Search Results (473)

Agriculture faces increasing challenges in ensuring food security under a changing climate, where abiotic stresses such as salinity and drought represent major constraints to crop productivity. These stresses induce complex physiological and biochemical alterations in plants, including osmotic imbalance, oxidative damage, and disruption of metabolic pathways, ultimately impairing growth and yield. In this context, the application of biostimulants has emerged as a sustainable strategy to enhance plant resilience. While synthetic products are widely available, growing attention is being directed toward natural bio-based products, particularly those derived from renewable biomasses and organic wastes, in line with circular economy principles. This review critically examines the current literature on bio-based products with biostimulant properties, with particular emphasis on vermicompost-derived extracts, humic-like substances, and macro- and microalgae extracts, focusing on their role in mitigating salt and drought stress in plants. The reviewed studies consistently demonstrate that these bio-products enhance plant tolerance to abiotic stress by modulating key physiological and biochemical processes, including hormonal regulation, activation of antioxidant defence systems, accumulation of osmoprotectants, and regulation of secondary metabolism. Moreover, evidence indicates that these bio-based inputs can improve nutrient use efficiency, photosynthetic performance, and overall plant growth under stress conditions. Overall, this review highlights the potential of non-microbial bio-based biostimulants as effective and sustainable tools for climate-resilient agriculture, while also underlining the need for further research to standardize formulations, clarify mechanisms of action, and validate their performance under field conditions. Full article

Agricultural systems face mounting pressures from climate change, as rising temperatures, elevated CO₂, and shifting precipitation patterns intensify plant disease outbreaks worldwide. Conventional strategies, such as breeding for resistance, pesticides, and even transgenic approaches, are proving too slow or unsustainable to meet these challenges. Synthetic biology offers a transformative paradigm for reprogramming plant immunity through genetic circuits, RNA-based defences, epigenome engineering, engineered microbiomes, and artificial intelligence (AI). We introduce the concept of synthetic immunity, a unifying framework that extends natural defence layers, PAMP-triggered immunity (PTI), and effector-triggered immunity (ETI). While pests and pathogens continue to undermine global crop productivity, synthetic immunity strategies such as CRISPR-based transcriptional activation, synthetic receptors, and RNA circuit-driven defences offer promising new avenues for enhancing plant resilience. We formalize synthetic immunity as an emerging, integrative concept that unites molecular engineering, regulatory rewiring, epigenetic programming, and microbiome modulation, with AI and computational modelling accelerating their design and climate-smart deployment. This review maps the landscape of synthetic immunity, highlights technological synergies, and outlines a translational roadmap from laboratory design to field application. Responsibly advanced, synthetic immunity represents not only a scientific frontier but also a sustainable foundation for climate-resilient agriculture. Full article

Plants secrete a heterogenous population of membrane-enclosed extracellular vesicles that harbour an incredible diversity of molecular cargo. It is the complexity of the molecular cargo encapsulated by plant extracellular vesicles (PEVs) which facilitates the fundamental role PEVs play in mediating communication and signalling. PEV molecular cargo is composed of a diverse mixture of lipids, metabolites, proteins, and nucleic acids. Among the nucleic acids, the microRNA (miRNA) class of small regulatory RNA can be viewed as one of the most biologically relevant. Plant miRNAs regulate the expression of genes essential for all aspects of development as well as to control the gene expression changes required to drive the adaptive and defensive responses of plants to environmental stress and pathogen attack. Furthermore, recent research has shown that specific miRNA cohorts are selectively packaged into PEVs as part of the molecular-level response of a plant to its growth environment. For example, PEVs are loaded with a specific miRNA population for their targeted delivery to sites of pathogen infection in the host plant, or for cross-kingdom delivery of host-plant-encoded miRNAs to the pathogen itself. Here we outline PEV physical properties, compare PEV biogenesis pathways, detail the composition of PEV molecular cargo, and go on to provide detailed commentary on the role of PEV-delivered miRNAs in plant development, environmental stress adaptation, and pathogen defence. We conclude this article with a proposal for the potential future use of PEVs and their miRNA cargo in agriculture and aquaculture. Full article

