Search Results (64)

Agricultural intensification has led to biodiversity loss and compromised ecosystem services, necessitating sustainable pest management strategies. This study evaluates the efficacy of wildflower strips (WFS) in enhancing natural enemy communities and suppressing pest activity in rice-wheat rotation landscapes of eastern China. An experiment compared WFS (10-species mixtures) with natural grass strips (CK) across biodiversity, functional traits, and pest dynamics. WFS significantly increased parasitic wasp α-diversity (species richness: +195.5%, activity density: +362.0%) and suppressed pest (Armadillidium vulgare) populations by 68%, primarily through female-biased sex ratios and functional trait shifts. Key species like Lindenius mesopleuralis and Ectemnius continuus emerged as indicators of WFS habitats. Spider communities showed no β-diversity differentiation but exhibited functional guild shifts (e.g., web-building specialists). Plant community composition, particularly floral resource availability and phenological continuity, drove natural enemy assembly and pest regulation, outperforming the CK group in rare species conservation. Our findings highlight WFS as a precision tool for enhancing pest control through targeted plant selection and trait-mediated interactions. This study advances the understanding of habitat-driven pest regulation, providing a framework for optimizing ecological intensification in agroecosystems. Full article

Euplatypus parallelus is a polyphagous pest capable of harming multiple plant species. Adult beetles invade tree trunks by boring holes, which negatively impacts the trees’ growth and may result in tree death. E. parallelus depends on plant volatiles to identify and locate appropriate hosts for feeding or reproduction, with its olfactory system playing a vital role in volatile detection. In this work, we applied transcriptomics, phylogenetic analysis, and expression analysis to investigate four chemosensory membrane protein gene families that play a role in olfaction in E. parallelus. Based on the annotation analysis, 41 odorant receptors (ORs), 12 gustatory receptors (GRs), 14 ionotropic receptors (IRs), and 4 sensory neuron membrane proteins (SNMPs) were identified in the head. We used differential gene expression (DGE) and fragments per kilobase per million (FPKM) values to compare the transcription levels of chemosensory membrane protein gene families between males and females. The data indicate that the chemosensory membrane protein gene families in E. parallelus exhibit different expression levels in male and female heads, with some genes showing significant differences and displaying sex-biased expression. These results offer a basis for future exploration of the functions of chemosensory membrane protein gene families in E. parallelus and offer a theoretical framework for designing innovative eco-friendly control technologies. Full article

The Lauraceae family, a keystone group in subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forest ecosystems, exhibits exceptional diversity in sexual systems (including hermaphroditic flowers, functionally unisexual flowers, and pseudo-dioecy), serving as a natural model for studying plant sexual differentiation mechanisms. This review synthesizes advances in the evolutionary mechanisms and genomic studies of sexual differentiation in Lauraceae, focusing on three key areas: (1) the evolution of taxonomic classification and floral morphology, (2) molecular trajectories of sexual differentiation, and (3) challenges and future directions in sex determination research (e.g., sex-linked marker development and gene-editing-assisted breeding). Morphological and phylogenetic analyses suggest that ancestral Lauraceae species were late Cretaceous hermaphroditic trees, with recent radiation of unisexual lineages (e.g., Cinnamomum and Laurus) linked to pollinator pressure, genome duplication events (WGD), and incipient sex chromosome evolution. Despite progress, critical challenges remain, including unresolved thresholds for sex chromosome origination, unquantified molecular pathways integrating environmental signals (e.g., photoperiod, temperature) with genetic networks, and the lack of efficient sex-specific markers and genetic transformation systems. Future studies should integrate single-cell omics, epigenetic profiling, and cross-species comparative genomics to elucidate spatiotemporal dynamics and evolutionary drivers of sexual differentiation. These efforts will advance genetic improvement and ecological restoration strategies. This review provides a systematic framework for advancing plant sexual evolution theory and promoting sustainable utilization of Lauraceae resources. Full article

