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Key Clinical Message: The poppy seed test is a valuable, cost‐effective, and sensitive initial diagnostic investigation to identify the presence of colovesical fistula, particularly for clinicians in remote or rural areas with lack of access to specialist radiologic, endoscopic, surgical, or urological support. The poppy seed test therefore may act as a bridge toward the commencement of appropriate referral pathways for the management of colovesical fistula. The diagnosis of colovesical fistula is resource intensive, often requiring a combination of radiological investigation and endoscopy. The poppy seed test is a non‐invasive and cost‐effective alternative that has been demonstrated to identify presence of colovesical fistula with high sensitivity. There is however a noticeable paucity of recommendations for the poppy seed test in the diagnostic approach to colovesical fistula due to significant advancements in alternative radiologic and endoscopic technologies. Despite this, in resource‐challenged areas with lack of specialist support, the poppy seed test is a cost‐effective, accessible and safe test that can be performed to confirm the presence of colovesical fistula. We report a case of a 79‐year‐old man with a past history of colorectal cancer managed surgically with adjuvant chemoradiotherapy who develops noisy micturition, pneumaturia, and fecaluria 22 years after treatment. Given the suspicion of colovesical fistula, computed tomography imaging and cystoscopy were performed which was unable to demonstrate an overt fistula. The poppy seed test was utilized and demonstrated presence of poppy seeds in the urine, confirming the presence of a fistula. The patient was referred to a specialist surgical center for consideration of further management. The poppy seed test is a valuable initial diagnostic investigation for clinicians in remote or rural areas with lack of access to specialist radiologic, endoscopic, surgical, or urological support in confirming the presence of a colovesical fistula and initiating referral pathways for the management of this condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Several proteins from plant pathogenesis‐related family 10 (PR10) are highly abundant in the latex of opium poppy and have recently been shown to play diverse and important roles in the biosynthesis of benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (BIAs). The recent determination of the first crystal structures of PR10‐10 showed how large conformational changes in a surface loop and adjacent β‐strand are coupled to the binding of BIA compounds to the central hydrophobic binding pocket. A more detailed analysis of these conformational changes is now reported to further clarify how ligand binding is coupled to the formation and cleavage of an intermolecular disulfide bond that is only sterically allowed when the BIA binding pocket is empty. To decouple ligand binding from disulfide‐bond formation, each of the two highly conserved cysteine residues (Cys59 and Cys155) in PR10‐10 was replaced with serine using site‐directed mutagenesis. Crystal structures of the Cys59Ser mutant were determined in the presence of papaverine and in the absence of exogenous BIA compounds. A crystal structure of the Cys155Ser mutant was also determined in the absence of exogenous BIA compounds. All three of these crystal structures reveal conformations similar to that of wild‐type PR10‐10 with bound BIA compounds. In the absence of exogenous BIA compounds, the Cys59Ser and Cys155Ser mutants appear to bind an unidentified ligand or mixture of ligands that was presumably introduced during expression of the proteins in Escherichia coli. The analysis of conformational changes triggered by the binding of BIA compounds suggests a molecular mechanism coupling ligand binding to the disruption of an intermolecular disulfide bond. This mechanism may be involved in the regulation of biosynthetic reactions in plants and possibly other organisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opium poppy, coca and cannabis are raw materials for three notorious illicit drugs. For a long time, drug lords have been growing and smuggling these drugs in a variety of ways and channels and are continually finding new ways of trafficking their wares, which has led to the increasing difficulty of global drug enforcement. In the present paper, we propose an innovative pollen identification system for these important drug plants, which provides a tool for screening and detection of the drugs to aid in drug enforcement. By utilizing the characteristics of these fine particles, their abundant production, and high resistance to decay, we believe this tool could be applied in the following scenarios: detecting and dynamically monitoring drug cultivation activities; determining whether a suspect has been to fields of drug plants and determining whether the site has ever been planted with a drug plant and/or was involved in drug production. In the future, combined with microscope automatic image acquisition technology and intelligent image recognition technology, this pollen identification system is expected to be used to screen three notorious illicit drug plants, thus enhancing the efficiency of drug related crime investigations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This innovative study introduces the application of a 5% (v/v) poppy seed phenolic extract‐infused edible chitosan coating on fresh‐cut fruit salads (comprising apple, pineapple, pomegranate, and kiwi) stored at +4°C for 12 days. Non‐coated samples experienced notable changes: 4.30% weight loss, 25% decay, pH level at 3.59, titratable acidity of 0.18%, and browning index of 1.71. In contrast, fruit salads coated with chitosan–poppy seed phenolic extract exhibited significant improvements: weight loss reduced to 3.10%, decay limited to 3.13%, pH increased to 3.76, titratable acidity enhanced to 0.20%, and browning index notably decreased to 0.33. Soluble solids ranged from 11.83 to 14.71, L* from −8.13 to 18.64, a* from −1.85 to 22.35, and b* from 8.26 to 27.89 in non‐coated salads. Adding poppy seed phenolic extract to the coated fruits slightly expanded these ranges. Sensory evaluations consistently rated non‐coated samples between 1 and 3, while the coated samples received higher ratings between 6 and 7. These assessments consistently highlighted enhanced attributes, including intensified aroma, enriched color, improved taste, texture, and overall acceptability. Moreover, incorporating poppy seed phenolic extract amplified sensory qualities and significantly improved microbial safety (<106 CFU/g). In summary, the chitosan‐based coating, enriched with poppy seed phenolic extract, effectively extended the shelf life of fresh‐cut fruit salads. This integrated approach preserves key attributes, ensures microbial quality, and enhances the sensory characteristics of these products. The study's results emphasize its potential as a pivotal innovation in food preservation by providing specific and tangible outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article compares the performance of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated content and human-created content on social media platforms in the field of immunology and allergology. The study analyzed metrics such as "Accounts Reached," "Impressions," "Accounts Engaged," and "Likes" for posts created by a professional graphic designer and AI. The results showed a progressive decrease in engagement metrics over time for both types of posts, indicating a general decline in social media engagement. The study emphasizes the importance of human-AI collaboration to maximize AI's potential in content creation. [Extracted from the article]

