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Dipcadi (Scilloideae: Asparagaceae) is a genus of bulbous monocots with approximately 40 species, of which 13 occur in India. Species delimitation within the genus has been troublesome hindering a comprehensive phylogenetic analysis. The most recent phylogeny of the subfamily Ornithogaloideae included six species of Dipcadi only from Africa. Here, we reconstructed the phylogeny of Ornithogaloideae including 23 accessions comprising 13 recognized taxa (11 species and two varieties) of Indian Dipcadi. The phylogenetic analyses were based on nucleotide sequences of three plastid regions (rbcL, matK and trnL-F spacer) and one nuclear region (ITS). Pseudogaltonia clavata exhibited sister relationship to Dipcadi. Our combined nuclear + plastid dataset analyses revealed a monophyletic Dipcadi with five clades, Clade I-V. Clade I, II and III included mainly Indian species whereas Clade V included mostly African species. Clade IV comprised D. serotinum. Clade I included nine taxa including our newly described species, D. mukaianum. The new species was phylogenetically placed with D. erythraeum, D. saxorum and D. ursulae. Morphologically, the species resembled D. montanum and D. ursulae but differed in characters such as tepal cohesion, number of ovules per locule and foul-smelling flowers. Clade II and III included 11 and six taxa, respectively. D. erythraeum which has a native range from Egypt to western India was found in Clades I and V. The widespread Dipcadi species, viz. D. erythraeum and D. serotinum showed polyphyly however, the monophyly of Dipcadi is established. Our studies suggest that additional molecular markers (plastid as well as nuclear) should be tested for their taxonomy utility. Further work on the historical biogeography of Dipcadi on the subfamily Ornithogaloideae with more genetic data will yield insights how aridification of the landscape would have shaped the evolution of the geographical clades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dracaena cambodiana Pierre ex Gagn. (Asparagaceae) is the source plant of Dragon's blood and has high ornamental values in gardening. Currently, this species is classified as the second-class state-protected species in the National Key Protected Wild Plants (NKPWP) of China. However, limited genomic data has hindered a more comprehensive scientific understanding of the processes involved in the production of Dragon's blood and the related conservation genomics research. In this study, we assembled a haplotype-resolved genome of D. cambodiana. The haploid genomes, haplotype A and haplotype B, are 1,015.22 Mb and 1,003.13 Mb in size, respectively. The completeness of haplotype A and haplotype B genomes was 98.60% and 98.20%, respectively, using the "embryophyta_10" dataset. Haplotype A and haplotype B genomes contained 27,361 and 27,066 protein-coding genes, respectively, with nearly all being functionally annotated. These findings provide new insights into the genomic characteristics of D. cambodiana and will offer additional genomic resources for studying the biosynthesis mechanism of Dragon's blood and the horticultural application of Dragon trees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new furostanol glycoside (1), along with spirosta-5,25(27)-dien-1β,3β-diol 1-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-α-L-arabinopyranoside (2), were isolated from the leaves of Dracaena cambodiana. The structure of 1 was elucidated as (25R)-26-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-22α-methoxy-5α-furost-1β,3β,26-triol-1-O-β-Dglucopyranoside, which was determined by spectroscopic analysis 1D and 2D NMR, and mass spectroscopy (HR-ESI-MS in positive mode). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Two new spirostanol glycosides, (25S)-5α-spirosta-1β,3β-diol 1-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-β-Dfucopyranoside (1) and 5α-spirost-(25)27-ene-1β,3β-diol 1-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-(4-Osulfo)-β-D-fucopyranosyl 3-O-α-L-rhamnopyranoside (2), were isolated from the aerial part of Cordyline fruticosa (L.) A. Chev. Their structures were determined by spectroscopic analysis 1D and 2D NMR, and mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS in positive mode). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new homoisoflavonoid, (R)-3-(2,4-dihydroxybenzyl)-5,7-dihydroxy-8-methoxychroman-4-one (1), has been isolated from the rhizomes of Polygonatum alte-lobatum, together with seven known compounds (2–8). The structure of the new compound 1 was determined through spectroscopic and MS analyses. Among the isolated compounds, compounds 1, 3, 5, and 6 showed potent inhibition with IC50 values of 18.04 ± 2.14, 19.87 ± 2.70, 16.88 ± 1.35, and 18.50 ± 1.52 μM, respectively, against LPS-induced NO generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new coumarin, methyl (E)-4-((6-methoxy-2-oxo-2H-chromen-7-yl)oxy)-2-methylbut-2-enoate (1), has been isolated from the rhizomes of Polygonatum chingshuishanianum, together with six known compounds – scopoletin (2), rutin (3), isoquercetin (4), hyperoside (5), (3R)-5,7-dihydroxy-3-(2′,4′-dihydroxybenzyl)-chroman-4-one (6), and (3R)-5,7-dihydroxy-6-methoxy-8-methyl-3-(2′,4′-dihydroxybenzyl)-chroman-4-one (7). The structure of new compound 1 was determined through spectroscopic and MS analyses. Among the isolates compounds 3–6 showed potent inhibition with IC50 values of 10.25 ± 0.75, 17.60 ± 1.28, 18.82 ± 1.63, and 24.93 ± 2.07 μM, respectively, against LPS-induced NO generation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The family Asparagaceae (subfamily Scilloideae, APG III, Botanical Journal of the Linnean Society 161:105–121, 2009) constitutes approximately 1000 species in about 33 genera of deciduous bulbous geophytes with long history of medicinal utilities. However, satisfactory delimitation of genera as well as species boundaries within most genera still remain doubtful for the lack of reliable discriminating characters with morphological traits showing continuous variation. Detailed cytogenetic characterization and thorough comparative analysis is still scanty in this group and thus can provide supportive taxonomical data besides serving as basis for further genomic studies. This group showcases diverse cytogenetic characters studied across 4 tribes: Hyacintheae, Urgineeae, Ornithogaleae and Oziroëeae. Cytogenetic investigation has not yet been initiated in more than 50% of accepted species, studies mostly limited to chromosome counts or conventional karyotyping methods. Somatic chromosome counts have been reported in around 378 species varying from 2n = 4 in Ornithogaleae to 2n = 150 in Hyacintheae and the basic ancestral chromosome number of x = 10 is proposed for the subfamily and secondary base numbers presumed to arise by descending dysploidy followed by polyploidization leading to such variation. Meiotic analysis and genome size estimation is reported in very few species and requires further investigation. Karyotype in most taxa exhibits a general pattern characterized by asymmetry with predominance of acrocentric chromosomes. Fluorochrome banding by CMA/DAPI staining and FISH although reported in very few species revealed characteristic patterns in different taxa, with potential taxonomic utilities. Thus, comparison of compiled data depicted some patterns of chromosomal diversity within the subfamily Scilloideae but study of more taxa is required for prediction of trends. