Search Results (656)

Phosphorus supply significantly influences starch and amino acid accumulation in wheat grains, yet the mechanisms coordinating sugar–amino acid metabolic crosstalk under differential phosphorus availability remain elusive. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted a controlled trial on phosphorus supplementation using wheat (Triticum aestivum L. cv. Xindong 20) with three treatments: P0 (0 kg·ha⁻¹, phosphorus deficiency), LP (105 kg·ha⁻¹, normal phosphorus), and HP (210 kg·ha⁻¹, phosphorus excess). Seed samples were collected at 7, 14, and 21 days post-anthesis (DPA). This design enabled a systematic analysis of how phosphorus availability modulates the metabolic relationship between amino acids and sugars during grain development. Proteomic profiling of starch granule-associated proteins (SGAPs) demonstrated that wheat reprograms carbohydrate allocation in response to phosphorus availability. Notably, differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) exhibited tissue-specific regulation patterns: pericarp-localized DEPs were predominantly up-regulated, whereas endosperm-associated DEPs showed down-regulation under phosphorus modulation. Mechanistically, phosphorus application triggered accelerated starch catabolism in the pericarp (Pe) concomitant with enhanced starch anabolism in the endosperm (En), thereby altering the temporal dynamics of starch granule development. These findings elucidate key regulatory patterns of phosphorus nutrition in wheat grain metabolism, establishing a biochemical framework for the optimization of starch quality parameters. The identified phosphorus-responsive metabolic networks reveal pivotal mechanisms that support the development of precision breeding strategies and phosphorus-efficient cultivation practices. This research offers novel pathways to simultaneously improve both grain yield and nutritional quality in wheat production systems. Full article

Plasma-activated water (PAW) is an eco-friendly technology with potential to improve seed germination and nutritional quality in microgreens. This study investigated the effects of PAW on three cultivars of kangkong (Ipomoea aquatica Forssk.). PAW activated for 10 min (PAW10) significantly enhanced seed germination and vigor, with effects comparable to those of a 15-min treatment. PAW10 treatment not only improved the accumulation of bioactive compounds—including total phenolics, flavonoids, ascorbic acid, chlorophylls, and carotenoids—but also enhanced antioxidant activity. These improvements were accompanied by elevated hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) levels and increased enzymatic activities, specifically catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). Principal component analysis revealed cultivar-specific responses to PAW10. The Senafore 20 (SF) cultivar showed the most pronounced increases in antioxidant and antiglycation activities, as well as key bioactive compounds. The Phai-ngern (PN) cultivar exhibited elevated SOD activity and fiber content, while the Senee 20 (SN) cultivar showed minimal changes. These findings suggest that PAW10 effectively promotes germination and antioxidant-related biochemical responses in kangkong microgreens, with varying responses depending on cultivar. This study highlights PAW treatment as a promising approach to improve microgreen production and antioxidant capacity, supporting sustainable agriculture. Full article

Consumers increasingly demand dairy products with improved nutritional quality, particularly regarding their fatty acid (FA) composition, due to recognized implications for human health. This study aimed to evaluate the modification in the composition, FA profile, and sensory profile of cheeses elaborated with ewe milk, through the diet inclusion of crushed sunflower (Helianthus annuus) seeds and sunflower seed silage in corn silage-based diets. The study was conducted with six East-Friesian ewes in a double 3 × 3 Latin square design, including three 21-day periods. Three diets were based on ad libitum corn silage as follows: control (CTRL, without supplementation), sunflower seeds (SFS, supplemented with 86 g/kg crushed sunflower seeds), and sunflower seed silage (SFSS, supplemented with 137 g/kg sunflower seed silage). The composition and FA profile of milk and cheese, and the sensory properties of cheese, together with the sensory profile, were evaluated. Dietary feeding with SFS and SFSS did not affect milk production and milk fat percentage but increased protein percentage. SFS and/or SFSS increased C18:0, C18:1 trans-9, and C18:1 cis-9 compared to CTRL in milk and cheese. Cheeses from SFS ewes showed improved taste and total acceptability, while odor, color, and texture of cheese remained unaffected. Therefore, SFS and SFSS appeared as a viable strategy to increase the contribution of FA with beneficial effects for health in milk and cheeses. Full article

