Therapeutic applicability of cannabidiol and other phytocannabinoids in epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease and in comorbidity with psychiatric disorders.

Studies have demonstrated the neuroprotective effect of cannabidiol (CBD) and other Cannabis sativa L. derivatives on diseases of the central nervous system caused by their direct or indirect interaction with endocannabinoid system-related receptors and other molecular targets, such as the 5-HT1A receptor, which is a potential pharmacological target of CBD. Interestingly, CBD binding with the 5-HT1A receptor may be suitable for the treatment of epilepsies, parkinsonian syndromes and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, in which the 5-HT1A serotonergic receptor plays a key role. The aim of this review was to provide an overview of cannabinoid effects on neurological disorders, such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's diseases, and discuss their possible mechanism of action, highlighting interactions with molecular targets and the potential neuroprotective effects of phytocannabinoids. CBD has been shown to have significant therapeutic effects on epilepsy and Parkinson's disease, while nabiximols contribute to a reduction in spasticity and are a frequent option for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Although there are multiple theories on the therapeutic potential of cannabinoids for neurological disorders, substantially greater progress in the search for strong scientific evidence of their pharmacological effectiveness is needed.

Exploring genetic diversity in inbred papaya lines for fruit quality in advanced stage of improvement.

Despite the relevance of the global scenario regarding the papaya (Carica papaya L.) trade, there is still a limited number of papaya cultivars with different fruit patterns. Therefore, it is essential to explore the genetic variability at all levels of the germplasm used in the development of new papaya cultivars to meet its marketing goal. Thus, this study measured and explored the potential of genetic variability based on related to fruit quality traits, of a population of papaya lines in the F5 generation through several statistical analyzes. For this, 97 inbred lines obtained using the Single Seed Descent method, resulting from a cross between the JS-12 and Sekati genotypes, both with Formosa fruit pattern, were evaluated. Results indicated there was genetic variability in the fruit quality. The traits that most contributed to the variability were related to the fruit shape. The diverse population of 97 inbred papaya lines in the F5 generation showed promise for producing commercial-sized fruits in Formosa, Intermediate, and Solo patterns. Additionally, the selection of inbred papaya lines based on fruit shape using morpho-anatomical traits does not compromise physical and chemical parameters related to fruit quality.

Additive and Non-Additive Effects on the Control of Key Agronomic Traits in Popcorn Lines under Contrasting Phosphorus Conditions.

Phosphorus is a non-renewable natural resource that will run out of reserves in the upcoming decades, making it essential to understanding the inheritance of nutrient use efficiency for selecting superior genotypes. This study investigated the additive and non-additive effects of commercially relevant traits for the popcorn crop (grain yield-GY, popping expansion-PE, and expanded popcorn volume per hectare-PV) in different conditions of phosphorus (P) availability in two locations in Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil. Six S7 lines previously selected for P use-L59, L70, and P7, efficient and responsive; and L54, L75, and L80, inefficient and non-responsive-were used as testers in crosses with 15 progenies from the fifth cycle of intrapopulation recurrent selection of UENF-14, with adaptation to the North and Northwest regions of Rio de Janeiro State. Using the Griffing diallel analysis, P use efficiency was predominantly additive in the expression of PE, and non-additive effects were prominent for GY and PV. For obtaining genotypes that are efficient for phosphorus use, it is recommended that heterosis with parents that provide additive gene accumulation for PE be explored.

Discovery of SNPs and InDels in papaya genotypes and its potential for marker assisted selection of fruit quality traits.

Papaya is a tropical and climacteric fruit that is recognized for its nutritional benefits and medicinal applications. Its fruits ripen quickly and show a drastic fruit softening, leading to great post-harvest losses. To overcome this scenario, breeding programs of papaya must invest in exploring the available genetic variation to continue developing superior cultivars with improved fruit quality traits. The objective of this study was to perform a whole-genome genotyping (WGG) of papaya, predict the effects of the identified variants, and develop a list of ripening-related genes (RRGs) with linked variants. The Formosa elite lines of papaya Sekati and JS-12 were submitted to WGG with an Illumina Miseq platform. The effects of variants were predicted using the snpEff program. A total of 28,451 SNPs having Ts/Tv (Transition/Transversion) ratio of 2.45 and 1,982 small insertions/deletions (InDels) were identified. Most variant effects were predicted in non-coding regions, with only 2,104 and 138 effects placed in exons and splice site regions, respectively. A total of 106 RRGs were found to be associated with 460 variants, which may be converted into PCR markers to facilitate genetic mapping and diversity studies and to apply marker-assisted selection (MAS) for specific traits in papaya breeding programs.

