Evaluation of Kappa-carrageenan supplementation in extender for post-thaw Kajli ram sperm quality.

Cryopreservation is one of the reliable techniques for long-term storage of sperm. The success of this technique depends on the choice of cryoprotectant; therefore, a plethora of literature has reported the effects of different cryoprotective agents so far. Kappa-carrageenan (κ-carrageenan) is a hydrocolloid polysaccharide extracted from red marine seaweed. Its unique property makes it a promising option as a non-colligative cryoprotectant. The current study aims to evaluate the cryoprotective effect of k-carrageenan along with glycerol on ram sperm quality both after equilibration and freezing. Nine Kajli rams were utilized in this experiment for semen collection through an artificial vagina maintained at 42°C. Qualified samples were diluted in tris egg yolk glycerol (TEYG) extender containing different concentrations of k-carrageenan as 0 mg/mL (control), 0.2, 0.5, 0.8 and 1 mg/mL. Post-thaw assessment was done at 37°C after 24 h of storage, which showed a significant improvement (p < .05) in sperm viability, motility, membrane and acrosome integrity in an extender containing k-carrageenan at a concentration of 0.5 mg/mL compared to control. It is concluded from the current study that the combination of glycerol and 0.5 mg/mL concentration of k-carrageenan improved the sperm post-thaw quality.

Nutrient and mycoremediation of a global menace 'arsenic': exploring the prospects of phosphorus and Serendipita indica-based mitigation strategies in rice and other crops.

KEY MESSAGE: Serendipita indica induced metabolic reprogramming in colonized plants complements phosphorus-management in improving their tolerance to arsenic stress on multifaceted biological fronts. Restoration of the anthropic damage done to our environment is inextricably linked to devising strategies that are not only economically sound but are self-renewing and ecologically conscious. The dilemma of heavy metal (HM) dietary ingestion, especially arsenic (As), faced by humans and animals alike, necessitates the exploitation of such technologies and the cultivation of healthy and abundant crops. The remarkable symbiotic alliance between plants and 'mycorrhizas' has evolved across eons, benefiting growth/yield aspects as well as imparting abiotic/biotic stress tolerance. The intricate interdependence of Serendipita indica (S. indica) and rice plant reportedly reduce As accumulation, accentuating the interest of microbiologists, agriculturists, and ecotoxicological scientists apropos of the remediation mechanisms of As in the soil-AMF-rice system. Nutrient management, particularly of phosphorus (P), is also praised for mitigating As phytotoxicity by deterring the uptake of As molecules due to the rhizospheric cationic competition. Taking into consideration the reasonable prospects of success in minimizing As acquisition by rice plants, this review focuses on the physiological, metabolic, and transcriptional alterations underlying S. indica symbiosis, recuperation of As stress together with nutritional management of P by gathering case studies and presenting successful paradigms. Weaving together a volume of literature, we assess the chemical forms of As and related transport pathways, discuss As-P-rice interaction and the significance of fungi in As toxicity mitigation, predominantly the role of mycorrhiza, as well as survey of the multifaceted impacts of S. indica on plants. A potential strategy for simultaneous S. indica + P administration in paddy fields is proposed, followed by future research orientation to expand theoretic comprehension and encourage field-based implementation.

Phytochemical screening, HPLC analysis, antimicrobial and antioxidant effect of Euphorbia parviflora L. (Euphorbiaceae Juss.).