Nuts, including tree nuts such as almonds, walnuts, cashews, and macadamias, as well as peanuts, are widely consumed for their health benefits owing to their high-quality protein content. Globally, the nut industry represents a multi-billion-dollar sector, with increasing demand driven by consumer interest in nutrition, functional foods, and plant-based diets. Recent advances in proteomic technologies have enabled comprehensive analyses of nut seed proteins, shedding light on their roles in nutrition, allergenicity, stress responses, and food functionality. Seed storage proteins such as 2S albumins, 7S vicilins, and 11S legumins, are central to nutrition and allergenicity. Their behavior during processing has important implications for food safety. Proteomic studies have also identified proteins involved in lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, stress tolerance, and defense against pathogens. Despite technical challenges such as high lipid content and limited genomic resources for many nut species, progress in both extraction methods and mass spectrometry has expanded the scope of nut proteomics. This review underscores the central role of proteomics in improving nut quality, enhancing food safety, guiding allergen risk management, and supporting breeding strategies for sustainable crop improvement. Full article

This study aims to elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying cyanogenic glycoside accumulation in flax. As an important oil and fiber crop, the nutritional value of flax is compromised by the toxicity of cyanogenic glycoside. To clarify the key genetic regulators and temporal patterns of cyanogenic glycoside biosynthesis, transcriptomic sequencing was performed on seeds from high- and low-cyanogenic glycoside flax varieties (‘MONTANA16’ and ‘Xilibai’) at three developmental stages: bud stage, full flowering stage, and capsule-setting stage. A total of 127.25 Gb of high-quality data was obtained, with an alignment rate exceeding 87.80%. We identified 31,623 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which exhibited distinct variety- and stage-specific expression patterns. Principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering demonstrated strong reproducibility among biological replicates and revealed the seed pod formation stage as the period with the most significant varietal differences, suggesting it may represent a critical regulatory window for cyanogenic glycoside synthesis. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses indicated that DEGs were primarily involved in metabolic processes (including secondary metabolism and carbohydrate metabolism), oxidoreductase activity, and transmembrane transport functions. Of these, the cytochrome P450 pathway was most significantly enriched at the full bloom stage (H2 vs. L2). A total of 15 LuCYP450 and 13 LuUGT85 family genes were identified, and their expression patterns were closely associated with cyanogenic glycoside accumulation: In high-cyanogenic varieties, LuCYP450-8 was continuously upregulated, and LuUGT85-12 was significantly activated during later stages. Conversely, in low-cyanogenic varieties, high expression of LuCYP450-2/14 may inhibit synthesis. These findings systematically reveal the genetic basis and temporal dynamics of cyanogenic glycoside biosynthesis in flax and highlight the seed pod formation stage as a decisive regulatory window for cyanogenic glycoside synthesis. This study provides new insights into the coordinated regulation of cyanogenic pathways and establishes a molecular foundation for breeding flax varieties with low CNG content without compromising agronomic traits. Full article

Salinity is a major limitation on common bean productivity, while phosphorus in many soils is often immobilized, limiting its availability to plants. This study investigated the effects of coated and uncoated superphosphate fertilizers, applied at different rates and using distinct methods, on soil properties, plant growth, and ion regulation in common beans grown in saline soil over two seasons (2023–2024). Treatments combined two fertilizer types (coated with potassium sulfate and uncoated), two P rates (360 and 480 kg/ha), and two application methods: (1) conventional application, broadcasting followed by plowing to 30 cm depth during soil preparation; (2) surface application, broadcasting without incorporation. Six treatments were applied: T₁: 360 kg/ha of uncoated superphosphate (conventional method); T₂: 480 kg/ha of uncoated superphosphate (conventional method); T₃: 360 kg/ha of coated superphosphate (conventional method); T₄: 480 kg/ha of coated superphosphate (conventional method); T₅: 360 kg/ha of coated superphosphate (surface method); and T₆: 480 kg/ha of coated superphosphate (surface method). The results demonstrated that soil pH was unaffected across treatments. However, T₄ and T₆ significantly improved nutrient availability (N, P, and K), biomass, grain yield, and seed nutritional quality (protein, P, K, and Ca). Despite increased soil EC, these treatments enhanced ionic balance (higher K/Na and Ca/Na ratios) indicating improved stress tolerance. Importantly, T₃ (360 kg/ha coated) performed comparably to T₂ (480 kg/ha uncoated), suggesting that coated superphosphate at lower rates can reduce input costs without compromising yield. These results demonstrate the agronomic and environmental benefits of coated superphosphate, particularly under saline conditions, through enhanced nutrient use efficiency and improved crop performance. Full article