The genetic diversity and population structure of two endemic Amazonian quillwort (Isoetes L.) species.

BACKGROUND: Two endemic lycophyte species Isoetes cangae and Isoetes serracarajensis have been recently described in the State of Pará in the Amazon forest located in northern Brazil. Isoetes L. has survived through three mass extinctions. Plants are considered small-sized, heterosporous, and can display a great diversity of physiological adaptations to different environments. Thus, the current study aimed to estimate the genetic variation of the populations of I. cangae and I. serracarajensis to generate information about their different mechanisms for survival at the same geographical location that could point to different reproductive, adaptative and dispersal strategies and should be considered for effective conservation strategies. METHODS: The genetic diversity and population structure of I. cangae and I. serracarajensis were investigated using Inter Simple Sequence Repeat (ISSR) molecular markers. Total genomic DNA was isolated, and the genetic diversity parameters were calculated. RESULTS: The sixteen primers produced 115 reproducible bands, 87% of which were polymorphic. A high level of polymorphic loci (81.74% and 68.48%) and a high Shannon index (Sh = 0.376 and 0.289) were observed for I. cangae and I. serracarajensis, respectively. The coefficient of genetic differentiation between population areas (GST) showed a higher value in I. serracarajensis (0.5440). Gene flow was higher in I. cangae (1.715) and lower in I. serracarajensis populations (0.419). Overall, the results further show that I. serracarajensis and I. cangae are two species with considerable genetic variation and that these differences may reflect their habitats and modes of reproduction. These results should be considered in the development of effective conservation strategies for both species.

Effects of bone marrow mononuclear cells on induction of axonal sprouting in cortico-cortical and cortico-striatal pathways in an animal model of cortical ablation.

OBJECTIVES: Many therapies have been proposed in order to investigate the mechanisms of neural repair associated with neurological diseases, including bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMC) transplantation. However, there is evidence that some encephalic injuries are less responsive to neural repair, such as, for example, cortical ablation. On the other hand, some models of cortical ablation have shown functional recovery after BMMC transplantation. Thus, it is relevant to expand the knowledge of BMMC transplantation-induced neuroplasticity in animal models, considering a promising approach for the rehabilitation of patients with neurological diseases. Using an experimental model of cerebral cortex ablation in adult male Wistar rats, which is known to be poorly responsive to neuroplasticity, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of BMMC on axonal sprouting in cortico-cortical and cortico-striatal pathways synaptic fields. An anterograde neurotracer was used to evaluate the distribution of axonal fibres. RESULTS: The results showed that BMMC were not able to significantly induce axonal sprouting in the evaluated synaptic fields. Our results reinforced the idea that cortical ablation may be less responsive to neuroplasticity and the beneficial effects of BMMC therapy depend on the particularities of a neural microenvironment intrinsic to a given cortical lesion.

Phylogeographic distribution of asperisporium caricae isolates in brazilian southeastern and northeastern coastal regions / Distribuição filogeográfica de isolados de Asperisporium caricae no litoral do sudeste e nordeste brasileiro

Papaya (Carica papaya L.) is one of the main tropical fruits consumed in Brazil. The country is also one of the main papaya exporters, but one of the factors hindering its production lies on foliar diseases such as papaya black spot, which is caused by fungus Asperisporium caricae. This pathogen is widely distributed in the main producing regions of the Brazilian coastal area. Phylogeographic studies contribute to the knowledge about the genetic diversity and geographical distribution of genealogical lineages (haplotypes) and help better understanding the reproductive and evolutionary processes of closely related species or of a single species. Such information is useful in studies about phytopathogenic fungi because it enables identifying the most prevalent genealogical lineages in a given location, as well as inferring dispersal routes and providing information on the origin and frequency of exotic material introduction events. Results in this type of study can significantly help developing new disease control strategies. Literature still lacks studies on the Papaya x A. caricae pathosystem. Based on the phylogenetic and phylogeographic analysis applied to nucleotide sequences of the Internal transcribed spacer (ITS) gene, we herein address the genealogical and dispersal events recorded for this pathogen in order to better understand its evolution in, and adaptation to, Brazilian orchards. Three haplotypes were identified among the A. caricae isolates; their distribution was mostly related to the geographic distance between sample collection regions rather than to any reproductive or evolutionary processes presented by the species. The low variability among the herein studied isolates may result from the physiological specialization (survival exclusively associated with the host plant) and from the regional transport of contaminated fruits (with lesions and spores), besides the low contribution of reproductive events, which corroborate the lack of knowledge about the sexual stages of A. caricae.