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygonatum Miller belongs to the tribe Polygonateae of Asparagaceae. The horizontal creeping fleshy roots of several species in this genus serve as traditional Chinese medicine. Previous studies have mainly reported the size and gene contents of the plastomes, with little information on the comparative analysis of the plastid genomes of this genus. Additionally, there are still some species whose chloroplast genome information has not been reported. In this study, the complete plastomes of six Polygonatum were sequenced and assembled, among them, the chloroplast genome of P. campanulatum was reported for the first time. Comparative and phylogenetic analyses were then conducted with the published plastomes of three related species. Results indicated that the whole plastome length of the Polygonatum species ranged from 154,564 bp (P. multiflorum) to 156,028 bp (P. stenophyllum) having a quadripartite structure of LSC and SSC separated by two IR regions. A total of 113 unique genes were detected in each of the species. Comparative analysis revealed that gene content and total GC content in these species were highly identical. No significant contraction or expansion was observed in the IR boundaries among all the species except P. sibiricum1, in which the rps19 gene was pseudogenized owing to incomplete duplication. Abundant long dispersed repeats and SSRs were detected in each genome. There were five remarkably variable regions and 14 positively selected genes were identified among Polygonatum and Heteropolygonatum. Phylogenetic results based on chloroplast genome strongly supported the placement of P. campanulatum with alternate leaves in sect. Verticillata, a group characterized by whorled leaves. Moreover, P. verticillatum and P. cyrtonema were displayed as paraphyletic. This study revealed that the characters of plastomes in Polygonatum and Heteropolygonatum maintained a high degree of similarity. Five highly variable regions were found to be potential specific DNA barcodes in Polygonatum. Phylogenetic results suggested that leaf arrangement was not suitable as a basis for delimitation of subgeneric groups in Polygonatum and the definitions of P. cyrtonema and P. verticillatum require further study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new spirostane glycoside was isolated from the leaves of Dracaena fragrans. The structure of this compound was elucidated as spirosta-5,25(27)-diene-1β,3β-diol-1-O-α-L-rhamnopyranosyl-(1→2)-O-[α-Larabinopyranosyl-(1→3)]-β-D-xylopyranoside, which was determined by spectroscopic analysis 1D and 2D NMR, and mass spectrometry (HR-ESI-MS in positive mode). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scilla siberica subsp. armena is known as Siberian Squill which is naturally distributed in Lebanon-Syria, Transcaucasus, and Turkey. It is a perennial bulbous plant with a short vegetation period from March to May. In this study, the antimicrobial, antioxidant, α-amylase, and α-glucosidase inhibitory activities of corm, leaf, and flower methanolic extracts were examined. The anatomy and morphology of the plant organs were investigated by light and electron microscopes. The anatomy of S. siberica subsp. armena was investigated for the first time by electron microscopy in this study. The corm, leaf, and flower methanolic extracts were assessed against E. coli ATCC 8739, S. aureus ATCC 6538, B. subtilis ATCC 19,659, C. albicans ATCC 10,231, C. krusei ATCC 14,243, and C. tropicalis ATCC 750. Among the extracts, that obtained from the blue pollen showed the best antimicrobial activity against C. tropicalis ATCC 750 strain with a MIC value of 312.5 µg/mL. The highest phenolic content was determined in leaf extract with 53.59211 µg GAE/mg extract value. The extract showed the best anti-lipid peroxidation activity with 376.69 µg/mL value. Using DPPH· and ABTS·+ tests, it was determined that the flower and leaf extracts have the best activity (IC50 = 756.13 μg/mL and IC50 = 94.07 μg/mL, respectively). The flower extract exhibited α-glucosidase inhibitory activity with the IC50 value of 5239 µg/mL. Based on the presented results of the in vitro antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities of the S. siberica subsp. armena, we suggest that natural compounds from S. siberica subsp. armena are of potential use for the improvement of an antidiabetic, antioxidant, and antimicrobial agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polygonatum punctatum Royle ex Kunth is a high-value medicinal plant found in old natural forests. A phytochemical study on the roots of this plant led to the isolation of seven new steroidal saponins including four furostans (1–4) and three furospirostans (5–7). Their structures were elucidated as (25R)-26-O-(β-d-glucopyranosyl)-furost-5-ene-3β,17α,22α,26-tetraol 3-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-d-galactopyranoside (1), (25R)-26-O-(β-d-glucopyranosyl)-furost-5-ene-3β,14α,17α,22α,26-pentaol 3-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-d-galactopyranoside (2), (25R)-26-O-(β-d-glucopyranosyl)-furost-5-ene-22α-methoxy-3β,17α,26-triol 3-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-d-galactopyranoside (3), (25R)-26-O-(β-d-glucopyranosyl)-furost-5-ene-22α-methoxy-3β,17α,26-triol 3-O-[α-l-arabinopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)]-[acetoxy-(→ 6)]-β-d-galactopyranoside (4), 26-O-(β-d-glucopyranosyl)-14α,17α-dihydroxynuatigenin 3-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-d-galactopyranoside (5), 26-O-(β-d-glucopyranosyl)-17α-hydroxynuatigenin 3-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-d-galactopyranoside (6), and 26-O-(β-d-glucopyranosyl)-14α-hydroxynuatigenin 3-O-α-l-arabinopyranosyl-(1 → 2)-β-d-glucopyranosyl-(1 → 4)-β-d-galactopyranoside (7) by extensive spectroscopic analyses, including infrared, high-resolution electrospray ionization mass spectrometry, and one- and two-dimensional nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Compounds 1–7 inhibited nitric oxide production in lipopolysaccharide activated RAW264.7 cells with IC50 values ranging from 41.5 ± 3.2 to 62.2 ± 3.7 µM, compared to 33.8 ± 2.6 µM for the positive control compound l-NMMA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Many members of the Asparagaceae family are used in traditional medicine in different countries and characterized by a high content of biologically active metabolites. In this work, the qualitative composition and quantitative content of the components of methanol extracts from leaves and underground organs of Sansevieria cylindrica Bojer ex Hook, Sansevieria trifasciata Prain, Polianthes tuberosa L., leaves of Yucca filamentosa L., and Furcraea gigantea var. watsoniana (Hort. Sander) Drumm. were determined. Extraction of plant leaves and underground organs using 80% methanol resulted in 5.2–16.7 and 16–25.1% of the total extractive substances, respectively. The presence of steroidal saponins in the extracts was shown by thin layer chromatography. Spirostanol saponins were predominate in the extracts from leaves of Y. filamentosa and F. gigantea and underground organs of S. cylindrica, S. trifasciata, and P. tuberosa and furastanol saponins, in the extracts from leaves of S. cylindrica and S. trifasciata. The content of terpenoid and phenolic compounds in the extracts established using spectrophotometry significantly differs depending on the plant species and their anatomical part. All the extracts tested exhibited inhibition of the 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl free radical in a dose-dependent manner. The highest antiradical activity was demonstrated by the extract from the leaves of Y. filamentosa (IC50 25.95 μg/mL) containing the largest amount of phenolic compounds, including flavonoids–51.3 and 15.5% of the total extractive substances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review focuses on the characteristics of the life-cycle, and the nutritional properties, preservation, and marketing of Comadia redtenbacheri (Hammerschmidt) (red agave worm) and Aegiale hesperiaris (Walker) (white maguey worm) as alimentary options with nutritional benefits for humans. These insects are widely consumed in Mexico, the highest-ranking country worldwide in terms of insect diversity, and a place where entomophagy has been practiced for thousands of years, with the red and white maguey worms standing out as two insect pests of the Agave salmiana Otto ex Salm-Dyck. These insects are consumed in their larval