Plant extracts are actively being used worldwide due to the presence of biologically active constituents helping in the preservation of food, and to aid against various diseases owing to their antimicrobial and antioxidant potential. The present research work was carried out to investigate the phytochemical constituents, antimicrobial activity, and antioxidant activity of different extracted samples of Euphorbia parviflora. Anti-microbial studies were carried out by Agar well diffusion while the DPPH method was employed for investigating anti-oxidant activity. Three samples from methanol, chloroform, and ethyl acetate extract were tested against five different bacterial strains comprising two species from Gram-negative bacteria i.e., Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus subtilis and three species from Gram-positive bacteria i.e. Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Klebsiella pneumonia along two fungal strains i.e. Candida albicans and Aspergillus niger. The results of the qualitative phytochemical analysis showed that methanolic, chloroformic, and ethylacetate extract of Euphorbia parviflora consist of alkaloids, reducing sugars, flavonoids, terpenoids, tannins, and saponins. The total phenol and flavonoid content of E. parviflora showed that the methanolic extract of E. parviflora had a significantly higher total phenolic content (53.73 ± 0.30 mg of GAE/g) and flavonoid content (44.62 ± 0.38 mg of than other extracts. The content of total phenolic and flavonoids was more in methanolic extract as compared to other extracts of E. prolifera. The HPLC analysis showed that in the chloroform extract of E. parviflora Cinnamic acid (4.32 ± 2.89 mg/g) was dominant, in methanol extract quercetin (3.42 ± 2.89 mg/g) was dominant and in ethyl acetate extract of E. parviflora catechin (4.44 ± 2.89 mg/g) was found dominant. The antimicrobial activity revealed that amongst all the extracts the highest antibacterial activity was shown by methanolic extract against B. subtilis and Staphylococcus aureus as compared to the other extracts. The antioxidant activity revealed that methanolic extract of E. parviflora demonstrated higher antioxidant activity (82.42 ± 0.02) followed by chloroform extract (76.48 ± 0.08) at 150 µg/mL. The aim of this study was primarily to evaluate the potential of this plant as a reliable source of antimicrobials and antioxidants that may be used for the treatment of various infectious diseases in the future. The study provides evidence that this plant can act as a reliable source of antimicrobial and antioxidant agents and might be used against several infectious diseases.

HPLC analysis, genotoxic and antioxidant potential of Achillea millefolium L. and Chaerophyllum villosum Wall ex. Dc.

BACKGROUND: Methanolic and chloroformic extract of Achillea millefolium and Chaerophyllum villosum were evaluated for HPLC analysis, genotoxic and antioxidant potential. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Genotoxic activity was carried out on human blood lymphocytes via comet assay and antioxidant activity was studied through DPPH method. RESULTS: The genotoxic potential of A. millefolium and C. villosum's methanolic and chloroformic extract was analysed using comet assay technique. Comet shaped human lymphocytes cells were observed when treated with different concentrations (50 mg/mL, 75 mg/mL, 100 mg/mL) of methanolic and chloroformic extract of both plants. Reading was taken on the basis of damaged DNA head and tail length. Greater the length of tail as compared to head, greater will be the damage and vice versa. Total comet score was obtained from A. millefolium subjected to different concentrations. After a time interval of 24 h both the extract showed dose dependant genoprotection with maximum genoprotectivity at 98.7 ± 12.7 and 116 ± 5.3 at 50 mg/100 mL for methanolic and chloroformic extract respectively. Similarly Total Comet score was obtained from C. villosum subjected to different concentrations of methanolic and chloroformic extract. After 24 h exhibited dose dependent genoprotection with maximum protectivity at 85.7 ± 22.0 and 101.7 ± 8.6 at 50 mg/100 mL for methanolic and chloroformic extract were determined. The antioxidant activity revealed that methanolic extract of A. millefolium showed highest antioxidant activity (84.21%) at 300 mg/ml after 90 min while the chloroformic extract of C. villosum exhibited highest (68.46%) antioxidant activity (59.69%) at 300 µg/ml after 90 min but less than the standard drug ascorbic acid (88.72%). Quantitative phytochemical screening revealed high percentage of alkaloids (27.4%), Phenols (34.5%), Flavonoids (32.4%) as compared to Tannins (12%) in methanolic extract of A.millefolium. While high percentage of alkaloids (31.4), Phenols (19.3%), Flavonoids (35.5%) as compared to Tannins (16.6%) in chloroformic extract of C. villosum. CONCLUSION: The present results showed that A. millefolium and C. villosum possess a number of important compounds and revealed genoprotective property which may be used to treat several genetic disorders such as alzeimer's disease in future (Grodzicki W, Dziendzikowska K, Antioxidants 9(3):229, 2020).

Foliar zinc spraying improves assimilative capacity of sugar beet leaves by promoting magnesium and calcium uptake and enhancing photochemical performance.

