in plant domestication, sustainable agriculture, and the conservation of underutilised species of cultural and ecological importance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Horticultural Science and Ornamental Plants)

17 pages, 4611 KB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing Rhizome Quality in Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. Through High Maltose Concentration

by Hui-Yeong Jeong, Ho-Jun Son, Jun-Won Kang and Ji-Ah Kim

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3125; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203125 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. (L. chuanxiong) is a traditional medicinal food in East Asia. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the effects of various carbohydrates on L. chuanxiong. It covers rhizome induction, acclimatization, and field growth. In the context of [...] Read more.

Ligusticum chuanxiong Hort. (L. chuanxiong) is a traditional medicinal food in East Asia. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the effects of various carbohydrates on L. chuanxiong. It covers rhizome induction, acclimatization, and field growth. In the context of this study, the most effective carbohydrates for promoting rhizome induction in vitro to field growth ex vitro of L. chuanxiong were identified as maltose treatments with a concentration of 4% and 6%. It has been demonstrated that, particularly at a concentration of 4%, this treatment is particularly beneficial for in vitro rhizome development of L. chuanxiong. Following acclimatization, the 6% maltose treatments exhibited the highest fresh weight (3.3 ± 0.2 g). Following the process of field growth, there was a significant increase in the fresh weight of the rhizome under the 6% maltose treatment (160.8 ± 22.2 g) in comparison with the other treatments. This investigation is the first study on rhizome production of L. chuanxiong. It is clear that the appropriate carbohydrate treatment protocol is key to optimizing rhizome production and providing fundamental data for the best propagation of L. chuanxiong. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Plant Tissue Culture)

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17 pages, 2106 KB

Open AccessArticle

Differential Phosphorus Acquisition Strategies and Adaptive Mechanisms Evolved by Three Lespedeza Species to Tackle Phosphorus Deficiency

by Jingchong Li, Hao Shi, Guanqiang Zuo, Shasha Li, Yafei Chen and Shiwen Wang

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3124; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203124 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Phosphorus (P) is essential for plant growth but is frequently limited in soils. Lespedeza species are well-known for their ecological and economic benefits, as well as their tolerance to nutrient-poor soils. This study investigated the P acquisition strategies and adaptive mechanisms of three [...] Read more.

Phosphorus (P) is essential for plant growth but is frequently limited in soils. Lespedeza species are well-known for their ecological and economic benefits, as well as their tolerance to nutrient-poor soils. This study investigated the P acquisition strategies and adaptive mechanisms of three Lespedeza species (L. davurica, L. bicolor, and L. cuneata), focusing on biomass allocation, P distribution, root exudation, and absorption kinetics under P deficiency. Under P deficiency, L. davurica and L. bicolor allocated more biomass to roots to enhance P acquisition, whereas L. cuneata increased specific root length and area. Moreover, all three species preferentially allocated P to roots, but L. bicolor showed higher P content in stems and leaves than the others. P absorption kinetics indicated that Michaelis constant (K_m) and equilibrium concentration (C_min) were significantly decreased in all three species under P deficiency, with L. bicolor exhibiting the strongest P affinity and acquisition capacity. Secretion analysis revealed that while L. davurica and L. cuneata secreted higher levels of organic acids under P deficiency, exudates from L. bicolor were significantly enriched in acid phosphatase activity. Overall, the three Lespedeza species developed distinct P acquisition and adaptive strategies to cope with P deficiency, with L. bicolor demonstrating the greatest low-P tolerance and most efficient adaptive mechanisms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nitrogen and Phosphorus Transport and Signaling in Plants)

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26 pages, 13654 KB

Open AccessArticle

Initiation of Direct Shoot Organogenesis in Coconut Using Immature Inflorescence

by Eveline Y. Y. Kong, Julianne Maree Biddle, Sisunandar Sisunandar, Sundaravelpandian Kalaipandian, Amirhossein Bazrafshan, Zhihua Mu and Steve W. Adkins

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3123; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203123 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) is one of the most widely cultivated crops, with increasing popularity and demand for its products, which necessitates increased production. However, the lack of high-quality planting materials is a major limitation in replanting the senile palms worldwide. This [...] Read more.

Coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) is one of the most widely cultivated crops, with increasing popularity and demand for its products, which necessitates increased production. However, the lack of high-quality planting materials is a major limitation in replanting the senile palms worldwide. This study examined the possibility of using a direct shoot organogenesis pathway as an alternative to somatic embryogenesis to produce clonal coconut plantlets using immature inflorescence explants obtained from Indonesia and Australia, through investigation of the explant types, exogenous plant growth regulators, and additives. Histological analysis showed suitable stages of immature inflorescence explants to be used, which led to the formation of shoot-like structures resembling true vegetative shoots, in all treatments consisting of exogenous plant growth regulators except for those without activated charcoal. The culture medium supplemented with thidiazuron (100 μM) alone or those supplemented with various combinations of other plant growth regulators showed similar shoot induction percentages (ca. 63 to 80%) or shoot-like structures per explant (ca. 6 to 8). The addition of adenine sulphate (217 μM) was found to significantly improve shoot induction (ca. 50%) from immature inflorescence explants compared to the control (ca. 5%), whereas phloroglucinol was found to negatively impact shoot induction, and L-glutamine showed a positive influence. The current study showed several improvements, which warrant further studies to develop commercial protocol for mass production of clonal coconut plantlets through direct organogenesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Tissue Culture V)

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16 pages, 6997 KB

Open AccessArticle

Ascorbic Acid Priming Boosts Cotton Seed Chilling Tolerance via Membrane Stability and Antioxidant Cycles

by Peng Han, Haixia Ma, Lu Lu, Jincheng Zhu, Xinhui Nie, Jianwei Xu and Zhibo Li

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3122; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203122 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Low-temperature stress severely restricts cotton seed germination and seedling establishment, especially in early spring. Ascorbic acid (AsA) priming is a promising strategy to enhance stress tolerance, yet its mechanisms in cotton remain unclear. This study examined the effects of AsA priming on seed [...] Read more.

Low-temperature stress severely restricts cotton seed germination and seedling establishment, especially in early spring. Ascorbic acid (AsA) priming is a promising strategy to enhance stress tolerance, yet its mechanisms in cotton remain unclear. This study examined the effects of AsA priming on seed germination at 15 °C. Seeds were treated with 0, 25, 50, or 100 mg/L AsA for 3, 6, 12, or 24 h. Results showed that 50 mg/L AsA for 24 h significantly improved germination potential, rate, index, and promptness index (p < 0.05). Compared with water-primed seeds, AsA-primed seeds exhibited greater radicle length (+17.67%) and fresh weight (+136.26%) under chilling stress. This treatment markedly increased antioxidant enzyme activities, including POD (+196.74%), SOD (+43.81%), and CAT (+49.43%), while also promoting the accumulation of Ascorbate–Glutathione cycle-related enzymes and metabolites, thereby reinforcing the antioxidant defense system. Multidimensional statistical analyses further indicated that AsA enhanced root growth by stimulating antioxidant defenses while inducing a trade-off that slightly reduced fresh weight, suggesting a balance between growth and oxidative protection. Overall, AsA priming improves cotton seed cold tolerance by activating enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant systems and mediating a growth–defense trade-off, underscoring its potential as an effective priming agent for early sowing under low-temperature stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Functioning Under Abiotic Stress)

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14 pages, 1800 KB

Open AccessArticle

Chilean Aloysia Essential Oils: A Medicinal Plant Resource for Postharvest Disease Control

by Valentina Silva, Catalina Ferreira, Susana Flores, Evelyn Muñoz, Constanza Reyes, Carmen Trujillo, Esperanza Gálvez, Katy Díaz and Alejandro Madrid

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3121; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203121 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Postharvest fungal rot causes significant economic losses in the agroindustry. Current control methods involving the use of synthetic fungicides are becoming increasingly ineffective and pose environmental risks. This necessitates exploring sustainable alternatives, such as essential oils derived from medicinal plants, to achieve safer [...] Read more.

