Microfluidic paper-based analytical device for measurement of pH using as sensor red cabbage anthocyanins and gum arabic.

The objective of this study was to develop and validate a novel microfluidic paper-based analytical device (µPADpH) for determining the pH levels in foods. Anthocyanins from red cabbage aqueous extract (RCAE) were used as its analytical sensor. Whatman No. 1 filter paper was the most suitable for the device due to its porosity and fiber organization, which allows for maximum color intensity and minimal color heterogeneity of the RCAE in the detection zone of the µPADpH. To ensure the color stability of the RCAE for commercial use of the µPADpH, gum arabic was added. The geometric design of the µPADpH, including the channel length and separation zone diameter, was systematically optimized using colored food. The validation showed that the µPADpH did not differ from the pH meter when analyzing natural foods. However, certain additives in processed foods were found to increase the pH values.

Metagenomics-based insights into the microbial community dynamics and flavor development potentiality of artificial and natural pit mud.

Strong-flavor Baijiu (SFB) production has relied on pit mud (PM) as a starter culture. The maturation time of natural PM (NPM) is about 30 years, so artificial PM (APM) with a shorter maturation time has attracted widespread attention. This study reveals the microbial and functional dissimilarities of APM and NPM, and helps to elucidate the different metabolic roles of microbes during substrate degradation and flavor formation. Significant differences in the microbial community were observed between APM and NPM, manifesting as variations in the abundance of core microorganisms. Total of 187 high-quality metagenome-assembled genomes (MAGs) were obtained based on the metagenomic binning technology, mainly including Firmicutes (n = 106), Bacteroidota (n = 15) and Chloroflexota (n = 14). Furthermore, the relative concentration of flavor compounds in 4-year APM was similar to those in 30-year NPM, but different from those in 100-year NPMs. Methanosarcina, Methanobacterium, Methanoculleus, Anaerolineae bacterium and Aminobacterium were the key bacteria responsible for the flavor differences. From a functional perspective, amino acid and carbohydrate metabolism were key functions of PM microbial, and showed differences between APM and NPM. Finally, substrate degradation and flavor generation pathways were found to exist in multiple microorganisms. Combine the relative abundance of microorganisms with the absolute abundance of enzymes, Clostridium, Lactobacillus, Petrimonas, Methanoculleus, Prevotella, Methanobacterium, Methanosarcina, Methanothrix, Proteiniphilum, Bellilinea, Anaerolinea, Anaeromassilibacillus, Syntrophomonas and Brevefilum were identified as the key microorganisms in APM and NPM.

Fine mapping and identification of the downy mildew resistance gene BoDMR2 in Cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata).

BACKGROUND: Cabbage (Brassica oleracea L. var. capitata) is an important crop within the Brassica oleracea species and is extensively cultivated worldwide. In recent years, outbreaks of downy mildew caused by Hyaloperonospora parasitica have resulted in substantial losses in cabbage production. Despite this, there have been limited studies on genes associated with resistance to downy mildew in cabbage. RESULTS: This study identified sister lines exhibiting significant differences in disease resistance and susceptibility. Using bulked segregant analysis followed by sequencing (BSA-seq) and linkage analysis, the cabbage resistance locus BoDMR2 was accurately mapped to an approximately 300 kb interval on chromosome 7. Among the candidate genes identified, several single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and a 3-bp insertion were found within the conserved domain of the Bo7g117810 gene, encoding a leucine-rich repeat domain protein, in susceptible genotypes. Additionally, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‒qPCR) analysis revealed that the expression level of Bo7g117810 in resistant specimens was 2.5-fold higher than that in susceptible specimens. An insertion‒deletion (InDel) marker was designed based on the identified insertion in susceptible materials, facilitating the identification and selection of downy mildew-resistant cabbage cultivars. CONCLUSIONS: This study identifies Bo7g117810 as a potential candidate gene associated with adult-stage resistance to downy mildew in cabbage, supported by observed differences in gene sequence and expression levels. Furthermore, the development of an InDel marker I1-3, based on its mutation, provides valuable resources for breeding resistant cabbage cultivars.

Unambiguous chromosome identification reveals the factors impacting irregular chromosome behaviors in allotriploid AAC Brassica.

