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The present study investigated potential application of somatic embryogenesis (SE) for conservation of Kelussia odoratissima Mozaff. As the efficiency of SE greatly varies depending on the culture conditions including light, effects of five light spectrums including a fluorescent light and four types of light - emitting diode (LED) (red, blue, 3red-1blue, and 3blue:1red) for an exposure time of a month on the maturation of K. odoratissima were studied. To better understand the effect of light treatment on conversion of K. odoratissima cultures, two months after treatment, fresh and dry weight and metabolite contents were evaluated. Samples of the same age in-situ plant and air-dry plant were also considered for relative comparison. Study of developmental stage of K. odoratissima under in vitro conditions revealed that a combination of 3red:1blue LED provided the highest number of cotyledonary (mature) embryos per callus. Interestingly, 3red:1blue LED could significantly improve synchronization of somatic embryos. Hence, this light treatment was identified as the best treatment for the maturation of somatic embryos in K. odoratissima. In conversion stage, the highest fresh and dried weights were recorded for tissue culture plantlets grown under 3blue:1red and blue LED treatment. Phthalide content of fresh in-situ plant was significantly greater than other treatments. Interestingly, the phthalide content was significantly higher in leaves of tissue culture plantlets compared to air-dry in situ plants, which suggests tissue culture as an alternative technique for the production of bioactive compounds in K. odoratissima.Key message: LEDs can be effective in micropropagation of Kelussia odoratissima Mozaff, an endangered plant endemic to Iran. Our results could pave the way for the proliferation of plant in bioreactor systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changing climate imposes abiotic stress factors, including salinity, flood, drought, high and low temperature, and light as well as heavy metals on medicinal plants. Plants respond to stress in terms of growth and biosynthesis of metabolites. The rhizomatous genus Curcuma has been extensively used in traditional or folk medicine worldwide and its therapeutic potential relies on its phyto-constituents. A discrete array of literature depicts negative effects on growth and alterations in yield of secondary metabolites under abiotic stress. However, one complete and precise document on the response of Curcuma spp. towards abiotic stress and their molecular mechanism is lacking. Hence, this review has been prepared by pulling together the published information on the abiotic stress response as well as the future research prospects on the Curcuma spp. along with other related rhizomatous plants of the family Zingiberaceae, to obtain prospective clues on possible responses of these medicinally potential species in the verge of changing climate. We have also highlighted the stress mitigation strategies employed by these plants in the light of available literature and by comparing with information on related species of Zingiberaceae family. We have focused on the urgency of multiomics approaches to find out the genetic and biochemical strategies of Curcuma spp. to cope with stress as well as emphasized for conservation of rare and endangered species of Curcuma. This review will be helpful for plant physiologists, farmers, pharmaceutical industries, and policy makers, to implement better plans and policies regarding uninterrupted commercial yield of Curcuma secondary metabolites in changing climate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Insect herbivores adapt and develop strategies to counteract plant chemical defenses. The aphid Uroleucon formosanum is a serious sap‐sucking pest that infests lettuces containing toxic sesquiterpene lactones (STLs). Herein, we employed a combination of genome sequencing and RNA‐seq transcriptome profiling to understand the mechanisms underlying phytotoxin tolerance in U. formosanum. We generated the first chromosome‐level genome assembly for U. formosanum, with a total size of 453.26 Mb and a scaffold N50 of 33.22 Mb. Comparative genomic analyses revealed an enrichment of signals for positive selection and gene family expansion in immune‐related pathways. Specifically, the expanded set of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) genes showed upregulation after treatment with lactucin, suggesting that they may play a role in the immune response against STLs. The expression of takeout‐like genes and cuticle‐associated genes was also significantly increased in the lactucin‐treated samples. Additionally, 53 cytochrome P450 monooxygenase, 30 carboxylesterase, 19 glutathione S‐transferase, 32 uridine diphosphate glycosyltransferase and 63 ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporter genes were identified in the U. formosanum genome. CYP4C1, CYP6A13 and 7 ABC genes were strongly upregulated in response to lactucin treatment, indicating the involvement of detoxifying enzymes in the tolerance of U. formosanum to STLs. Our findings suggest that the cuticle barrier, immune response and enzyme‐mediated metabolic detoxification jointly enhance the tolerance of U. formosanum to phytotoxins and promote its adaptation to host plants. This study presents a valuable genomic resource and provides insights into insect adaptation to plant chemical challenges and future technological developments for pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Broussonetia papyrifera is a dioecious plant that is rich in various metabolites and widely distribute in Asia. Microtus fortis is a rodent that often causes damage to crops, especially in the Dongting Lake region of China. There is a wide overlap in the distribution areas for the above species and the M. fortis feeds on the leaves of the B. papyrifera. Preliminary experiments have shown that the reproduction of M. fortis is inhibited after feeding on the leaves of the B. papyrifera. Methods: In order to explore the potential of using B. papyrifera to develop botanical pesticides, we investigated the palatability and reactive substances. The feeding frequency of M. fortis on B. papyrifera leaves to that of on daily fodder and Carex brevicuspis that is the primary food for the wild population were compared. We also attempted to identify the responsive substances in B. papyrifera leaves that were bitten by M. fortis using metabolome analysis. Results: In general, B. papyrifera leaves exhibited a stronger attraction to M. fortis. M. fortis foraged B. papyrifera leaves more frequently, and the intake was higher than that of the other two. Differential metabolites were screened by comparing normal leaves and leaves bitten by M. fortis, meanwhile with the intervention of clipped leaves. A total of 269 substances were screened, and many of these were involved in the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, including terpenoids and alkaloids. These substances may be related to the defense mechanism of B. papyrifera against herbivores. Discussion: These findings support further research examining animal-plant interactions and simultaneously provide insights into the utilisation of B. papyrifera resources and the management of rodents. The good palatability and the defense of B. papyrifera leaves suggest that they have the potential to contribute in development of plant rodenticide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Complete elucidation of members of the gustatory receptor (Gr) family in lepidopteran insects began in the silkworm Bombyx mori. Grs of lepidopteran insects were initially classified into four subfamilies based on the results of phylogenetic studies and analyses of a few ligands. However, with further ligand analysis, it has become clear that plant secondary metabolites