Sugar beet, a zinc-loving crop, is increasingly limited by zinc deficiency worldwide. Foliar zinc application is an effective and convenient way to supplement zinc fertilizer. However, the regulatory mechanism of foliar zinc spraying on sugar beet leaf photosynthetic characteristics remains unclear. Therefore, we investigated the effects of foliar ZnSO4·7H2O application (0, 0.1%, 0.2%, and 0.4%) on the photosynthetic performance of sugar beet leaves under controlled hydroponic conditions. The results indicated that a foliar spray of 0.2% Zn fertilizer was optimal for promoting sugar beet leaf growth. This concentration significantly reduced the leaf shape index of sugar beet, notably increasing leaf area, leaf mass ratio, and specific leaf weight. Foliar spraying of Zn (0.2%) substantially elevated the Zn content in sugar beet leaves, along with calcium (Ca) and magnesium (Mg) contents. Consequently, this led to an increase in the potential photochemical activity of PSII (Fv/Fo) (by 6.74%), net photosynthetic rate (Pn) (11.39%), apparent electron transport rate (ETR) (11.43%), actual photochemical efficiency of PSⅡ (Y (Ⅱ)) (11.46%), photochemical quenching coefficient (qP) (15.49%), and total chlorophyll content (25.17%). Ultimately, this increased sugar beet leaf dry matter weight (11.30%). In the cultivation and management of sugar beet, the application of 0.2% Zn fertilizer (2.88 mg plant-1) exhibited the potential to enhance Zn and Mg contents in sugar beet, improve photochemical properties, stimulate leaf growth, and boost light assimilation capacity. Our result suggested the foliar application of Zn might be a useful strategy for sugar beet crop management.

Incidence of aflatoxin M1 in cows' milk in Pakistan, effects on milk quality and evaluation of therapeutic management in dairy animals.

The present study was aimed at measuring the concentration of aflatoxin M1 (AFM1) in the milk of Holstein Friesian cows, its effect on the milk quality and seasonal trends, as well as to investigate the efficacy of a commercial clay-based toxin binder. For this purpose, milk samples from dairy cows (n = 72) were collected and assayed for AFM1 before employing a clay-based toxin binder. The milk samples (n = 72) were collected from selected animals, revealing that 69.4% of the milk samples had AFM1 levels above the United States permissible limit (0.5 µg/kg). The incidence of AFM1 in milk during the winter and summer was 82.5% and 53.1%, respectively. Owing to the presence of AFM1, the level of milk fat, solids-not-fat, and protein were found to be low. Subsequently, the affected animals were divided into two groups, i.e., AFM1 positive control (n = 10) and the experimental group (n = 40). The experimental group of animals were fed the clay-based toxin binder at 25 g/animal/day. A progressive decrease of 19.8% in the AFM1 levels was observed on day 4 and on day 7 (53.6%) in the treatment group. Furthermore, the fat, solids-non-fat and protein increased significantly in the milk. In conclusion, a high level of AFM1 contamination occurs in the milk in Pakistan, affecting the quality of the milk production. Clay-based toxin binders may be used to ensure the milk quality and to protect the animal and consumer health.

In Silico Identification of Natural Product-Based Inhibitors Targeting IL-1ß/IL-1R Protein-Protein Interface.

IL-1ß mediates inflammation and regulates immune responses, cell proliferation, and differentiation. Dysregulation of IL-1ß is linked to inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Elevated IL-1ß levels are found in patients with severe COVID-19, indicating its excessive production may worsen the disease. Also, dry eye disease patients show high IL-1ß levels in tears and conjunctival epithelium. Therefore, IL-1ß signaling is a potential therapeutic targeting for COVID-19 and aforementioned diseases. No small-molecule IL-1ß inhibitor is clinically approved despite efforts. Developing such inhibitors is highly desirable. Herein, a docking-based strategy was used to screen the TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) database to identify possible IL-1ß inhibitors with desirable pharmacological characteristics by targeting the IL-1ß/IL-1R interface. Primarily, the docking-based screening was performed by selecting the crucial residues of IL-1ß interface to retrieve the potential compounds. Afterwards, the compounds were shortlisted on the basis of binding scores and significant interactions with the crucial residues of IL-1ß. Further, to gain insights into the dynamic behavior of the protein-ligand interactions, MD simulations were performed. The analysis suggests that four selected compounds were stabilized in an IL-1ß pocket, possibly blocking the formation of an IL-1ß/IL-1R complex. This indicates their potential to interfere with the immune response, making them potential therapeutic agents to investigate further.

Traditional foraging for ecological transition? Wild food ethnobotany among three ethnic groups in the highlands of the eastern Hindukush, North Pakistan.