O mamoeiro (Carica papaya L.), é uma das principais frutas tropicais consumidas no Brasil. O país é um dos principais exportadores de mamão e um dos gargalos da produção mundial está diretamente ligado à ocorrência de doenças foliares, podendo-se destacar a pinta-preta do mamoeiro, causada pelo fungo Asperisporium caricae. O patógeno está amplamente distribuído nas principais regiões produtoras, as quais englobam grande parte do litoral Brasileiro. Estudos filogeográficos contribuem não só para oconhecimento da diversidade genética e da distribuição geográfica das linhagens genealógicas (haplótipos), como também contribuem para o conhecimento dos processos reprodutivos e evolutivos de uma espécie ou de espécies estreitamente relacionadas. No estudo de fungos fitopatogênicos, tais informações são úteis para identificar linhagens genealógicas mais prevalentes em um determinado local, inferir as rotas de dispersão e fornecer informações sobre a origem e frequência dos eventos de introdução de material exótico. Este tipo de estudo produz resultados que podem colaborar significativamente na elaboração de novas estratégias de controle da doença. Não existe, até o presente momento, este tipo de estudo para o patossistema Mamoeiro x A. caricae. Neste trabalho, por meio da análise filogenética e filogeográfica, a partir de sequências nucleotídicas do gene Internal transcribed spacer (ITS), discutimos os eventos genealógicos e de dispersão deste patógeno com o intuito de compreender melhor sua evolução e adaptação nos pomares brasileiros. Dentre os isolados de A. caricae foram identificados 3 haplótipos, sendo sua distribuição relacionada mais ao distanciamento geográfico das regiões das coletas das amostras do que a eventuais processos reprodutivos ou evolutivos da espécie. Acredita-se que a baixa variabilidade dentre os isolados estudados seja explicada pela especialização fisiológica (sobrevivência exclusivamente associada à planta hospedeira) e ao transporte regional de frutos contaminados (com lesões e esporos), sendo baixa a contribuição de eventos reprodutivos, o que corrobora o desconhecimento de fase sexual de A. caricae.

Diallel mixed-model analysis of papaya fruit deformities / Análise dialélica via modelos mistos das deformidades em frutos de mamoeiro

ABSTRACT: Changes in the shape of fruits from hermaphrodite flowers due to floral anomalies are quite common. The aim of this study was to estimate the effects of the general and specific combining ability on the proportions of normal and deformed (carpelloid and pentandric) papaya fruits in hermaphrodite plants using mixed models. The ‘JS12-N’, ‘Waimanalo’ and ‘Golden’ parents showed the potential to decrease the number of deformed fruits. In contrast, the ‘Maradol x JS12-N’, ‘Maradol x Waimanalo’, ‘Maradol x Golden’, ‘JS12-N x JS12-4’, ‘JS12-N x Sekati’, ‘JS12-N x Waimanalo’, ‘Waimanalo x JS12-N’, ‘Waimanalo x JS12-4’, ‘Waimanalo x Golden’, ‘Waimanalo x Sunrise Solo 72/12’, ‘Golden x Maradol’, ‘Golden x JS12-N’, ‘Golden x Sekati’, ‘Golden x Waimanalo’ and ‘São Mateus x JS12-N’ hybrids have the potential to increase the number of marketable fruits while decreasing the number of carpelloid and pentandric fruits.

RESUMO: Alterações na forma dos frutos originários de flores hermafroditas são bastante comuns. Estas alterações são provocadas por anomalias florais. Este trabalho teve como objetivo obter via modelos mistos estimativas de capacidade geral e específica de combinação para proporção de frutos de mamoeiro normais e com deformidades: carpeloidia e pentandria, em plantas hermafroditas. Os genitores ‘JS12-N’, ‘Waimanalo’ e ‘Golden’ apresentam potencial para redução de frutos com deformidades. Os híbridos ‘Maradol x JS12-N’, ‘Maradol x Waimanalo’, ‘Maradol x Golden’, ‘JS 12-N x JS12-4’, ‘JS 12-N x Sekati’, ‘JS 12-N x Waimanalo’, ‘Waimanalo x JS12-N’, ‘Waimanalo x JS12-4’, ‘Waimanalo x Golden’, ‘Waimanalo x Sunrise Solo 72/12’, ‘Golden x Maradol’, ‘Golden x JS12-N’, ‘Golden x Sekati’, ‘Golden x Waimanalo’ e ‘São Mateus x JS12-N’ apresentaram potencial para aumento do número de frutos comerciais e redução de frutos carpelóides e pentândricos.