are important targets not only for Grs in the bitter subfamily but also for the Drosophila melanogaster Gr43a orthologue subfamily and Grs in the sugar subfamily. Gene knockout experiments showed that B. mori Gr6 (BmGr6) and BmGr9 are involved in the recognition of the feeding-promoting compounds chlorogenic acid and isoquercetin in mulberry leaves by the maxillary palps, suggesting that these Grs are responsible for palpation-dependent host recognition without biting. On the other hand, BmGr expression was also confirmed in nonsensory organs. Midgut enteroendocrine cells that produce specific neuropeptides were shown to express specific BmGrs, suggesting that BmGrs are involved in the induction of endocrine secretion in response to changes in the midgut contents. Furthermore, gene knockout experiments indicated that BmGr6 is indeed involved in the secretion of myosuppressin. On the other hand, BmGr9 was shown to induce signal transduction that is not derived from the intracellular signaling cascade mediated by G proteins but from the fructose-regulated cation channel of BmGr9 itself. Cryogenic electron microscopy revealed the mechanism by which the ion channel of the BmGr9 homotetramer opens upon binding of fructose to the ligand-binding pocket. Research on BmGrs has contributed greatly to our understanding of the functions and roles of Grs in insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is imperative to enhance crop yield to meet the demands of a burgeoning global population while simultaneously safeguarding the environment from adverse impacts, which is one of the dominant challenges confronting humanity in this phase of global climate change. To overcome this problem and reduce dependency on chemical fertilizer, scientists now view the implementation of biostimulant strategies as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly approach to achieving sustainable agriculture. Plant extracts are rich in bioactive phytocompounds, which can enhance plant resistance to disease, pest, and abiotic stresses (e.g., drought, salinity, and extreme temperature), and promote plant growth and productivity. Furthermore, the application of plant extracts through soil drenching can also significantly change the rhizosphere soil microbiome, and indirectly interact with plants, eventually stabilizing plant growth. Currently, the application of plant extracts as a whole is effective, which emphasizes the contribution of complex interactions between multiple compounds, with seaweed extracts being the most widely studied and utilized. Interestingly, plant extracts are compatible with fertilizer and can be applied in conjunction with nutrient inputs to further enhance their effectiveness. Given all this knowledge, exploring the growth and functional effects induced by plant extracts, as well as understanding their interactions and mechanisms in plants, is crucial for developing advantageous approaches with potential value in integrated crop management systems, ultimately contributing to sustainable production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Faculty of Pharmacy of Ankara University / Ankara Üniversitesi Eczacilik Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Ankara University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Faculty of Pharmacy of Ankara University / Ankara Üniversitesi Eczacilik Fakültesi Dergisi is the property of Ankara University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Herbivorous insects require mechanisms to deal with defence compounds produced by their host plants. Despite an array of secondary compounds associated with defence, eucalypts are hosts to many insect species that readily obtain nutrients also produced by these plants. Gonipterus weevils are foliage-feeding eucalypt specialists as larvae and adults, with a notable characteristic of protecting their eggs with a hardened frass-like substance. The aim of this study was to assess plant, weevil frass and egg capsule chemistry to determine how the weevil eliminates plant secondary metabolites. We hypothesised that noxious compounds would be metabolised prior to elimination and that egg capsules would be composed of frass and additional substances. Weevils were fed on Eucalyptus globulus plants for seven days, with their frass and egg capsules collected daily, and the damaged, first, fully-expanded leaves of the host collected at the end of the assay. Compounds present in each sample were extracted in hexane and analysed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. The most abundant compounds in each sample were waxes and terpenoids, and metabolism of 1,8-cineole was evident, with two metabolites that may have semiochemical activity. Comparative analysis revealed significant differences between all samples, with shared compounds varying in relative proportions and exclusive compounds in sample type. These findings contribute to the understanding of Gonipterus physiology and highlight the differences between frass and the cover of egg capsules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Solanine (SOL) and chaconine (CHA) are glycoalkaloids (GAs) produced mainly by Solanum plants. These plant secondary metabolites affect insect metabolism; thus, they have the potential to be applied as natural plant protection products. However, it is not known which GA concentration induces physiological changes in animals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to perform a quantitative analysis of SOL and CHA in the larvae of Tenebrio molitor using LC‒MS to assess how quickly they are eliminated or metabolised. In this experiment, the beetles were injected with 2 μL of 10−5 M SOL or CHA solution, which corresponds to a dosage range of 0.12–0.14 ng/mg body mass. Then, 0.5, 1.5, 8, and 24 h after GA application, the haemolymph (H), gut (G), and the remainder of the larval body (FB) were isolated. GAs were detected in all samples tested for 24 h, with the highest percentage of the amount applied in the FB, while the highest concentration was measured in the H sample. The SOL and CHA concentrations decreased in the haemolymph over time, while they did not change in other tissues. CHA had the highest elimination rate immediately after injection, while SOL slightly later. None of the GA hydrolysis products were detected in the tested samples. One possible mechanism of the detoxification of GAs may be oxidation and/or sequestration. They may be excreted by Malpighian tubules, with faeces or with cuticles during moulting. The results presented are significant because they facilitate the interpretation of studies related to the effects of toxic substances on insect metabolism.

Aphids pose a significant threat to global agricultural crop production, leading to widespread pesticide use and resistance. This necessitates the use of alternative substances, like plant secondary metabolites (PSMs). Plants have developed protective compounds known as alkaloids, terpenoids, phenolics, sulfur- and nitrogen-containing metabolites. These compounds exhibit promising characteristics against aphids, such as antifeedant, aphicidal, and disrupting survival fitness. This review highlights the importance and application of secondary metabolites in combating aphid populations. Different insect-resistant substances have different mechanisms for managing aphids and other pests, including defensive signaling, inhibiting growth, and attracting natural predators by releasing herbivore-induced volatiles (HIPV). The application of plant secondary metabolites as biopesticides has proven to be an effective, economical, and eco-friendly alternative to synthetic pesticide chemicals. Furthermore, this review comprehensively discusses the principle role of plant secondary metabolites, encouraging sustainable agricultural practices and emphasizing the integrated management of the aphid population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Gut