Wheat dwarf virus (WDV) is a major constraint to global wheat production, causing severe yield losses and economic disruption. Understanding the molecular basis of wheat–WDV interactions is essential for developing resistant cultivars. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), are key regulators of gene expression and defence. This study identified ncRNAs involved in wheat responses to WDV, including host lncRNAs, miRNAs, and viral small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) targeting WDV genomic regions. High-throughput sequencing revealed extensive ncRNA reprogramming under WDV infection. A total of 437 differentially expressed lncRNAs (DElncRNAs) and 58 miRNAs (DEmiRNAs) were detected. Resistant genotypes displayed more DElncRNAs (204 in Svitava; 163 in Fengyou 3) than the susceptible Akteur (141). In Akteur, 66.7% of DElncRNAs were downregulated, whereas in Svitava, 56.9% were upregulated. Akteur also exhibited more DEmiRNAs (28) than resistant genotypes (15), with predominant downregulation. A co-expression network analysis revealed 391 significant DElncRNA–mRNA interactions mediated by 16 miRNAs. The lncRNA XLOC_058282 was linked to 298 transcripts in resistant genotypes, suggesting a central role in the host defence. Functional annotation showed enrichment in signalling, metabolic, and defence-related pathways. Small RNA profiling identified 1166 differentially expressed sRNAs targeting WDV, including conserved hotspots and 408 genotype-specific sites in Akteur versus Fengyou 3. Infected plants displayed longer sRNAs, a sense-strand bias, and a 5′ uridine preference, but lacked typical 21–24 nt phasing. These findings highlight the central roles of ncRNAs in orchestrating wheat antiviral defence and provide a molecular framework for breeding virus-resistant wheat. Full article

Increasing consumption of plant-based alternatives is promoted to reduce the environmental impact of food systems, yet adoption remains limited. The aim of this study was to identify distinct consumer segments and examine differences in their perceptions, consumption habits, and trial intentions concerning plant-based dairy alternatives (PBDAs). Conceptually, it advances PBDAs segmentation by jointly incorporating pro-dairy justifications, avoidance of animal-origin considerations, and self-reported PBDAs familiarity, capturing psychological defence mechanisms alongside knowledge-related influences on adoption. Data were collected in a nationwide cross-sectional CAWI survey of 1220 Polish adults responsible for household food purchasing, stratified and quota-matched by gender, age, region, and settlement size. Factor analysis of the segmenting variables was conducted using principal component analysis with varimax rotation, followed by two-step cluster analysis. Alternative cluster solutions were compared using the Bayesian Information Criterion based on the log-likelihood (BIC-LL). The selected five-cluster solution showed acceptable to good clustering quality, as indicated by silhouette-based measures of cohesion and separation. Given the cross-sectional CAWI design and reliance on self-reported measures, the findings do not allow causal inference and should be interpreted as context-specific to the Polish, dairy-centric food culture. Cluster analysis identified five segments that differed in PBDA-related beliefs, product image evaluations, consumption patterns, and trial intentions. PBDA-oriented segments, comprising a dairy-critical segment and a dual-consumption segment, exhibited higher perceived familiarity and stronger ethical and environmental concerns and showed greater PBDA use and willingness to try new products. The dual-consumption segment reported the highest use and trial readiness. In contrast, resistant segments showed stronger dairy attachment, lower perceived familiarity, and more sceptical evaluations of PBDAs’ healthfulness, naturalness, and sensory appeal, and rarely consumed plant-based alternatives. The findings highlight substantial heterogeneity in how Polish dairy consumers perceive PBDAs, emphasising the importance of segment-specific approaches for communication and product development. Tailored strategies can help address the diverse motivations and barriers of consumers, supporting a dietary shift toward more plant-based options. Full article