KEY MESSAGE: The major irregular chromosome pairing and mis-segregation were detected during meiosis through unambiguous chromosome identification and found that allotriploid Brassica can undergo meiosis successfully and produce mostly viable aneuploid gametes. Triploids have played a crucial role in the evolution of species by forming polyploids and facilitating interploidy gene transfer. It is widely accepted that triploids cannot undergo meiosis normally and predominantly produce nonfunctional aneuploid gametes, which restricts their role in species evolution. In this study, we demonstrated that natural and synthetic allotriploid Brassica (AAC), produced by crossing natural and synthetic Brassica napus (AACC) with Brassica rapa (AA), exhibits basically normal chromosome pairing and segregation during meiosis. Homologous A chromosomes paired faithfully and generally segregated equally. Monosomic C chromosomes were largely retained as univalents and randomly entered daughter cells. The primary irregular meiotic behaviors included associations of homoeologs and 45S rDNA loci at diakinesis, as well as homoeologous chromosome replacement and premature sister chromatid separation at anaphase I. Preexisting homoeologous arrangements altered meiotic behaviors in both chromosome irregular pairing and mis-segregation by increasing the formation of A-genomic univalents and A-C bivalents, as well as premature sister chromatid separation and homologous chromosome nondisjunction. Meiotic behaviors depended significantly on the genetic background and heterozygous homoeologous rearrangement. AAC triploids mainly generated aneuploid gametes, most of which were viable. These results demonstrate that allotriploid Brassica containing an intact karyotype can proceed through meiosis successfully, broadening our current understanding of the inheritance and role in species evolution of allotriploid.

Rice husk biochar is more effective in blocking the cadmium and lead accumulation in two Brassica vegetables grown on a contaminated field than sugarcane bagasse biochar.

Heavy metal-contaminated soil has a great impact on yield reduction of vegetable crops and soil microbial community destruction. Biochar-derived waste biomass is one of the most commonly applied soil conditioners in heavy metal-contaminated soil. Different heavy metal-contaminated soil added with suitable biochars represent an intriguing way of the safe production of crops. This study investigated the effects of two types of biochar [rice husk biochar (RHB) and sugarcane bagasse biochar (SBB)] on Cd and Pb accumulation in Shanghaiqing (SHQ, a variety of Brassica campestris L.) and Fengyou 737 (FY, a variety of Brassica napus), as well as on the soil microbial community, through a field experiment. RHB and SBB were characterized by scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and Brunauer-Emmet-Teller method. The results showed that RHB and SBB displayed the higher pH, cation exchange capacity and pore properties, and the addition of RHB and SBB enhanced soil pH and rhizosphere microorganisms promoting vegetables yield. RHB treatments were more effective than SBB in reducing upward transfer of Cd and Pb, blocking the accumulation of Cd and Pb in the edible parts of SHQ and FY, and decreasing soil Cd and Pb bioavailability. Additionally, RHB and SBB changed the composition of the rhizosphere soil microbial community. The application of biochar promoted the growth of ecologically beneficial bacteria (Nitrospira, Opitutus, and Gemmatimonas) and fungi (Mortierella and Holtermanniella), whereas reducing the enrichment of plant pathogenic fungi (Alternaria, Stagonosporopsis, Lectera, and Periconia) in rhizosphere soil. Our findings demonstrated that the application of RHB significantly reduces Cd and Pb accumulation in the edible parts by decreasing the soil Cd and Pb bioavailability and altering the rhizosphere microbial community composition in two Brassica vegetables grown on Cd/Pb-contaminated soils. Thus, the application of two biochar, especially RHB is a feasible strategy for the safe production of vegetable crops in Cd/Pb co-contaminated soils.

Antidepressant effects of sulforaphane (SFN) and its derivatives SLL-III-9 and SLL-III-120 and their potential underlying mechanisms based on the microbiota-gut-brain axis.

Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L.) is a vegetable with numerous nutritional properties, with sulforaphane (SFN) being the most abundant and unique bioactive ingredient. SFN has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancer activities. In this study, a series of SFN derivatives were synthesized and screened for improved antidepressant effects. Among these, the SFN derivatives SLL-III-9 and SLL-III-120 were the best candidates, and the potential antidepressant mechanism of SFN, SLL-III-9, and SLL-III-120 associated with their effects in a chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) mouse model was explored based on the microbiota-gut-brain axis. All three compounds were able to relieve depression-like behaviors in CUMS mice and regulate the composition of the gut bacteria Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, Parabasalia, and Tenericutes at the phylum level and Bacteroidales bacterium, Lachnospiraceae bacterium A4, Muribaculum intestinale, Muribaculaceae bacterium, and Prevotella sp. MGM1 at the species level, possibly altering their function associated with the anti-inflammatory effect. Additionally, SFN and its derivatives upregulated the expression of the tight junction proteins ZO-1, occludin, and claudin and increased the concentration of IL-10, dopamine (DA), 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) and the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), while downregulating the expressions of proteins related to the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway and reducing the concentration of TNF-α. Further in vitro studies revealed significant inhibition of the production of inflammatory factors IL-1ß, IL-18, IL-6, and TNF-α in LPS-activated BV2 cells via the NF-κB/NLRP3 pathway when these cells were treated with SFN or its two derivatives. Taken together, the results suggested that SFN and its two derivatives, SLL-III-9 and SLL-III-120, could be considered potential compounds for the development of a promising and safe agent for combating depression.

Silicon Nanomaterials Enhance Seedling Growth and Plant Adaptation to Acidic Soil by Promoting Photosynthesis and Antioxidant Activity in Mustard (Brassica campestris L.).

Soil acidity is a divesting factor that restricts crop growth and productivity. Conversely, silicon nanomaterials (Si-NMs) have been praised as a blessing of modern agricultural intensification by overcoming the ecological barrier. Here, we performed a sequential study from seed germination to the yield performance of mustard (Brassica campestris) crops under acid-stressed conditions. The results showed that Si-NMs significantly improved seed germination and seedling growth under acid stress situations. These might be associated with increased antioxidant activity and the preserve ratio of GSH/GSSG and AsA/DHA, which is restricted by soil acidity. Moreover, Si-NMs in field regimes significantly diminished the acid-stress-induced growth inhibitions, as evidenced by increased net photosynthesis and biomass accumulations. Again, Si-NMs triggered all the critical metrics of crop productivity, including the seed oil content. Additionally, Si-NMs, upon dolomite supplementation, further triggered all the metrics of yields related to farming resilience. Therefore, the present study highlighted the crucial roles of Si-NMs in sustainable agricultural expansion and cropping intensification, especially in areas affected by soil acidity.

Comprehensive, Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analyses of Phenylalanine Ammonia-Lyase Family under Abiotic Stresses in Brassica oleracea.

Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase (PAL) acts as the rate-limiting enzyme for anthocyanin biosynthesis through the phenylpropanoid pathway, a crucial component of plant secondary metabolism. The PAL gene family plays a crucial role in plants' defense and stress responses, but its in silico identification and expression analyses in Brassica oleracea under different abiotic stresses remain unexplored. In this study, nine BolPAL, seven BrPAL, four AtPAL, and seventeen BnPAL genes were obtained from the genomes of B. oleracea, Brassica rapa, Arabidopsis thaliana, and Brassica napus, respectively. Segmental duplication and purifying selection are the causes of the BolPAL gene's amplification and evolution. The BolPAL genes with comparable intron-exon architectures and motifs were grouped together in the same clade. Three categories comprised the cis-regulatory elements: abiotic stressors, phytohormones, and light. According to the results of the qRT-PCR experiments, the majority of the BolPAL genes were expressed highly under MeJA, a low temperature, and a high temperature, and they were downregulated under ABA. Under white light (100 µmol m-2 s-1) with 50, 100, or 150 µmol m-2 s-1 far-red (FR), only a small number of the PAL genes were expressed at 50 and 100 µmol m-2 s-1 FR, while the majority of the PAL genes were slightly elevated at 150 µmol m-2 s-1 FR. This work offers a theoretical foundation for molecular breeding research to investigate the role of BolPAL genes and their role in anthocyanin biosynthesis.

Effects of decomposed and undecomposed straw of three crops on clubroot disease of Chinese cabbage and soil nutrients.