microbiota mediating insect–plant interactions have many manifestations, either by provisioning missing nutrients, or by overcoming plant defensive reactions. However, the mechanism by which gut microbiota empower insects to survive by overcoming a variety of plant secondary metabolites remains largely unknown. Bactrocera minax larvae develop in immature citrus fruits, which present numerous phenolic compounds that challenge the larvae. To explore the role of gut microbes in host use and adaptability, we uncovered the mechanisms of phenol degradation by gut microbes using metagenomic and metatranscriptomic analyses, and verified the degradation ability of isolated and cultured bacteria. Research on this subject can help develop potential strain for the environmental friendly pest management operations. RESULTS: We demonstrated the ability of gut microbes in B. minax larvae to degrade phenols in unripe citrus. After antibiotic treatment, coniferyl alcohol and coumaric aldehyde significantly reduced the survival rate, body length and body weight of the larvae. The metagenomic and metatranscriptomic analyses in B. minax provided evidence for the presence of genes in bacteria and the related pathway involved in phenol degradation. Among them, Enterococcus faecalis and Serratia marcescens, isolated from the gut of B. minax larvae, played critical roles in phenol degradation. Furthermore, supplementation of E. faecalis and S. marcescens in artificial diets containing coniferyl alcohol and coumaric aldehyde increased the survival rate of larvae. CONCLUSION: In summary, our results provided the first comprehensive analysis of gut bacterial communities by high‐throughput sequencing and elucidated the role of bacteria in phenol degradation in B. minax, which shed light on the mechanism underlying specialist insect adaption to host secondary metabolites via gut bacteria. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a specific heart condition in diabetic patients, which is a major cause of heart failure and significantly affects quality of life. DCM is manifested as abnormal cardiac structure and function in the absence of ischaemic or hypertensive heart disease in individuals with diabetes. Although the development of DCM involves multiple pathological mechanisms, mitochondrial dysfunction is considered to play a crucial role. The regulatory mechanisms of mitochondrial dysfunction mainly include mitochondrial dynamics, oxidative stress, calcium handling, uncoupling, biogenesis, mitophagy, and insulin signaling. Targeting mitochondrial function in the treatment of DCM has attracted increasing attention. Studies have shown that plant secondary metabolites contribute to improving mitochondrial function and alleviating the development of DCM. This review outlines the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of DCM and discusses the regulatory mechanism for mitochondrial dysfunction. In addition, it also summarizes treatment strategies based on plant secondary metabolites. These strategies targeting the treatment of mitochondrial dysfunction may help prevent and treat DCM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solanine (SOL) and chaconine (CHA) are glycoalkaloids (GAs) produced mainly by Solanum plants. These plant secondary metabolites affect insect metabolism; thus, they have the potential to be applied as natural plant protection products. However, it is not known which GA concentration induces physiological changes in animals. Therefore, the aim of this study was to perform a quantitative analysis of SOL and CHA in the larvae of Tenebrio molitor using LC‒MS to assess how quickly they are eliminated or metabolised. In this experiment, the beetles were injected with 2 μL of 10−5 M SOL or CHA solution, which corresponds to a dosage range of 0.12–0.14 ng/mg body mass. Then, 0.5, 1.5, 8, and 24 h after GA application, the haemolymph (H), gut (G), and the remainder of the larval body (FB) were isolated. GAs were detected in all samples tested for 24 h, with the highest percentage of the amount applied in the FB, while the highest concentration was measured in the H sample. The SOL and CHA concentrations decreased in the haemolymph over time, while they did not change in other tissues. CHA had the highest elimination rate immediately after injection, while SOL slightly later. None of the GA hydrolysis products were detected in the tested samples. One possible mechanism of the detoxification of GAs may be oxidation and/or sequestration. They may be excreted by Malpighian tubules, with faeces or with cuticles during moulting. The results presented are significant because they facilitate the interpretation of studies related to the effects of toxic substances on insect metabolism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollen and nectar consumed by honey bees contain plant secondary metabolites (PSMs) with vital roles in plant–insect interactions. While PSMs can be toxic to bees, they can also be health-promoting, e.g. by improving pesticide and pathogen tolerances. As xenobiotics, PSMs undergo post-ingestion chemical modifications that can affect their bioactivity and transmission to the brood. Despite the importance of understanding honey bee PSM metabolism and distribution for elucidating bioactivity mechanisms, these aspects remain largely unexplored. In this study, we used HPLC-MS/MS to profile 47 pollen PSMs in honey bees and larvae. Both adult bees and larvae had distinct PSM profiles that differed from their diet. This is likely due to post-ingestion metabolism and compound-dependent variations in PSM transmission to the brood via nurse bee jelly. Phenolic acids and flavonoid aglycones were most abundant in bees and larvae, whereas alkaloids, cyanogenic glycosides and diterpenoids had the lowest abundance despite being consumed in higher concentrations. This study documents larval exposure to a variety of PSMs for the first time, with concentrations increasing from early to late larval instars. Our findings provide novel insights into the post-ingestion fate of PSMs in honey bees, providing a foundation for further exploration of biotransformation pathways and PSM effects on honey bee health.

Plant tissue culture techniques have revolutionized various aspects of modern agriculture, horticulture, and pharmaceutical industries. This method contributes to enhancing the production of plant secondary metabolites, which have noteworthy applications in pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and industry. Presently, over 50,000 plant metabolites have been identified and categorized into three primary groups: terpenoids, flavonoids, and alkaloids. Numerous studies have elucidated the metabolic pathways involved in the biosynthesis of plant compounds to better understand the metabolic flux, with the aim of identifying and engineering the production of valuable constituents. In vitro precursor feeding is one phytochemical strategy that helps increase the accumulation of plant compounds. Therefore, this review focuses on investigating the application of in vitro precursor feedings to the overproduction of a high-value phytochemicals. Moreover, it evaluates the influence of type and concentration of precursors, plant species and culture conditions as well as the phytochemical products providing insights into optimization strategies. Additionally, the potential application of accumulated terpenoids, flavonoids, and alkaloid-derived compounds for agricultural, pharmaceutical, and industrial purposes are discussed. Finally, perspective challenges and limitations related to in vitro precursor feeding strategy are addressed, including production stability, cytotoxicity effect, and uptake efficiency. The overall data presented might serve as an up-to-date report on the application of in vitro precursor feedings for enhancing plant secondary metabolite production.