With the global population reaching 10 billion in 25 years, food production must increase 70% while addressing sustainability concerns. This review uniquely integrates advanced processing technologies—including precision fermentation, AI-driven optimization, and 3D printing—with comprehensive analysis of nutritional quality and health outcomes of plant-based protein supplements (PBPSs). Common sources include legumes, cereals, and nuts/seeds, each with amino acid profiles requiring strategic protein complementation. Advanced processing technologies including high-pressure processing, ultrasound-assisted extraction, pulsed electric field, precision fermentation, and AI-driven optimization enhance protein digestibility, solubility, and functional properties while reducing antinutritional factors. PBPSs demonstrate comparable muscle protein synthesis to animal proteins while providing superior cardiovascular, metabolic, and gut health benefits due to bioactive compounds, fibers, and antioxidants. Integrating advanced processing with traditional methods presents opportunities to develop high-quality, sustainable protein supplements meeting global demands while promoting human health and environmental sustainability. Full article

Green soybean (Glycine max L.), commonly known as edamame, is recognized for its rich phytochemical content and nutritional and functional benefits. However, its limited shelf life and susceptibility to quality degradation restrict its commercial potential in fresh form. To address this, green soybean seeds can be processed into extract and powder forms, which offer greater stability and added value. The preparation of crude procyanidin extract was examined in this study along with the effects of three distinct extraction techniques: enzyme incubation, ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE), and enzymatic hydrolysis followed by ultrasonic-assisted extraction (EUAE). Additionally, the effects of two drying methods (drum-drying and spray-drying) on the retention of bioactive compounds and antioxidant activity were assessed. Optimal conditions for each drying method were selected to enhance antioxidant properties by fortifying instant green soybean powder (GSP) with encapsulated crude procyanidin extract (ECPE). The chemical, physical, and sensory properties of ECPE-fortified GSP were analyzed. Results indicated that the EUAE method was the most effective for procyanidin extraction. Encapsulation allowed for procyanidin retention of over 83% after storage at 25 and 35 °C for 12 weeks. The optimal conditions were determined to be drum-drying at 3 rpm and spray-drying at an inlet temperature of 200 °C for the drying techniques. Fortification of GSP with 3–5% ECPE powder positively correlated with increased phytochemical content and antioxidant activity. Both drum- and spray-dried GSP maintained color integrity comparable to the control. Drum-dried GSP preserved greater concentrations of bioactive compounds and exhibited superior antioxidant activity compared to spray-dried GSP. All powdered products had acceptable water activity (≤0.60) and moisture content (≤12%), suggesting suitability for long-term storage. Although spray-dried powders exhibited greater hygroscopicity, they demonstrated lower emulsion stability and solubility compared to drum-dried powders. Drum-dried GSP retained higher levels of carbohydrate, fat, fiber, and ash compared with spray-dried powder, while protein content was similarly preserved by both methods. In conclusion, ECPE powder serves as a promising functional ingredient in instant green soybean powder. Both drum-dried and spray-dried GSP products exhibit potential for application in a variety of functional food products. Full article