Genetic Relationships among Tall Coconut Palm (Cocos nucifera L.) Accessions of the International Coconut Genebank for Latin America and the Caribbean (ICG-LAC), Evaluated Using Microsatellite Markers (SSRs).

The diversity and genetic relationships among two accessions of tall coconut palms collected in Brazil and seven accessions introduced from different geographic regions of the world were analyzed using 25 microsatellite primers, 19 of which were polymorphic and detected between 4 and 10 alleles per locus, with an average of 6.57. The observed and expected heterozygosity ranged from 0.25 and 0.40 in the Rennell Islands Tall (RIT) accession to 0.54 and 0.62 in the Polynesian Tall (PYT) accession. The analysis of genetic structure resulted in the formation of five distinct groups. The first group was formed by the accessions Brazilian Tall-Praia do Forte (BRTPF), Brazilian Tall-Merepe (BRTMe) and West African Tall (WAT); the second group consisted of Malaysian Tall (MLT); the third group of RIT; the fourth group of Vanuatu Tall (VTT); and the fifth group of Rotuman Tall (RTMT), Tonga Tall (TONT) and PYT. The dendrogram based on the nearest-neighbor method detected the formation of two main groups and five subgroups, indicating that the genetic relationships of the accessions are based on their geographic regions of origin. The analyses revealed genetic relationships between the accessions collected in Brazil and the accession from Africa, and among palms from South East Asia and the South Pacific, confirming the common origin of these accessions. The information obtained in this study can guide decisions on germplasm conservation activities and the efficient selection of genetically divergent parents for use in coconut breeding programs in Brazil, which are attempting to select for disease resistance, mainly to lethal yellowing, among other characteristics.

Development of a gene-centered ssr atlas as a resource for papaya (Carica papaya) marker-assisted selection and population genetic studies.

Carica papaya (papaya) is an economically important tropical fruit. Molecular marker-assisted selection is an inexpensive and reliable tool that has been widely used to improve fruit quality traits and resistance against diseases. In the present study we report the development and validation of an atlas of papaya simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers. We integrated gene predictions and functional annotations to provide a gene-centered perspective for marker-assisted selection studies. Our atlas comprises 160,318 SSRs, from which 21,231 were located in genic regions (i.e. inside exons, exon-intron junctions or introns). A total of 116,453 (72.6%) of all identified repeats were successfully mapped to one of the nine papaya linkage groups. Primer pairs were designed for markers from 9,594 genes (34.5% of the papaya gene complement). Using papaya-tomato orthology assessments, we assembled a list of 300 genes (comprising 785 SSRs) potentially involved in fruit ripening. We validated our atlas by screening 73 SSR markers (including 25 fruit ripening genes), achieving 100% amplification rate and uncovering 26% polymorphism rate between the parental genotypes (Sekati and JS12). The SSR atlas presented here is the first comprehensive gene-centered collection of annotated and genome positioned papaya SSRs. These features combined with thousands of high-quality primer pairs make the atlas an important resource for the papaya research community.

Análise dialélica em mamoeiro para resistência a mancha-de-phoma / Diallel analysis of papaya for resistance to phoma spot

A resistência genética constitui alternativa sustentável para o controle da mancha-de-phoma na cultura do mamoeiro. No entanto, estudos básicos são necessários para a escolha de genitores e combinações híbridas resistentes à doença. Neste trabalho, por meio de cruzamento dialélico, envolvendo oito genótipos de mamão, quatro do grupo Solo e quatro do grupo Formosa, estimou-se a capacidade geral e específica de combinações híbridas quanto à resistência a mancha-de-phoma. Os genitores, bem com os híbridos obtidos dos cruzamentos foram avaliados em blocos casualizados, com quatro repetições. Quantificaram-se em duas épocas, março e maio de 2010, as severidades de mancha-de-phoma em folha, com auxílio de escala diagramática. Os genótipos Maradol JS12-N, Sekati e São Mateus demonstram melhor capacidade geral de combinação. Os híbridos Maradol x Golden, Maradol x Sunrise Solo 72/12, JS12-N x Golden, JS12-4 x Waimanalo, Sekati x Waimanalo, Waimanalo x Golden, Waimanalo x São Mateus, Golden x Sunrise Solo 72/12 e Golden x São Mateus apresentaram resultados promissores para seleção quanto à resistência à doença, com valores negativos de capacidade específica de combinação para severidade de mancha-de-phoma.