The RNA interference machinery is crucial for regulating the activity of both native and foreign genes across all eukaryotes. The core protein families involved in this process are Dicer-like, Argonaute, and RNA-dependent RNA polymerase. However, plants exhibit remarkable diversity within each family and extensively use RNA interference mechanisms in their intricate immune responses. This review examines the role of RNA interference in plant interactions with various pathogens, including viruses, viroids, fungi, oomycetes, and bacteria. Plant diseases cause an estimated $220 billion in annual damage, with microorganisms accounting for approximately $150 billion. Hence, the focus is on the most severe plant diseases, specifically those caused by fungi and viruses. Additionally, recent biotechnological advancements are discussed, with an emphasis on the application of RNA interference for the development of novel plant defence strategies. Full article

Flavonoids are a class of natural plant compounds that are categorised within the polyphenolic group. It is widely acknowledged that their structural diversity results in a wide distribution within food sources, thus leading to a concomitant wide spectrum of biological activity. This review provides an updated overview of the main flavonoid subclasses, including flavonols, flavones, flavanones, flavanols, anthocyanins, and isoflavones, and includes an examination of their chemical properties and biosynthetic pathways. The present study will discuss the influence of biotic and abiotic factors on flavonoid function in plants, including their role in ultraviolet protection, stress tolerance, and defence signalling. The regular consumption of foods rich in flavonoids has been demonstrated to be associated with a reduced risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular, metabolic diseases, neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. This observation underscores the significance of flavonoids in a balanced diet. Medicinal plants play an important role in this task. The mechanisms of action of this substance include antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, modulation of signalling pathways, and neuroprotective functions. The present findings underscore the significance of flavonoids as multifunctional bioactive molecules, which hold considerable potential for preventive and therapeutic applications. However, further well-designed human studies are necessary to determine effective dosage, long-term safety, and clinical relevance. Full article

Phytochemicals represent a vast and diverse group of plant-derived secondary metabolites that serve critical ecological functions while also offering great potential for human health applications. These compounds, including flavonoids, polyphenols, alkaloids, and terpenoids, have evolved as sophisticated defence mechanisms in plants, protecting against pathogens, herbivores, and environmental stressors. In parallel, their pharmacological properties show remarkable efficacy in addressing chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular conditions, and neurodegenerative disorders. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of phytochemical roles in both plant physiology and human therapeutics, examining their structural diversity, biosynthetic pathways, and ecological significance. We explore cutting-edge extraction techniques, bioavailability challenges, and innovative delivery systems like nanoencapsulation that enhance clinical translation. The paper highlights key biomedical applications supported by clinical evidence while addressing the policy and perception barriers that limit their integration into mainstream healthcare. By synthesizing current research with global health perspectives, we underscore the potential of phytochemicals to provide sustainable, accessible solutions to pressing healthcare disparities. Full article

Induced resistance in plants is a promising strategy for pest management, helping to reduce dependence on synthetic pesticides. However, no study has yet examined the interaction between Tetranychus urticae and Aronia melanocarpa, including host acceptance, performance, and antioxidant defence mechanisms. In this study, host acceptance of T. urticae was evaluated using two A. melanocarpa ecotypes: a non-cultivar (AMe) and the cultivated variety ‘Galicjanka’ (AGe). Leaf morphological traits (trichome density and length) and key life-history parameters of the mite (fecundity, egg development time, and larval duration) were assessed. Mite feeding effects on oxidative stress markers (hydrogen peroxide—H₂O₂; thiobarbituric acid reactive substances—TBARS) and antioxidant enzyme activity (guaiacol peroxidase—GPX ascorbate peroxidase—APX) were analysed by ecotype and infestation duration. Results showed low fecundity and prolonged development, indicating that neither ecotype is a preferred host for T. urticae. Ecotype-dependent differences in acceptance and mite performance suggest that variation in trichome density and biochemical traits may influence susceptibility. Baseline differences in H₂O₂ and TBARS imply a role in constitutive resistance, while their induction, accompanied by increased GPX and APX activity, highlights oxidative stress and antioxidant defences as key components of A. melanocarpa responses to mite attack. Full article