SUMMARY: Whole‐genome duplication (WGD) leads to the duplication of both coding and non‐coding sequences within an organism's genome, providing an abundant supply of genetic material that can drive evolution, ultimately contributing to plant adaptation and speciation. Although non‐coding sequences contain numerous regulatory elements, they have been understudied compared to coding sequences. In order to address this gap, we explored the evolutionary patterns of regulatory sequences, coding sequences and transcriptomes using conserved non‐coding elements (CNEs) as regulatory element proxies following the recent WGD event in opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). Our results showed similar evolutionary patterns in subgenomes of regulatory and coding sequences. Specifically, the biased or unbiased retention of coding sequences reflected the same pattern as retention levels in regulatory sequences. Further, the divergence of gene expression patterns mediated by regulatory element variations occurred at a more rapid pace than that of gene coding sequences. However, gene losses were purportedly dependent on relaxed selection pressure in coding sequences. Specifically, the rapid evolution of tissue‐specific benzylisoquinoline alkaloid production in P. somniferum was associated with regulatory element changes. The origin of a novel stem‐specific ACR, which utilized ancestral cis‐elements as templates, is likely to be linked to the evolutionary trajectory behind the transition of the PSMT1‐CYP719A21 cluster from high levels of expression solely in P. rhoeas root tissue to its elevated expression in P. somniferum stem tissue. Our findings demonstrate that rapid regulatory element evolution can contribute to the emergence of new phenotypes and provide valuable insights into the high evolvability of regulatory elements. Significance Statement: This study demonstrates that the rapid evolution of regulatory elements can drive the emergence of novel phenotypes in plants. Our investigation, in particular, revealed that the evolution of stem‐specific high‐expression patterns of BIAs genes in P. somniferum was linked to rapid changes in regulatory elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The major goal of the study is to determine the potential use of poppy seed oil as a main lipid source in common carp diets. To investigate this, five different experimental diets (PO0, PO25, PO50, PO75, and PO100) with various proportions of fish oil and poppy seed oil blended as oil sources were provided and supplied to common carp for 90 days. In triplicate groups of 60 fish, 300 common carp weighing 1.15 ± 0.06 g were randomly placed in 100 L aquariums. At the end of the feeding trial, blood and tissue samples were collected from the fish after gravimetric measurements of the fish. The growth and feed utilization performance of the fish were calculated by gravimetric measurements, and tissue samples were examined by hematological, micromorphometric, and histopathological methods. According to the results, poppy seed oil enhanced the quantity of linoleic acid (18 : 2 ω−6) in the diet, and fish fed with the diet consisting completely of poppy seed oil (PO100) had the significantly greatest growth and feed utilization performance (P < 0.05). Furthermore, no significant differences in hematological or liver pathology were detected between all groups that were fed with experimental diets (P > 0.05). However, as compared to the control group, the digestive system micromorphometry and histomorphometric measurements of the fish fed with PO100 group diets showed a significant increase (P < 0.05). In conclusion, it was determined that the carp fed with feeds produced by using only poppy oil as the main fat source improved their digestive system, growth, and feed utilization performance without any negative effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noscapine is an isolated compound from the opium poppy, with distinctive chiral structure and chemistry, interacts with other compounds due to having multiple π‐acceptors, hydrogen bond acceptors, and ionic sites. Therefore, it has promising applicability for the enantioselective separation of a wide range of polar, acidic, basic, and neutral compounds. A new noscapine derivative chiral stationary phase (ND‐CSP) has been synthesized by consecutive N‐demethylation, reduction, and N‐propargylation of noscapine followed by attachment of a solid epoxy‐functionalized silica bed through the 1,3‐dipolar Huisgen cycloaddition. The noscapine derivative‐based stationary phase provides a considerable surface coverage, which is greater than some commercial CSPs and can validate better enantioresolution performance. The major advantages inherent to this chiral selector are stability, reproducibility after more than 200 tests, and substantial loading capacity. The characterization by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and elemental analysis indicated successful functionalization of the silica surface. Chromatographic method conditions like flow rate and mobile phase composition for enantioseparation of various compounds such as warfarin, propranolol, mandelic acid, and a sulfanilamide derivative were optimized. Comparing the experimental results with docking data revealed a clear correlation between the calculated binding energy of ND‐CSP and each enantiomer with the resolution of enantiomer peaks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: This case series describes 12 patients who developed opioid use disorder after ingesting a prohibited, imported herbal product, Kamini, which contains Papaver somniferum. They appeared unaware of the risk of dependence from Kamini and most had struggled to manage their use for many months before presenting for treatment. Methods: After two cases were presented at a clinical meeting, a chart review was conducted of cases across four public opioid treatment clinics in south‐east Queensland with about 1500 patients registered, identifying 10 further cases. Results: Twelve patients presented with features of opioid withdrawal, seeking treatment after use of Kamini for periods between 6 months and 8 years. Eleven patients were born in India. Nine patients stabilised on buprenorphine maintenance treatment, three of whom commenced long‐acting injectable buprenorphine. One patient left after 1 day and subsequently began methadone treatment with a private prescriber. Two patients on smaller doses and shorter‐term use undertook withdrawal with prescribed (off‐label) trans‐dermal buprenorphine. One patient, initially lost to follow‐up, later stabilised on long‐acting injectable buprenorphine. Reasons for presenting included supply shortages and financial distress during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Discussion and Conclusion: Kamini represents an illicit source of non‐prescription opioid in Australia. Although classified as an illegal import by the Therapeutic Goods Administration, patients confirm that it is readily available in Brisbane. Targeted efforts are needed to prevent further patients developing opioid dependence from use of Kamini and also to highlight treatment options for those seeking to stop Kamini use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Significance Statement: Applying IsoSeq on opium poppy, we improved the gene annotation with a custom‐made correction tool, and discovered tissue and development specific alternative splicing modes. Based on the newly found transcribed loci, we unveiled the different characteristics of splicing sites between young and old genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In forensic cases suspected to involve Papaver somniferum, species identification is key to the investigation. To accurately detect and identify P. somniferum as well as common adulterants of the same genus, 19 internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) sequences of P. somniferum (256 bp), Papaver canescens (254 bp), Papaver nudicaule (254 bp), Papaver pavoninum (250 bp), Papaver radicatum (254 bp), and Papaver rhoeas (256 bp) were obtained. Based on the ITS2 sequence, similarity analysis via BLAST, the nearest Kimura‐2‐parameter (K2P) genetic distances were calculated, and a phylogenetic tree was constructed using MEGA X software for the identification of six species of Papaver. Finally, differences in the ITS2 secondary structure between species were analyzed. The best matches of the P. somniferum ITS2 sequence were of other P. somniferum from different sources. The nearest K2P genetic distances between P. somniferum and its counterparts from other sources were zero, which was the smallest pairwise genetic distance among distances from the other five Papaver species. Various sources of P. somniferum clustered into an independent branch in the phylogenetic tree. The secondary structures of P. somniferum and P. rhoeas were significantly different from those of the