stage in various culinary dishes by local people and foreign tourists due to their exquisite, exotic flavor, high protein and fat content, easy digestion, and high content of essential minerals for food metabolism. These properties make them a food source that offers consumers significant health benefits, but their production is seasonal and knowledge of their life-cycle scarce, so production under greenhouse conditions is unfeasible to date, though studies are ongoing to generate mass reproduction strategies under sustainable greenhouse conditions that would promote the incorporation of these insects into functional foods. For maguey worms to become a viable food option, consumers must be informed of the benefits of adding them to their diet and learn how best to integrate them into their foods. Legislation is also required to regulate their production, consumption, and health benefits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The Santhal tribe in Assam, India use the roots of Asparagus racemosus (Asparagaceae) as a deworming remedy. The study aimed to investigate the anthelmintic credentials of this plant, using two representative groups of helminth parasites. Methods: The in vitro testing was conducted against Hymenolepis diminuta (cestode) and Syphacia obvelata (nematode). Parasites were exposed to 10, 20 and 30 mg/ml concentrations of plant extract, and efficacy was adjudged on the basis of parasites paralysis and mortality. In vivo efficacy was examined using H. diminuta-rat and S. obvelata-mice models where animals were administered 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg doses of extract. Results: In vitro assay, against H. diminuta revealed that at 30 mg/ml concentration the extract showed almost a comparable efficacy with that of reference drug praziquantel (PZQ) (1 mg/ml). The in vitro efficacy of extract against S. obvelata was however lower than H. diminuta. In vivo studies against H. diminuta at 500 mg/kg revealed 53.88 and 24 % reduction in eggs per gram (EPG) and worm counts respectively. Against S. obvelata the extract showed 26.61 and 30.93 % reduction for the same. Conclusions: The findings of this study present suggest that the roots of A. racemosus are effective against intestinal helminthic infections and justifies its use as an anthelmintic in the traditional medicine of the Santhals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Few studies thoroughly investigated different Yucca species introduced to Egypt. As a part of our ongoing investigation of the Yucca species; Yucca aloifolia and its variety Yucca aloifolia variegata, Yucca filamentosa, and Yucca elephantipes (Asparagaceae) were extensively subjected to phytochemical and antimicrobial investigation. Yucca species cultivated in Egypt showed no antimicrobial effect. GC/MS of the lipoid contents of Y. aloifolia variegata was carried out. Twenty-six fatty acids were identified. Saturated fatty acids established almost twice the unsaturated ones and constituted 64.64% of which palmitic acid and palmitoleic acid signifying 58.28% and 30.98%, respectively. Hydrocarbons were 21 constituting 39.64% of the unsaponifiable fraction. Only three sterols 42.36% were detected, major was γ-sitosterol. LC–MS/MS comparison of the 4 plant extracts imply that Y.aloifolia variegata L extract was the richest, which was apparent through its superior biological activity. LC–MS/MS analysis of the total alcoholic extract (Alc) of the leaves of Y.aloifolia variegata L. was performed using MS-techniques at different voltages; equal to 35 and 135 eV. Negative and positive-ion modes analyses at low fragmentation energy allowed the tentative identification of 41 and 34 compounds, respectively. The LC–ESI–MS/MS analysis in the positive mode proved to be better in the identification of saponins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Resumen: Se describen e ilustran dos especies nuevas de Asparagaceae, procedentes de la porción sur de la Sierra Madre Oriental en los estados de Guanajuato y Querétaro, México. Agave muxii proveniente del estado de Querétaro se incluye en Agave, subgénero Littaea, sección Choritepalae, ésta se distingue de las otras especies del grupo por su inflorescencia robusta, cubierta densamente por brácteas de color púrpura desde la base hasta el ápice, y por sus flores, estambres y anteras teñidos de púrpura. Agave muxii representa un notable hallazgo para la flora mexicana, no sólo por su extraordinaria belleza, sino también por su rareza y distribución restringida. Por su parte, Yucca pinicola se conoce de los estados de Guanajuato y Querétaro, en donde crece dentro del bosque de pinos piñoneros. Ésta se ubica en Yucca sección Sarcocarpa, y está relacionada con Yucca filifera, Y. schidigera, Y. schottii, y Y. treculeana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: A new local endemic species Ornithogalum gulnariensis Demir. & Uysal (Asparagaceae) is described from southern Anatolia. Diagnostic characters are discussed with reference to O. lanceolatum Labill. and O. neurostegium Boiss. & C.I.Blanche ex Boiss. In addition, the ecology and conservation status of the new species are discussed briefly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prospero autumnale (Hyacinthaceae) is taxonomically intricate geophyte species complex with a circum-Mediterranean distribution. In contrast to the extraordinary karyological diversity within P. autumnale complex, morphological variation is limited, and thus, reliable taxonomically diagnostic traits are absent. This investigation addresses whether different ploidy levels within cytotype B7 can be distinguished morpho-anatomically. Populations of B7 cytotype from the Balkan Peninsula and Pannonian Basin were examined. Karyological variation was analyzed, and genome size measurements via flow cytometry were taken for selected individuals from each population. Morpho-anatomical analyses were based on 29 anatomical and 25 morphological traits. Multivariate morphometric analyses revealed significant differences between the three ploidy levels, and this may assist in the identification of plant ploidy level. Although the diploids were the most distinct group, some differences were also found between tetraploids and hexaploids. Genome size variation was found within diploids and tetraploids, and some downsizing was observed in hexaploids. This is the first evaluation of morpho-anatomical variation of cytotype B7 in the P. autumnale complex using a multivariate morphometric approach; further taxonomic and evolutionary studies in this taxonomically complex group are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to examine the effects of supplemental irradiation, provided by high-pressure sodium lamps during cultivation, on growth, flowering, and physiological responses of six Lachenalia cultivars: 'Rainbow Bells', 'Aqua Lady', 'Josephine', 'Riana', 'Radient', and 'Cherise'. Depending on light conditions and cultivar, lachenalia bulbs flowered from February 20th to March 24th. Additional irradiation accelerated flowering of 'Rainbow Bells', 'Aqua Lady', 'Josephine', and 'Riana' plants by 5–19 days depending on the cultivar. Compared with controls, the irradiated bulbs had a higher floral ratio and produced shorter inflorescence stems and inflorescences, a larger number of single florets, and thicker inflorescence stems (except for 'Rainbow Bells'). The use of lamps resulted in shorter leaves with a higher chlorophyll a content in 'Aqua Lady', 'Riana', 'Radient', and 'Cherise' compared to control plants. The shortest leaves were reported in the 'Josephine' cultivar, and they were on average two times shorter than in the other cultivars. Bulbs and leaves of all cultivars grown under supplemental irradiation were characterized by higher dry weight than control plants. Dry weight content was highest in the bulbs and in the roots, and it was lowest in lachenalia leaves and shoots. Thus, supplemental irradiation from high-pressure sodium lamps positively affected morphological and physiological plant quality, although differences in the evaluated features largely depended on cultivar. