Search Results (52)

Elephant grass–ramie mixed silage represents a promising strategy to valorize tropical forage resources for ruminant production, yet the dynamic changes in microbial community and fermentation quality during semi-commercial silo bag ensiling remain poorly understood. Elephant grass and ramie were co-ensiled at a 70:30 (w/w) ratio and stored at room temperature for 15, 30, and 45 days. Fermentation quality was evaluated by pH, lactic acid, acetic acid, and ammonia nitrogen, while bacterial and fungal communities were analyzed via 16S and ITS rRNA high-throughput sequencing in triplicate. The results revealed limited fermentation efficiency across all periods, characterized by relatively high pH (≥5.1), restricted lactic acid accumulation, and substantial butyric acid concentrations. Vertically, silage at day 30 exhibited a transient, relatively better acidification profile (lowest pH and highest lactic acid) compared to days 15 and 45, though still sub-optimal overall. Bacterial diversity increased significantly by day 45, concurrent with a marked reduction in the relative abundance of Firmicutes, whereas fungal diversity declined progressively throughout the ensiling period. Enterococcus was identified as the core functional bacterium closely correlated with key fermentation parameters, while most fungal taxa exerted negative effects on silage quality. These findings demonstrate that while a 30-day ensiling duration offers a relatively stable window under restricted acidification, the high fibrous nature and baseline composition of the mixed material present challenges for preservation. This study provides a transparent theoretical basis and underscores the critical need for technical interventions in semi-commercial elephant grass–ramie ensiling. Full article

Ramie (Boehmeria nivea) is renowned for its superior fiber strength, length, and unique properties, yet its genetic improvement has lagged behind other fiber crops. This review synthesizes recent advances in ramie fiber development at the genetic, genomic, and molecular levels. Population genomic analyses have uncovered distinct domestication, improvement, and feralization signatures, identifying numerous fiber-related genes under selection. Parallel genetic and molecular studies have mapped scores of loci and genes governing fiber formation, laying the foundation for molecular breeding. However, despite the availability of genetic transformation systems, the need for methodological improvements remains a major challenge for engineering fiber traits via transgenic approaches. Overall, a solid research foundation has been established. Future progress in establishing marker-assisted and genomic selection breeding systems, optimizing transformation protocols, and developing efficient gene-editing methods holds promise for realizing molecular breeding to enhance fiber quality and yield in ramie. Full article

Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation, driven by reactive oxygen species (ROS) and pro-inflammatory cytokines, contribute significantly to diseases like inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), yet the therapeutic potential of phenolic compounds-rich agricultural byproducts like ramie leaves (Boehmeria nivea L.) remains underexplored for multi-target antioxidant and anti-inflammatory applications. Using response surface methodology, optimal ultrasonic extraction conditions for ramie leaf aqueous extract (RLAE) were determined as a 1:30 g/mL solid-to-liquid ratio, 43 min, and 50 °C, yielding 2.26 ± 0.16 mg/g total phenolic content. RLAE exhibited strong antioxidant activity with IC₅₀ values of 1.09 ± 0.06 mg/mL (DPPH), 0.60 ± 0.02 mg/mL (ABTS), and 0.93 ± 0.03 mg/mL (O₂⁻), a FRAP equivalent of 11.85 ± 0.47 mmol FeSO₄/g, and notable SOD-like activity. In LPS-stimulated IEC-6 cells, RLAE (0.1–0.2 mg/mL) significantly reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α) and enhanced IL-10 expression, with low cytotoxicity up to 0.4 mg/mL. HPLC identified 21 compounds, including pyrocatechuic acid, rutin, and hyperoside, driving these effects via ROS scavenging and NF-κB modulation. RLAE’s multi-mechanistic antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties position it as a sustainable candidate for nutraceutical development in gastrointestinal health, warranting further in vivo studies. Full article