Plant-herbivore interactions dominate food web links in terrestrial settings, thereby shaping ecosystem structure and functioning. Within a given plant, both primary and secondary metabolites mediate the interplay between above- and below-ground herbivores. Here, we investigate how root feeding by larvae of the turnip moth Agrotis segetum (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) affects development and feeding behavior of an above-ground sap-feeder i.e., the large cotton aphid Acyrthosiphon gossypii (Hemiptera: Aphididae) on cotton. We further draw upon transcriptomics, metabolomics and in-vitro bioassays to elucidate how plant metabolites mediate these interactions. Root feeding reduces A. gossypii adult survival and fecundity by 35.1%. Aphids on A. segetum-infested cotton spend 7% longer probing cells than on un-infested plants. Root and stem herbivory by A. segetum larvae alters gene transcripts and metabolites in leaves, inducing biosynthesis of three flavonoids i.e., dihydromyricetin, phloridzin and dihydroquercetin. In-vitro bioassays show that the latter two compounds markedly decrease A. gossypii adult survival and fecundity. Below-ground herbivory thus elicits biosynthesis and systemic translocation of phloridzin and dihydroquercetin, with antagonistic effects on above-ground sap-feeders. Our study sheds light on the underlying mechanisms of herbivore-triggered plant defenses in cotton and reveals the interplay between herbivore guilds across ecological realms. We discuss the implications of these findings for pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diverse secondary metabolites in plants, with their rich biological activities, have long been important sources for human medicine, food additives, pesticides, etc. However, the large-scale cultivation of host plants consumes land resources and is susceptible to pest and disease problems. Additionally, the multi-step and demanding nature of chemical synthesis adds to production costs, limiting their widespread application. In vitro cultivation and the metabolic engineering of plants have significantly enhanced the synthesis of secondary metabolites with successful industrial production cases. As synthetic biology advances, more research is focusing on heterologous synthesis using microorganisms. This review provides a comprehensive comparison between these two chassis, evaluating their performance in the synthesis of various types of secondary metabolites from the perspectives of yield and strategies. It also discusses the challenges they face and offers insights into future efforts and directions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant secondary metabolism plays a paramount role in plant adaptation to global climate change, a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between plant secondary metabolism and climate variations favors crop improvement in a climate-fluctuating world. Climate changes exert diverse effects on plant secondary metabolism, determined by factors such as metabolite type, stress intensity, and plant species. Combinations of two individual climatic factors can result in an amplifying, neutralizing, or one-factor-dominated consequence, but our knowledge of these consequences is limited. Resource allocation and growth-defense trade-off hypothesis partially explain how plants respond to climate changes through secondary metabolism at the ecological level, while hormone signaling, hormones, and transcriptional and post-transcriptional regulation networks are involved with the molecular mechanisms underlying these responses. Climate changes have unpredictable effects on ecosystems and agriculture. Plants adapt metabolically to overcome these challenges, with plant secondary metabolites (PSMs) being crucial for plant–environment interactions. Thus, understanding how PSMs respond to climate change is vital for future cultivation and breeding strategies. Here, we review PSM responses to climate changes such as elevated carbon dioxide, ozone, nitrogen deposition, heat and drought, as well as a combinations of different factors. These responses are complex, depending on stress dosage and duration, and metabolite classes. We finally identify mechanisms by which climate change affects PSM production ecologically and molecularly. While these observations provide insights into PSM responses to climate changes and the underlying regulatory mechanisms, considerable further research is required for a comprehensive understanding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Willow (Salix spp.) trees, found worldwide, contain secondary metabolites that are valuable as dietary supplements for animal feed and as antiparasitic compounds. We quantified secondary metabolites (phenolics, flavonoids, and salicylic acid) in ethanolic extracts from leaves and branches of three Salix acmophylla Boiss. genotypes and investigated their potential to inhibit Eimeria sp. sporulation, a major concern in ruminants. The total phenolic content of willow leaves and branches was similar in two of three different genotypes. The total flavonoid content of the branches was significantly higher than that of leaves of the same genotype; however, the salicylic acid content was significantly higher in leaves than in branches. Importantly, all extracts exhibited significant inhibition of Eimeria sporulation, where over 70% inhibition was obtained at concentrations as low as 750 mgL−1. The sporulation inhibition by branch or leaf extracts exceeded 80% for leaves and 90% for branches at concentrations above 1250 mgL−1. The study highlights the potential of using Salix extracts as bioactive compounds for biological control of coccidiosis in ruminants. We conclude that all parts and all investigated genotypes of S. acmophylla can provide secondary metabolites that act as a coccidiostat to treat Eimeria in goats. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The plant secondary metabolites (PSMs), as important plant resistance indicators, are important targets for screening plant insect resistance breeding. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether the population of Zeuzera coffeae (ZC) is affected by different varieties of Carya illinoinensis PSMs content. At the same time, the structure and function of the gut microbiome of ZC were also analyzed in relation to different pecan varieties. Methods: We counted the populations of ZC larvae in four pecan varieties and determined the content of four types of PSMs. The structure and function of the larval gut microbiota were studied in connection to the number of larvae and the content of PSMs. The relationships were investigated between larval number, larval gut microbiota, and PSM content. Results: We found that the tannins, total phenolics, and total saponins of 4 various pecans PSMs stifled the development of the ZC larval population. The PSMs can significantly affect the diversity and abundance of the larval gut microbiota. Enrichment of ASV46 (Pararhizobium sp.), ASV994 (Olivibacter sp.), ASV743 (Rhizobium sp.), ASV709 (Rhizobium sp.), ASV671 (Luteolibacter sp.), ASV599 (Agrobacterium sp.), ASV575 (Microbacterium sp.), and ASV27 (Rhizobium sp.) in the gut of larvae fed on high-resistance cultivars was positively associated with their tannin, total saponin, and total phenolic content. The results of the gut microbiome functional prediction for larvae fed highly resistant pecan varieties showed that the enriched pathways in the gut were related to the breakdown of hazardous chemicals. Conclusion: Our findings provide further evidence that pecan PSMs influence the structure and function of the gut microbiota, which in turn affects the population stability of ZC. The study's findings can serve as a theoretical foundation for further work on selecting ZC-resistant cultivars and developing green management technology for ZC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gastrointestinal nematodes, including Haemonchus (H.) contortus, have a notable impact in terms of impaired production, high fatalities, and substantial economic losses, affecting small ruminants in tropical countries, including Pakistan. The irrational use of synthetic chemicals has fueled anthelmintic resistance, particularly in H. contortus, as a formidable challenge, prompting a search for alternative treatment strategies. This study evaluated the anthelmintic potential of leaf extracts of three forage plants, including Leucaena leucocephala, Moringa oleifera, and Acacia ampliceps, against various developmental stages of H. contortus. Phytochemical screening revealed the presence of secondary metabolites in the extracts. In vitro assays were performed to evaluate the anthelmintic efficacy of the extracts on the inhibition of egg hatching, larval paralysis, and adult worm motility following the guidelines of the World Association for the Advancement of Veterinary Parasitology, while Albendazole was used as a positive control and PBS as a negative control. The highest concentrations of tannins and flavonoids in Acacia ampliceps and phenolic compounds in Leucaena leucocephala were detected in the extracts as major secondary metabolites. All the