AIMS: Straw turnover plays an important role in reducing soil diseases, improving the ecological environment of plowland and realizing the effective ecological utilization of straw. METHODS: Pot and field experiments were carried out to investigate the effects of maize, rice and wheat straws on the growth, clubroot disease of Chinese cabbage and soil nutrients. Undecomposed and decomposed maize, rice and wheat straws were quantitatively added to the monocultural soil of Chinese cabbage, and the crops without straw were taken as the control. RESULTS: The results showed that the addition of maize, wheat and rice straws could promote the growth of monocultural Chinese cabbage, inhibit the occurrence of clubroot disease, increase soil pH value, the content of soil organic matter, alkaline hydrolyzable nitrogen and available potassium in pot experiment. Exogenous straw application could reduce the incidence rate by 22.54 ~ 47.85%, increase the plot yield of field 95.15 ~ 365.81%. CONCLUSIONS: In terms of inhibiting clubroot disease and improving soil properties, undecomposed rice straw is superior to maize and wheat straw, while decomposed maize straw is superior to rice and wheat straw.

Development of a Cabbage Protoplast System for Studying Hypoxia Tolerance in Brassica.

As climate change brings more heavy rainfall, cabbage, a key Brassicaceae vegetable, faces significant yield losses due to flooding-induced hypoxia stress. To identify mechanisms of flooding tolerance in cabbages, a versatile platform for genetic functional studies is needed to overcome the transformation-recalcitrant nature of cabbages. In this study, a cabbage protoplast transient expression system and a corresponding protoplast hypoxia induction protocol were developed. This protocol achieved a high yield and integrity of protoplast isolation from cabbage leaves, with a transfection efficiency exceeding 40% using optimized enzymatic conditions. To alleviate potential hypoxic influence before treatments, the W5 solution was bubbled with oxygen gas to increase dissolved oxygen levels. Several chemicals for adjusting oxygen levels and physiological oxygen-scavenging treatments were tested, including EC-Oxyrase, OxyFluor, sodium sulfite, and an oxygen absorber pack. Dual-luciferase assays showed that promoters of anaerobic respiration response genes BoADH1 and BoSUS1L were activated in cabbage protoplasts after hypoxia treatments, with the highest induction level observed after treatment with the oxygen absorber pack. In summary, the cabbage protoplast transient expression system combined with hypoxia treatment demonstrates an efficient and convenient platform. This platform can facilitate studies of gene function and molecular mechanisms associated with hypoxia responses in cabbages.

Exploration of the Sclerotinia sclerotiorum-Brassica pathosystem: advances and perspectives in omics studies.

The polyphagous phytopathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum causing Stem rot disease is a major biotic stress in Brassica, and affects the yield and quality in various crops of agricultural significance. It affects the crop at pre-maturity which causes a reduction in the seed yield and deteriorates the oil quality in rapeseeds and Indian mustard globally. The hemibiotrophic nature and long persistence in the soil as sclerotia have made this pathogen difficult to manage through conventional agronomical practices. Hence, for alternative strategies, it is important to understand the basic aspects of the pathogen and the pathogenesis processes in the host. The current developments in technologies for omics studies including whole-genomes, transcriptomes, proteomes, and metabolomes have deciphered various genes, transcription factors, effectors and their target molecules involved in interaction, disease establishment and pathogen progress in the host tissues. The current review encompasses the studies that were conducted to decipher the Brassica-S. sclerotiorum pathosystem and the molecular factors identified through multi-omics studies for their application in building resistance to Sclerotinia stem rot disease in the susceptible cultivars of oilseed Brassica.

Transcriptome Analysis of Chinese Cabbage Infected with Plasmodiophora Brassicae in the Primary Stage.

Clubroot disease caused by the infection of Plasmodiophora brassicae is widespread in China, and significantly reduces the yield of Chinese cabbage (Brassica rapa L. ssp. pekinensis). However, the resistance mechanism of Chinese cabbage against clubroot disease is still unclear. It is important to exploit the key genes that response to early infection of P. brassicae. In this study, it was found that zoospores were firstly invaded hair roots on the 8th day after inoculating with 1 × 107 spores/mL P. brassicae. Transcriptome analysis found that the early interaction between Chinese cabbage and P. brassicae caused the significant expression change of some defense genes, such as NBS-LRRs and pathogenesis-related genes, etc. The above results were verified by quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). Otherwise, peroxidase (POD) salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) were also found to be important signal molecules in the resistance to clubroot disease in Chinese cabbage. This study provides important clues for understanding the resistance mechanism of Chinese cabbage against clubroot disease.