BACKGROUND: The Patrak Valley is home to communities, which have been inextricably linked with nature for generations, and local plant knowledge (LPK) represents an important part of their local cultural diversity. In general, globalization has come at the expense of local plant knowledge among several mountain societies, and therefore the current investigation has been undertaken to record the (possibly) last remaining wild food plant/mushroom foraging practices among Pathans, Kohistanis, and Gujjars living in the highlands of the Hindukush, North Pakistan. METHODS: Data on the uses of wild food plants and mushrooms (WFPs) were collected through 120 semi-structured interviews. The data were cross-culturally compared among the three linguistic groups. Venn diagrams were used to visualize the comparative analysis. To determine the patterns of similarities in plant use among the different ethnic groups, we used the Jaccard similarity index (JI). The recorded data were also compared with the existing Pakistani food ethnobotanical literature. RESULTS: A total of 68 WFPs were recorded, the majority of which were used as raw snacks and as cooked vegetables. Fruit was the most frequently reported plant part among the three researched groups. Cross-cultural comparison revealed that 37% of the used plants were commonly shared by the three studied groups. Pathans have retained rich knowledge on WFPs, and they show a comparatively closer affinity with Kohistanis is the use of WFPs compared to Gujjars. While we observed some idiosyncrasies for each of the researched groups, the distinctive plant uses among Gujjars provide insight into their food ecology, their particular human-ecological system centered on mobile pastoralism and their limited exchanges of local food/ecological knowledge due to endogamic patterns. A literature survey revealed some novel or little-known ingredients within Pakistani food ethnobotany/ethnomycology, such as Aesculus indica, Agaricus campestris, Apteranthes tuberculata, Duchesnea indica, Equisetum arvense, Eremurus himalaicus, Isodon rugosus, Morella esculenta, Sophora mollis, and Drimia indica. CONCLUSION: The researched communities have retained important plant knowledge which could be implemented through future development programs considering that most of these traditional foraging practices fulfill environmental and social sustainability standards. Further field studies are required to thoroughly investigate the patterns of foraging among highland pastoral societies in other parts of the Hindukush region and especially their potential for the ongoing ecological transition.

Phosphorus and Serendipita indica synergism augments arsenic stress tolerance in rice by regulating secondary metabolism related enzymatic activity and root metabolic patterns.

The multifarious problems created by arsenic (As), for collective environment and human health, serve a cogent case for searching integrative agricultural approaches to attain food security. Rice (Oryza sativa L.) acts as a sponge for heavy metal(loid)s accretion, specifically As, due to anaerobic flooded growth conditions facilitating its uptake. Acclaimed for their positive impact on plant growth, development and phosphorus (P) nutrition, 'mycorrhizas' are able to promote stress tolerance. Albeit, the metabolic alterations underlying Serendipita indica (S. indica; S.i) symbiosis-mediated amelioration of As stress along with nutritional management of P are still understudied. By using biochemical, RT-qPCR and LC-MS/MS based untargeted metabolomics approach, rice roots of ZZY-1 and GD-6 colonized by S. indica, which were later treated with As (10 µM) and P (50 µM), were compared with non-colonized roots under the same treatments with a set of control plants. The responses of secondary metabolism related enzymes, especially polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activities in the foliage of ZZY-1 and GD-6 were enhanced 8.5 and 12-fold, respectively, compared to their respective control counterparts. The current study identified 360 cationic and 287 anionic metabolites in rice roots, and the commonly enriched pathway annotated by Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis was biosynthesis of phenylalanine, tyrosine and tryptophan, which validated the results of biochemical and gene expression analyses associated with secondary metabolic enzymes. Particularly under As+S.i+P comparison, both genotypes exhibited an upregulation of key detoxification and defense related metabolites, including fumaric acid, L-malic acid, choline, 3,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid, to name a few. The results of this study provided the novel insights into the promising role of exogenous P and S. indica in alleviating As stress.

Insights into physiological and molecular mechanisms underlying efficient utilization of boron in different boron efficient Beta vulgaris L. varieties.