tested extracts showed significant time- and dose-dependent responses to various stages of H. contortus. The ED50 values showed that the lowest dose of Leucaena leucocephala (0.285), Moringa oliefera (0.81), and Acacia ampliceps (0.245) inhibited egg hatching and larval and adult motility, respectively. Extracts of Leucaena leucocephala exhibited significant inhibition of egg hatching (70.3%), whereas Moringa oliefera showed maximum percent inhibition (66.6) of larval motility. These findings suggest that these plants, traditionally used by local healers in Pakistan, may possess antiparasitic properties, encouraging further studies on the relationship between phytochemicals, extraction methods, and in vivo trials to explore their anthelmintic efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The food resources in the field can effectively strengthen the ability of natural enemies to control the pest. Certain compounds, in addition to carbohydrates and amino acids, may improve the physiological performance of insects. Caffeine, for instance, has been shown to enhance pollinator memory and physiological reactions. However, little is known about how caffeine influences parasitoids. The control effectiveness and survival rate of the parasitoid (Snellenius manilae) were tested in this study after the parasitoids were fed solutions with different concentrations of caffeine. We examined caffeine concentrations of 10−2, 10−4, and 10−6 (M) mixed with a 25% sucrose solution and a pure sucrose solution as a control group. The results show that a concentration of 10−6 caffeine solution significantly increased the parasitism rate of S. manilae by 10.76% when compared to the control group. Despite the significantly lower survival rate and male bias of S. manilae offspring in the 10−2 treatment, no further negative responses in growth performance, development time, or cocoon weight were observed. These findings suggest that an appropriate concentration of caffeine solution can have a positive impact on the control effectiveness of parasitoids in the laboratory. Our results highlight the potential of secondary compounds to increase the bio‐control effectiveness. However, confirming the implications of these findings requires further field experiments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Australian Wet Tropics World Heritage Area (WTWHA) in northeast Queensland is home to approximately 18 percent of the nation's total vascular plant species. Over the past century, human activity and industrial development have caused global climate changes, posing a severe and irreversible danger to the entire land-based ecosystem, and the WTWHA is no exception. The current average annual temperature of WTWHA in northeast Queensland is 24 °C. However, in the coming years (by 2030), the average annual temperature increase is estimated to be between 0.5 and 1.4 °C compared to the climate observed between 1986 and 2005. Looking further ahead to 2070, the anticipated temperature rise is projected to be between 1.0 and 3.2 °C, with the exact range depending on future emissions. We identified 84 plant species, endemic to tropical montane cloud forests (TMCF) within the WTWHA, which are already experiencing climate change threats. Some of these plants are used in herbal medicines. This study comprehensively reviewed the metabolomics studies conducted on these 84 plant species until now toward understanding their physiological and metabolomics responses to global climate change. This review also discusses the following: (i) recent developments in plant metabolomics studies that can be applied to study and better understand the interactions of wet tropics plants with climatic stress, (ii) medicinal plants and isolated phytochemicals with structural diversity, and (iii) reported biological activities of crude extracts and isolated compounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant-based insecticides have an increasing demand in mosquito control programs due to the eco-friendly nature of botanical products. We examined the ovicidal and oviposition deterrent properties of ethanol extracts of Tabernaemontana divaricata leaves against Aedes albopictus and Culex quinquefasciatus mosquitoes. Ovicidal bioassays were conducted to determine the lethal concentrations required to kill 50% and 90% of mosquito eggs (LC50 and LC90). Oviposition deterrent activity of leaf extracts was evaluated using 1% treatment solutions (2 g leaf powder: 200 ml distilled water). The number of eggs laid in treatments and controls was recorded for 7 days. LC50 and LC90 for Ae. albopictus were 626.6 and 892.5 ppm, respectively. For Cx. quinquefasciatus, LC50 and LC90 were 553.2 and 621.1 ppm, respectively. A strong positive correlation was reported between egg mortalities and concentrations (Aedes albopictus r = 0.993, p = 0.001; Culex quinquefasciatus, r = 0.992, p = 0.001). Eggs of Cx. quinquefasciatus were more susceptible to leaf extracts compared to those of Ae. albopictus. The deterrent properties of the plant extracts were relatively high during the first few days of the treatment (99.8% for Ae. albopictus and 100% for Cx. quinquefasciatus). The gradual reduction of the deterrent properties was observed after the second day of treatment for Ae. albopictus and the third day for Cx. quinquefasciatus. The oviposition activity index (OAI) ranged from − 0.968 to -0.120 for Ae. albopictus and − 1 to -0.53 for Cx. quinquefasciatus. The results reveal the ovicidal and oviposition deterrent properties of the leaf extracts of Ta. divaricata against Ae. albopictus and Cx. quinquefasciatus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work investigates the potential of 70% ethanolic leaf extracts of Rubus idaeus L., Cistus ladanifer L. and Erica andevalensis in the metal separation from synthetic unimetallic solutions of different metals and a leachate obtained from the leaching of PCBs. Results from the experiments with unimetallic solutions revealed R. idaeus and E. andevalensis extracts induced separation of more than 95% of the initial Au(III), while C. ladanifer separated ~78% of this metal. Thereafter, application of three plant extracts to real Au bearing leachate obtained from PCBs leaching, revealed about 96, 95 and 90% Au recovery with R. idaeus, C. ladanifer and E. andevalensis extracts, respectively with 15–60% co-removal of Pb and less than 15% of other metals. The reduction of Au(III) ions into Au(0) nanoparticles by R. idaeus extract was confirmed by molecular UV–Visible, and FT-IR analysis showed the involvement of plant secondary metabolites in Au bio-reduction and bio-stabilization. Particles obtained from the application of R. idaeus extract to the leachate were initially analyzed with XRD and results confirmed the presence of Au(0) with contamination of PbSO4, which was completely removed by washing with 1 M HCl. Thereafter, results from STEM-EDS analysis showed the presence of Au particles conjugated with organic material and other metals. Consequently, particles were subjected to another washing step with acetone. Afterwards, STEM-EDS showed pure Au microparticle clusters (~0.8 μm) with flower-shaped or apparently cubic morphologies, and HRSTEM showed the tiny nanoparticles (~20 nm), which form the clusters. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, interest in natural products with herbicidal activity as new tools for integrated weed management has increased. The European Union is demanding a reduction in the number of herbicides used, forbidding use of the most toxic ones, despite the problem of weed resistance increasing. Pelargonic acid (PA) is the only natural herbicide available in Spain. In this work, two field assays were performed with the natural compounds carvacrol (CAR), citral (CIT), eugenol (EUG), thymol (THY), p-cymene (P-CYM), (PA), and the combination of PA with CIT—all except P-CYM formulated by Seipasa—to test their herbicidal efficacy in real conditions. They were compared with commercial PA, glyphosate (GLY) and oxyfluorfen (OXY). In both experiments, GLY achieved the best weed control. Considering the natural herbicides, PA formulated by Seipasa and PA plus CIT were the most effective. From both experiments, some conclusions can be extracted for better herbicidal performance of natural products: (1) use products on sensitive weed species, (2) treat weeds at earlier phenological stages, (3) find the active doses in field conditions, (4) cover weeds well when treating, (5) ensure adequate formulation of products, and (6) develop a strategy for correct application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Plant-parasitic nematodes (PPNs) are highly damaging pests responsible for heavy losses in worldwide productivity in a significant number of important plant crops. Common pest management strategies rely on the use of synthetic chemical nematicides, which have led to serious concerns regarding their impacts on human health and the environment. Plant natural products, or phytochemicals, can provide a good source of agents for sustainable control of PPNs, due to their intrinsic characteristics such as higher biodegradability, generally low toxicity