Cycads, renowned as “living fossils”, are among the most ancient extant seed plants, playing a crucial role in understanding plant evolution and sex differentiation. Despite their importance, research on their genetics and sex differentiation remains scarce. This study investigates three species, represented by six samples, collected from various regions in Fujian Province, China, using whole-genome resequencing on the Illumina platform. The sequence data underwent rigorous quality control, alignment, and variant detection, focusing on SNP and InDel distribution and annotation. Among the studied species, Cycas revoluta exhibited the highest number of SNPs and the greatest heterozygosity values. Based on SNP data, phylogenetic trees and principal component analysis revealed distinct clusters, with the three C. revoluta samples forming one cluster, while the two C. szechuanensis samples and the C. taiwaniana sample were grouped separately. Gene function using COG and GO annotations, and KEGG enrichment analysis, all highlighted differences in genomic structure and functional gene distribution between male and female cycads. Notably, genes associated with sex differentiation, such as MADS-box and auxin-responsive protein genes, were shown, while other transcription factors showed distinct annotations and enrichment patterns based on sex. This study improves our understanding of genetic variation, evolutionary relationships, and gene enrichment in cycads, providing a foundation for conservation, cultivation, and insights into sex differentiation mechanisms in these ancient plants. Full article

Understanding the complex mechanisms underlying sex differentiation in dioecious plants is fundamental to elucidating plant reproductive strategies and their adaptive responses to environmental stresses. Pistacia chinensis, previously considered a strictly dioecious species, has been found to exhibit monoecy, with sex differentiation closely linked to environmental stress during floral development. However, the underlying molecular mechanisms remain poorly understood. This study explores the influence of environmental stress on sex differentiation with a focus on heat shock proteins (Hsps). Biochemical analyses revealed higher proline content and SOD activity in dioecious and monoecious females compared to males during the sex differentiation phase. Two key genes, PcHsp70-1 and PcHsp90, were identified as differentially expressed between sexes. Subcellular localization analysis showed that these proteins are present in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. Overexpression of PcHsp70-1 in Arabidopsis promoted bolting and flowering by upregulating flowering-related genes and also enhanced drought resistance. Similarly, PcHsp90 contributed to drought tolerance through multiple mechanisms. These findings suggest that Hsps play a key role in linking environmental stress responses to sex differentiation, thus laying the foundation for further research on plant–environment interactions and stress-adaptive mechanisms in P. chinensis. Full article

It is well established that phenolic compounds from plant sources impact readouts of cell health such as reduced radical and reactive oxygen species. However, it is unclear if specific phenolic structures impact other cellular processes or proteins, such as the evolutionary conserved deacetylase Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), and if phenolic combinations interact synergistically to do so. We observed that structurally diverse haskap berry phenolics (caffeic acid, cyanidin, kaempferol-3-O-glucoside, and gentisic acid) differentially impacted normal primary human fibroblast growth, which has been linked to SIRT1. These results were consistent with previous work from our lab indicating that haskap phenolic extracts/fractions impact human cell growth via SIRT1-dependent mechanisms. Therefore, we furthered the investigation into SIRT1 and phenolic structure and observed that the individual phenolics or their combinations had no observable impact on SIRT1 transcript abundance or cellular localization. We also observed that select phenolics decreased SIRT1 protein abundance and increased SIRT1 activity. The catechol-containing phenolics outperformed those that lack a catechol group, indicating potential structure-dependent impact(s). Potential synergy between the specific phenolics analyzed was observed in Western blot, and potential antagonism was identified in the SIRT1 activity assay. Results were concomitant with the presence of different phenolic structures, phenolic combinations, and cell type (sex and/or individual differences). These results highlight the possible significance of the catechol structure and indicate that phenolics have the potential to impact cell processes, which the authors hypothesize to be due to mechanisms that are independent of antioxidant activity. Full article

Cytokinins (CKs) are a class of phytohormones identified in the early 1960s and are mainly responsible for stimulating cell division. Following the discovery, research to help understand the pluralistic roles of CKs in plant growth and stress biology increased. With their fascinating ability, CKs serve as an important element in regulating the defense–growth trade-off. Herein, we demonstrate how the CK fine-tuning the organogenesis of different parts of horticultural plants is discussed. CK’s role in tailoring reproductive biology (flowering, sex differentiation, fruit set, and fruit attributes) has been presented. An extensive explanation of the CK-mediated response of horticultural crops to abiotic (temperature, drought, and salinity) and biotic stresses (fungal, bacterial, and nematodes) is provided. Finally, we posit the unexplored roles of CKs and highlight the research gaps worth addressing. Full article