Selenium (Se) is an essential micronutrient for human health, yet its deficiency remains prevalent worldwide. Biofortification through foliar Se application is an effective strategy to enhance Se levels in crops. Paeonia ostii ‘Fengdan’ is a multifunctional woody plant with potential for Se enrichment, though its Se uptake and transformation mechanisms remain unclear. This study systematically investigated the effects of foliar-applied Na₂SeO₃ (0–200 mg L⁻¹) on Se uptake, accumulation, speciation, and nutritional quality in tree peony. Results showed that Se uptake increased with higher Na₂SeO₃ concentrations, displaying a clear dose-dependent pattern across all organs. Se accumulation significantly enhanced, with a pronounced shift in distribution towards above-ground organs under experimental conditions. Notably, tree peony exhibited strong biotransformation capacity, converting over 73% of Se in leaves and over 81% in seeds into organic forms, primarily SeCys₂ and SeMet, with minor MeSeCys. Comprehensive evaluation indicated that 100 mg L⁻¹ Na₂SeO₃ yielded optimal results, significantly enhancing leaf and seed biomass, increasing seed nutrient contents (soluble proteins, sugars, phenolics), and improving the unsaturated fatty acid profile of seed oil. These findings highlight tree peony’s potential as an efficient bioreactor for organic Se and provide a theoretical foundation for developing Se-enriched products from tree peony. Full article

Purslane is highly suitable for intensive microgreen cultivation due to its rapid growth, high germination rate, and exceptional nutritional profile, including omega-3 fatty acids, essential vitamins, and minerals. While previous studies have mostly emphasized its basic composition, our research investigated additional functional traits, such as pigment accumulation and antioxidant activity. We also explored the cultivation potential of a wild purslane genotype (G2), naturally growing in the Botanical Garden of the Slovak University of Agriculture in Nitra, as a sustainable alternative to commercially available seeds (G1). This study examined how genotype and substrate interactions influence growth performance, pigment concentration, and antioxidant capacity in Portulaca oleracea microgreens. Both genotypes were grown on two different substrates: agar mixed with perlite and mineral wool. Although conserved DNA-derived polymorphism marker analysis revealed a high degree of genetic similarity between G1 and G2, significant phenotypic differences were observed. G1 exhibited greater fresh biomass and shoot length, making it more visually appealing for commercial microgreen production. In contrast, G2 showed higher dry matter content and enhanced accumulation of chlorophylls and carotenoids. Antioxidant activity, measured by DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl), ABTS (2,2′-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid)), and FRAP (Ferric Reducing Antioxidant Power) assays, peaked in G1 cultivated on agar–perlite mix. These findings emphasize the importance of selecting the right genotype–substrate combination to optimize both quality and productivity in microgreen systems. Full article

Seed storage proteins (SSPs) play a pivotal role in determining the development, quality, and nutritional value of rice seeds. In this study, we conducted a transcriptome-based correlation analysis to identify novel transcription factors (TFs) potentially involved in the biosynthesis and accumulation of SSPs. Our analysis revealed nine TFs—OsGATA8, OsMIF1, OsMIF2, OsGZF1, OsbZIP58, OsS1Fa1, OsS1Fa2, OsICE2, and OsMYB24—that exhibit strong co-expression with key SSP genes, including those encoding glutelin and prolamin. Gene expression profiling using quantitative RT-PCR and GUS reporter assays revealed that these TFs are predominantly expressed during seed development, with peak expression observed at 10 days after flowering (DAF). Promoter analysis further demonstrated an enrichment of seed-specific and hormone-responsive cis-regulatory elements, reinforcing the seed-preferential expression patterns of these TFs. Collectively, our findings identify a set of candidate TFs likely involved in SSP regulation and seed maturation, providing a foundation for the genetic enhancement of rice seed quality and nutritional content through targeted breeding and biotechnological approaches. Full article