for mammals, and lower bioaccumulation in the environment. In this work, the nematicidal activity of 39 phytochemicals was determined against the root-lesion nematode (RLN) Pratylenchus penetrans using standard direct and indirect contact methodologies. Overall, the RLN was tolerant to the tested phytochemicals at the highest concentration, 2 mg/mL, seldom reaching full mortality. However, high activities were obtained for benzaldehyde, carvacrol, 3-octanol, and thymol, in comparison to other phytochemicals or the synthetic nematicide oxamyl. These phytochemicals were seen to damage nematode internal tissues but not its cuticle shape. Also, the environmental and (eco)toxicological parameters reported for these compounds suggest lower toxicity and higher safety of use than oxamyl. These compounds appear to be good candidates for the development of biopesticides for a more sustainable pest management strategy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air pollution is emerging as one of the most important stresses, particularly in urban areas, of both developed and developing countries. It severely affects plant growth and development besides being a health hazard to humans and animals. Delhi has the dubious distinction of being one of the most polluted cities in the world. Incidentally, it is also one of the greenest cities with ongoing programs to increase the already considerable forest cover and biodiversity parks. Plants often act as a sink for airborne pollutants, including particulate matter. Hence it is important to evaluate their efficacy in absorbing pollutants and use the promising species for urban plantation. In the present study, the stress tolerance of four common trees of Delhi (Psidium guajava, Alstonia scholaris, Murraya koenigii, and Moringa oleifera), growing in three areas with varying pollution levels, was estimated by measuring Plant Secondary Metabolites (PSMs: total phenols, flavonoids, alkaloids, and tannins) along with the total chlorophyll content of the leaves. P. guajava showed significant increase in the contents of phenols, tannins, and alkaloids with higher Air Quality Index (AQI). Increased amounts of phenols and flavonoids were observed in A. scholaris, those of phenols and alkaloids in M. koenigii, and only of alkaloids in M. oleifera. There was a decrease in the total chlorophyll content of the leaves of all four species investigated. P. guajava and A. scholaris can be recommended for plantation along the sides of roads with heavy traffic movement. Since PSMs are seen to accumulate as a defense mechanism against air pollution too, as in various abiotic and biotic stresses, they can be used as biomarkers for stress tolerance in plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazilian biodiversity is considered a source of bioactive substances, and one of the species found is Solanum viarum Dunal, which is mainly composed of pyrrolizidine alkaloids. The purpose of this study was to evaluate two non-conventional extraction techniques — microwave hydrodiffusion and gravity (MHG) and pressurized-liquid extraction (PLE) — in obtaining bioactive compounds from S. viarum. Different parameters were assessed that directly influenced the yield and chemical composition of extracts. For PLE, the percentage of ethanol and temperature were evaluated on yield and composition. For MHG, temperature and pressure were evaluated on the same responses. PLE presented the highest extract yield (26.11 wt.%) and bioactive compounds concentration, while the highest extract yield of MHG was 1.68 wt.%. Both techniques indicated efficiency in extracting integerrimine, senecionine, and quinic acid. Knowing the compounds present in plants, using different extractive methods, enables the development of research that addresses their possible potential in the future.

Phytochemicals or plant secondary metabolites (PSMs) are known to counteract mineral nutrients (MNs) utilisation in herbivorous wildlife, yet studies on the interactions between PSMs and MNs in relation to herbivory, particularly for kobs (Kobus kob) are scarce. Composite samples of each of five major forage plants of kobs’ (Grewia mollis, Afzelia africana, Gardenia aqualla, Maranthes polyandra and Andropogon gayanus) were randomly collected in and around feeding sites of kobs in both dry and wet season. Using standard procedures, samples were analysed for PSMs (alkaloids, phenols, saponins and tannins) and MNs [copper (Cu2+), iron (Fe2+), manganese (Mn2+), calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), zinc (Zn2+), sulphur (S2-), sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+)]. With appropriate statistical tools, data obtained were analysed, compared and correlated. Almost all plants were significantly higher in all the tested MNs and PMSs in the wet season, except for Maranthes polyandra which showed the inverse trend for Cu2+, Mn2+, S2-, Na+ and K+. Apart from tannins that were absent, the concentration of other PSMs (in Grewia mollis) and Ca2+ (in Gardenia aqualla and Andropogon gayanus) were significantly higher in the dry season. In conclusion, the concentration of Na+, K+, S2-, Fe2+ and Zn2+ in selected forage plants of kobs were highly influenced by the presence of PSMs.

Abstract Highly ameliorated phytochemicals from plants are recognized to have numerous beneficial effects on human health. However, obtaining secondary metabolites directly from wild plants is posing a great threat to endangered plant species due to their over exploitation. Moreover, due to complicated structure and stereospecificity chemical synthesis of these compounds is a troublesome procedure. As a result, sustainable and ecofriendly in vitro strategy has been adopted for phytochemicals production. But, lack of fully differentiated cells lowers down cultured cells productivity. Consequently, for enhancing yield of metabolites produced by cultured plant cells a variety of methodologies has been followed one such approach includes elicitation of culture medium that provoke stress responses in plants enhancing synthesis and storage of bioactive compounds. Nevertheless, for conclusive breakthrough in synthesizing bioactive compounds at commercial level in-depth knowledge regarding metabolic responses to elicitation in plant cell cultures is needed. However, technological advancement has led to development of molecular based approaches like metabolic engineering and synthetic biology which can serve as promising path for phytochemicals synthesis. This review article deals with classification, stimulating effect of elicitors on cultured cells, parameters of elicitors and action mechanism in plants, modern approaches like metabolic engineering for future advances. Graphical Abstract

This document is an editorial published in the journal Frontiers in Plant Science. It discusses the adaptation of plants to waterlogging and hypoxia, which are challenges caused by climate change and extreme weather events. The editorial highlights the physiological, molecular, and management strategies that plants employ to cope with these conditions. It also emphasizes the need for further research and practical applications to help farmers mitigate the negative effects of waterlogging. The document includes references to various studies that explore the impact of waterlogging on plant growth and yield, as well as potential solutions for improving crop resilience. [Extracted from the article]

Complete elucidation of members of the gustatory receptor (Gr) family in lepidopteran insects began in the silkworm Bombyx mori. Grs of lepidopteran insects were initially classified into four subfamilies based on the results of phylogenetic studies and analyses of a few ligands. However, with further ligand analysis, it has become clear that plant secondary metabolites are important targets not only for Grs in the bitter subfamily but also for the Drosophila melanogaster Gr43a orthologue subfamily and Grs in the sugar subfamily. Gene knockout experiments showed that B. mori Gr6 (BmGr6) and BmGr9 are involved in the recognition of the feeding-promoting compounds chlorogenic acid and isoquercetin in mulberry leaves by the maxillary palps, suggesting that these Grs are responsible for palpation-dependent host recognition without biting. On the other hand, BmGr expression was also confirmed in nonsensory organs. Midgut enteroendocrine cells that produce specific neuropeptides were shown to express specific BmGrs, suggesting that BmGrs are involved in the induction of endocrine secretion in response to changes in the midgut contents. Furthermore, gene knockout experiments indicated that BmGr6 is indeed involved in the secretion of myosuppressin. On the other hand, BmGr9 was shown to induce signal transduction that is not derived from the intracellular signaling cascade mediated by G proteins but from the fructose-regulated cation channel of BmGr9 itself. Cryogenic electron microscopy revealed the mechanism by which the ion channel of the BmGr9 homotetramer opens upon binding of fructose to the ligand-binding pocket. Research on BmGrs has contributed greatly to our understanding of the functions and roles of Grs in insects.