Background/Objectives: Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) provides a model for exploring the molecular basis of sex determination, particularly the regulation of floral organ differentiation through gene expression. This complex process is modulated by epigenetic factors, such as histone acetyltransferases (HATs) and histone deacetylases (HDACs), which respectively activate and repress gene transcription by adding or removing acetyl groups from histone proteins. Despite their known functions, the roles of HATs and HDACs throughout cucumber’s floral developmental stages remain unclear. Methods: In this study, we conducted a genome-wide analysis of HAT and HDAC gene families in cucumber, examining their phylogenetic relationships, gene structures, protein domains, and expression profiles across various stages of floral development. Results: We identified 36 CsHAT and 12 CsHDAC genes, grouping them into families with evolutionary counterparts in other plant species. RNA sequencing revealed stage-specific expression patterns, suggesting dynamic roles for these gene families in floral organ development. Conclusions: These findings contribute valuable insights into the epigenetic regulation of gene expression in cucumber flower formation, presenting avenues for further research on the genetic control of plant reproductive development. Full article

Background: Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is an important leafy vegetable with dioecious and occasional monoecious plants. Monoecious lines are more suitable for hybrid production than dioecious lines due to their extended flowering period. However, genetic research on the sex determination of monoecism remains limited. Methods: In this study, RNA-seq analysis of monoecious and female spinach plants was performed at two distinct flowering stages. In total, we identified 4586 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were primarily involved in biological processes such as hormone signaling, cell wall biosynthesis, photosynthesis, and flower development, based on Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis. Results: Among these DEGs, 354 transcription factors, including 27 genes associated with the ABCDE gene, were discovered. Furthermore, a co-expression gene regulatory network was built, identifying nine key genes that play important roles in regulating sex differentiation between female and monoecious plants. Conclusions: Our findings provide crucial molecular insights into the mechanisms of monoecism in spinach and offer a scientific basis for future spinach breeding. Full article

Cultivated yam (Dioscorea rotundata) is a staple tuber crop in West Africa which is mainly vegetatively propagated. Although the majority of yam cultivars flower, the control of their sexual reproduction remains largely unknown despite its importance for plant-breeding programs. While described as a dioecious species, yam has several monoecious (mix) cultivars that are often subject to spontaneous sex changes. This study aims to evaluate the impact of phytohormones on sex expression and flower development in cultivated yams D. rotundata. Exogenous applications of 1 mM 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 1 mM methyl jasmonate (MeJa) were performed on seedlings of female (Gnidou, Anago), male (Flou) and mix (Katala and Laboko) cultivars. The mix cultivars produced monoecious, male and female plants while the female and male cultivars had rather stable sex. Our results showed that MeJa exhibited a significant masculinising effect in mix cultivars and induced inflorescence and flower malformations in female cultivars (56% in Gnidou and 37% in Anago). Most malformations were inflorescence branching and sterile flowers (non-differentiated ovary) with extra cycles of sepals. Moreover, MeJa reduced flowering time in the cultivars of all sexes and increased the number of inflorescences per plant as well as the number of flowers per plant. Our results showed that BAP reduced the flowering time, synchronized flowering in female plants and increased the number of inflorescences per plant in monoecious plants. However, our results did not allow for strong conclusions regarding the effect of BAP on sex expression due to the high proportion of female flowering in both the control and BAP-sprayed plants. Nevertheless, we did not observe any masculinising effect for BAP. Further research that would highlight hormone and homeotic gene interactions in flowering could be of key interest in understanding the hormonal control of sex in cultivated yams D. rotundata. Full article

In exploring the male–female differentiation and differences in the seedling stage of the F₁ generation of ginkgo hybrids, an early selection test for the cultivation and research of leafy or medicinal ginkgo industry was conducted, which may provide a basis for boosting the precision of the ginkgo industry. The hybrid F₁ generation obtained from the cross-mating was used as material for the determination of growth and development, as well as of the physiology and biochemistry of the monocots, and the male and female differential genes were obtained based on the data of SNPs obtained from the GBS sequencing of the hybrid progeny. In the seedling stage of ginkgo hybrid offspring, male plants had a significantly higher nutrient growth capacity than female plants, while the total flavonoid and terpene lactone contents in female plants were higher than those of the male plants. This result can provide a corresponding theoretical basis for the use of ginkgo germplasm resources, which can make full use of the male and female differences in the seedling stage and maximize the benefits of early sex identification. Full article