SSA4 Mediates Cd Tolerance via Activation of the Cis Element of VHS1 in Yeast and Enhances Cd Tolerance in Chinese Cabbage.

Identifying key genes involved in Cadmium (Cd) response pathways in plants and developing low-Cd-accumulating cultivars may be the most effective and eco-friendly strategy to tackle the problem of Cd pollution in crops. In our previous study, Stressseventy subfamily A 4 (SSA4) was identified to be associated with Cd tolerance in yeast. Here, we investigated the mechanism of SSA4 in regulating Cd tolerance in yeast. ScSSA4 binds to POre Membrane 34 (POM34), a key component of nuclear pore complex (NPC), and translocates from the cytoplasm to the nucleus, where it regulates the expression of its downstream gene, Viable in a Hal3 Sit4 background 1 (VHS1), resulting in reduced Cd accumulation in yeast cells. Additionally, we identified a Chinese cabbage SSA4 gene, BrSSA4c, which could enhance the Cd tolerance in Chinese cabbage. This study offers new insights into the regulatory mechanisms of Cd tolerance in yeast, a model organism, and paves the way for the genetic enhancement of Cd tolerance in Chinese cabbage.

Insights into Osteogenesis Induced by Crude Brassicaceae Seeds Extracts: A Role for Glucosinolates.

Background/Objectives: Crude extracts from the Brassica genus have recently emerged as promising phytochemicals for preventing bone loss. While the most documented evidence suggests that their general biological activity is due to glucosinolates' (GLSs') hydrolysis products, the direct activity of GLSs is beginning to be uncovered. However, the contribution of GLSs to the bone-sparing activity of crude Brassicaceae extracts has seldom been addressed. Here, we aimed to gain insights into this gap by studying in the same in vitro model of human osteogenesis the effect of two Brassica seed extracts (Eruca sativa and Lepidium sativum) obtained from defatted seed meals, comparing them to the isolated GLSs most represented in their composition, glucoerucin (GER) and glucotropaeolin (GTL), for Eruca sativa and Lepidium sativum, respectively. Methods: Osteogenic differentiation of human mesenchymal stromal cells (hMSCs) was assessed by alizarin red staining assay and real-time PCR, respectively, evaluating mineral apposition and mRNA expression of specific osteogenic genes. Results: Both Brassica extracts and GLSs increased the osteogenic differentiation, indicating that the stimulating effect of Brassica extracts can be at least partially attributed to GLSs. Moreover, these data extend previous evidence of the effect of unhydrolyzed glucoraphanin (GRA) on osteogenesis to other types of GLSs: GER and GTL. Notably, E. sativa extract and GTL induced higher osteogenic stimulation than Lepidium sativum extract and GER, respectively. Conclusions: Overall, this study expands the knowledge on the possible application of Brassica-derived bioactive molecules as natural alternatives for the prevention and treatment of bone-loss pathologies.

Engineered plant-derived extracellular vesicles for targeted regulation and treatment of colitis-associated inflammation.

Rationale: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic disorder characterized by persistent inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Due to the elusive causes and complex mechanisms of this disorder, the development of highly effective therapeutic drugs is crucial. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are small membrane-bound structures released by cells into the surrounding environment. Recent research has witnessed a substantial surge in the utilization of plant-derived EVs that offer advantages such as high productivity, low production costs, diverse biological functions, and low cytotoxicity. Herein, Red cabbage-derived EVs (Rabex) were investigated and engineered as potential therapeutic agents for IBD. Methods: Rabex was engineered by surface conjugation with hyaluronic acid (t-Rabex) to simultaneously enhance the targeting of intestinal epithelial and immune cells, thereby improving their therapeutic targeting and efficacy. The properties and therapeutic potential of t-Rabex were assessed through both in vitro studies and in vivo experiments, focusing on their capacity to reach the gastrointestinal tract and exert a therapeutic effect compared to unmodified Rabex. Results: Rabex exhibited dual functions, including the suppression of inflammation in macrophages and promotion of colon epithelial cell regeneration, both of which are critical for effective IBD treatment. In vitro and in vivo studies of t-Rabex have demonstrated its superior targeting efficiency to the gastrointestinal tract and therapeutic efficacy compared to Rabex, making it a promising and more effective IBD treatment. Understanding the mechanism of action of t-Rabex in colonic tissues highlighted its anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and tight-junction maintenance properties. Conclusions: These findings underscore the potential of t-Rabex as a precise therapeutic agent for IBD and shed light on the diverse applications of plant-derived EVs.