Boron (B) deficiency and consequent limitation of plant yield and quality, particularly of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) has emerged as a maior problem,which is exacerbating due to cultivar dependent variability in B deficiency tolerance. Pertinently, the current study was designed to elucidate the physiological and molecular mechanisms of B deficiency tolerance of sugar beet varieties KWS1197 (B-efficient variety) and KWS0143 (B-inefficient variety). A hydroponic experiment was conducted employing two B levels B0.1 (0.1 µM L-1 H3BO3, deficiency) and B50 (50 µM L-1 H3BO3, adequacy). Boron deficiency greatly inhibited root elongation and dry matter accumulation; however, formation of lateral roots stimulated and average root diameter was increased. Results exhibited that by up-regulating the expression of NIP5-1, NIP6-1, and BOR2, and suppressing the expression of BOR4, cultivar KWS1197, in contrast to KWS0143, managed to transfer sufficient amount of B to the aboveground plant parts, facilitating its effective absorption and utilization. Accumulation of malondialdehyde (MDA) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) was also mellowed in KWS1197, as well as the oxidative damage to root cells via preservation of the antioxidant enzyme system. Additionally, the expression of essential enzymes for biosynthesis of phytohormone (PYR/PYL) and lignin (COMT, POX, and CCoAOMT) were found to be highly up-regulated in KWS1197. Deductively, through effective B absorption and transportation, balanced nutrient accumulation, and an activated antioxidant enzyme system, B-efficient cultivars may cope with B deficiency while retaining a superior cellular structure to enable root development.

Physiological and TMT-based quantitative proteomic responses of barley to aluminium stress under phosphorus-Piriformospora indica interaction.

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) is one of the most important cereal crop in the world, and is also the one being seriously affected by heavy metals, particularly aluminium (Al). Keeping in view the utility of barley as food, fodder and raw material for traditional beer brewing, the top-notch quality and higher production of this crop must be sustained. Phosphorus (P) has a quintessential role in plant growth with a potential to relieve symptoms caused by Al poisoning. Displaying a phytopromotive and stress alleviatory potential, Piriformospora indica (P. indica) can improve the stress tolerance in crops. Several studies have been conducted to evaluate the mechanism of Al translocation in a variety of crops including barley, however, the bio-remediative studies related to detoxification and/or sequestration of metals are scarce. Therefore, the current study was carried out to elucidate the tolerance mechanism of an Al-sensitive barley cultivar ZU9 following the colonization with P. indica and exogenous P supply by physio-biochemical, elemental, leaf ultrastructural and root proteome analyses. When compared to the Al alone treated counterparts, the Al + P + P.i treated plants exhibited 4.1-, 1.38-, 2.7 and 1.35-fold improved root and shoot fresh and dry weights, respectively. With the provision of additional phosphorus, the content of P in the root and shoot for Al + P + P.i group was reportedly higher (71.6% and 49.5%, respectively) as compared to the control group. Moreover, inoculation of P. indica combined with P improved barley leaves' cell arrangement and also maintained normal cell wall shape. The root protemics experiment was divided into three groups: Al, Al + P.i and Al + P + P.i. In total, 28, 598, and 823 differentially expressed proteins were found in Al + P.i vs. Al and Al + P + P.i vs. Al, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis was the most prominently enriched pathway, which contributed significantly to the recuperating effects of P-P. indica interaction. Conslusively, it was found that the percentage of protein related to peroxidase was 70/359 (Al + P + P.i vs. Al) and 92/447 (Al + P + P.i vs. Al + P.i), respectively, which indicated that P. indica in combination with P might be involved in the regulation of peroxidases, increasing the adaptability of barley plants by enhanced reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging mechansism.

Anti-hepatitis C virus and synergistic potential of Syzgium cumine a bioassay guided screening in liver-infected hepatocytes.

Hepatitis C virus is still a global challenge affecting millions of carriers worldwide with the more devastating situation in developing countries. Present-day clinical manifestations are insufficient to tackle the increasing disease burden unaffordable cost, viral resistance and adverse effects of treatment. In this research, indigenous medicinal plants from Pakistan tested in bioassay guided manner on Huh-7 cell lines for their antiviral effect, synergism of purified fraction with interferon FDA approved drug regime, as the receptor for developing transfection model. The methanol extract of Syzgium cumine was observed against HCV through serum titter reduction in Quantitative Real Time PCR assay and the gene expression system, NS3protease inhibition was 76% and 51% against genotype 1a and 3a, respectively. More precisely the most active fraction SC14 was assessed in dose response assay and synergistic potential resulted in 50% reduction (EC50 Value) in HCV titer of genotype 1a and 3a at a concentration of 71.96 ± 8.67 µg and 31.75 ± 3.28 µg, respectively, at a concentration of 100 µg. As per our research work, the S. cumine extract has shown a promising effect on HCV genotypes 1a and 3a. Moreover the purified fraction S. cumine SC14 has a potential synergistic effect and ability to suppress the gene effect of NS3 during transfection in Huh-7 cells and GC/MS analysis reports the presence of Di-n-octyl phthalate (C24H38O4) which can be future direct-acting antiviral therapy against Hepatitis C virus.