Drought, a pervasive global challenge, significantly hampers plant growth and crop yields, with drought stress being a primary inhibitor. Among resilient species, Buchloe dactyloides, a warm-season and dioecious turfgrass, stands out for its strong drought resistance and minimal maintenance requirements, making it a favored choice in ecological management and landscaping. However, there is limited research on the physiological and molecular differences in drought resistance between male and female B. dactyloides. To decipher the transcriptional regulation dynamics of these sexes in response to drought, RNA-sequencing analysis was conducted using the ‘Texoka’ cultivar as a model. A 14-day natural drought treatment, followed by a 7-day rewatering period, was applied. Notably, distinct physiological responses emerged between genders during and post-drought, accompanied by a more pronounced differential expression of genes (DEGs) in females compared to males. Further, KEGG and GO enrichment analysis revealed different DEGs enrichment pathways of B. dactyloides in response to drought stress. Analysis of the biosynthesis and signaling transduction pathways showed that drought stress significantly enhanced the biosynthesis and signaling pathway of ABA in both female and male B. dactyloides plants, contrasting with the suppression of IAA and JA pathways. Also, we discovered BdMPK8-like as a potential enhancer of drought tolerance in yeast, highlighting novel mechanisms. This study demonstrated the physiological and molecular mechanisms differences between male and female B. dactyloides in response to drought stress, providing a theoretical basis for the corresponding application of female and male B. dactyloides. Additionally, it enriches our understanding of drought resistance mechanisms in dioecious plants, opening avenues for future research and genetic improvement. Full article

Intersexual differentiation is crucial for the speciation and maintenance of dioecious plants, but the underlying mechanisms, including the genes involved, are still poorly understood. Here, we focused on a typical dioicous plant Morus alba, to explore the molecular footprints relevant to sex evolution by revealing the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between two sexes and the testing signals of selection for these DEGs. From the results, we found a total of 1543 DEGs. Interestingly, 333 and 66 genes expression were detected only in male and female inflorescences, respectively. Using comparative transcriptomics, the expression of 841 genes were found to be significantly higher in male than in female inflorescences and were mainly enriched in defense-related pathways including the biosynthesis of phenylpropanoids, cutin, suberine and waxes. Meanwhile, the expression of 702 genes was female-biased and largely enriched in pathways related to growth and development, such as carbohydrate metabolism, auxin signaling and cellular responses. In addition, 16.7% and 17.6% signals of selection were significantly detected in female- and male-biased genes, respectively, suggesting their non-negligible role in evolution. Our findings expanded the understanding of the molecular basis of intersexual differentiation and contribute to further research on sex evolution in dioecious plants. Full article

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is a dioecious, diploid, wind-pollinated crop cultivated worldwide. Sex determination plays an important role in spinach breeding. Hence, this study aimed to understand the differences in sexual differentiation and floral organ development of dioecious flowers, as well as the differences in the regulatory mechanisms of floral organ development of dioecious and monoecious flowers. We compared transcriptional-level differences between different genders and identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) related to spinach floral development, as well as sex-biased genes to investigate the flower development mechanisms in spinach. In this study, 9189 DEGs were identified among the different genders. DEG analysis showed the participation of four main transcription factor families, MIKC_MADS, MYB, NAC, and bHLH, in spinach flower development. In our key findings, abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellic acid (GA) signal transduction pathways play major roles in male flower development, while auxin regulates both male and female flower development. By constructing a gene regulatory network (GRN) for floral organ development, core transcription factors (TFs) controlling organ initiation and growth were discovered. This analysis of the development of female, male, and monoecious flowers in spinach provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of floral organ development and sexual differentiation in dioecious and monoecious plants in spinach. Full article

Grassland ecosystems, managed by various grassland managements strategies, are the world’s most important land use. However, insect’s sex-specific responses within the context of grassland management have never been considered before. Therefore, our aim was to expand the understanding to the dynamics of grassland managements that drive sex-specific responses by using syrphids as a model insect group. We hypothesize that (1) male and female syrphids exhibit differential habitat preferences in grassland managements, (2) abundance and activity of male and female syrphid levels are influenced by vegetation structure in grassland habitats. Extensive and intensive grassland exhibited significantly different male and female syrphid abundance compared to abandoned grassland. Surprisingly, grassland management had a significant impact on male syrphids richness only, not on female. Flower cover significantly increased male and female syrphid abundance and richness. However, plant height significantly increased female syrphid abundance and richness only. Interestingly, abandoned grassland supports a higher amount of unique female syrphids than male syrphids. The dynamics of grassland management are not unidirectional, but they are multifaceted and multidirectional. Considering the importance of sex-specific responses by insects can provide a more comprehensive understanding of dynamics of grassland managements. Full article