Soybean seeds (Glycine max) are of great economic and nutritional importance due to their high oil and protein content. Seed germination is an essential process that influences crop yield and quality. The seed embryo resumes growth when it imbibes, which induces the expression of genes related to cell expansion. The role of acid growth in the embryonic axis during germination is not well characterized. Thus, the aim of this study was to verify the contribution of acid growth in the soybean embryonic axis germination. Acid growth is mediated by the acidification of extracellular medium due to the action of H+-ATPases, which activate expansins. We found that the expression of expansins was significantly increased throughout the germination. The expression of H+-ATPases was significantly increased at 3 and 24 h after imbibition (HAI), with major pumping activity at 24 HAI. The auxin and ABA signaling cascades during soybean germination suggest that these hormones are involved with the regulation of H+-ATPase in germinating soybean. To verify the influence of auxin and ABA on H+-ATPase functioning during germination, we treated seeds with IAA, 2,4D, ABA, and ATPase inhibitor, and germinated them in purple agar medium. We observed that IAA, 2,4D, and ABA affected H+-ATPase functioning, by delaying or inhibiting soybean germination. Our results indicate the role of acid growth controlled by H+-ATPase and its regulators—auxin and ABA—in the soybean embryonic axis during germination. Full article

Growing global concerns over pesticide residues and microbial contamination in plant-derived foods have intensified the demand for sustainable decontamination solutions. Conventional physical, chemical, and biological methods are hampered by inherent limitations, including operational inefficiency, secondary pollution risks, and nutritional degradation. Atmospheric cold plasma (ACP) has emerged as a promising non-thermal technology to address these challenges at near-ambient temperatures, leveraging the generation of highly reactive oxygen/nitrogen species (RONS), ultraviolet radiation, and ozone. This review comprehensively examines fundamental ACP mechanisms, discharge configurations, and their applications within plant-based food safety systems. It critically evaluates recent advancements in inactivating microorganisms, degrading mycotoxins and pesticides, and modulating enzymatic activity, while also exploring emerging applications in bioactive compound extraction, drying enhancement, and seed germination promotion. Crucially, the impact of ACP on the quality attributes of plant-based foods is summarized. Treatment parameters can alter physicochemical properties covering color, texture, flavor, acidity, and water activity as well as nutritional constituents such as antioxidants, proteins, lipids, and carbohydrate content. As an environmentally friendly, low-energy-consumption technology with high reactivity, ACP offers transformative potential for enhancing food safety, preserving quality, and fostering sustainable agricultural systems. Full article

This study compares the chemical profiles of pomegranate seed oil (PSO) from two cultivars, Granato (G) and Roce (R), extracted by Soxhlet and supercritical CO₂/isopropanol. GC-MS and NMR analyses confirmed punicic acid as the dominant fatty acid, with α-eleostearic, oleic, and linoleic acids in lower amounts. Supercritical extraction increased yield (about 18%) and selectively raised α-eleostearic and linoleic acids. Volatile organic compound (VOC) profiling by HS-SPME-GC-MS showed higher aldehydes, esters, and terpenes in supercritical extracts, including (E)-cinnamaldehyde (absent in Soxhlet). Soxhlet oils contained more hydrocarbons, suggesting thermal degradation. Overall, supercritical CO₂/IPA proved more sustainable and selective, preserving nutritional and aromatic quality and supporting PSO’s potential in food, nutraceutical, and cosmetic uses. Full article

Cottonseeds, rich in high-quality protein and fatty acids, represent a vital plant-derived feedstuff and edible oil resource. To systematically investigate genetic variation patterns in nutritional quality and screen superior germplasm, this study analyzed 26 nutritional quality traits and 8 fiber traits across 259 upland cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) accessions using multivariate statistical approaches. Results revealed significant genetic diversity in cottonseed nutritional profiles, with coefficients of variation ranging from 3.42% to 26.37%. Moreover, with advancements in breeding periods, the contents of protein, amino acids, and the proportion of unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) increased, while oil content and C16:0 levels decreased. Correlation analyses identified significant positive associations (p < 0.05) between proteins, amino acids, UFAs, and most fiber traits, except for seed index (SI), fiber micronaire (FM), and fiber elongation (FE). Through a principal component analysis–fuzzy membership function (PCA-FMF) model, 13 elite accessions (F > 0.75) with high protein content, high UFA proportion, and excellent fiber quality were identified. These findings provide both data-driven foundations and practical germplasm resources for value-added utilization of cottonseed and coordinated breeding for dual-quality traits of nutrition and fiber. Full article