Genetic resistance represents a viable alternative to control phoma-spot in papaya crop. However, basic studies are necessary to base the choice of genitors and hybrid combinations disease resistant. In this research, a diallel cross was conducted involving eight genotypes of papaya, four of the Solo group and four of Formosa group and it was estimated general and specific abilities of combination for the phoma-spot resistance. The treatments were evaluated in a randomized block design with four replications. The severity of phoma-spot in leaves was quantified in two ocasions: March and May of 2010. The genotypes Maradol JS12-N, Sekati e São Mateus show better general combining ability. The hybrids Maradol x Golden, Maradol x Sunrise Solo 72/12, JS12-N x Golden, JS12-4 x Waimanalo, Sekati x Waimanalo, Waimanalo x Golden, Waimanalo x São Mateus, Golden x Sunrise Solo 72/12 and Golden x São Mateus showed promising results for selection, with negatives values of specific combining ability for severity of phoma spot.

Genetic divergence among Dimorphandra spp. accessions using RAPD markers / Divergência genética entre acessos de Dimorphandra spp. usando marcadores RAPD

The genus Dimorphandra has distinguish relevance considering either medicinal or biodiversity aspects because it includes two species that are economically important flavonoids sources for pharmachemical industry (D. mollis Benth. and D. gardneriana Tul.), and species endemic to Brazil, such as D. jorgei Silva and D. wilsonii Rizz., threatened by extinction. In order to evaluate variability among accessions of D. mollis (fava-d'anta), D. gardneriana and D. wilsonii, it was collected fruit from individual plants from three Brazilian states in a total of 57 accessions, which were analyzed with RAPD markers. It was used 20 seeds per progeny; the DNA was extracted from fully-formed young leaves, which were collected in bulk. The data were analyzed using a binary matrix, in which the score one represented presence of a band and zero, absence. The similarity matrix was developed by using the arithmetic complement of the Jaccard index, later grouped based on the Neighbor Joining algorithm. It was found considerable intra and inter specific variability in Dimorphandra spp., which were separated into four groups. Though genetic variability was found, the collecting trips showed that most of these areas are subject to loss of genetic resources of fava-d'anta due to the following factors: continuous anthropic activity, propensity for natural fires, and loss of natural seed dispersers (large fruit-eating mammals). Therefore, protections of these areas and ex situ conservation are essentials for the maintenance of genetic variability of these species.

O gênero Dimorphandra tem grande relevância, sobretudo nos aspectos medicinais e de biodiversidade, por incluir duas espécies que são importantes economicamente como fontes de flavonoides para indústria farmacoquímica (D. mollis Benth. e D. gardneriana Tull.), e espécies endêmicas do Brasil, como a D. jorgei Silva e D. wilsonii Rizz., sendo esta ameaçada de extinção. Objetivando avaliar a variabilidade entre acessos de D. mollis, D. gardneriana e D. wilsonii, foram realizadas coletas de frutos separados por planta em três estados brasileiros em um total de 57 acessos que foram analisados por meio da técnica RAPD. Utilizaram-se vinte sementes por progênie e o DNA, extraído de folhas definitivas, jovens, e coletadas em bulk. Os dados foram analisados utilizando-se uma matriz de dados binários. Para formação da matriz de dissimilaridade, foi utilizado o complemento aritmético do Índice de Jaccard e posteriormente o agrupamento pelo algoritmo de Neighbor Joining. O estudo revelou que existe variabilidade entre e dentro das espécies de Dimorphandra spp., o qual formou quatro grupos. Apesar da variabilidade genética constatada, as expedições de coleta demonstraram que a maioria das áreas amostradas está sujeita a perdas de recursos genéticos de fava-d'anta devido aos seguintes fatores: ocorrência de ação antrópica contínua; propensão a incêndios naturais; e diminuição dos dispersores naturais de sementes (grandes mamíferos frugíveros). Assim, a proteção destas áreas e a conservação ex situ, são primordiais para manutenção da variabilidade genética dessas espécies.