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Variation in the occurrence and the intensity of pre-dispersal seed predation can help understand ecological and evolutionary dynamics of plant populations. Pre-dispersal seed predation can vary in intensity, resulting in costs that differ in magnitude among populations. We examined variation in the cost of pre-dispersal seed predation across nine Yucca schidigera populations, by quantifying yucca moth infestation, damage on fertile seeds and seed mass in 650 fruits sampled from 73 Yucca plants. We recorded Tegeticula mojavella larvae on 100% of the Y. schidigera plants. Across populations, mean infestation rates ranged from 2.9 to 6.11 larvae per fruit. Despite slight variation in the level of fruit infestation, predation on mature seeds differed among the nine populations, ranging from 10 to 26%. Mean seed mass and germination rate differed among populations, but the effect of larvae infestation on these traits was not significant. Altogether, our results demonstrate that infestation and pre-dispersal seed predation by yucca moths differ significantly across populations of Y. schidigera. Variable ratios of seed predation result in different costs across plant populations, despite experiencing similar infestation ratios. It seems that, regardless of its spatial distribution, the interaction between Y. schidigera and T. mojavella is dependent on local ecological factors that regulate oviposition and seed predation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium is a secondary messenger that regulates and coordinates the cellular responses to environmental cues. Despite calcium being a key player during fertilization in plants, little is known about its role during the development of the endosperm. For this reason, the distribution, abundance, and dynamics of cytosolic calcium during the first stages of endosperm development of Agave tequilana and Agave salmiana were analyzed. Cytosolic calcium and actin filaments detected in the embryo sacs of Agave tequilana and A. salmiana revealed that they play an important role during the division and nuclear migration of the endosperm. After fertilization, a relatively high concentration of cytosolic calcium was located in the primary nucleus of the endosperm, as well as around migrating nuclei during the development of the endosperm. Cytosolic calcium participates actively during the first mitosis of the endosperm mother cell and interacts with the actin filaments that generate the motor forces during the migration of the nuclei through the large cytoplasm of the central cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agave sisalana is hapaxanthic monocotyledonous plant yielding a hard fibre of commercial value. It is also a source of medicinally important glycosides such as hecogenin and tigogenin. Sisal plantations can play a significant role in reforestation of hilly barren land. Unfortunately, natural propagation is not sufficient to fulfill the demands; besides, hyperhydricity is a severe problem in the in vitro propagation method of A. sisalana. The present study for the first time demonstrates that, the hyperhydricity problem can be solved by inclusion of osmotic stress inducing agents like sodium chloride (NaCl) and polyethylene glycol (PEG 6000) (0.0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, or 0.5% w/v) in MS medium. The response of hyperhydric shoots, normal shoots and hyperhydric reverted shoots with the treatments was analyzed for water content, chlorophyll content, osmolyte accumulation and oxidative damage. The principal component analysis showed the significant positive and negative variations in the net photosynthesis, stomata conductance, internal CO2, transpiration, and water use efficiency between normal, hyperhydric and hyperhydric reverted shoots among all the time points of day and night period. Besides, detailed anatomical and ultra-structural observations were made to discern the changes that occurred in epidermis, mesophyll cells, vascular bundles, and stomata. About 85 and 58% of hyperhydric shoots were reverted on medium fortified with 0.2% NaCl and 0.1% PEG, respectively. All reverted shoots were normal and survived when transferred to the field conditions. The improved protocol with the treatment of NaCl for recovery of hyperhydric shoots was not cost intensive and without any harmful effects on shoots and plantlets. Key message: First report on change in physiology and recovery of hyperhydricity with NaCl and PEG in shoots and somatic embryos of Agave sisalana which allows additional 38% plantlets available for plantation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Bellevalia turcica was described as a new species in the Pozantı district, Adana province in the south of Turkey. The palynological, ecological, and phenological characteristics were determined. Bellevalia turcica is similar to Bellevalia fominii Woronow, but can easily be distinguished from the differences in the flower and leaf trait characteristics. Full description and detailed photographs of this new species were provided. The somatic chromosome number of B. turcica was determined to be 2n = 2x = 8. B. turcica was attributed into the "Vulnerable" category after assessment based on the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Categories. The distribution patterns of B. turcica and other related Bellevalia species were also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we tried to figure out phylogenetic relationships and taxonomical positions of closely related Muscari species. Four different cpDNA regions including both coding and non-coding ones, namely, matK, trnT(UGU)-trnL(UAA) intergenic spacer (IGS), trnL(UAA) intron and trnL(UAA)-F(GAA) IGS, were employed to determine the exact circumscription of three subgenera, Muscari, Leopoldia and Botryanthus. Seventy Muscari accessions representing 31 Muscari species and different number of previously published sequences retrieved from NCBI database were analyzed. The concatenated and matK data alone were observed to be informative while none of the used non-coding regions was suitable to determine phylogeny of Muscari. Concatenated alignment gave almost the same tree topology with matK sequence. Muscari azureum and M. coeleste phylogenetically separated from all other species of Botryanthus and four main clades were observed in both of the trees even though three subgenera are accepted by Flora of Turkey. After discussing the phylogenetic positions and morphological characters in detail, moving of these two species from Botryanthus to Pseudomuscari subgenus was suggested. Thus, this study proposes that the number of Muscari subgenera should be increased from three to four in Flora of Turkey. The position of M. mirum was also remarkable; it always located distantly to its relatives of Leopoldia. Although this species may also be distinguished based on morphological features such as quite shorter plant length, one or sometimes two relatively wider leaves, and a larger fruit, it needs further studies to resolve its position reliably. Interesting positions of other species were also discussed in detail based on morphological characters in the text. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this short communication is to investigate the interactive effects of CIF, suction and volumetric water content (VWC) on infiltration rate for compacted soil-biochar (BC) composites (0%, 5% and 10%). The biochar was produced from an invasive weed Eichhornia crassipes. Soil parameters such as suction (ψ), VWC, CIF and infiltration rate were monitored simultaneously for 63 days (9 drying-wetting cycles) in those composites. This was followed by statistical modeling using artificial neural networks. Results showed that increase in WH BC content reduced the infiltration rates. The role of CIF in determining the infiltration rate reduced (50-38%) with the addition of BC to soil. Suction played an equal role (36-35%), both for bare soil and for WH BC composites, in determining the infiltration rate. Significance of VWC in determining rate of infiltration increases (14-27%) as the BC content increases. This is more likely, as the addition of BC enhanced the water retention capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The hydrocarbon pattern in the floral scent of Yucca species was found to comprise a group of unbranched, mid-chain alkanes, alkenes, and an alkadiene. In Y. reverchonii, highly dominant (Z)-8-heptadecene is accompanied by (6Z,9Z)-6,9-heptadecadiene and heptadecane as minor components and by traces of other saturated and unsaturated hydrocarbons with similar chain length. Some of these volatiles proved to be perceived by the antennae of Tegeticula cassandra (pollinating seed-eater of Yucca) and Prodoxus decipiens (herbivore on Yucca). The possible biosynthesis of the compounds is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