other four species of Papaver. In summary, P. somniferum can be effectively distinguished from five closely related plants of the same genus by using ITS2 as a DNA barcode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Downy mildew is one of the most serious diseases of Papaver somniferum. Endophytes isolated from different parts of P. somniferum were screened for their ability to enhance resistance against downy mildew caused by the obligate biotrophic oomycete Peronospora meconopsidis. Two endophytes (SMR1 and SMR2) reduced the downy mildew on three P. somniferum genotypes (Sampada, J‐16, and I‐14). SMR1 (Microbacterium sp.) also enhanced the resistance of P. somniferum against downy mildew under field conditions. The biochemical markers of plant susceptibility under biotic stresses (proline and malondialdehyde) were found to be reduced in P. somniferum upon SMR1 treatment. To understand the mechanisms underlying the enhanced resistance to downy mildew in SMR1 endophyte‐treated P. somniferum genotype J‐16, we compared the expression profiles using the next‐generation RNA sequencing approach between P. somniferum pretreated with SMR1 and untreated endophyte‐free control plants following exposure to downy mildew pathogen. Comparative transcriptome analysis revealed differential expression of transcripts belonging to broad classes of signal transduction, protein modification, disease/defense proteins, transcription factors, and phytohormones in SMR1‐primed P. somniferum after infection with downy mildew pathogen. Furthermore, enhanced salicylic acid content was observed in SMR1‐primed P. somniferum after exposure to downy mildew pathogen. This study sheds light on molecular mechanisms underlying enhanced resistance to downy mildew in SMR1‐primed P. somniferum. Finally, we propose that the SA‐dependent defense pathway, the hallmark of systemic acquired resistance, is activated in SMR1‐primed P. somniferum, triggering the endophyte‐induced resistance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphinans are an important class of structurally fascinating and physiologically important natural products as exemplified by the famous opium alkaloids of the morphine family. Although this class of secondary metabolites from the juice of the opium poppy capsule was already used for medicinal purposes thousands of years ago, chemical modifications are still being applied to the core structure today in order to achieve the most specific effect on the various receptor subtypes possible with the fewest possible side effects. The unusual architecture of the morphinan core has also proven to be a highly challenging target for total synthesis. This review highlights electrosynthetic approaches towards natural and semisynthetic morphinan alkaloids. The historical progress in applying anodic aryl‐aryl couplings to the construction of the morphinan framework is described in chronological order while particular benefits and challenges concerning the electrochemical transformations are grouped together, including the influence of substitution patterns, protecting groups, and reaction conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) were fed replacement of fish oil with diets including poppy seed oil (PSO; 0%, 50% and 100%). At the end of the 90‐day feeding period, the water holding capacity of the fillets decreased when the storage time increased. The colour and pH values were affected by both storage and diets. The hardness, springiness, gumminess and chewiness index of the fillet samples decreased as a consequence of increasing storage time, whereas the cohesiveness values of the fillets increased. The addition of PSO increased unsaturated fatty acids and reduced saturated fatty acids in the fatty acid composition of the fillets. These results demonstrated that the fatty acid (FA) composition of the rainbow trout fillets was reflecting the FA composition of dietary treatments and oils sources. The total mesophilic and psychrophilic bacteria count of the fish oil (FO), poppy seed oil/fish oil (PSO/FO) and poppy seed oil (PSO) samples was found within the legal limit on the third day of storage; however, it was found above the legal limits on the fifth day of storage. The sensory evaluation results showed that the fish fed with PSO diet were found to be non‐desirable. The results of the study suggested that the blend of 50% fish oil and 50% poppy seed oil could be used as a replacer of fish oil in diets for rainbow trout to obtained the best growth performance, fillet quality and storage conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Benzylisoquinoline alkaloids (BIAs) have profound implications on human health owing to their potent pharmacological properties. Notable naturally occurring BIAs are the narcotic analgesics morphine, the cough suppressant codeine, the potential anticancer drug noscapine, the muscle relaxant papaverine, and the antimicrobial sanguinarine, all of which are produced in opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). Thebaine, an intermediate in the biosynthesis of codeine and morphine, is used in the manufacture of semisynthetic opiates, including oxycodone and naloxone. As the only commercial source of pharmaceutical opiates, opium poppy has been the focus of considerable research to understand BIA metabolism in the plant. The elucidation of several BIA biosynthetic pathways has enabled the development of synthetic biology platforms aimed at the alternative commercial production of valuable phytochemicals in microorganisms. The detection and identification of BIA pathway products and intermediates in complex extracts is essential for the continuing advancement of research in plant specialized metabolism and microbial synthetic biology. Herein, we report the use of liquid chromatography coupled with linear trap quadrupole and high-resolution Orbitrap multistage mass spectrometry to characterize 44 authentic BIAs using collision-induced dissociation (CID), higher-energy collisional dissociation (HCD), and pulsed Q collision-induced dissociation (PQD) MS² fragmentation, with MS² CID followed by MS³ and MS4 fragmentation. Our deep library of diagnostic spectral data constitutes a valuable resource for BIAs identification. In addition, we identified 22 BIAs in opium poppy latex and roots extracts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, gluten‐free flour mixture (75% rice flour + 15% chickpea flour + 10% carrot flour) was replaced separately with 5% of grape seed, pomegranate seed, flaxseed, poppy seed, and turmeric to improve the nutritional composition of gluten‐free cakes. Incorporation of flaxseed and turmeric caused a decrease in the volume index compared to the gluten‐free control sample. The protein and fat content of the cake samples prepared with flaxseed and poppy seed were found to be higher than the gluten‐free control samples. Significant increases (p <.05) were determined in antioxidant activity and total phenolic contents of gluten‐free cake samples in all supplementations. Flaxseed and poppy seed increased Ca, Mg, and P contents of cake samples. The hardness values of cake samples increased with the use of grape seed, pomegranate seed, flaxseed, poppy seed, and turmeric. Gluten‐free cakes containing flaxseed and poppy seed were highly appreciated by panelists. Practical Applications: Grape seed and pomegranate seed by‐products of the food industry, poppy seeds, flax seeds, and turmeric are valuable ingredients due to their rich content of bioactive substances. The use of these additives improved in the nutritional composition of the gluten‐free cake samples. People with gluten‐related disorders will have the opportunity to meet their nutritional needs with the consumption of these products. Enrichment of cakes especially with poppy seed and flaxseed has revealed successful results in terms of both nutritional and sensory properties. A new cereal‐based products has been developed for the gluten‐free functional product market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opium poppy, belonging to the family Papaveraceae, is grown for its alkaloid compounds of pharmaceutical value. Downy mildew caused by Peronospora somniferi and Pe. meconopsidis, substantially impacts crop production. The present study was conducted to identify the host range of Pe. somniferi and Pe. meconopsidis within