Induction of ß-1,3-glucanase in seeds of maize defective-kernel mutant (827Kpro1).

ß-1,3-glucanases are found in organisms as diverse as plants, animals, bacteria and fungi. In plants, such enzymes are not only associated with defense mechanisms against pathogens, but also play critical roles in physiological and developmental processes. Here we identified a new ß-1,3-glucanase in maize seeds, and named it ZmGlucA. Sequence analysis revealed that ZmGlucA belongs to the class A of ß-1,3-glucanase, a class related to defense and physiological processes in plants. mRNA and protein assays showed that zmGlucA is expressed exclusively in seeds, and it is differentially regulated during seed development. Additionally, zmGlucA expression is strongly induced in seeds of the mutant dek 827Kpro1, which is defective for embryo and endosperm development. Our data support the idea that ZmGlucA protein is relevant to seed development.

Genetic parameter estimates in yellow passion fruit based on design I

The aim of this work was to study the genetic parameters, to obtaine the progenies by crossings among the yellow passion fruits cultivars (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa), following the Design I. The results of the variance analysis demonstrated large variability to be exploited in the population. The trait number of fruit per plant presented the largest additive genetic variation coefficient, demonstrating that larger gains could be obtained for the trait. In terms of genetic action, number of fruits per plant, skin thickness and number of days by flowering have demonstrated to be characterized by the overdominance. Other important traits seem to have presented larger addictive effect than the dominance, as weight, length and width of fruits. The highest values of the coefficients of heritabilities were obtained for the males and the smallest for the females within males, and for the selection the coefficients should be used in the narrow sense.

Com o objetivo de se estimarem parâmetros genéticos, procedeu-se a obtenção de progênies por cruzamentos entre cultivares de maracujá amarelo (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa) seguindo o Delineamento I. Os resultados da análise de variância demonstraram existir grande variabilidade a ser explorada na população. Número médio de frutos expressou o maior coeficiente de variação genético aditivo, demonstrando que maiores ganhos podem ser obtidos para o caráter. Em termos de ação gênica, número de frutos por planta, espessura de casca e número de dias para o florescimento demonstraram ser caracterizadas por efeito sobredominante dos genes. Outras características importantes apresentaram efeito aditivo maior do que o dominante, como ocorreu com peso, comprimento e largura de frutos. Os valores dos coeficientes de herdabilidade mais elevados foram obtidos para famílias de machos e os menores para famílias de fêmeas dentro de machos, sendo que para fins de seleção devem ser utilizados os coeficientes no sentido restrito.

Seleção recorrente intrapopulacional no maracujazeiro amarelo: alternativa de capitalização de ganhos genéticos / Intrapopulation recurrent selection in yellow passion fruit: alternative to accumulate genetic gains

Objetivou-se, neste trabalho, estimar parâmetros genéticos e correlações associadas a características agronômicas do maracujazeiro amarelo (Passiflora edulis Sims), predizer o progresso genético esperado com a seleção direta e baseado em índice de seleção, bem como sugerir uma estratégia de capitalização de ganhos genéticos nos ciclos de seleção recorrente. Foram avaliadas 26 progênies de meio-irmãos provenientes da recombinação de genótipos selecionados do primeiro ciclo de seleção via Delineamento I, as quais representam a população melhorada, UENF/MA1. O delineamento estatístico utilizado foi blocos casualizados com duas repetições e parcelas constituídas de cinco plantas. Foram avaliadas cinco características relacionadas ao fruto, no período de fevereiro a julho de 2007, utilizando dados de média de parcelas. As estimativas dos parâmetros genéticos e das correlações, bem como a seleção baseada no índice de seleção possibilitaram a identificação de progênies com desempenhos agronômicos superiores para vários caracteres, simultaneamente. Além disso, a presente estratégia pode constituir alternativa de capitalização de ganhos genéticos na seleção recorrente, aumentando a eficiência do processo seletivo e potencializando a sua utilização em programas de melhoramento de fruteiras, uma vez que permite ganho genético em duas (geração e teste de progênies) das três etapas de seleção recorrente.