There is a great interest in the nutritional value of vegetables and fruits and how the habitat affects nutritive and biological properties. In vitro studies here reported were performed to evaluate the inhibitory activity of formulations from edible plant on pancreatic lipase. The aim of this study was also to evaluate the biovariability of L. comosa (L.) Parl. bulbs from Italy. The wild bulbs were compared with the same cultivated species that are commonly commercialized to identify samples with the best quality for a potential therapeutic application. Hydroalcoholic extract and polar fraction of wild bulbs showed a very important pancreatic lipase inhibitory activity, with IC50 values of 0.166 ± 0.005 and 0.153 ± 0.005 mg/mL, respectively. In order to characterize the extracts, gas chromatography associated with mass spectrometry (GC/MS) analysis was performed, revealing the predominance of palmitic acid. Phenolic and flavonoid composition was also evaluated. L. comosa extract obtained from wild bulbs demonstrated both antioxidant and anti-obesity activities that might be attributed to a wide range of present phenolic compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ornithogalum taxonomy is under constant revision. Numerous studies relating to morphology, anatomy, cytology, seed micromorphology and molecular phylogenies have been published to date, yet the number of species within the genus continues to be debated. In the Mediterranean region and rest of Europe, the genus comprises c. 120 species that share many common characters. In published resources, seed morphology has mostly been designated as species specific, having low taxonomic value for higher systematics. However, our comparative review of the published data and additional comparative analyses of seed morphology, detailed here, has revealed some discrepancies and limitations in species identifications. Our study included 14 Ornithogalum species, sampled from the Balkan Peninsula and Pannonian Plain. The main aims of the study were to describe seed structure characteristics, determine features upon which species could be identified, and examine the taxonomic relevance of differentiating characteristics. We confirm considerable variability in seed dimensions and shape. Testa primary structure exhibits non-species-specific features and we identify secondary testa structure as being an additional parameter for seed description. Overall, we found that while it is possible to define particular seed morphology patterns, they are of limited value in the taxonomy of this genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Since their discovery in the 1950s, cytokinins (CKs) have become integral, almost indispensable, components of plant growth media in in vitro propagation. However, despite the extensive use of exogenous CKs in plant tissue culture systems, there is a paucity of knowledge on the longevity of their physiological effect post in vitro. The objective of this study was to evaluate the long-term physiological effect of CKs (including a novel meta-topolin derivative) applied during in vitro propagation of Merwilla plumbea after 1 year of ex vitro growth. Ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) was used for the quantification of endogenous auxins and phenolic compounds in the 1-year-old M. plumbea plants. Compared to the control, exogenous CKs had a significant carry-over effect on ex vitro growth of M. plumbea plants after 1 year growing under ex vitro conditions. M. plumbea plants treated with the novel CK 6-(3-hydroxybenzylamino)-9-(tetrahydropyran-2-yl)purine ( mTTHP, 1.0 µM) had significantly higher leaf area per plant, total leaf fresh weight and bulb diameter. Varying concentrations of free indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), oxindole-3-acetic acid (OxIAA) and indole-3-acetyl- l-aspartic acid (IAA-Asp) were detected in leaves of plants originally treated with exogenous CKs, whereas these compounds were absent in leaves of plants without exogenous CKs. Likewise, a CK-type and concentration-dependent response was observed for hydroxybenzoic acids, hydroxycinnamic acids, flavonoids and antioxidant activity of the extracts. The current study showed the influence of type and concentration of exogenous CKs used in vitro on production of phytochemical compounds during ex vitro growth. Taken together, the study provides significant insights on the residual effect of exogenous CKs on the regulation of auxin homeostasis and phenolic acid and/or flavonoid metabolism in 1-year-old M. plumbea plants growing under ex vitro conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For the first time flame retardant functionality was imparted in sisal (leaf fibre) yarn using N-methylol dimethylphosphonopropionamide (MDPA) based formulation. MDPA formulations were applied to sisal yarn in various concentrations by the dipping method followed by drying and curing. The formulation was optimized on the basis of tensile strength of the treated yarns. Flame retardancy of the treated yarn was evaluated by limiting oxygen index (LOI) and vertical burning behavior testing with measurement of the char length. The LOI value of the treated sisal yarn was found to increase by 1.5 times after an application of 450 gpl MDPA formulation. Thermo-gravimetry and char morphology analysis of the control and the treated sisal yarn were analysed to understand the fire retardancy mechanism of treated sisal yarn. Further, washing durability of the treatment was also evaluated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Timosaponin B-II (TB-II) is a main active saponin isolated from the rhizome of Anemarrhena asphodeloides Bge., which is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine. In this study, the effect of TB-II on learning and memory was investigated in a scopolamine-induced mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. The results of behavioral tests indicated that TB-II significantly increased the spontaneous alternation in the Y-maze test, and reversed the shortening of step-through latency induced by scopolamine in the passive avoidance test, showing protective effects on short-term and working memory. In the Morris water maze test, TB-II reduced the escape latency time in the training trial, and increased the swimming time in the target quadrant in the probe trial. Biochemical data demonstrated that TB-II significantly inhibited acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus of mice. Moreover, TB-II markably attenuated the reduction in glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities, and decreased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, which are key biomarkers of brain oxidative stress. These results indicated that TB-II offers protection against scopolamine-induced deficits in learning and memory, possibly by inhibiting AChE and preventing oxidative stress damage. The findings suggested that TB-II has a potential therapeutic effect on cognitive and behavioral