selected weed and ornamental members of the Papaveraceae family. Nine Papaver spp., Meconopsis cambrica and a nonhost control (tomato, Solanum lycopersicum) were challenged with both pathogens under controlled glasshouse or laboratory conditions using infested soil or foliar applied sporangia as inocula. Peronospora somniferi and Pe. meconopsidis induced disease symptoms, including sporulation, in at least one trial for all tested species except for Pa. atlanticum and tomato. Species‐specific PCR testing of foliage of challenged plants confirmed infections by both pathogen species of symptomatic plants, identifying these as hosts. Positive PCR tests were also obtained from Pa. atlanticum plants for both pathogens. However, in the absence of pathogen sporulation structures as further evidence of infection, the host status of Pa. atlanticum remains inconclusive. Testing of seeds collected from Pe. somniferi and Pe. meconopsidis infected plants of Pa. somniferum, Pa. dubium, Pa. rhoeas and Pa. nudicaule showed presence of both pathogens, indicating likely ability for seed transmission in these species. We identified new hosts of these pathogens and discuss potential implications of these alternative hosts in pathogen survival, dissemination and epidemic initiation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A quick, simple, and high‐yield nucleic acid isolation process is crucial for high‐quality DNA analysis. The ability of the MicroGEM PDQeX phytoGEM system and Omega Bio‐tek E.Z.N.A.® Plant DS Mini kit to extract PCR‐ready DNA was evaluated by extracting the forensically relevant "legal high" plant species: Ipomoea purpurea, Artemisia absinthium, Mitragyna speciosa, Datura stramonium, and Papaver somniferum. The plant material was pulverized, processed using the manufacturer's plant protocol for the PDQeX Nucleic Acid Extraction or the manufacturer's protocol for the Omega extraction, quantified using the Invitrogen Qubit 2.0 Fluorometer, and analyzed for amplifiability by PCR using a Qiagen Rotor‐Gene Q instrument and published assays. The DNA amplicons for the legal high species produced high‐resolution melt curves concordant with the melts observed when DNA was isolated using the Qiagen DNeasy Plant Mini Kit in previous studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the aim was to characterize the physicochemical properties and some bioactive compounds of expeller‐pressed oils of five registered poppy seed varieties (TMO–1, Ofis–8, Ofis–96, Ofis–95, Ofis–3) grown in Turkey. The amounts of total carotenoids, chlorophylls, phenols, and antioxidant activities of oils ranged between 0.08–0.24 mg 100 g−1, 0.03–9.04 mg pheophytin a kg−1, 3.41–8.57 mg gallic acid equivalent 100 g−1, and 5.60–7.33 mM Trolox equivalent 100 g−1, respectively. The most abundant fatty acid in poppy seed oils was linoleic acid (69.85–74.02%), followed by oleic acid (13.98–16.99%), and palmitic acid (8.51–9.75%). In addition, poppy seed oils were rich in β–sitosterol (133.47–153.42 mg 100 g−1), campesterol (45.36–58.60 mg 100 g−1), and δ–5–avenasterol (28.21–39.40 mg 100 g−1). High amounts of γ–tocopherol and α–tocopherol were detected. This research is the first study, which identified and quantified the polyphenol, β–carotene, and lutein compounds of expeller–pressed poppy seed oils by HPLC. Tyrosol, apigenin, syringic acid, 3–hydroxytyrosol, luteolin, p–coumaric acid, quercetin, ferulic acid, sinapic acid, and veratric acid were detected in expeller‐pressed poppy seed oils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Morphinan alkaloids accumulate in the capsules of Papaver somniferum L. (opium poppy) most likely as defence against herbivory. Thus, capsule size is an important component of alkaloid yield. Shade during early cell division‐dominated growth of reproductive structures generally reduces final fruit size more than shade during later cell expansion‐dominated growth. The current study aimed to determine whether this response is found in opium poppy and the subsequent impact on alkaloid yield, composition and seed production. First the timing of key reproductive developmental events was resolved relative to macromorphological traits. Plants were then shaded during either (a) floral initiation, (b) early floral development or (c) capsule expansion before being harvested at maturation. Shade during floral initiation dramatically reduced final capsule size, alkaloid yield and seed number, and increased the concentration of precursor compounds relative to morphine, despite plants later returning to full sun. Shade during later capsule growth enhanced capsule size and alkaloid yield but had little effect on alkaloid composition or seed number. Thus, early developmental processes, including morphine biosynthesis, appear to have a relatively greater demand for carbohydrates compared with later processes. Crop management practices and environmental factors that limit carbohydrate availability during early development are thus predicted to have significant negative impacts on alkaloid production and reproductive success. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noscapine is an alkaloid with a basic phthalideisoquinoline moiety and is well recognized as an antitussive drug. It is obtained from opium poppy Papaver somniferum and demonstrates a rather safe toxicity profile in vitro. Recent studies found noscapine and its analogues to have anticancer activity against mammalian cancer cell lines by modulating microtubule assembly. In the present study, we report the synthesis and evaluation of cytotoxicity of a series of N‐sulfonyl noscapinoids 6 a–n obtained by reaction of nornoscapine with various aryl/heteroaryl sulfonyl chlorides. To assess the antiproliferative activity of the novel derivatives 6 a–n, SRB assay was performed in four different human cancer cell lines, MIAPaCa‐2 (pancreatic), HeLa (cervical), SK−N−SH (neuroblastoma) and DU145 (prostate cancer). The study identified four compounds 6 e–g and 6 j ability to arrest cell‐cycle at the G2/M phase and cytotoxic potential against the human pancreatic cancer cell line MIAPaCa‐2. We observed that these compounds 6 e–g and 6 j induce microtubule depolymerisation and cause cell cycle arrest at the G2/M phase thereby resulting in caspase‐3 and PARP activation leading to cell death. In silico molecular docking studies of these compounds showed non‐covalent interactions like Van der Waals and hydrogen‐bonding with tubulin protein and with good binding energy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Spongospora subterranea, which causes powdery scab of potato, infects a diverse range of plant species. Crop rotation as a powdery scab management tool will be compromised if pathogen hosts exist between potato crops. Opium poppy (Papaver somniferum) and pyrethrum (Tanacetum cinerariifolium) are important crops within intensive vegetable production rotations in NW Tasmania. Measurements of S. subterranea soil inoculum within a commercial field showed pathogen amounts were substantially elevated following an opium poppy crop, which suggested host status. In glasshouse testing, opium poppy and pyrethrum were confirmed as hosts of S. subterranea, with opium poppy the more susceptible of the two. Both species were less susceptible than tomato, a known host. Observations of early growth suggested inoculation impacts on all three plant species, although at 16 (tomato and opium poppy) or 26 (pyrethrum) weeks postinoculation, only tomato had significantly reduced shoot and root development. The role of rotation crops in inoculum persistence and the possible role of S. subterranea as a minor pathogen of nonpotato crops are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Codeinone reductase (COR) catalyzes the reversible NADPH‐dependent reduction of codeinone to codeine as the penultimate step of morphine biosynthesis in opium poppy (Papaver somniferum). It also irreversibly reduces neopinone, which forms by spontaneous isomerization in aqueous solution from codeinone, to neopine. In a parallel pathway involving 3‐O‐demethylated analogs, COR converts morphinone to morphine, and neomorphinone to neomorphine. Similar to neopine, the formation of neomorphine by COR is irreversible. Neopine is a minor substrate for codeine O‐demethylase (CODM), yielding morphine. In the plant, neopine levels are low and