The aim of this research was to estimate the genetic parameters and correlations associated to the agronomic traits of yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis Sims), to predict the expected genetic progress with the direct selection and based on selection index, as well as to suggest a strategy to accumulate genetic gains in the recurrent selection cycles. Twenty six half-sib progenies originated from the recombination of selected genotypes from the first cycle of selection via design I were evaluated, which represents the improved population, UENF/MA1. The randomized complete block design with two replications and five plants per plot was used. Evaluations were made from February to July 2007 for five agronomic traits. Data of plot means were considered for statistical analysis. The genetic parameter estimates and correlations, as well as the selection based on the selection index made possible the identification of progenies with high performance for several traits, simultaneously. Besides, the strategy may constitute an alternative of accumulating genetic gains in yellow passion fruit recurrent selection, increasing the efficiency of the selective process and its use in fruit improvement programs, once it allows genetic gain in two (generation and progeny tests) of the three recurrent selection steps.

Predicting the genetic gain in the Brazilian white maize landrace / Predição de ganho genético em população crioula de milho branco

The objectives of this research were to evaluate the genetic variability and predict genetic gain in the white maize landrace rescued in Barbacena, Minas Gerais, Brazil. The Brazilian maize landraces have economic and social importance for certain areas in Brazil, and research on this germplasm is very important for local food security. Three experiments were carried out with 100 half-sib progenies, in Campos dos Goytacazes, RJ, Coimbra and Barbacena, Minas Gerais, Brazil. These sites were chosen for their soil and climatic differences. An analysis of variance was significant among the progeny for all characters, indicating the presence of genetic variability between the three populations. In Campos dos Goytacazes and Coimbra, the genetic variation of the white maize landrace was responsible for most of the phenotypic variance in grain yield and can be used in selection cycles. There was no significant genetic variance in grain yield in Barbacena. For the white maize landrace it was concluded that: the characters of the component of productivity such as plant density and number of plants with kernels can produce indirect genetic gain for grain yield and are suitable for breeding; prebreeding of the maize landrace is necessary before being used directly in the elite germplasm; the population contains high genetic variability and opportunities for genetic gain; the average agronomic traits are suitable only for traditional production systems with few inputs, and polyculture; the difference between environments produces specific responses in the progeny i.e. there is a progeny x environment interaction.

Os objetivos deste trabalho foram avaliar a variabilidade genética e predizer os ganhos genéticos de uma população crioula de milho branco resgatada em Barbacena, Minas Gerais (MG), devido à importância social e econômica do milho branco em determinadas localidades brasileiras, à manutenção e ao resgate de populações crioulas e aos poucos trabalhos sobre esse tipo de grão. Para tanto foram instalados três experimentos, com 100 progênies de meios-irmãos, em Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro (RJ), Coimbra e Barbacena (MG), escolhidos pelas diferenças edafoclimáticas. Pela análise de variância foram verificadas diferenças significativas entre as progênies para todos os caracteres, o que indicou a presença de variabilidade genética na população para os três locais. Em Campos dos Goytacazes e Coimbra, a variância genética da população crioula de milho branco foi responsável pela maioria da variância fenotípica para produtividade de grãos, podendo ser explorada em ciclos de seleção. Em Barbacena, não foi detectada variância genética significativa para a produtividade de grãos. Para a população crioula de milho branco Barbacena, conclui-se que caracteres do componente primário de produtividade como estande final e número de plantas com grãos podem apresentar ganhos genéticos direto e indireto com a produtividade e são adequados para o melhoramento. No entanto, é necessário o pré-melhoramento da população antes desta ser utilizada diretamente em germoplasma elite. Além disso, foi observado que a população apresenta variabilidade genética e ganhos genéticos preditos altos; as médias das características agronômicas são adequadas somente para o sistema produtivo tradicional com poucos insumos e policultivo; e a diferença entre os ambientes proporciona resposta específica das progênies, ou seja, interação progênie x ambiente.

Mancha fisiologica e produtividade do mamão Tainung 01: efeito da lâmina de irrigação e cobertura do solo / Skin freckles and yield components of papaya Tainung 01: effect of irrigation depths and soil coverings

Nesse experimento avaliou-se o efeito de diferentes lâminas de irrigação e coberturas do solo, sobre a incidência da mancha fisiológica do mamão e aspectos de produção do mamão cv. Tainung 01, no período de dezembro de 2003 a novembro de 2004. Utilizou-se delineamento em blocos casualizados em esquema fatorial. Quando as interações foram significativas desdobraram-se as mesmas e efetuaram-se as comparações das médias, via Teste Tukey. Os resultados encontrados demonstram uma alta correlação entre os fatores estudados e a época de colheita. Com relação à mancha fisiológica do mamoeiro confirmou-se o aspecto sazonal de incidência, sendo que, a cv. Tainung 01 apresentou a maior incidência do distúrbio, nos meses de setembro e outubro. Com relação às coberturas de solo, a cobertura morta se mostrou promissora para as variáveis de produção, ao contrário da cobertura verde com a leguminosa Arachis pintoi, pois a mesma competiu com o mamoeiro acarretando, assim, redução na produtividade.