Postharvest fungal rot causes significant economic losses in the agroindustry. Current control methods involving the use of synthetic fungicides are becoming increasingly ineffective and pose environmental risks. This necessitates exploring sustainable alternatives, such as essential oils derived from medicinal plants, to achieve safer and effective disease control. This research examined the chemical composition and efficacy of essential oils from Aloysia citriodora, Aloysia polystachya and their compounds against the postharvest rot fungi Monilinia fructicola, Monilinia laxa, and Botrytis cinerea. The main compounds of essential oils were analyzed by GC/MS and revealed differences in their composition. A. citriodora is characterized by the presence of spathulenol and caryophyllene oxide. In contrast, A. polystachya is characterized by the predominance of carvone. The results show that the essential oil of A. citriodora and the compound farnesol are able to inhibit the three pathogens. Notably, against M. fructicola, the EC₅₀ values were 61.89 μg/mL and 72.18 μg/mL, respectively. Against B. cinerea, the EC₅₀ values were 85.34 μg/mL and 47.6 μg/mL. Molecular docking also showed that farnesol has affinity for the enzyme succinate dehydrogenase suggesting a possible mechanism of action. This compound and A. citriodora essential oil show potential in the control of phytopathogens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Phytochemistry)

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19 pages, 3257 KB

Open AccessArticle

Integrated Multi-Omics Analysis Reveals the Survival Strategy of Dongxiang Wild Rice (DXWR, Oryza rufipogon Griff.) Under Low-Temperature and Anaerobic Stress

by Jilin Wang, Cheng Huang, Hongping Chen, Lijuan Tang and Dianwen Wang

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3120; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203120 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Dongxiang wild rice (DXWR, Oryza rufipogon Griff.), the northernmost known wild rice species, exhibits exceptional tolerance to combined low-temperature and anaerobic stress during seed germination, providing a unique model for understanding plant adaptation to complex environmental constraints. Here, we employed an integrated multi-omics [...] Read more.

Dongxiang wild rice (DXWR, Oryza rufipogon Griff.), the northernmost known wild rice species, exhibits exceptional tolerance to combined low-temperature and anaerobic stress during seed germination, providing a unique model for understanding plant adaptation to complex environmental constraints. Here, we employed an integrated multi-omics approach combining genomic, transcriptomic, and metabolomic analyses to unravel the synergistic regulatory mechanisms underlying this tolerance. Genomic comparative analysis categorized DXWR genes into three evolutionary groups: 18,480 core genes, 15,880 accessory genes, and 6822 unique genes. Transcriptomic profiling identified 10,593 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) relative to the control, with combined stress triggering the most profound changes, specifically inducing the upregulation of 5573 genes and downregulation of 5809 genes. Functional characterization revealed that core genes, including DREB transcription factors, coordinate energy metabolism and antioxidant pathways; accessory genes, such as glycoside hydrolase GH18 family members, optimize energy supply via adaptive evolution; and unique genes, including specific UDP-glycosyltransferases (UDPGTs), confer specialized stress resilience. Widely targeted metabolomics identified 889 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs), highlighting significant accumulations of oligosaccharides (e.g., raffinose) to support glycolytic energy production and a marked increase in flavonoids (153 compounds identified, e.g., procyanidins) enhancing antioxidant defense. Hormonal signals, including jasmonic acid and auxin, were reconfigured to balance growth and defense responses. We propose a multi-level regulatory network based on a “core-unique-adaptive” genetic framework, centered on ERF family transcriptional hubs and coordinated through a metabolic adaptation strategy of “energy optimization, redox homeostasis, and growth inhibition relief”. These findings offer innovative strategies for improving rice stress tolerance, particularly for enhancing germination of direct-seeded rice under early spring low-temperature and anaerobic conditions, by utilizing key genes such as GH18s and UDPGTs, thereby providing crucial theoretical and technological support for addressing food security challenges under climate change. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genetic and Genomic Strategies for Enhancing Seed Quality and Grain Nutrition in Cereal Crops)

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15 pages, 2497 KB

Open AccessArticle

Colored Shade Nets and LED Lights at Different Wavelengths Increase the Production and Quality of Canada Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis L.) Flower Stems

by Fabíola Villa, Luciana Sabini da Silva Murara, Giordana Menegazzo da Silva, Edvan Costa da Silva, Larissa Hiromi Kiahara Sackser, Laís Romero Paula, Mateus Lopes Borduqui Cavalcante and Daniel Fernandes da Silva

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3119; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203119 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Canada goldenrod (Solidago canadensis L.), a short-day plant commonly cultivated as a cut flower, depends on proper lighting management to obtain long stems and higher commercial value. Thus, this study aimed to determine the effect of modifying the light spectrum through the [...] Read more.