This study systematically investigated the liposoluble components and their potential correlation with antibacterial activity in six bast fiber varieties—Apocynum venetum, Corchorus capsularis, Hibiscus cannabinus, Linum usitatissimum, Cannabis sativa, and Boehmeria nivea—using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). The analysis identified a range of compounds including alkanes, phenols, sterols, esters, and triterpenoids, with notable compositional differences among the fibers. Tetracontane was predominant in A. venetum (40.39%) and H. cannabinus (22.47%), while γ-sitosterol was highest in C. capsularis (12.80%). L. usitatissimum was rich in n-hexadecanoic acid (9.16%), C. sativa in heptacosanal (8.96%), and B. nivea in both tetracontane (45.42%) and tetracosane (10.09%). Based on existing literature, components such as 2,4-di-tert-butylphenol, γ-sitosterol, n-hexadecanoic acid, lupeol, and betulin were inferred as key antibacterial constituents. A comprehensive review of reported antimicrobial activities revealed distinct antibacterial spectra and intensities across the varieties, aligning with their unique liposoluble profiles. This study provides a systematic chemical profile of bast fibers and offers a predictive assessment of their antibacterial potential. The findings lay a chemical foundation for future targeted research and development of antibacterial materials derived from specific bast fiber varieties. Full article

Bast fibrous plants are recognized as potential sources of pectin, yet the structural characteristics and functional properties of pectic polysaccharides derived from these plants remain insufficiently investigated. In this study, three pectic polysaccharides (HP, KP, and RP) were isolated from the bast fibers of Cannabis sativa L. (hemp), Hibiscus cannabinus L. (kenaf), and Boehmeria nivea L. (ramie) using an ammonium oxalate solution. Their chemical composition, monosaccharide profile, molecular weight, microstructure, and functional groups were analyzed by spectroscopic and chromatographic techniques. These polysaccharides exhibited remarkable uronic acid content (50.49–61.14%), a relatively low degree of esterification (19.51–34.26%), and high molecular weights ranging from 147.10 to 242.16 kDa. The predominant neutral sugars identified were rhamnose, arabinose, and galactose. Furthermore, HP, KP, and RP demonstrated superior thermal stability, emulsifying properties, water/oil holding capacity, and cholesterol binding ability compared with commercial citrus pectin (CP). They also exhibited stronger radical scavenging activity, with KP showing particularly notable antioxidant performance (IC₅₀ = 1856 and 1485 μg/mL for the DPPH and ABTS assays, respectively). Overall, these findings indicate that bast fibrous plants are promising alternative sources of pectic polysaccharides with favorable antioxidant properties, supporting their potential application as food additives or functional ingredients. Full article

Lignins and flavonoids, which are derived from the phenylpropanoid pathway and share common precursors, play an important role in Boehmeria nivea (ramie). Uridine diphosphate-glycosyltransferases (UGTs) are essential for the glycosylation of secondary metabolites and are involved in plant growth and stress responses. Hence, this study aimed to screen candidate UGTs related to lignin/flavonoid glycosylation and stress responses. A total of 84 BnUGTs were identified, and all BnUGTs contain a conserved PGPS domain. Phylogenetic analysis suggested that 10, 5, 1, and 1 putative BnUGTs might be associated with lignin glycosylation, flavonoid glycosylation, and adverse stress, respectively. Further analysis showed that Bnt05T007753.1 expression was upregulated and showed a significant positive correlation with lignin content in the phloem and leaf, reaching up to 710 in the xylem after 75 days of germination. Bnt14T019888.1 expression (in the leaf and xylem) and Bnt06T010117.1 expression (in the xylem) were upregulated and showed a significant positive correlation with lignin and flavonoid content. In the phloem, Bnt14T019888.1 expression was downregulated and showed a significant negative correlation with lignin content. Bnt04T006105.1 expression was upregulated in the stem and leaf under Cd treatment. Overall, we successfully identified four candidate BnUGTs (Bnt05T007753.1, Bnt14T019888.1, Bnt06T010117.1, and Bnt04T006105.1); these findings provide insight into the glycosylation mechanisms of lignins and flavonoids and stress responses in ramie. Full article