Modulation of Key Physio-Biochemical and Ultrastructural Attributes after Synergistic Application of Zinc and Silicon on Rice under Cadmium Stress.

Excessive industrialization and the usage of pesticides plague the farming soils with heavy metals, reducing the quality of arable land. Assessing phytoavailability of cadmium (Cd) from growth medium to plant system is crucial and necessitates precise and timely monitoring of Cd to ensure food safety. Zinc (Zn) and silicon (Si) have singularly demonstrated the potential to ameliorate Cd toxicity and are important for agricultural production, human health, and environment in general. However, Zn-Si interaction on Cd toxicity alleviation, their effects and underlying mechanisms are still fragmentarily understood. Seven treatments were devised besides control to evaluate the single and combined effects of Zn and Si on the physio-biochemical attributes and ultrastructural fingerprints of Cd-treated rice genotypes, i.e., Cd tolerant "Xiushui-110" and Cd sensitive "HIPJ-1". Supplementation of both Zn and Si promoted plant biomass, photosynthetic parameters, ionic balance, and improved chloroplast ultrastructure with minimized Cd uptake and malondialdehyde (MDA) content due to the activation of antioxidant enzymes in Cd stressed plants. The combined effects of 10 µM Zn and 15 µM Si on 15 µM Cd displayed a greater reduction in Cd uptake and root-leaf MDA content, while enhancing photosynthetic activity, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and root-leaf ultrastructure particularly in HIPJ-1, whilst Xiushui-110 had an overall higher leaf catalase (CAT) activity and a higher root length and shoot height was observed in both genotypes compared to the Cd 15 µM treatment. Alone and combined Zn and Si alleviation treatments reduced Cd translocation from the root to the stem for HIPJ-1 but not for Xiushui-110. Our results confer that Zn and Si singularly and in combination are highly effective in reducing tissue Cd content in both genotypes, the mechanism behind which could be the dilution effect of Cd due to improved biomass and competitive nature of Zn and Si, culminating in Cd toxicity alleviation. This study could open new avenues for characterizing interactive effects of simultaneously augmented nutrients in crops and provide a bench mark for crop scientists and farmers to improve Cd tolerance in rice.

RP-HPLC-based phytochemical analysis and diverse pharmacological evaluation of Quercus floribunda Lindl. ex A. Camus nuts extracts.

Quercus floribunda Lindl. ex A. Camus nuts have important folklore uses, assessed for underexplored biological potential. Nuts galls or cores and coats were utilized for the preparation of extracts using 14 solvent systems. Antioxidant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic and enzyme inhibition assays along with phytochemical profiling was carried out. Distilled water cores extract demonstrated maximum percent yield, phenolics content and total antioxidant capacity. Methanol: ethyl acetate cores extract showed maximum flavonoids content, total reducing power and protein kinase inhibition. Highest percentage radical scavenging and brine shrimp lethality was revealed by acetone: distilled water cores extract. Ethyl acetate cores extract indicated maximum α-amylase inhibition. Methanol: water coats extract showed substantial leishmanial growth inhibition. n-Hexane and chloroform coats extracts showed maximum cytotoxicity against HepG2 and THP-1 cell lines, respectively. Polyphenols quantified through RP-HPLC analysis were quercetin, pyrocatechol, gallic acid, catechin and chlorogenic acid ranging from 0.003 ± 0.001 to 1.785 ± 0.5 µg/mg extract.

Zinc alleviates cadmium toxicity by modulating photosynthesis, ROS homeostasis, and cation flux kinetics in rice.