impairment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Species of the Muscari genus (Asparagaceae) are highly specialized ornamental plants, but some of their natural populations are under threat. Biotechnology, including in vitro tissue culture, allows for clonal material of important germplasm Muscari to be produced in volume. This review focuses on the achievements that have been attained in the in vitro tissue culture of members of this genus and evaluates the effects that biotic (genotype, explant choice) and abiotic factors (physical and chemical conditions in vitro) have on regeneration. Current applications and future perspectives of tissue-cultured Muscari species as a tool for large-scale clonal propagation as well as germplasm storage and genetic improvement of germplasm via other biotechnological methods are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sequence variability of the ITS spacers and 5.8S rRNA gene was examined in 11 accessions of the subfamily Scilloideae, including seven accessions of rare and endangered species Bellevalia sarmatica from Volgograd region. The intraspecific polymorphism level of the examined ITS1-5.8S-ITS2 sequence of B. sarmatica accessions constituted 1.3%. The phylogenetic position of B. sarmatica within the genus Bellevalia was determined. It was demonstrated that B. sarmatica belonged to the section Nutantes, and the most closely related species were B. webbiana and B. dubia. Nucleotide substitutions in the 5.8S rRNA gene sequence of the analyzed Scilloideae accessions were identified and studied. The predicted secondary structure of 5.8S rRNA gene was constructed. It was demonstrated that in the examined accessions, mutations in the 5.8S rRNA gene were mainly localized in the third hairpin region and had no effect on the secondary structure of the 5.8S rRNA molecule. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of a seaweed-derived biostimulant (Kelpak at 1, 2.5 and 5 % dilution; v/v) on the growth, endogenous cytokinin (CK) and phytochemical content in Eucomis autumnalis (Mill.) Chitt. under hydroponic conditions was evaluated. After 4 months, the stimulatory effect of Kelpak treatments was more noticeable in the underground organs than in the aerial organs. Total endogenous CK was also higher in plants treated with Kelpak (c.a. 1000-1200 pmol g DW) compared to control plants (860 pmol g DW). Isoprenoid CKs (which mainly accumulated in the aerial organs) were more dominant than aromatic-type CKs across all the treatments. A total of 11 bioactive chemicals (8 phenolic acids and 3 flavonoids) and eucomic acid known for their diverse biological activities were quantified in the samples. The most abundant compound was p-coumaric acid (6.5 µg g DW) and it was approximately sevenfold higher in 2.5 % Kelpak-treated plants than in the control. It was also noteworthy that syringic acid only occurred in the underground organs of 5 % Kelpak-treated plants. Eucomic acid which is a major bioactive compound in E. autumnalis was significantly enhanced in Kelpak treatments, and the leaves accounted for more than 70 % of the overall content. Thus, Kelpak elicited a significant influence on the growth, endogenous CK and phytochemical content in E. autumnalis. These findings provide additional evidence of the enormous potential of Kelpak as a useful biostimulant with practical applications in various agricultural endeavours. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Key message: The current evidence of regulatory effect of smoke-water (SW) and karrikinolide (KAR ) on the concentrations of endogenous cytokinins in plants partly explain the basis for their growth stimulatory activity. Abstract: Karrikinolide (KAR) which is derived from smoke-water (SW) is involved in some physiological aspects in the life-cycle of plants. This suggests a potential influence on the endogenous pool (quantity and quality) of phytohormones such as cytokinins (CKs). In the current study, the effect of SW (1:500; 1:1000; 1:1500 v/v dilutions) and KAR (10; 10; 10 M) applied during micropropagation of Eucomis autumnalis subspecies autumnalis on the ex vitro growth and CKs after 4 months post-flask duration was evaluated. The interactions of SW and KAR with benzyladenine (BA), α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) or BA+NAA were also assessed. Plants treated with SW (1:500) and KAR (10 M) demonstrated superior growth in terms of the rooting, leaf and bulb sizes and fresh biomass than the control and plants treated with BA and BA+NAA. However, plant growth was generally inhibited with either SW (1:500) or KAR (10 M) and BA when compared to BA (alone) treatment. Relative to NAA treatment, the presence of KAR (10 M) with NAA significantly increased the leaf area and fresh biomass. Both SW and KAR-treated plants accumulated more total CKs, mainly isoprenoid-type than the control and NAA-treated plants. The highest CK content was also accumulated in SW (1:500) with BA+NAA treatments. Similar stimulatory effects were observed with increasing concentrations of KAR and BA. The current findings establish that SW and KAR exert significant influence on the endogenous CK pools. However, the better growth of plants treated with SW and KAR treatments was not exclusively related to the endogenous CKs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel strain of Pectobacterium, isolated from infected sunflower plants ( Helianthus annuus L.) in Mexico was characterized. Inoculated sunflower plants developed both tissue chlorosis and soft-rot on leaves. The broad host range shown by this pathogen, which included members of the Agavaceae, Asteraceae, Brassicaceae and Solanaceae, was characteristic of the genus Pectobacterium. The metabolic profile and molecular data, in addition to the secretion of plant-cell-wall-degrading enzymes, confirmed its identification as a member of the Pectobacterium genus. A phylogenetic tree constructed on the basis of its 16S rDNA sequence revealed a high identity (98 %) with P. cacticidum. Amplification and restriction-fragment-length-polymorphism analysis of internal transcribed sequences further confirmed its classification as P. cacticidum. Similar to strains of P. atrosepticum, P. carotovorum and Dickeya spp., the new P. cacticidum strain FHLGJ22 has a coronafacic ligase gene and produces coronatine, a virulence factor usually associated with phytopathogenic strains of Pseudomonas syringae. Our results suggest that this strain may utilize a dual infection process involving cell maceration and plant toxins, which is synchronized via an unknown mechanism, might confer an adaptive advantage to colonize different plant hosts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main conclusion: Eckol, a major phenolic compound isolated from brown seaweed significantly enhanced the bulb size and bioactive compounds in greenhouse-grown Eucomis autumnalis. We investigated the effect of eckol and phloroglucinol (PG) (phenolic compounds) isolated from the brown seaweed, Ecklonia maxima (Osbeck) Papenfuss on the growth, phytochemical and auxin content in Eucomis autumnalis (Mill.) Chitt. The model plant is a popular medicinal species with increasing conservation concern. Eckol and PG were tested at 10, 10 and 10 M using soil drench applications. After 4 months, growth parameters, phytochemical and auxin content were recorded. When compared to the control, eckol (10 M) significantly improved bulb size, fresh weight and root production while the application of PG (10 M) significantly increased the bulb numbers. However, both compounds had no significant stimulatory effect on aerial organs. Bioactive phytochemicals such as p-hydroxybenzoic and ferulic acids were significantly increased in eckol (10 M) and PG (10 M) treatments, compared to the control. Aerial (1,357 pmol/g DW) and underground (1,474 pmol/g DW) parts of eckol-treated (10 M) plants yielded the highest concentration of indole-3-acetic acid. Overall, eckol and PG elicited a significant influence on the growth and