Cellulose nanocrystals possess unique properties such as high surface area and excellent biocompatibility. They can disrupt strong hydrogen bonds and other intermolecular forces that hinder the solubility of certain molecules thus enhancing the solubility of poorly soluble materials. The main challenge in formulating poorly soluble drugs lies in their limited therapeutic efficacy due to inadequate solubility and bioavailability. Therefore, an innovative approach such as using cellulose nanocrystals to enhance the solubility is highly needed. The aim of this research is to study the potential of ramie (Boehmeria nivea L. Gaud) as a source of cellulose nanocrystals in the development of microspheres for the solubility enhancement of poorly soluble drugs. Nanocrystalline cellulose was isolated from the ramie (Boehmeria nivea L. Gaud) by optimizing hydrolysis conditions with varying acid concentrations and reaction times. Characterizations were performed by measuring particle size, pH, and sulfate content, followed by morphological study by SEM, functional group analysis, and thermal analysis. The use of sulfuric acid in the hydrolysis process of flax cellulose at 45 °C, as the type of acid that gives the best results, at 50% acid concentration for 60 min produces cellulose nanocrystallines with a particle size of 120 nm, sulfate concentration density of 133.09 mmol/kg, crystallinity of 96.2%, and a yield of 63.24 ± 8.72%. Furosemide was used as the poorly soluble drug model and its solubility enhancement in the form of furosemide/RNCC microspheres was evaluated through saturated solubility testing and in vitro dissolution. This study demonstrated that RNCC could improve the solubility of furosemide, which contributes to developing sustainable drug formulations and eco-friendly delivery systems for poorly soluble drugs. Full article

The process of anthropogenic pedogenesis has necessarily become an important aspect of the study of today’s soils. The sustainable reclamation or remediation of soils degraded by industrial or mining activities is currently of great interest worldwide. In this field, the study of thin soil sections can provide relevant answers, particularly to questions concerning the evolution of these soils under the impact of reclamation practices. Here, we describe an experiment to reclaim former rare earth element mining sites in China using organic soil amendments and plantations of a local fiber plant, Boehmeria nivea. Two years after the start of the experiment, a study of soil structure, considered as an indicator of soil biofunctioning, was carried out on the different plots, supplemented by monitoring of physico-chemical properties. Morphological (light microscopy) and analytical (SEM-EDX, µ-XRF) characterization of thin sections allowed us to pinpoint some pedological processes as aggregation with particular reference to the contribution of biological factors and mineral species, highlighting the impact of the practices implemented. Using a soil micromorphology approach enabled us to track the rapid evolution of the early stages of pedogenesis of these Technosols and to provide insight into the potential for reclamation of these mined sites in the future. Full article

Natural fiber such as ramie is a type of reinforcement material derived from natural sources. These reinforcement materials offer an environmentally sustainable solution contributing to eco-friendly practices. However, natural fibers face challenges as reinforcement materials due to the presence of non-cellulosic impurities and structural irregularities, which reduce crystallinity. This study explores the impact of alkali using sodium hydroxide (NaOH 5%) and silane using 3-(Aminopropyl) trimethoxy silane (APTES 1% and 3%) treatments on the chemical structure and crystallinity index of ramie yarn fiber (Boehmeria nivea). Alkali treatment effectively removes non-cellulosic impurities, resulting in an improved crystalline structure, while silane treatment modifies the fiber surface, introducing functional groups that alter its chemical structure. The chemical modifications were analyzed by using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and the crystallinity index was measured through X-ray diffraction (XRD). The findings revealed that alkali treatment significantly increased the crystallinity index (Crl) of ramie fibers to the highest value of 82.63%, and silane treatment primarily enhanced surface reactivity, facilitating better adhesion and chemical bonding with the matrix. This research highlights the potential of alkali and silane treatments for optimizing ramie fiber for use in advanced polymer composite applications. Full article