Understanding of cadmium (Cd) uptake mechanism and development of lower Cd crop genotypes are crucial for combating its phytotoxicity and meeting 70% increase in food demand by 2050. Bio-accumulation of Cd continuously challenges quality of life specifically in regions without adequate environmental planning. Here, we investigated the mechanisms operating in Cd tolerance of two rice genotypes (Heizhan-43 and Yinni-801). Damage to chlorophyll contents and PSII, histochemical staining and quantification of reactive oxygen species (ROS), cell viability and osmolyte accumulation were studied to decipher the interactions between Cd and zinc (Zn) by applying two Cd and two Zn levels (alone as well as combined). Cd2+ and Ca2+ fluxes were also measured by employing sole Cd100 (100 µmol L-1) and Zn50 (50 µmol L-1), and their combination with microelectrode ion flux estimation (MIFE) technique. Cd toxicity substantially reduced chlorophyll contents and maximal photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm) compared to control plants. Zn supplementation reverted the Cd-induced toxicity by augmenting osmoprotectants and interfering with ROS homeostasis under combined treatments, particularly in Yinni-801 genotype. Fluorescence microscopy indicated a unique pattern of live and dead root cells, depicting more damage with Cd10, Cd15 and Cd15+Zn50. Our results confer that Cd2+ impairs the uptake of Ca2+ whereas, Zn not only competes with Cd2+ but also Ca2+, thereby modifying ion homeostasis in rice plants. This study suggests that exogenous application of Zn is beneficial for rice plants in ameliorating Cd toxicity in a genotype and dose dependent manner by minimizing ROS generation and suppressing collective oxidative damage. The observations confer that Yinni-801 performed better than Heizhan-43 genotype mainly under combined Zn treatments with low-Cd, presenting Zn fortification as a solution to increase rice production.

Cadmium-zinc cross-talk delineates toxicity tolerance in rice via differential genes expression and physiological / ultrastructural adjustments.

Understanding the physiological and molecular response of crop genotypes could be useful in eco-toxicological evaluation with cadmium (Cd) and could be a strategy to solve heavy metal contamination in agriculture. This study corroborates unique patterns of Cd accumulation and molecular mechanisms adopted by plants to acquire Cd tolerance and counteractive effects of zinc (Zn) against Cd toxicity. Two rice (Oryza sativa) genotypes (Heizhan 43 and Yinni 801) differing in cadmium tolerance and its accumulation in plant tissues were investigated hydroponically using two Cd levels [Cd10 (10 µM L-1) and Cd15 (15 µM L-1)] and two Zn levels [Zn25 (25 µM L-2) and Zn50 (50 µM L-1)] and their combinations. Cadmium toxicity rendered substantial reduction in plant height, biomass, chlorophyll contents and photosynthesis as compared to the control plants after 15 days of treatment. Supplementation of Zn evidently ameliorated Cd toxicity by minimizing the reduction in plant growth, chlorophyll contents and photosynthetic attributes (Pn, gs, Ci, and Tr). Comparatively, lower accumulation of Cd in Yinni 801 under combined treatments revealed a preferential uptake of Zn in this genotype. A cross-talk among Cd, Zn, Fe, Ca and K correlated with fluctuating gs, Ci and Tr. Both genotypes also differed in morphological alterations of cell membrane, chloroplasts and appearance of enlarged plastoglobuli along with distorted mitochondria. An increased ascorbate peroxidase activity in roots of Yinni 801 presented a defensive strategy. Relative expression of Cd and Zn ion transporter genes also confirmed the genotypic background of phenotypic divergence. The OsLCT1 and OsHMA2 expression was significant in Heizhan 43, indicating possible translocation of Cd from shoot to grains contrary to Yinni 801, which accumulated Cd in shoot and showed stunted growth. Zn supplementation promises tolerance to Cd in Yinni 801 by differential expression of putative genes for Cd translocation with minimum ultrastructural modifications by maintaining physiological functions in contrast to Heizhan 43.

An Overview of Hazardous Impacts of Soil Salinity in Crops, Tolerance Mechanisms, and Amelioration through Selenium Supplementation.