Plant secondary metabolites (PSMs) are produced by plants to overcome environmental challenges, both biotic and abiotic. We were interested in characterizing how autumn seasonality in temperate and subtropical climates affects overall PSM production in comparison to herbivory. Herbivory is commonly measured between spring to summer when plants have high resource availability and prioritize growth and reproduction. However, autumn seasonality also challenges plants as they cope with limited resources and prepare survival for winter. This suggests a potential gap in our understanding of how herbivory affects PSM production in autumn compared to spring/summer. Using meta‐analysis, we recorded overall production of 22 different PSM subgroups from 58 published papers to calculate effect sizes from herbivory studies (absence to presence) and temperate to subtropical seasonal studies (summer to autumn), while considering other variables (e.g., plant type, increase in time since herbivory, temperature, and precipitation). We also compared production of five phenolic PSM subgroups – hydroxybenzoic acids, flavan‐3‐ols, flavonols, hydrolysable tannins, and condensed tannins. We wanted to detect a shared response across all PSMs and found that herbivory increased overall PSM production in herbaceous plants. Herbivory was also found to have a positive effect on individual PSM subgroups, such as flavonol production, while autumn seasonality was found to have a positive effect on flavan‐3‐ol and condensed tannin production. We discuss how these responses might stem from plants producing some PSMs constitutively, whereas others are induced only after herbivory, and how plants produce metabolites with higher costs only during seasons when other resources for growth and reproduction are less available, while other phenolic PSM subgroups serve more than one function for plants and such functions can be season dependent. The outcome of our meta‐analysis is that autumn seasonality changes some PSM production differently from herbivory, and we see value in further investigating seasonality–herbivory interactions with plant chemical defense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of cashew nut shell extract (CNSE) and monensin on ruminal in vitro fermentation, CH 4 production, and ruminal bacterial community structure. Treatments were as follows: control (CON, basal diet without additives); 2.5 μ M monensin (MON); 0.1 mg CNSE granule/g DM (CNSE100); and 0.2 mg CNSE granule/g DM (CNSE200). Each treatment was incubated with 52 mL of buffered ruminal content and 500 mg of total mixed ration for 24 h using serum vials. The experiment was performed as a complete randomized block design with 3 runs. Run was used as a blocking factor. Each treatment had 5 replicates, in which 2 were used to determine nutrient degradability, and 3 were used to determine pH, NH 3 -N, volatile fatty acids, lactate, total gas, CH 4 production, and bacterial community composition. Treatment responses for all data, excluding bacterial abundance, were analyzed with the GLIMMIX procedure of SAS v9.4. Treatment responses for bacterial community structure were analyzed with a PERMANOVA test run with the R package vegan. Orthogonal contrasts were used to test the effects of (1) additive inclusion (ADD: CON vs. MON, CNSE100, and CNSE200); (2) additive type (MCN: MON vs. CNSE100 and CNSE200); and (3) CNSE dose (DOS: CNSE100 vs. CNSE200). We observed that pH, acetate, and acetate:propionate ratio in the CNSE100 treatment were lower compared with CNSE200, and propionate in the CNSE100 treatment was greater compared with CNSE200. Compared with MON, CNSE treatments tended to decrease total lactate concentration. Total gas production of CON was greater by 2.63% compared with all treatments, and total CH 4 production was reduced by 10.64% in both CNSE treatments compared with MON. Also, compared with MON, in vitro dry matter degradabilities in CNSE treatments were lower. No effects were observed for NH 3 -N or in vitro neutral detergent fiber degradability. Finally, the relative abundances of Prevotella , Treponema , and Schwartzia were lower, whereas the relative abundances of Butyrivibrio and Succinivibrio were greater in all treatments compared with CON. Overall, the inclusion of CNSE decreased CH 4 production compared with MON, making CNSE a possible CH 4 mitigation additive in dairy cattle diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The cultivation of plant cells in large-scale bioreactor systems has long been considered a promising alternative for the overexploitation of wild plants as a source of bioactive phytochemicals. This idea, however, faced multiple constraints upon realization, resulting in very few examples of technologically feasible and economically effective biotechnological companies. The bioreactor cultivation of plant cells is challenging. Even well-growing and highly biosynthetically potent cell lines require a thorough optimization of cultivation parameters when upscaling the cultivation process from laboratory to industrial volumes. The optimization includes, but is not limited to, the bioreactor's shape and design, cultivation regime (batch, fed-batch, continuous, semi-continuous), aeration, homogenization, anti-foaming measures, etc., while maintaining a high biomass and metabolite production. Based on the literature data and our experience, the cell cultures often demonstrate cell line- or species-specific responses to parameter changes, with the dissolved oxygen concentration (pO2) and shear stress caused by stirring being frequent growth-limiting factors. The mass transfer coefficient also plays a vital role in upscaling the cultivation process from smaller to larger volumes. The Experimental Biotechnological Facility at the K.A. Timiryazev Institute of Plant Physiology has operated since the 1970s and currently hosts a cascade of bioreactors from the laboratory (20 L) to the pilot (75 L) and a semi-industrial volume (630 L) adapted for the cultivation of plant cells. In this review, we discuss the most appealing cases of the cell cultivation process's adaptation to bioreactor conditions featuring the cell cultures of medicinal plants Dioscorea deltoidea Wall. ex Griseb., Taxus wallichiana Zucc., Stephania glabra (Roxb.) Miers, Panax japonicus (T. Nees) C.A.Mey., Polyscias filicifolia (C. Moore ex E. Fourn.) L.H. Bailey, and P. fruticosa L. Harms. The results of cell cultivation in bioreactors of different types and designs using various cultivation regimes are covered and compared with the literature data. We also discuss the role of the critical factors affecting cell behavior in bioreactors with large volumes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highly ameliorated phytochemicals from plants are recognized to have numerous beneficial effects on human health. However, obtaining secondary metabolites directly from wild plants is posing a great threat to endangered plant species due to their over exploitation. Moreover, due to complicated structure and stereospecificity chemical synthesis of these compounds is a troublesome procedure. As a result, sustainable and ecofriendly in vitro strategy has been adopted for phytochemicals production. But, lack of fully differentiated cells lowers down cultured cells productivity. Consequently, for enhancing yield of metabolites produced by cultured plant cells a variety of methodologies has been followed one such approach includes elicitation of culture medium that provoke stress responses in plants enhancing synthesis and storage of bioactive compounds. Nevertheless, for conclusive breakthrough in synthesizing bioactive compounds at commercial level in-depth knowledge regarding metabolic responses to elicitation in plant cell cultures is needed. However, technological advancement has led to development of molecular based approaches like metabolic engineering and synthetic biology which can serve as promising path for phytochemicals synthesis. This review article deals with classification, stimulating effect of elicitors on cultured cells, parameters of elicitors and action mechanism in plants, modern approaches like metabolic engineering for future advances. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of pest resistance to insecticidal proteins from Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) restricts the sustainable application of transgenic Bt crops, and exploring other ecofriendly insecticides to efficiently suppress Bt‐resistant populations is thus urgently needed. The plant secondary metabolite rutin possesses pest resistance effects and plays an important role in plant resistance to pests, but the effect of rutin on pink bollworms is unclear. We investigated the effects of rutin on two types (Bt‐susceptible and Bt‐resistant) of pink bollworms (Pectinophora gossypiella). Rutin had significant inhibitory effects on the growth, development, and oviposition of both Bt‐susceptible and Bt‐resistant strains. For both strains, rutin ingestion by larvae did not significantly affect larval survival at 7 days after treatment or egg hatching rate but significantly decreased pupation rate, eclosion rate, neonate‐to‐adult survival, pupal weight and eggs per female and significantly prolonged larval developmental periods, and the effect increased with increasing rutin content. The response to rutin ingestion was basically consistent between Bt‐resistant and Bt‐susceptible strains, indicating that the Bt‐resistant strain did not exhibit cross‐resistance to rutin. These results provide a reference basis for green control and resistance management of pink bollworms and may be used as a component of comprehensive management for this pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Secondary metabolites derived from plants are recognized as valuable products with several successful applications in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries. The major limitation to the broader implementation of these compounds is their low manufacturing efficiency. Current efforts to overcome unprofitability depend mainly on biotechnological methods, especially through the application of plant in vitro cultures. This concept allows unprecedented bioengineering opportunities for culture system modifications with in situ product removal. The silica-based xerogels can be used as a novel, porous biomaterial characterized by a large surface area and high affinity to lipophilic secondary metabolites produced by plant tissue. This study aimed to investigate the influence of xerogel-based biomaterials functionalized with methyl, hydroxyl, carboxylic, and amine groups on Rindera graeca transgenic root growth and the production of naphthoquinone derivatives. The application of xerogel-based scaffolds functionalized with the methyl group resulted in more than 1.5 times higher biomass proliferation than for reference untreated culture. The naphthoquinone derivatives' production was noted exclusively in culture systems supplemented with xerogel functionalized with methyl and hydroxyl groups. Applying chemically functionalized xerogels as in situ adsorbents allowed for the enhanced growth and productivity of in vitro cultured R. graeca transgenic roots, facilitating product isolation due to their selective and efficient accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breynia vitis-idaea (Phyllanthaceae) is used in the Chinese traditional medicinal system, to treat chronic lung disease and wound healing. This study was aimed to identify the chemical constituents of B. vitis-idaea having biological properties by in-vitro and in-silico methods. Breynia vitis-idaea leaf extract was screened for the presence of phenol, flavonoid contents, antibacterial, antioxidant, and antidiabetic activities. Molecular docking of secondary metabolites with target proteins and ADMET analysis was done. Preliminary phytochemical screening of B. vitis-idaea contains a variety of phytoconstituents such as alkaloids, flavonoids, carbohydrates, tannin, saponin, terpenoids, phenol, protein, steroids and glycosides. The antibacterial activity of methanol leaf extract of B. vitis-idaea evaluated against Escherichia coli (17 mm), Klebsiella pneumoniae (16 mm), Bacillus subtilis (22 mm), and Staphylococcus aureus (18 mm) showed high activity. Antioxidant activities were assessed by ABTS and FRAP assays and their IC 50 values were 41.06 µg/mL and 46.40 µL/mL, respectively. α-amylase and α-glucosidase activity showed IC 50 values of 20.42 µg/mL and 14.60 µg/mL, respectively. Molecular docking study showed strong binding activity of γ-sitosterol to α-amylase and α-glucosidase, followed by guanosine and arbutin. ADMET analysis shows that γ-sitosterol, guanosine, and arbutin are good drug candidates. This work demonstrates the anti-diabetic potential of B. vitis-idaea. [Display omitted] • GC-MS study of B. vitis-idaea reveals 21 secondary metabolites • Three major compounds were identified (γ-sitosterol, guanosine and arbutin) • Strong binding affinity to α-amylase and α-glucosidase observed [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Climate change and growing global population are driving forces that shift the agriculture from open fields to environmentally‐controlled confined systems. In such confined systems, plants are adapted to unique light spectra to achieve maximal qualitative and quantitative yields. In the present study, effects of five light spectra on morpho‐physiological and molecular attributes of peppermint were examined. Treatments included a traditional greenhouse considered as the control, a fluorescent light, and four types of light emitting diodes (LED): red, blue, red‐blue (70:30), and white. Leaf samples were collected from plants and analyzed for volatile constituents using a headspace GC–MS. Meanwhile, changes in the expression profile of genes involved in the biosynthesis of menthol were evaluated. Results: Our results showed that maximal yield (wet and dry biomass) was achieved under greenhouse condition and the red‐blue LED. Application of the red‐blue LED resulted in maximal production of beneficial monoterpenes, which indicate superiority to greenhouse environment. A significant change in the gene expression profile was observed among plants grown under different light treatments. The red‐blue LED was associated with a significant up‐regulation of key genes in the menthol biosynthesis (menthol dehydrogenase and pulegone reductase). This phenomenon was consistent with a higher menthol production under the same condition. Conclusion: The application of red‐blue LED was associated with the highest level of yield and menthol production, whereas it resulted in lower concentrations of unfavorable by‐products (isomenthol, cis‐pulegone, and menthofuran). In conclusion, 70:30 red‐blue LED can be satisfactory applied to maximize growth yield and optimize favorable bioactive constituent in peppermint. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glycoalkaloids (GAs) are produced naturally by plants and affect insect survivability and fertility. These compounds can be considered potential bioinsecticides; however, the mechanisms and effects of their action remain undiscovered. As lipids are essential molecules for the proper functioning of an insect organism, this research aimed to determine the effects of GAs on the lipid metabolism of the Tenebrio molitor beetle. Solanine, chaconine, tomatine, and tomato leaf extract were applied to larvae by injection at two concentrations, 10−8 and 10−5 M. Then, the tissue was isolated after 2 and 24 h to determine the levels of free fatty acids, sterols and esters using the GC–MS technique. Moreover, the triacylglyceride level and the activity of the key β-oxidation enzyme, 3-hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase (HADH), were measured. The results indicate that GAs affect the content and composition of lipid compounds in the beetles' haemolymph and fat body. The effects depend on the GA concentrations, incubation time, and kind of tissue. Moreover, the tested compounds decrease HADH activity, especially in the fat body, which may affect energy production. To our knowledge, this is the first study concerning lipid metabolism in T. molitor after GA application. Our results provide some insights into that topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]