Cationic Amphiphilic Comb-Shaped Polymer Emulsifier for Fabricating Avermectin Nanoemulsion with Exceptional Leaf Behaviors and Multidimensional Controlled Release.

The development of intelligent multifunctional nanopesticides featuring enhanced foliage affinity and hierarchical target release is increasingly pivotal in modern agriculture. In this study, a novel cationic amphiphilic comb-shaped polymer, termed PEI-TA, was prepared via a one-step Michael addition between low-molecular-weight biodegradable polyethylenimine (PEI) and tetradecyl acrylate (TA), followed by neutralization with acetic acid. Using the emulsifier PEI-TA, a positively charged avermectin (AVM) nanoemulsion was prepared via a phase inversion emulsification process. Under optimal formulation, the obtained AVM nanoemulsion (defined as AVM@PEI-TA) demonstrated exceptional properties, including small size (as low as 67.6 nm), high encapsulation efficiency (up to 87.96%), and high stability toward shearing, storage, dilution, and UV irradiation. The emulsifier endowed AVM@PEI-TA with a pronounced thixotropy, so that the droplets exhibited no splash and bounce when they were sprayed on the cabbage leaf. Owing to the electrostatic attraction between the emulsifier and the leaf, AVM@PEI-TA showed improved leaf adhesion, better deposition, and higher washing resistance in contrast to both its negatively charged counterpart and AVM emulsifiable concentrate (AVM-EC). Compared to the large-sized particles, the small-sized particles of the AVM nanoemulsion more effectively traveled long distances through the vascular system of veins after entering the leaf apoplast. Moreover, the nanoparticles lost stability when exposed to multidimensional stimuli, including pH, temperature, esterase, and ursolic acid individually or simultaneously, thereby promoting the release of AVM. The release mechanisms were discussed for understanding the important role of the emulsifier in nanopesticides.

Sustainable lignin-modified epoxy nanocarriers for enhanced foliar insecticide efficacy and food safety.

Reducing pesticide residues while extending their efficacy period is a critical challenge in the development of controlled-release pesticides. This study focuses on loading avermectin onto lignin-modified epoxy resin nanocarriers via the creation of photostable nanocapsules (NCs) for evaluating their efficacy against Plutella xylostella. This study also assesses the NCs' resistance to water scour on plant leaves by comparing them with traditional preparations. These NCs feature a stable core-shell structure, an encapsulation efficiency of 92.90 % and slow-release properties. Compared to emulsifiable concentrate (EC) and microemulsion (ME) under UV irradiation, the loading of nanocarriers significantly prolonged the degradation time of avermectin by fivefold. The Nano-formula demonstrated enhanced insecticidal activity in comparison to traditional preparations. Field tests revealed that the efficacy of the NCs on Day 7 (92.55 %) and Day 14 (78.54 %) significantly surpassed that of traditional preparations. Additionally, NCs are more readily washed off cabbage leaves by water than EC and ME, aiding in the reduction of pesticide residues. This technology is particularly suitable for leafy vegetable crops in arid regions or greenhouses, enhancing effectiveness period while minimizing pesticide residues. This research offers novel insights and directions for the development of controlled-release pesticides.

Effect of Illite Treatment on Quality Characteristics and Antioxidant Activity of Broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) Sprouts.