Soil salinization is one of the major environmental stressors hampering the growth and yield of crops all over the world. A wide spectrum of physiological and biochemical alterations of plants are induced by salinity, which causes lowered water potential in the soil solution, ionic disequilibrium, specific ion effects, and a higher accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). For many years, numerous investigations have been made into salinity stresses and attempts to minimize the losses of plant productivity, including the effects of phytohormones, osmoprotectants, antioxidants, polyamines, and trace elements. One of the protectants, selenium (Se), has been found to be effective in improving growth and inducing tolerance against excessive soil salinity. However, the in-depth mechanisms of Se-induced salinity tolerance are still unclear. This review refines the knowledge involved in Se-mediated improvements of plant growth when subjected to salinity and suggests future perspectives as well as several research limitations in this field.

Red light controlled callus morphogenetic patterns and secondary metabolites production in Withania somnifera L.

Withania somnifera L. is an endangered medicinal plant of higher market value. The in vitro callus cultures were established on Murashige and Skoog (MS) media augmented with different plant growth regulators. The MS medium containing 0.5 mg∙L-1 of each TDZ and NAA was found to be optimal for callus formation and growth. Further, callus cultures were raised in different light wavelengths to find the right wavelength carrying the photons for the ideal cell growth of W. somnifera. Among the different wavelengths, red light was best for maximum biomass accumulation in callus culture. However, violet light condition was proven to be favouring the phenols and flavonoids synthesis in the callus cultures. Compared to other wavelengths, red light grown callus extract showed significantly higher content of chlorogenic acid, and withaferin A. This study concludes that red light treatment was optimum for maximum biomass accumulation and anti-oxidant activity in calli of W. somnifera.

Evaluation of the antibacterial potential of silver nanoparticles synthesized through the interaction of antibiotic and aqueous callus extract of Fagonia indica.

Fagonia indica is a widely known medicinal plant. The extracts of Fagonia species contain secondary metabolites such as flavonoids, phenolic compounds, and terpenoids. Silver nanoparticles are known for antibacterial properties. In this study, AgNPs were synthesized using the callus extract of F. indica as a reducing agent. Characterization through different techniques suggests that the AgNPs absorbed light and gave SPR peaks at 414 nm while in case of ciprofloxacin supplemented callus mediated AgNPs the peak were recorded at 419 nm. Furthermore, FTIR analysis revealed the role of amides, acyl group, nitro group of callus extract of F. indica, and some functional groups of the ciprofloxacin in the reduction process as well as the capping and stabilization of AgNPs. Similarly, X-Ray Diffraction analysis indicate the structure of AgNPs as face-centered cubic crystalline particles. The antibacterial activity of AgNPs and ciprofloxacin and callus extract as control against resistant bacteria such as Escherichia coli, Citrobacter amalonaticus, Shigella sonnei, and Salmonella typhi was studied. The combination of AgNPs and antibiotic showed better antibacterial activity as compared to AgNPs alone and ciprofloxacin alone. Maximum inhibition zone of E. coli, C. amalonaticus, S. sonnei, and S. typhi in response to AgNPs and ciprofloxacin was 38.5 mm, 35.5 mm, 33 mm, and 35.5 mm, respectively. It can, therefore, be suggested that the AgNPs along with Ciprofloxacin might have worked in interaction and resulted in better antibacterial activity against all the tested pathogens.

Light elicited growth, antioxidant enzymes activities and production of medicinal compounds in callus culture of Cnidium officinale Makino.

Cnidium officinale Makino is an important medicinal plant of oriental clinics and is considered as the main source of phthalides, polyphenols, and flavonoids. However, there is no available report regarding the effect of different light colors on the secondary metabolites composition of C. officinale. In this study different light (dark, white, blue, red and red: blue) conditions were arranged to raise callus on MS medium containing 0.5 mg·L-1 of each 2,4-D and BAP. Callus grown in dark condition showed maximum (2.0 g) fresh weight with lower total phenolic and flavonoids contents. Also, in dark condition callus faced higher catalase (CAT) and guaiacol peroxidase (GPX) activities to avoid free radicals. Mix (red: blue) light condition favored the synthesis of phenolics and flavonoids in callus at the cost of higher ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes expression. However, DPPH free radical scavenging activity was less variable among the samples from the different light conditions. Interestingly, the HPLC profile showed higher (28.3 µg·g-1 DW) phthalide accumulation in dark grown-cultures. Compared to other light conditions, 3-butyledinephthalide accumulation was higher (0.43 µg·g-1 DW) in white light-grown callus. These findings suggest that light conditions play an important role in the regulation of in vitro callus growth and synthesis of important medicinal compounds of C. officinale.