physiological response in E. autumnalis. Considering the medicinal importance of E. autumnalis and the increasing strains on its wild populations, these compounds are potential tools to enhance their cultivation and growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The polyphenolic content and antimicrobial activity of 1-year-old ex vitro-acclimatized plant samples of the endangered plant species Merwilla plumbea were evaluated. Acclimatized plants were derived from in vitro media containing different supplements. Spectrophotometric techniques and micro-dilution assays for the determination of polyphenols and antimicrobial activities, respectively, were used. Significantly higher levels of total phenols, flavonoids, and proanthocyanidins were recorded in the greenhouse-acclimatized plants compared to the in vitro-derived samples. In contrast with the untreated field-grown plants, the levels of these compounds in both in vitro-derived and ex vitro-acclimatized plants yielded multiple-fold increases. The highest levels of flavonoids were obtained in ex vitro plants treated with 200 mg l yeast malt broth (YMB), 0.45 μM thidiazuron (TDZ), and 0.054 μM naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA). The same treatment also exhibited good antimicrobial activity, an attribute that might suggest the involvement of these compounds in the observed bioactivity. The fact that Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with organic elicitors differentially affected the accumulated levels of polyphenols in vitro, and their subsequent carry-over and higher expression in an ex vitro environment over time, makes the technology an attractive system for commercial multiplication and cultivation of medicinal plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milla valliflora, a new species from the states of Oaxaca and Puebla, Mexico, is described and illustrated. Its morphology is compared to M. biflora, M. filifolia and M. oaxacana. The new species is distinguished by the presence of a rhizome, shorter leaves, an inconspicuous pedicel joint, a long floral tube, narrowly elliptic tepals and yellow anthers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agave doctorensis, a new species from Sierra El Doctor, Querétaro, Mexico is described and illustrated. It is similar to Agave montium-sancticaroli but differs in having a dense, conical panicle; reflexed bracts; and filaments inserted at two levels. The new species occurs in rosette scrub and Juniperus forest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The therapeutic value of Eucomis species is well recognized in African traditional medicine. As a potential approach to improve growth and phytochemical content in Eucomis autumnalis subspecies autumnalis, the effect of agar (Bacteriological Agar No. 1 Oxoid) and gellan gum (GELRITE™) was evaluated using different explant sources and plant growth regulator (PGR) combinations. After 10 wk, the growth parameters were measured and phytochemical levels in 50% methanol (MeOH) extracts of the dried regenerated plantlets were determined using colorimetric methods. The highest mean shoot number (ca. 9 per explant) was observed in gellan gum-solidified media using a benzyladenine (BA) and α-naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) treatment. Regardless of the gelling agent or PGR applied, the (initial/primary) explant source (LDL = leaf explant derived from primary leaf regenerants and LDB = leaf explant derived from primary bulb regenerants) significantly influenced all the parameters with the exception of shoot length and number of bigger shoots (≥5 mm). In most cases, the regenerants from agar-solidified media contained higher levels of flavonoids and phenolics. In terms of PGRs, the BA + NAA treatment had the highest shoot proliferation (fourfold higher than PGR-free) and number of larger shoots in LDL (gellan gum) and LDB (agar and gellan gum) regenerants. Generally, the evaluated factors (gelling agent, explant source, and PGR) significantly affected the concentrations of all the phytochemicals with the exception of total phenolic content. Taken together, the current study justifies the need to fully evaluate the manner in which in vitro culture conditions/factors affect the overall outcome of micropropagation endeavors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eucomis species is a valuable plant with both medicinal and horticultural potential. The current study evaluated the role of plant growth regulator (PGR) on growth, phytochemicals, and antioxidant activity in Eucomis autumnalis subspecies autumnalis. Five cytokinins including topolins and benzyladenine (BA) at 2 µM in combination with varying (0-15 µM) concentrations of naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) were tested. In vitro regenerants were acclimatized in the greenhouse for 4 months. Highest number of shoots (9 shoots/explant) was observed with 15 µM NAA alone or when combined with BA. Acclimatized plants derived from the 15 µM NAA treatment had the highest number of roots, largest leaf area and biggest bulbs. While applied PGRs increased the iridoids and condensed tannins in the in vitro regenerants, total phenolics and flavonoids were higher in the PGR-free treatment. Among the in vitro regenerants, 5 µM NAA and 2 µM BA treatments produced the best antioxidant activity in the DPPH (55 %) and beta-carotene (88 %) test systems, respectively. A remarkable carry-over effect of the PGR was conspicuous in the phytochemical levels and antioxidant activity of the 4-month-old plants. In addition to the optimized micropropagation protocols, the current findings present a promising potential for manipulating the type and concentration of applied PGRs to improve phytochemical production and hence medicinal value in E. autumnalis subspecies autumnalis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study reports the chromosome numbers and karyotypes of six Aspidistra species from China, of which four species from Guangxi are described for the first time, i.e., A. bicolor with 2 n = 36 = 20m + 2sm + 12st + 2t, A. cerina with 2 n = 36 = 20m + 2sm + 14st, A. obliquipeltata with 2 n = 38 = 20m + 6sm + 12st and A. connata with 2 n = 38 = 20m + 6sm + 12st. A. papillata with 2 n = 38 = 22m + 2sm + 14st, is a new record to Guizhou, and first report for cytological data. The karyotype of A. retusa from Guangxi, formulated as 2 n = 36 = 14m + 10sm + 12st, is different from the previous report for the chromosome pair VIII, XI and XII pairs that depict their submedian karymorpholgy without any satellites . Further, the intra- and interchromosomal asymmetry indices of the karyotypes of the above species are also presented that are helpful in elucidating the karyotype evolution in Aspidistra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mexico is a megadiverse country, but less than 54 % of its original vegetation still remains. In particular Mexican deserts and arid and semiarid ecosystems harbor a large number of endemic taxa, and the genus Agave is an outstanding example. Agave is one of the largest genera of the Mexican flora, including a total estimated number of 200 species, 74 % of them endemic to the country. Agave is also one of the Mexican plant genera with more population genetic studies. We describe here studies in 22 Agave species using different genetic markers. For the genus we found on average a high level of genetic variation, Hs = 0.19, and a low genetic differentiation, Fst = 0.15. We identify some species that should be subject to special conservation genetic efforts, in particular the endangered A. victoriae-reginae and both wild populations and landraces of A. angustifolia, including the cultivated A. tequilana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inflorescence of the broad-leafed grape hyacinth, Muscari latifolium, shows an interesting, two-tone appearance with the upper flowers being pale blue and the lower ones purple. To elucidate the mechanism of the differential color development, anatomical research was carried out and a cytological study of the colored protoplasts in which the shapes of the cells accumulating anthocyanin were observed by scanning electron microscopy. Next, vacuolar pH was recorded using a pH meter with a micro combination pH electrode, and the sap’s metal-ion content was measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The anthocyanin and co-pigment composition was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Chemical analyses reveal that the difference in metal-ion content of the two parts was not great. The vacuolar pHs of the upper and lower flowers were 5.91 and 5.84, respectively, with the difference being nonsignificant. HPLC results indicate that the dihydroflavonol and flavonol contents are also very similar in the two sorts of flower. However, the upper flowers contained only delphinidin, whereas the lower flowers also contained cyanidin. The total anthocyanin content in the lower flowers was 4.36 mg g −1, which is approximately seven times higher than in the upper flowers, while the delphinidin content is four times higher. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis established that the two-tone flower was a result of different expressions of the F3′ 5′ H, F3′ H and DFR genes, and these lead to different amounts of anthocyanin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The inflorescence of the broad-leafed grape hyacinth, Muscari latifolium, shows an interesting, two-tone appearance with the upper flowers being pale blue and the lower ones purple. To elucidate the mechanism of the differential color development, anatomical research was carried out and a cytological study of the colored protoplasts in which the shapes of the cells accumulating anthocyanin were observed by scanning electron microscopy. Next, vacuolar pH was recorded using a pH meter with a micro combination pH electrode, and the sap’s metal-ion content was measured by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. The anthocyanin and co-pigment composition was determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Chemical analyses reveal that the difference in metal-ion content of the two parts was not great. The vacuolar pHs of the upper and lower flowers were 5.91 and 5.84, respectively, with the difference being nonsignificant. HPLC results indicate that the dihydroflavonol and flavonol contents are also very similar in the two sorts of flower. However, the upper flowers contained only delphinidin, whereas the lower flowers also contained cyanidin. The total anthocyanin content in the lower flowers was 4.36 mg g −1, which is approximately seven times higher than in the upper flowers, while the delphinidin content is four times higher. Quantitative real-time PCR analysis established that the two-tone flower was a result of different expressions of the F3′ 5′ H, F3′ H and DFR genes, and these lead to different amounts of anthocyanin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mediterranean Basin is a biodiversity hotspot, housing >11.000 narrowly endemic plant species, many of which are declining due to mass tourism and agricultural intensification. To investigate the genetic resource impacts of ongoing habitat loss and degradation, we characterized the genetic variation in the last known populations of Leopoldia gussonei, a self-compatible endangered Sicilian Grape Hyacinth numbering less than 3,000 remaining individuals, using AFLP. Results demonstrated significant genome-wide genetic differentiation among all extant populations (Φ = 0.05-0.56), and genetic clustering according to geographic location. Gene diversity was fairly constant across population (mean H = 0.13) and was neither affected by current population size nor by spatial isolation. Vegetation analysis showed the presence of known invasive weeds in a quarter of the populations, but we found no relation between genetic diversity and plant community composition. The marked genetic differences among populations and the profusion of rare and private alleles indicate that any further population loss will lead to significant losses of genetic diversity. Conservation efforts should therefore focus on the preservation of all sites where L. gussonei still occurs, yet the deliberate introduction of diverse material into the smallest populations seems unneeded as clonality likely mitigated genetic drift effects thus far. More generally, our findings support the view that endemic plant species with a narrow ecological amplitude, as many specialists in Mediterranean coastal ecosystems, are highly genetically differentiated and that conservation of their genetic diversity requires preservation of most, if not all of their extant populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Experiments were conducted in the laboratory to screen the leaf extract of Dracaena arborea (Willd.) Link for the presence of chemical groups with insecticidal activity against Sitophilus zeamais (Motsch.) and Callosobruchus maculatus (Fab.). The plant materials were collected, dried, ground to fine powder and extracted with 90% ethanol. Phytochemical screening involved the use of thin layer chromatography analysis for chemical compounds such as alkaloids, tannins, saponins, anthraquinones, flavonoids and terpenes. Partitioning of the extract was carried out by dissolving the extract in water to obtain the aqueous phase, which was partitioned between equal volumes of chloroform, n-hexane, n-butanol and ethyl acetate. The different fractions were screened for insecticidal activity against S. zeamais and C. maculatus. Some fractions of the leaf extract such as ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions demonstrated 100% mortality, offered protection to grains, reduced progeny development and repelled the insects compared with the control. Based on the activity of some fractions, the leaf extract of D.arborea has the potential for development as a botanical insecticide against S. zeamais and C. maculatus. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Pollen morphology and wall structure of Clara and Herreria were investigated in order to clarify their taxonomy. Materials treated with a lactic acetolysis method at 40 % were used to obtain measurements, descriptions, and illustrations using light microscopy. Non-acetolyzed pollen grains were analyzed with scanning electron microscopy to characterize the surface details and apertures. As a result of this work, an identification key was prepared for Clara and Herreria species based on pollen morphology. All species present medium-sized pollen that are also heteropolar, elliptic amb, and monocolpate, with perforate, microreticulate, or reticulate surfaces. The two species of Clara differ with regard to their colpus dimensions and sexine ornamentation, and the seven species of Herreria can be distinguished by their sexine ornamentation, confidence interval values for the largest diameters, and colpi width. It was concluded that pollen morphology proved to be uninformative for differentiating the genera Clara and Herreria, but useful for distinguishing between related species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study observed the pollen morphology and ontogeny of Maianthemum bifolium (L.) F.W. Schmidt and explored the development and structure of its anther wall using conventional paraffin section and histochemical techniques. The results showed that it has four anthers, consecutive cytokinesis, tetragonally arranged microspore tetrads, two-celled mature pollen grains, and a secretory tapetum. Fascicular crystals were found in the connective tissues and anther wall during pollen ontogeny. The distribution of carbohydrates and lipids changes regularly in the process of pollen development and is related to their physiological activities such as cell division and material synthesis. Under a light microscope, its pollen grains are ellipsoid and have a sulcus and exine with fine, reticulate ornamentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]