neomorphine has not been detected. Silencing of CODM leads to accumulation of upstream metabolites, such as codeine and thebaine, but does not result in a shift towards higher relative concentrations of neopine, suggesting a mechanism in the plant for limiting neopine production. In yeast (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) engineered to produce opiate alkaloids, the catalytic properties of COR lead to accumulation of neopine and neomorphine as major products. An isoform (COR‐B) was isolated from opium poppy chemotype Bea's Choice that showed higher catalytic activity than previously characterized CORs, and it yielded mostly neopine in vitro and in engineered yeast. Five catalytically distinct COR isoforms (COR1.1–1.4 and COR‐B) were used to determine sequence–function relationships that influence product selectivity. Biochemical characterization and site‐directed mutagenesis of native COR isoforms identified four residues (V25, K41, F129 and W279) that affected protein stability, reaction velocity, and product selectivity and output. Improvement of COR performance coupled with an ability to guide pathway flux is necessary to facilitate commercial production of opiate alkaloids in engineered microorganisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Noscapine biosynthesis in opium poppy involves three characterized O‐methyltransferases (OMTs) and a fourth responsible for the 4ʹ‐methoxyl on the phthalide isoquinoline scaffold. The first three enzymes are homodimers, whereas the latter is a heterodimer encoded by two linked genes (OMT2 and OMT3). Neither OMT2 nor OMT3 form stable homodimers, but yield a substrate‐specific heterodimer when their genes are co‐expressed in Escherichia coli. The only substrate, 4ʹ‐O‐desmethyl‐3‐O‐acetylpapaveroxine, is a seco‐berbine pathway intermediate that undergoes ester hydrolysis subsequent to 4ʹ‐O‐methylation leading to the formation of narcotine hemiacetal. In the absence of 4ʹ‐O‐methylation, a parallel pathway yields narcotoline hemiacetal. Dehydrogenation produces noscapine and narcotoline from the corresponding hemiacetals. Phthalide isoquinoline intermediates with a 4ʹ‐hydroxyl (i.e. narcotoline and narcotoline hemiacetal), or the corresponding 1‐hydroxyl on protoberberine intermediates, were not accepted. Norcoclaurine 6OMT, which shares 81% amino acid sequence identity with OMT3, also formed a functionally similar heterodimer with OMT2. Suppression of OMT2 transcript levels in opium poppy increased narcotoline accumulation, whereas reduced OMT3 transcript abundance caused no detectable change in the alkaloid phenotype. Opium poppy chemotype Marianne accumulates high levels of narcotoline and showed no detectable OMT2:OMT3 activity. Compared with the active subunit from the Bea's Choice chemotype, Marianne OMT2 exhibited a single S122Y mutation in the dimerization domain that precluded heterodimer formation based on homology models. Both subunits contributed to the formation of the substrate‐binding domain, although site‐directed mutagenesis revealed OMT2 as the active subunit. The occurrence of physiologically relevant OMT heterodimers increases the catalytic diversity of enzymes derived from a smaller number of gene products. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: Addiction; Opioid-related disorders; Substance-related disorders EN Addiction Opioid-related disorders Substance-related disorders 504 505 2 12/15/21 20211201 NES 211201 Clinical record A 34-year-old man presented seeking treatment for opioid use disorder in Melbourne, Australia. • People with poppy seed tea dependence may require moderate to high doses of opioid agonist medication treatment, including consideration of eligibility for long-acting injectable buprenorphine treatment. [Extracted from the article]

Opium poppy ( Papaver somniferum ) produces several pharmacologically important benzylisoquinoline alkaloids including the vasodilator papaverine. Pacodine and palaudine are tri- O -methylated analogs of papaverine, which contains four O -linked methyl groups. However, the biosynthetic origin of pacodine and palaudine has not been established. Three members of the 2-oxoglutarate/Fe 2+ -dependent dioxygenases (2ODDs) family in opium poppy display widespread O -dealkylation activity on several benzylisoquinoline alkaloids with diverse structural scaffolds, and two are responsible for the antepenultimate and ultimate steps in morphine biosynthesis. We report a novel 2ODD from opium poppy catalyzing the efficient substrate- and regio-specific 7- O -demethylation of papaverine yielding pacodine. The occurrence of papaverine 7- O -demethylase (P7ODM) expands the enzymatic scope of the 2ODD family in opium poppy and suggests an unexpected biosynthetic route to pacodine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Blueberry, defatted grape seed powder and defatted poppy seeds were incorporated into biscuits at a level of 5%. Some physicochemical and sensory characteristics were evaluated during 5 months storage period. Diameter, a* (− a = greenness, + a = redness) values, ash, fat, crude fiber, Mg and Ca contents increased, while L* (lightness), b* (− b = blueness, + b = yellowness) values decreased significantly ( P < 0.05). A significant type of fortification agent × storage time interaction ( P < 0.05) existed for all physicochemical parameters analyzed. Defatted poppy seed was the most effective agent for preventing increased peroxide values, whereas defatted grape seed powder addition decreased free fatty acid formation better than blueberry and defatted poppy seeds. All fortification agents increased the total phenolic content of biscuits. Biscuits having 5% blueberry exhibited a high percentage of antioxidant activity. Sensory evaluation results revealed that fortificated biscuits cannot be consumed after 5 months. Practical Applications As the relationship between nutrition and some chronic diseases have been established, the number of research and development studies focusing on functional foods has increased rapidly. Antioxidants became popular because of their positive effects on human health. Grape seed, a by-product of the grape-processing industry, is known as a strong free radical scavenger. Poppy seeds are generally used for their high oil content. Tocopherols found in poppy seeds have strong antioxidative properties. Blueberries, rich in anthocyanins, are widely consumed in different countries. These three botanical ingredients can be used as inexpensive antioxidant sources in snack foods such as biscuits and cookies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Opium poppy ( Papaver somniferum) is an important medicinal plant producing benzylisoquinoline alkaloids ( BIA). Micro RNAs (mi RNAs) are endogenous small RNAs ( sRNAs) of approximately 21 nucleotides. They are noncoding, but regulate gene expression in eukaryotes. Although many studies have been conducted on the identification and functions of plant mi RNA, scarce researches on mi RNA regulation of alkaloid biosynthesis have been reported. In this study, a total of 316 conserved and 11 novel mi RNAs were identified in opium poppy using second-generation sequencing and direct cloning. Tissue-specific regulation of mi RNA expression was comparatively analysed by mi RNA microarray assays. A total of 232 mi RNAs were found to be differentially expressed among four tissues. Likewise, 1469 target transcripts were detected using in silico and experimental approaches. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses indicated that mi RNA putatively regulates carbohydrate metabolism and genetic-information processing. Additionally, mi RNA target transcripts were mostly involved in response to stress against various factors and secondary-metabolite biosynthesis processes. Target transcript identification analyses revealed that some of the mi RNAs might be involved in BIA biosynthesis, such as pso-miR13, pso-miR2161 and pso-miR408. Additionally, three putatively mature mi RNA sequences were predicted to be targeting BIA-biosynthesis genes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, amount of morphine from poppy capsules (Papaver somniferum) was investigated using ultrasonic assisted extraction (UAE). Response surface methodology was used to estimate effective experimental conditions on the content extraction of poppy capsules. For this purpose, solvent/solid ratio (10–20 mL/500 mg sample), pH (1–13), time (30–60 min), and temperature (30–50°C) were chosen as experimental variables. The affected response is extraction recovery values for morphine from poppy straw. For interpreting the relationship between experimental factors and response, a design table was established with combinations of three different concentrations levels of this compound in 29 trials. The second order quadratic model gave a satisfactory description of the experimental data. In our study, R-Squared (0.96), Adj-R-Squared (0.92), and Pred R-Squared (0.78) values for extraction yield display good accuracy of the derived model. The predicted optimal conditions for the highest morphine level (3.38 mg morphine/500 mg-sample) were found at 19.99 mL solvent/500 mg solid ratio, 59.94 min extraction time, 1.10 pH, and 42.36°C temperature. In the optimal extraction conditions, the experimental values are very close to the predicted values. Consequently, the response surface modeling can be achieved sufficiently to predict extraction yield from poppy straw by ultrasound assisted extraction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Keywords: Alkaloids; Opiates; Palladium Catalysis; Photo-Redox Chemistry; Total Synthesis EN Alkaloids Opiates Palladium Catalysis Photo-Redox Chemistry Total Synthesis 1 1 1 06/29/22 20220704 NES 220704 B The morphinan alkaloids b , especially codeine and morphine, are derived from the opium poppy and have been used for millennia for pain management. In their Communication (e202203186), Martin G. Banwell, Ping Lan, and co-workers detail by far the shortest synthesis of (-)-codeine reported to date, which involves a total "in-flask" time of less than 24 hours. Alkaloids, Opiates, Palladium Catalysis, Photo-Redox Chemistry, Total Synthesis. [Extracted from the article]

RATIONALE Pyridinium chlorochromate (PCC) is the active ingredient of 'Urine Luck', a commercially available in vitro adulterating agent used to conceal the presence of drugs in a urine specimen. The exposure of codeine and its major glucuronide metabolite codeine-6-glucuronide (C6G) to PCC was investigated to determine whether PCC is an effective masking agent for these opiate compounds. METHODS Following the addition of PCC to both spiked and authentic codeine and C6G-positive urine specimens, the samples were monitored using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). Stable reaction products were identified and characterized using high-resolution MS analysis and, where possible, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) analysis. RESULTS It was determined that PCC effectively oxidizes codeine and C6G, thus altering the original codeine-to-C6G ratio in the urine specimen. Four reaction products were identified for codeine: codeinone, 14-hydroxycodeinone, 6- O-methylcodeine and 8-hydroxy-7,8-dihydrocodeinone. Similarly, three reaction products were identified for C6G: codeinone, codeine and a lactone of C6G (tentative assignment). CONCLUSIONS Besides addressing the complications added to interpretation, more investigation is warranted to further determine their potential for use as markers for monitoring the presence of codeine and C6G in urine specimens adulterated with PCC. Copyright © 2014 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A genotype 'Sujata' developed earlier at CSIR-CIMAP from its parent 'Sampada' is considered to be the latex-less variety of Papaver somniferum. These two genotypes are contrasting in terms of latex and stem strength. Earlier we have carried out microarray analysis to identify differentially expressing genes from the capsules of the two genotypes. In this study, the peduncles of the two genotypes were compared for the anatomy revealing less number of laticifers in the cortex and vascular bundles. One of the important cell wall-related genes (for laccase) from the microarray analysis showing significantly higher expression in 'Sampada' capsule was taken up for further characterization in the peduncle here. It was functionally characterized through transient overexpression and RNAi suppression in 'Sujata' and 'Sampada'. The increase in acid insoluble lignin and total lignin in overexpressed tissue of 'Sujata', and comparable decrease in suppressed tissue of 'Sampada', along with corresponding increase and decrease in the transcript abundance of laccase confirm the involvement of laccase in lignin biosynthesis. Negligible transcript in phloem compared to the xylem tissue localized its expression in xylem tissue. This demonstrates the involvement of P. somniferum laccase in lignin biosynthesis of xylem, providing strength to the peduncle/stem and preventing lodging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The final step in the biosynthesis of the phthalideisoquinoline alkaloid noscapine involves a purported dehydrogenation of the narcotinehemiacetal keto moiety. A short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase ( SDR), designated noscapine synthase ( NOS), that catalyzes dehydrogenation of narcotinehemiacetal to noscapine was identified in opium poppy and functionally characterized. The NOS gene was isolated using an integrated transcript and metabolite profiling strategy and subsequently expressed in Escherichia coli. Noscapine synthase is highly divergent from other characterized members of the NADPH-dependent SDR superfamily involved in benzylisoquinoline alkaloid metabolism, and it exhibits exclusive substrate specificity for narcotinehemiacetal. Kinetic analyses showed that NOS exhibits higher catalytic efficiency with NAD+ as the cofactor compared with NADP+. Suppression of NOS transcript levels in opium poppy plants subjected to virus-induced gene silencing resulted in a corresponding reduction in the accumulation of noscapine and an increase in narcotinehemiacetal levels in the latex. Noscapine and NOS transcripts were detected in all opium poppy organs, but both were most abundant in stems. Unlike other putative biosynthetic genes clustered in the opium poppy genome, and their corresponding proteins, NOS transcripts and the cognate enzyme were abundant in latex, indicating that noscapine metabolism is completed in a distinct cell type compared with the rest of the pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] CYP719A21 from opium poppy was characterized as canadine synthase. [•] Canadine synthase forms a methylenedioxy bridge on (S)-tetrahydrocolumbamine. [•] The enzyme is substrate-specific and displays relatively high substrate affinity. [•] Suppression of the CYP719A21 gene predictably affects noscapine metabolism. [•] CYP719A21 is involved in noscapine biosynthesis in opium poppy. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

We model the economic incentives surrounding opium poppy cultivation in Afghanistan. Specifically, we examine the impact of eradication policies when opium is used as a means of obtaining credit, and when the crops are cultivated in sharecropping arrangements. The analysis suggests that when perfect credit markets are available, an increased risk of eradication will lead to less land being allocated to opium poppy. However, when opium is used as a means of obtaining credit, an eradication policy can rather increase land under poppy cultivation. Furthermore, the unintended effects of eradication can be augmented in sharecropping arrangements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