This study evaluates bio-briquettes and bio-pellets made from ramie (Boehmeria nivea), sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis), and palm kernel shell (Elaeis guineensis) as renewable fuel sources. Proximate analysis was conducted to measure moisture, ash, volatile matter, fixed carbon, and calorific values, while combustion tests assessed boiling efficiency and burn time. Results reveal that bio-briquettes generally outperform bio-pellets in calorific value, with sample B-S8R2 achieving the highest at 6455 kcal/kg and the fastest boiling time of 14 min at 88 °C. This enhanced performance is attributed to its high fixed carbon (71.81%) and low volatile matter, optimizing combustion and energy yield. In contrast, bio-pellets like sample P-PO7R3, with a calorific value of 4212 kcal/kg, offer moderate heat and durability, making them suitable for household use. The high density and low moisture content across all samples support efficient combustion, while the bio-briquettes’ low ash production indicates a more environmentally friendly fuel. The findings suggest that bio-briquettes are optimal for high-energy applications due to their superior combustion efficiency and environmental benefits, whereas bio-pellets provide a viable option for moderate-energy needs. This research supports the development of sustainable biofuel from biomass waste, providing a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuels. Full article

The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotype, identified as a significant clinical indicator in regard to cancer, manifests as a biological process wherein cells transition from having epithelial to mesenchymal characteristics. Physiologically, EMT plays a crucial role in tissue remodeling, promoting healing, repair, and responses to various types of tissue damage. This study investigated the impact of BNE-RRC on oral cancer cells (KB) and revealed its significant effects on cancer cell growth, migration, invasion, and the EMT. BNE-RRC induces the epithelial-like morphology in KB cells, effectively reversing the EMT to a mesenchymal–epithelial transition (MET). Extraordinarily, sustained culturing of cancer cells with BNE-RRC for 14 days maintains an epithelial status even after treatment withdrawal, suggesting that BNE-RRC is a potential therapeutic agent for cancer. These findings highlight the promise of BNE-RRC as a comprehensive therapeutic agent for cancer treatment that acts by inhibiting cancer cell growth, migration, and invasion while also orchestrating a reversal of the EMT process. In this study, we propose that BNE-RRC could be an effective agent for cancer treatment. Full article

Ramie is one of the most important fiber crops in China, with fibers extracted from stem barks having been used as textile materials for thousands of years. DNA methylation is an important epigenetic modification involved in plant growth and development. However, the role of methylation in ramie fiber growth remains poorly understood. In the present study, we investigated the DNA methylation landscape of the nuclear genome in bark sections taken from the top (TPS) and the middle (MPS) of the stems of ramie plants, which represent different stages of fiber growth, using whole-genome bisulfite sequencing. We detected 7,709,555 and 8,508,326 5-methylcytosines in the TPS and MPS genomes, respectively. The distribution of methylation across three sequence contexts, CG, CHG, and CHH, varied greatly among gene elements, with methylation at CHH being the most prevalent. Comparison of methylation levels between the TPS and MPS genomes revealed 23.162 Mb of differentially methylated genomic regions, encompassing 9485 genes. Among these differentially methylated genes, 841 exhibited altered expression in the MPS genome. Notably, an SND2 ortholog Bni05G006779 showed a negative correlation between its expression and methylation levels. Overexpression of Bni05G006779 in Arabidopsis dramatically increased the number of xylem fibers and the secondary wall thickness of the fibers in the stems of transgenic plants. These findings provide important insights into the involvement of DNA methylation in regulating ramie fiber growth. Full article

Cellulose fabric testing for flame-retardant studies is frequently necessary in various textile applications. Natural cellulose material from ramie (Boehmeria nivea) is being promoted as an alternative raw material for the development of fire-resistant fabrics. This research aims to optimize the coating process of ramie fabric using a phosphorus-based flame retardant (FR) to enhance its flame-retardant characteristics. The FR treatment involves bleaching the fabric with H₂O₂; followed by fabric finishing using a formula comprising 3% (v/v) hydroxymethyl resin; phosphoric acid (2%); and two formulations of the flammable agent Flamatic DM-3072N: 40% (v/v) and 50% (v/v), applied using the pad-dry-cure method. The flame-retardant properties of the treated fabric are evaluated through flammability testing based on the ASTM D6413-08 standard, limiting oxygen index (LOI) analysis, and micrograph surface structure analysis with SEM. The results indicate that ramie fabric treated with the FR-50% material exhibits superior fire resistance, preventing fire spread on the fabric with a char length of 15–30 mm and a LOI value of 29. These findings highlight the potential of FR-treated ramie fabrics for various industries, including the automotive and protective clothing industries. Full article

A WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) gene family has been implicated in promoting vegetative organs to embryonic transition and maintaining plant embryonic stem cell identity. Using genome-wide analysis, we identified 17 candidates, WOX genes in ramie (Boehmeria nivea). The genes (BnWOX) showed highly conserved homeodomain regions typical of WOX. Based on phylogenetic analysis, they were classified into three distinct groups: modern, intermediate, and ancient clades. The genes displayed 65% and 35% collinearities with their Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa ortholog, respectively, and exhibited similar motifs, suggesting similar functions. Furthermore, four segmental duplications (BnWOX10/14, BnWOX13A/13B, BnWOX9A/9B, and BnWOX6A/Maker00021031) and a tandem-duplicated pair (BnWOX5/7) among the putative ramie WOX genes were obtained, suggesting that whole-genome duplication (WGD) played a role in WOX gene expansion. Expression profiling analysis of the genes in the bud, leaf, stem, and root of the stem cuttings revealed higher expression levels of BnWOX10 and BnWOX14 in the stem and root and lower in the leaf consistent with the qRT-PCR analysis, suggesting their direct roles in ramie root formation. Analysis of the rooting characteristics and expression in the stem cuttings of sixty-seven different ramie genetic resources showed a possible involvement of BnWOX14 in the adventitious rooting of ramie. Thus, this study provides valuable information on ramie WOX genes and lays the foundation for further research. Full article

Ramie (Boehmeria nivea [L.] Gaud.), a nutritious animal feed, is rich in protein and produces a variety of secondary metabolites that increase its palatability and functional composition. Ethylene (ETH) is an important plant hormone that regulates the growth and development of various crops. In this study, we investigated the impact of ETH sprays on the growth and metabolism of forage ramie. We explored the mechanism of ETH regulation on the growth and secondary metabolites of forage ramie using transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses. Spraying ramie with ETH elevated the contents of flavonoids and chlorogenic acid and decreased the lignin content in the leaves and stems. A total of 1076 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and 51 differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs) were identified in the leaves, and 344 DEGs and 55 DEMs were identified in the stems. The DEGs that affect phenylpropanoid metabolism, including BGLU41, LCT, PER63, PER42, PER12, PER10, POD, BAHD1, SHT, and At4g26220 were significantly upregulated in the leaves. Ethylene sprays downregulated tyrosine and chlorogenic acid (3-O-caffeoylquinic acid) in the leaves, but lignin biosynthesis HCT genes, including ACT, BAHD1, and SHT, were up- and downregulated. These changes in expression may ultimately reduce lignin biosynthesis. In addition, the upregulation of caffeoyl CoA-O-methyltransferase (CCoAOMT) may have increased the abundance of its flavonoids. Ethylene significantly downregulated metabolites, affecting phenylpropanoid metabolism in the stems. The differential 4CL and HCT metabolites were downregulated, namely, phenylalanine and tyrosine. Additionally, ETH upregulated 2-hydroxycinnamic acid and the cinnamyl hydroxyl derivatives (caffeic acid and p-coumaric acid). Cinnamic acid is a crucial intermediate in the shikimic acid pathway, which serves as a precursor for the biosynthesis of flavonoids and lignin. The ETH-decreased gene expression and metabolite alteration reduced the lignin levels in the stem. Moreover, the HCT downregulation may explain the inhibited lignin biosynthesis to promote flavonoid biosynthesis. In conclusion, external ETH application can effectively reduce lignin contents and increase the secondary metabolites of ramie without affecting its growth and development. These results provide candidate genes for improving ramie and offer theoretical and practical guidance for cultivating ramie for forage. Full article