Plants are continuously exposed to various abiotic and biotic stress factors, which influence their growth, productivity, and ecological fitness. This paper clarifies the concept of hormesis as a distinct low-dose stress response to toxic substances and presents its relationships with other plant stress phenomena. Based on evidence from the published literature, hormesis can be considered a particular type of acclimation because it involves temporary, non-heritable physiological adjustments to mild toxic stress. It is induced by low doses of toxic substances (e.g., cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), and chromium (Cr)) and characterised by stimulated growth resulting from the moderate activation of defence mechanisms, including antioxidant activity, reactive oxygen species regulation and/or enhanced photosynthetic efficiency, as well as increased auxin content. We propose that the fundamental parameter for identifying hormetic responses should be plant growth, expressed as shoot biomass or elongation, as analyses of single physiological traits alone are insufficient. Furthermore, growth stimulation caused by factors with physiological functions (physiological factors) such as light, temperature or mineral nutrients should be regarded as forms of acclimation rather than hormesis. These assumptions provide a clearer framework for future studies on plant stress physiology. Full article

Background and Objectives: Fibromyalgia (FM) is associated with chronic pain, oxidative stress, low-grade inflammation, and disturbances in signalling along the gut–brain axis. These pathways may be modulated by plant-derived phytonutrients. This narrative review summarises mechanistic and clinical evidence on phytonutrient-based strategies in FM. Materials and Methods: Following SANRA guidelines, we searched PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus and ScienceDirect for human and relevant preclinical studies published between 2005 and October 2025 that evaluated phytonutrient-rich dietary patterns or isolated bioactives in relation to FM symptoms or underlying mechanisms. Results: There is a consistent association between FM and increased oxidative damage and reduced antioxidant defences. Adopting plant-based diets, particularly Mediterranean-type and low-FODMAP diets, has been linked to improvements in pain, fatigue, sleep, and gastrointestinal symptoms, as well as modest gains in quality of life. However, the effects on inflammatory markers are conflicting. Trials of selected bioactive compounds, such as coenzyme Q10, curcumin-based formulations, L-carnitine and certain probiotics, suggest beneficial effects on symptoms, whereas others show little or no effect. Studies of the microbiome indicate a loss of butyrate-producing bacteria and altered microbial metabolites. Early dietary or probiotic interventions may partially mitigate these changes to some extent. Preclinical studies have identified SIRT1 as a potential mediator, but there is a lack of human data. Reporting on safety, dosage and formulation is often inadequate. Conclusions: Given the narrative design of this review and the methodological heterogeneity of the included studies, the overall certainty of the evidence cannot be formally graded and should be regarded as limited and heterogeneous. Nevertheless, current data supports phytonutrient-rich, food-based approaches as adjuncts rather than alternatives to standard FM care. Well-designed randomised trials with standardised outcomes and reporting of dose, formulation and relevant biomarkers are needed to identify the most effective strategies and the patient subgroups most likely to benefit. Full article

Background: Biofilm-associated infections remain a major challenge in modern medicine due to their high resistance to antibiotics and immune defences. Advances in materials science, chemistry, and nanotechnology have led to the development of innovative, non-antibiotic approaches to prevent or eradicate biofilms. Methods: This review summarises antibiofilm strategies reported between 2020 and 2025, grouped into chemical, enzymatic, physical–photonic, nanomaterial-based, and biological hybrid categories. Results: Chemical methods such as silver-based chemical systems, nitric oxide donors, and biosurfactants disrupt bacterial membranes, generate reactive oxygen species, and inhibit quorum sensing. Enzymatic coatings with DNase I or lysostaphin effectively reduce Staphylococcus aureus and S. epidermidis biofilms, showing stability after sterilisation and high biocompatibility. Physical–photonic techniques, including photocatalytic and light-activated coatings, provide controllable and renewable antibacterial activity. Nanomaterials such as silver nanomaterials, chitosan-based carriers, magnetic ferrites, and catalytic nanozymes enable targeted, ROS-mediated biofilm disruption. Biologically derived systems, including bacteriophage hydrogels and plant metabolites, offer eco-friendly, biocompatible alternatives. Conclusions: Recent antibiofilm innovations mark a transition from conventional antibiotics to multifunctional and adaptive systems integrating chemical, enzymatic, and physical mechanisms for effective biofilm control on medical surfaces. Full article