All publicly available opium poppy expressed sequence tag ( EST) sequences, totalling 20 885, were assembled into unigenes and examined for simple sequence repeats ( SSRs). Nearly 19% of the 14 957 unigenes contained SSRs with 4% harbouring more than one SSR. Average density of the SSRs was 1 SSR per 3.6 kb of non-redundant EST sequence. Trinucleotide SSRs were most frequently identified (39%), and many of the most prevalent motifs were AT-rich. Flanking primers were designed for 86% of the SSRs and 67 primer pairs were tested on 37 opium poppy accessions and seven related species. All markers were transferable to the related species. Polymorphism information content ( PIC) values for the markers were intermediate for comparisons within opium poppy (average of 0.27) and slightly higher for comparisons across species (average of 0.29). The markers were found to be useful for diversity analysis as they successfully distinguished among Turkish opium poppy accessions and land races. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The levels of fat-soluble vitamin, trace element and fatty acid of Vitex agnus-castus L., Juniperus oxycedrus L., and Papaver somniferum L. seeds in Turkey were determined by using HPLC, ICP-OES, and GC, respectively. In the Vitex agnus-castus L., Juniperus oxycedrus L., and Papaver somniferum L. seeds, linoleic acid (18:2) was determined with the highest level rates (%54.11, %28.03, and %72.14, resp.). In the Vitex agnus-castus L. seeds, R-tocopherol, α-tocopherol, and K1 levels were determined as 9.70 µg/g, 18.20 µg/g, and 24.79 µg/g, respectively; In the Juniperus oxycedrus L. seeds, R-tocopherol, α-tocopherol, and K1 were determined as 18.50 µg/g, 0.84 µg/g, and 5.00 µg/g, respectively, and in the Papaver somniferum L. seeds, R-tocopherol, α-tocopherol, K1, and D2 levels were determined as 43.25 µg/g, 122.05 µg/g, 12.01 µg/g, and 0.62 µg/g, respectively. In the Vitex agnus-castus L., Juniperus oxycedrus L., and Papaver somniferum L. seeds, nickel (Ni), zinc (Zn), and iron (Fe) were determined with the trace element level rates (4.42 mg/kg, 10.43 mg/kg, 3.71 mg/kg for Ni, 7.00 mg/kg, 7.70 mg/kg, and 24 mg/kg for Zn and 93.73 mg/kg, 187.95 mg/kg, and 149.64 mg/kg for Fe, resp.). These parameters in seeds are very important for human life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Noscapine, a phthalideisoquinoline alkaloid derived from opium, has been used in the treatment of various cancer types. Its low-toxicity profile has increased attention to this alkaloid. With regard to increasing demand for this compound, we developed a new method for isolation of noscapine from dried capsules of Papaver somniferum. Noscapine was successfully isolated from poppy capsules for the first time and the purity of the isolated compound was determined to be over 99.59% by HPLC analysis. The structure of noscapine was confirmed by ¹H NMR, 13C NMR, FT-IR, elemental analysis, and HR-ESI-MS methods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plant-specific YABBY genes were initially defined by their roles in determining abaxial/adaxial cell fate in lateral organs of eudicots, and repressing meristematic genes in differentiating tissues such as leaves. In Arabidopsis thaliana FILAMENTOUS FLOWER ( FIL) is also required for inflorescence and floral meristem establishment and flower development in a pathway involving the floral transition and identity genes. Here we describe the characterization of a FIL orthologue from the basal eudicot, Papaver somniferum (the opium poppy), and demonstrate a role for the gene in patterning the highly lobed leaf of the poppy. Silencing of PapsFIL using viral-induced gene silencing resulted in leaves of reduced laminar area, more pronounced margin serration and, in some cases, leaf bifurcation. In contrast, the gene does not appear to affect the development of the flower, and these variations in function are discussed in relation to its taxonomic position as a basal eudicot and its determinate growth habit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary Opium poppy ( Papaver somniferum) remains the sole commercial source for several pharmaceutical alkaloids including the narcotic analgesics codeine and morphine, and the semi-synthetic drugs oxycodone, buprenorphine and naltrexone. Although most of the biosynthetic genes have been identified, the post-transcriptional regulation of the morphinan alkaloid pathway has not been determined. We have used virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) as a functional genomics tool to investigate the regulation of morphine biosynthesis via a systematic reduction in enzyme levels responsible for the final six steps in the pathway. Specific gene silencing was confirmed at the transcript level by real-time quantitative PCR (polymerase chain reaction), and at the protein level by immunoblot analysis using antibodies raised against salutaridine synthase (SalSyn), salutaridine reductase (SalR), salutaridine 7- O-acetyltransferase (SalAT), thebaine 6- O-demethylase (T6ODM), codeinone reductase (COR), and codeine O-demethylase (CODM). In some cases, silencing a specific biosynthetic gene resulted in a predictable accumulation of the substrate for the corresponding enzyme. Reduced SalSyn, SalR, T6ODM and CODM protein levels correlated with lower morphine levels and a substantial increase in the accumulation of reticuline, salutaridine, thebaine and codeine, respectively. In contrast, the silencing of genes encoding SalAT and COR resulted in the accumulation of salutaridine and reticuline, respectively, which are not the corresponding enzymatic substrates. The silencing of alkaloid biosynthetic genes using VIGS confirms the physiological function of enzymes previously characterized in vitro, provides insight into the biochemical regulation of morphine biosynthesis, and demonstrates the immense potential for metabolic engineering in opium poppy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pinke G, Pál RW, Tóth K, Karácsony P, Czúcz B & Botta- Dukát Z (2011). Weed vegetation of poppy ( Papaver somniferum) fields in Hungary: effects of management and environmental factors on species composition. Weed Research 51, 621-630. Summary Poppy ( Papaver somniferum) is a sporadically cultivated crop species, with idiosyncratic life history traits, management systems and highly specific and under-researched weed communities. This study aimed to assess the management and environmental factors determining the weed species composition of poppy fields over a relatively large area (Hungary in central-eastern Europe), one of the focal regions of poppy production worldwide. The abundance of weed flora was measured in 102 poppy fields across Hungary, along with 41 management and environmental factors. The set of explanatory variables was reduced by stepwise backward selection to a minimal adequate model containing 15 terms, which explained 34.3% of the total variation in species data. The net effects of 10 variables on species composition were significant. Sowing season was found to be the most important explanatory variable, showing a clear distinction between the weed flora of autumn-sown food poppy and spring-sown alkaloid poppy fields. Other management factors, such as preceding crop, herbicides mesotrione and isoxaflutole, fertiliser N and row spacing, were also significant. Only four environmental variables (temperature, soil texture, soil Mg and Ca content) were significant, which can be attributed to the narrow ecological tolerance of poppy, resulting in short environmental gradients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers in the opium poppy ( Papaver somniferum L.) were identified from an expressed sequence tag (EST) database comprised of 20,340 sequences. In total, 2780 SSR-containing sequences were identified. The most frequent microsatellite had an AT/TA motif (37%). Twenty-two opium poppy EST-SSR markers were presently developed and polymorphisms of six markers (psom 2, 4, 12, 13, 17, and 22) were utilized in 135 individuals under narcotic control investigation. An average of three alleles per locus (range: 2-5 alleles) with a mean heterozygosity of 0.167 was detected. Six loci identified 29 unique profiles in 135 individuals. The EST-SSR markers exhibited small degrees of genetic differentiation (fixation index = 0.727, p < 0.001). Other variable markers will be needed to facilitate the forensic identification of the opium poppy for future cases. To determine the potential for cross-species amplification, six markers were tested in five Papaver genera species and two Eschscholzia genera. The psom 4 and psom 17 primer pair was transferable. This is the first study to report SSR markers of the opium poppy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study on the alternative perspectives and approaches on the cultivation, processing, and marketing, as well as consumption of opium poppy in Turkey. It explores how the opium poppy can be controlled and how it can contribute to sustainable development, rural livelihoods and geopolitical security. It provides an overview of the history of opium poppy in Anatolia, its implications on geopolitics and how its illicit production in Afghanistan and other areas can be controlled.