Canada goldenrod (Solidago canadensis L.), a short-day plant commonly cultivated as a cut flower, depends on proper lighting management to obtain long stems and higher commercial value. Thus, this study aimed to determine the effect of modifying the light spectrum through the installation of light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and the use of colored shade nets on the production and quality of Canada goldenrod stems. The treatments used were colored shade nets and different LED lighting treatments. Production per plant and productivity per square meter were determined. Twenty stems were selected and evaluated for: stem length; inflorescence length and width; number of floral ramets per inflorescence; number of leaves; stem base diameter (mm); and fresh stem biomass (g). Canada goldenrod plants require an extension of the light period with artificial lighting to produce higher-quality stems, regardless of whether the bulbs emit red or white light. The use of nets with 50% red and white shading promoted higher production and elongation of Canada goldenrod stems, with a production that reached up to 4.2 floral stems per plant and 100.3 floral stems per square meter using the red shade net and white LED. These floral stems were of high commercial standard, with a length of up to 81.35 cm with the red shade net and red LED, and were 31 cm in diameter for the inflorescences, approximately, under black or white shade nets and white or red LEDs. More robust floral stems with greater biomass were observed using any shade net color and LED lamps. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Physiology and Seedling Production of Plants)

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26 pages, 1510 KB

Open AccessReview

Nanoparticles and Nanocarriers for Managing Plant Viral Diseases

by Ubilfrido Vasquez-Gutierrez, Gustavo Alberto Frias-Treviño, Luis Alberto Aguirre-Uribe, Sonia Noemí Ramírez-Barrón, Jesús Mendez-Lozano, Agustín Hernández-Juárez and Hernán García-Ruíz

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3118; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203118 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

The nourishment of the human population depends on a handful of staple crops, such as maize, rice, wheat, soybeans, potatoes, tomatoes, and cassava. However, all crop plants are affected by at least one virus causing diseases that reduce yield, and in some parts [...] Read more.

The nourishment of the human population depends on a handful of staple crops, such as maize, rice, wheat, soybeans, potatoes, tomatoes, and cassava. However, all crop plants are affected by at least one virus causing diseases that reduce yield, and in some parts of the world, this leads to food insecurity. Conventional management practices need to be improved to incorporate recent scientific and technological developments such as antiviral gene silencing, the use of double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) to activate an antiviral response, and nanobiotechnology. dsRNA with antiviral activity disrupt viral replication, limit infection, and its use represents a promising option for virus management. However, currently, the biggest limitation for viral diseases management is that dsRNA is unstable in the environment. This review is focused on the potential of nanoparticles and nanocarriers to deliver dsRNA, enhance stability, and activate antiviral gene silencing. Effective carriers include metal-based nanoparticles, including silver, zinc oxide, and copper oxide. The stability of dsRNA and the efficiency of gene-silencing activation are enhanced by nanocarriers, including layered double hydroxides, chitosan, and carbon nanotubes, which protect and transport dsRNA to plant cells. The integration of nanocarriers and gene silencing represents a sustainable, precise, and scalable option for the management of viral diseases in crops. It is essential to continue interdisciplinary research to optimize delivery systems and ensure biosafety in large-scale agricultural applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Insight into Elicitors of Plant Immunity and the Activated Defensive Pathways)

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24 pages, 3171 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigating the Biocontrol and Plant Growth-Promoting Potential of Pseudomonas yamanorum for Sustainable Management of Tomato Early Blight (Alternaria alternata)

by Lobna Hajji-Hedfi, Takwa Wannassi, Amira Khlif, Nyasha J. Kavhiza and Nazih Y. Rebouh

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3117; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203117 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is among the most economically significant and nutritionally valuable vegetable crops grown globally. However, fungal diseases such as Early Blight caused by Alternaria alternata are a major factor limiting yield and fruit quality in tomato production. This study [...] Read more.

Tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) is among the most economically significant and nutritionally valuable vegetable crops grown globally. However, fungal diseases such as Early Blight caused by Alternaria alternata are a major factor limiting yield and fruit quality in tomato production. This study investigates the biocontrol potential of locally isolated rhizobacterium Pseudomonas yamanorum against A. alternata, the causal agent of early blight in tomato, under both in vitro and in planta conditions. In vitro assays demonstrated significant antifungal activity; in the dual confrontation assay, P. yamanorum (10⁸ CFU/mL) reduced A. alternata mycelial growth by 68.7%, while spore germination was inhibited by 88.7%. In planta trials demonstrated that plants treated with P. yamanorum (10⁷ CFU/mL) alone exhibited the lowest disease severity (2.5). The treatments also significantly enhanced plant growth, with shoot length reaching 45 cm versus 26 cm in infected controls. Biochemical analyses revealed increased catalase (94.84 units mg⁻¹ protein min⁻¹), peroxidase (5.83), and ascorbate peroxidase (67.01) activities in treated plants. Total polyphenol and protein contents also increased (0.81 mg/g and 15.82 mg/g, respectively). Furthermore, P. yamanorum treatments maintained fruit quality parameters such as firmness (3.13), sugar content (6.43 °Brix), and juice yield (55.88%), while reducing malondialdehyde (2.02 µmol/g Dry Weight) and electrical conductivity (0.59 mS/cm). These findings highlight P. yamanorum as a promising biocontrol agent and plant growth-promoting bacteria that improve disease resistance, which can be combined with salicylic acid to further enhance crop vigor and fruit quality under biotic stress. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Control of Plant Diseases Caused by Pathogenic Microorganisms—2nd Edition)

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24 pages, 2170 KB

Open AccessArticle

Population-Specific Salinity Tolerance in the Extremophile Colobanthus quitensis: Evidence of Adaptive Plasticity

by Marely Cuba-Díaz, Yadiana Ontivero, Eduardo Fuentes-Lillo, Macarena Klagges, Paulina Arriagada, Gustavo Cabrera-Barja and Benjamín Sepúlveda

Plants 2025, 14(20), 3116; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14203116 - 10 Oct 2025

Abstract

Salinity is a major abiotic stress that limits plant growth and survival. Colobanthus quitensis, the only native dicotyledon in the Antarctic Peninsula and southern South America, naturally inhabits environments with contrasting salinity regimes. This study compared the salt stress responses of three [...] Read more.

Salinity is a major abiotic stress that limits plant growth and survival. Colobanthus quitensis, the only native dicotyledon in the Antarctic Peninsula and southern South America, naturally inhabits environments with contrasting salinity regimes. This study compared the salt stress responses of three geographically distinct populations—Antarctic (pA), Magellanic coastal (pPA), and Andean inland (pC)—exposed to 0, 50, and 150 mM NaCl under controlled conditions. Morpho-physiological traits, photosynthetic parameters, osmolyte accumulation, oxidative damage markers, and antioxidant responses were evaluated. Population-specific strategies were observed. In pA, salinity reduced shoot biomass by 58% and doubled lipid peroxidation levels at 50 mM, indicating high oxidative stress. In pPA, shoot growth was maintained even at 150 mM, although chlorophyll and carotenoid contents decreased by approximately 20%, along with a reduction in total antioxidant capacity. In contrast, pC showed a coordinated tolerance response, maintaining biomass while accumulating the highest proline levels (742 µmol g⁻¹ FW at 150 mM) and enhancing total antioxidant capacity by 35% compared to the control. Multivariate analyses supported the contrasting strategies among populations. These results provide novel evidence of local adaptation and ecological plasticity in C. quitensis, particularly highlighting the hidden resilience of non-coastal populations. The findings support the potential of this extremophile species as a model system for investigating salinity tolerance and as a promising genetic resource for developing biotechnological strategies aimed at improving crop resilience under saline conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Mitigation Strategies and Tolerance of Plants to Abiotic Stresses—2nd Edition)

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