Microgreens have recently gained popularity owing to their reliable economic and nutritional value. This study aimed to increase the quality of microgreen broccoli via treatment with different concentrations (1%, IPB-1; 3%, IPB-3; 5%, IPB-5; or 7%, IPB-7 w/v) of illite-a natural mineral powder. The results showed that the illite treatments considerably increased the content of mineral elements, such as Ca, P, and K; of vitamin C; and of free amino acids; and also increased the total weight of the broccoli sprouts. The content of sulforaphane, a bioactive compound, also increased by up to 47% with illite treatment, with the highest increase being in the IPB-5 group. However, several of the parameters were lower in the IPB-7 group. Aromatic compounds were categorized by functional groups such as hydrocarbons which numbered 36, 30, 34, 28, and 30 in the control, IPB-1, IPB-3, IPB-5, and IPB-7 groups, respectively. We found 16, 15, 15, 13, and 14 sulfides, including dimethyl sulfide, in the control, IPB-1, IPB-3, IPB-5, and IPB-7 groups, respectively. Additionally, aldehydes, comprising seven compounds, were detected in the IPB-1, IPB-3, IPB-5, and IPB-7 groups. Illite treatment significantly increased the activities of antioxidants such as DPPH and the polyphenol content of the microgreens. These results indicate a potential role for appropriate illite doses in microgreen treatment to address multinutrient deficiencies and to increase the quality of microgreen vegetables.

In vitro safety profile and phyto-ecotoxicity assessment of the eco-friendly calcium oxide nanoparticles.

The present study aims to evaluate the toxicity of the green calcium oxide nanoparticles (CaO-NPs) from golden linseed extract (Linum usitatissimum L.) by phytotoxicity in seeds (Daucus carota, Beet shankar, Lactuca sativa and Brassica oleracea), in vitro safety profile and soil toxicity for CaO-NPs solutions from 12.5 to 100 µg mL-1. Ecotoxicity analysis of the soil was conducted using XRD diffractograms, which revealed characteristic peaks of the nanoparticles at 37.35° (12.5, 25, 50, and 100 µg mL-1), as well as a peak at 67.34° (25 and 100 µg mL-1). Additionally, the in vitro safety assessment indicated favorable cell specification and regulation within the first 24 h, demonstrating reductions of 15.9 ± 0.2%, 17.9 ± 0.2%, 17.6 ± 0.2%, and 32.9 ± 0.2% to 12.5, 25, 50, and 100 µg mL-1, respectively. The dsDNA assay revealed initial protection and controlled release within the cells for 48 h. However, after 72 h, there was an increase of 20 ± 0.2%, 16 ± 0.2%, 32 ± 0.2%, and 43 ± 0.2% to 12.5, 25, and 50 µg mL-1. The analysis of ROS generation demonstrated a reduction of 40 ± 0.2%, 33 ± 0.2%, 20 ± 0.2%, and 9 ± 0.2% to 12.5, 25, 50, and 100 µg mL-1, respectively, within 72 h. When compared to the negative control (NC), there was an increase of 50 ± 0.2%, 56 ± 0.2%, 77 ± 0.2%, and 92 ± 0.2% at the same concentrations, suggesting that the nanoparticles generated free radicals, leading to cellular inflammation. This was attributed to the positive surface charge of the nanoparticles, resulting in reduced interaction with the cell membrane and the subsequent release of hydroxyl (•OH), which caused inflammatory processes in the cells. Therefore, CaO-NPs exhibited a low phytotoxicity and high cytocompatibility, while also promoting plant germination and growth.

Local cryptic diversity in salinity adaptation mechanisms in the wild outcrossing Brassica fruticulosa.

It is normally supposed that populations of the same species should evolve shared mechanisms of adaptation to common stressors due to evolutionary constraint. Here, we describe a system of within-species local adaptation to coastal habitats, Brassica fruticulosa, and detail surprising strategic variability in adaptive responses to high salinity. These different adaptive responses in neighboring populations are evidenced by transcriptomes, diverse physiological outputs, and distinct genomic selective landscapes. In response to high salinity Northern Catalonian populations restrict root-to-shoot Na+ transport, favoring K+ uptake. Contrastingly, Central Catalonian populations accumulate Na+ in leaves and compensate for the osmotic imbalance with compatible solutes such as proline. Despite contrasting responses, both metapopulations were salinity tolerant relative to all inland accessions. To characterize the genomic basis of these divergent adaptive strategies in an otherwise non-saline-tolerant species, we generate a long-read-based genome and population sequencing of 18 populations (nine inland, nine coastal) across the B. fruticulosa species range. Results of genomic and transcriptomic approaches support the physiological observations of distinct underlying mechanisms of adaptation to high salinity and reveal potential genetic targets of these two very recently evolved salinity adaptations. We therefore provide a model of within-species salinity adaptation and reveal cryptic variation in neighboring plant populations in the mechanisms of adaptation to an important natural stressor highly relevant to agriculture.