The aim of this study was to observe the lipid peroxidation (LP) of cell membranes and antioxidant systems in response to inoculation of Peronospora arborescens causing downy mildew (DM) in opium poppy. Contents of the LP product, malondialdehyde (MDA) and antioxidant glutathione (GSH) were determined in leaves of two opium poppy genotypes, Pps-1 (highly resistant to DM) and Jawahar-16 (highly susceptible to DM) at different time intervals after inoculation (12 h, 24 h, 48 h and 72 h). The provided GSH content corresponded to that of total non-protein sulfhydryl groups. In leaves of Jawahar-16, a significant decrease in concentration of GSH and a persistent increase in concentration of MDA were recorded after inoculation in comparison to leaves of control plants. The continuous decrease in GSH content contributed to damage of cell membranes leading to disease development in Jawahar-16. On the other hand in a resistant genotype (Pps-1), initially at 12 h after inoculation (hai) the level of GSH was found to be high, but a transient and highly significant decrease in content of GSH and increase in content of MDA was observed at 24 hai in comparison to control plants of same genotype and also in comparison to inoculated plants of susceptible genotype (Jawahar-16). These results indicate that generation of GSH and MDA is negatively correlated during the infection process as found in the case of DM-resistant genotype Pps-1 at 24hai, which also suggests an increased need by the host plant for oxidative stress, required for hypersensitive response mediated defense mechanism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The opium poppy Papaver somniferum is the source of the narcotic analgesics morphine and codeine. Salutaridine reductase (SalR; EC 1.1.1.248) reduces the C-7 keto group of salutaridine to the C-7 ( S)-hydroxyl group of salutaridinol in the biosynthetic pathway that leads to morphine in the opium poppy plant. P. somniferum SalR was overproduced in Escherichia coli and purified using cobalt-affinity and size-exclusion chromatography. Hexagonal crystals belonging to space group P6422 or P6222 were obtained using ammonium sulfate as precipitant and diffracted to a resolution of 1.9 Å. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the role of Peronospora arborescens oospores as primary inoculum for downy mildew of opium poppy and infection types that they may give rise to in Spain using an integrative experimental approach that combined pathogenicity tests in growth chambers and field microplots, together with molecular detection of P. arborescens infection by specific nested-PCR assays. The results demonstrated that oospores in infested soil or leaf debris were effective inoculum for ingress of the pathogen through underground plant tissues early in poppy seedling growth. This gave rise to systemic infections that reproduced the stunting, chlorotic syndrome frequently observed in affected plants in commercial fields. Additionally, infection of underground tissues of older plants by oospore inoculum could remain asymptomatic. Results also suggested that sporangia formed on infected plants are effective in producing secondary local infections that later may become systemic and either symptomatic or asymptomatic. Finally, and more importantly, those delayed symptomatic or asymptomatic systemic infections, as well as secondary local infections of capsules, can give rise to infected seeds. This research on the biology of P. arborescens on poppy plants and epidemiology of downy mildew may help to develop knowledge-based disease-management strategies of use in the protection of yields of opium poppy crops in Spain and elsewhere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The benzylisoquinoline alkaloids are a highly diverse group of about 2500 compounds which accumulate in a species-specific manner. Despite the numerous compounds which could be identified, the biosynthetic pathways and the participating enzymes or cDNAs could be characterized only for a few selected members, whereas the biosynthesis of the majority of the compounds is still largely unknown. In an attempt to characterize additional biosynthetic steps at the molecular level, integration of alkaloid and transcript profiling across Papaver species was performed. This analysis showed high expression of an expressed sequence tag (EST) of unknown function only in Papaver somniferum varieties. After full-length cloning of the open reading frame and sequence analysis, this EST could be classified as a member of the class II type O-methyltransferase protein family. It was related to O-methyltransferases from benzylisoquinoline biosynthesis, and the amino acid sequence showed 68% identical residues to norcoclaurine 6- O-methyltransferase. However, rather than methylating norcoclaurine, the recombinant protein methylated norreticuline at position seven with a Km of 44 μm using S-adenosyl-l-methionine as a cofactor. Of all substrates tested, only norreticuline was converted. Even minor changes in the benzylisoquinoline backbone were not tolerated by the enzyme. Accordingly, the enzyme was named norreticuline 7– O-methyltransferase (N7OMT). This enzyme represents a novel O-methyltransferase in benzylisoquinoline metabolism. Expression analysis showed slightly increased expression of N7OMT in P. somniferum varieties containing papaverine, suggesting its involvement in the partially unknown biosynthesis of this pharmaceutically important compound. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study found that the latex capacity (mg latex mg−1 dry weight capsule) of opium poppy capsules is fixed early in capsule development. Latex capacity, which represents the proportion of the capsule wall allocated to laticifers (specialised cells for latex storage), had peaked in the capsule at 1 week after flowering. In contrast, the morphine content of capsules continued to increase with capsule development until commercial harvest. Morphine content was correlated with capsule mass and total latex mass, but there was no correlation between latex capacity and morphine yield. The most important morphological characteristic in terms of morphine end yield (commercial harvest stage) was capsule mass. The findings of this study demonstrate that although latex yield per plant is a highly heritable morphological characteristic, it may have limited potential for use in a breeding strategy aimed at increasing the morphine yield from capsules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alkaloids represent a large and diverse group of compounds that are related by the occurrence of a nitrogen atom within a heterocyclic backbone. Unlike other types of secondary metabolites, the various structural categories of alkaloids are unrelated in terms of biosynthesis and evolution. Although the biology of each group is unique, common patterns have become apparent. Opium poppy ( Papaver somniferum), which produces several benzylisoquinoline alkaloids, and Madagascar periwinkle ( Catharanthus roseus), which accumulates an array of monoterpenoid indole alkaloids, have emerged as the premier organisms used to study plant alkaloid metabolism. The status of these species as model systems results from decades of research on the chemistry, enzymology and molecular biology responsible for the biosynthesis of valuable pharmaceutical alkaloids. Opium poppy remains the only commercial source for morphine, codeine and semi-synthetic analgesics, such as oxycodone, derived from thebaine. Catharanthus roseus is the only source for the anti-cancer drugs vinblastine and vincristine. Impressive collections of cDNAs encoding biosynthetic enzymes and regulatory proteins involved in the formation of benzylisoquinoline and monoterpenoid indole alkaloids are now available, and the rate of gene discovery has accelerated with the application of genomics. Such tools have allowed the establishment of models that describe the complex cell biology of alkaloid metabolism in these important medicinal plants. A suite of biotechnological resources, including genetic transformation protocols, has allowed the application of metabolic engineering to modify the alkaloid content of these and related species. An overview of recent progress on benzylisoquinoline and monoterpenoid indole alkaloid biosynthesis in opium poppy and C. roseus is presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Peronospora cristata, causing downy mildew, has become an economically important pathogen of oilseed poppy ( Papaver somniferum) since its first record in Tasmania in 1996. DOWNCAST, originally developed for downy mildew of onion, was evaluated for its ability to predict sporulation and infection of poppy by P. cristata. To assess the influence of the parameters within DOWNCAST, two modifications (POPCAST1 and POPCAST2) of the standard DOWNCAST model were also developed and tested. Initial accuracy of determination of sporulation events by DOWNCAST was 75%, while POPCAST1 (but not POPCAST2) was a significantly more accurate predictor of sporulation events (86%) than DOWNCAST (χ2 = 5.74, P = 0.025). This increase in accuracy was attributed to increasing both the rainfall threshold inhibitory to sporulation from 0.2 to 3.0 mm, and the relative humidity threshold for induction and development of sporulation from 95% to 96%. While DOWNCAST, POPCAST1 and POPCAST2 had accuracies of infection determination of 65%, 80% and 75%, respectively, chi-squared analysis indicated no significant difference between models. Preliminary field evaluation indicated that POPCAST1 and POPCAST2 were more sensitive in detecting early infection events than DOWNCAST. Field observations indicated that conditions are frequently conducive for downy mildew spread, therefore the ability to predict early season infection events would allow growers to reduce initial infection rates, and thus inoculum loads later in the season. POPCAST1 and POPCAST2 represent a significant step towards the development of a predictive model for downy mildew in poppy crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]