Alzheimer’s disease (AD), the leading cause of dementia, has limited treatment options despite extensive pharmacological research. This has increased interest in dietary strategies that act across multiple pathological mechanisms. Beetroot (Beta vulgaris), known for its cardiovascular and metabolic benefits, contains a distinctive combination of bioactive compounds including inorganic nitrate, betalains, and polyphenols. Together these constituents influence vascular function, oxidative stress, mitochondrial efficiency, inflammation, and the microbiota. Previous reviews have typically focused on dietary nitrate in dementia prevention or have examined nitrate and betalains separately. In contrast, this review synthesises evidence on beetroot as a combined neuroprotective food. Preclinical data indicate that beetroot and its key constituents enhance antioxidant defences, support neuronal bioenergetics, and modulate cholinergic and inflammatory pathways. Human studies further suggest that nitrate-rich beetroot can improve cerebral blood flow and vascular responsiveness, and that higher intakes of plant-derived nitrate are associated with reduced cognitive decline. However, findings are inconsistent, most trials are small and short in duration, and research directly involving people with AD is scarce. By integrating vascular, antioxidant, and microbiome perspectives, this review identifies beetroot as a promising yet underexplored dietary candidate for AD management. Further mechanistic studies and multidomain approaches combining metagenomics, biomarkers, neuroimaging, and cognitive outcomes are needed. Full article

Background: Flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) is an economically important crop that is highly susceptible to Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lini (Foln). While phytohormones are key regulators of defence, their interaction with polyamines during infection remains poorly understood. This study aimed to characterise hormonal dynamics in flax under Foln infection and the modulatory role of spermidine (Spd). Methods: Targeted UPLC–MS/MS profiling quantified over 30 hormone-related compounds, including auxins, cytokinins, gibberellins, jasmonates, salicylic acid, and abscisic acid, in shoots and roots of healthy, infected, and Spd-treated plants. Two Spd concentrations (10 and 100 mM) were applied under controlled in vitro conditions. Results: Foln infection triggered tissue- and time-specific hormonal shifts, with early activation of jasmonate and auxin metabolism in shoots and later accumulation of salicylic acid and gibberellins in roots. Spd, particularly at 10 mM, reshaped these responses by reinforcing cytokinin and salicylic acid responses, stabilising auxin homeostasis, and enhancing jasmonate and abscisic acid responses. Conclusions: Spermidine coordinates hormone crosstalk, enabling balanced and efficient defence activation. The results highlight its potential as a priming agent enhancing flax resilience to F. oxysporum. Full article

An increasing trend toward alternative methods in grapevine protection is evident, diverging from conventional chemical approaches. Biostimulants, such as chitosan hydrochloride, are compounds able to elicit the synthesis of plants’ metabolites, leading to an increase in their natural defence mechanism. Some of these metabolites could potentially impact wine sensory properties such as colour, mouthfeel, and aroma. This study investigates the effect of chitosan hydrochloride treatment on Sauvignon blanc vines, isolating impacts on plant, grape, and wine levels. Using a randomized block design with 74 potted plants grown in a glasshouse, the study found that foliar chitosan application did not affect plant growth or phenolic compound accumulation in the leaves. Conversely, it significantly decreased polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity and increased antioxidant activity and polyphenolic content in grape berries. Treated berries exhibited doubled protein content, less thaumatin-like proteins, and more β-glucanases and chitinases than control grapes. Microvinifications revealed that wines from treated grapes had higher total polyphenols, polysaccharides, Abs 320 nm values, and total proteins than control wines. These preliminary results suggest that chitosan application affects key grape metabolites with potential implications for wine quality, warranting further investigation. Full article