In this experiment one evaluated the effect of different irrigation dosages and soil coverings in skin freckles aspects in yield components of the papaya cv. Tainung 01 in the period from December 2003 to November 2004. It was used a randomized complete block design, with a three replications, in a factorial scheme. When the interactions were significant the analysis was partitioned and the means were compared by the Tukey Test for each factor. The results found demonstrated high correlation between the variable studied and the harvest season. With relation to the skin freckles the seasonal aspect of incidence was confirmed, showing that for cv. Tainung 01 the major incidence of the disturbance was verified in September and October. With relation to the soil coverings, the mulching showed promising for the variables in yield, in contrast of the green covering with the leguminosae Arachis pintoi, because the last one competed with the papaya trees causing reduction in the yield components.

Optical and ultrastructural study of the pollen grain development in hermaphrodite papaya tree (Carica papaya L.)

The objective of this study was to describe the pollen grain development in hermaphrodite papaya tree. The flower buds were collected at different stages of the development and the anthers were treated chemically for observation under optical and electronic transmission microscopes. The pollen grain development followed the normal pattern described for the Angiosperms. The pollen grain development was described from meiocyte to the mature pollen grain. In the microsporogenesis, the microspore mother cells or the meiocytes underwent meiosis giving rise to the tetrads that were enclosed by the calose. Later, the tetrads were released by the dissolution of the calose by calase activity and microspores underwent mitosis. Microgametogenesis was characterized by asymmetrical mitotic division of each microspore giving rise to bi-nucleate pollen grains. The structures similar to the plastids were found in the cytoplasm and close to the nucleus of the generative cell. Gradual degeneration was observed in the tapetum during the male gamete development.

Esta pesquisa descreve os estádios de formação do gameta masculino (grão de pólen) em mamoeiro. Para isto foram coletados botões florais em diferentes etapas de desenvolvimento e as anteras foram tratadas quimicamente para serem observadas ao microscópio óptico e eletrônico de transmissão. O desenvolvimento do grão de pólen seguiu o padrão normal para Angiospermas. Foram descritos os estádios de desenvolvimento do grão de pólen desde meiócitos ou células mães de micrósporos até o grão de pólen binucleado. Na microesporogênese, as células esporogênicas sofreram meiose dando origem as tétrades, com posterior liberação dos micrósporos da tétrade. A microgametogênese caracterizou-se, principalmente, pela divisão mitótica assimétrica de cada micrósporo originando grãos de pólen binucleados. Estruturas semelhantes a plastídios foram encontradas no citoplasma da célula generativa e agregados próximos ao núcleo da célula generativa. Observou-se degeneração gradativa das células do tapete no decorrer da formação do gameta.

Polinização seletiva em maracujazeiro amarelo (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa) monitorada por vetores canônicos / Seletive pollination in yellow passion fruit (Passiflora edulis f. flavicarpa) by canonic vectors

Objetivou-se neste trabalho avaliar a influência da planta doadora de pólen sobre as características dos frutos produzidos na cultura do maracujazeiro-amarelo (Passiflora edulis f. falvicarpa). Neste contexto, um experimento foi conduzido, segundo o esquema de cruzamentos controlados. Empregaram-se 23 plantas "genitor masculino" e 103 plantas receptoras de pólen, perfazendo o total de 185 frutos avaliados segundo as características: peso, largura, comprimento, número de sementes e peso relativo de 100 sementes. A avaliação dessas características, segundo análise de variância multivariada (MANOVA), permitiu a verificação de efeitos significativos ("genitor masculino" e "fêmea hierarquizada a genitor masculino"). A partir das informações da MANOVA, construiu-se uma função discriminante, constituída pela primeira variável canônica baseada na matriz de soma de quadrados para a fonte de variação "genitor masculino" (Importância relativa = 58,10 por cento). A análise desta permitiu verificar elevado efeito da fonte de variação "genitor masculino" sobre as características dos frutos, cujos indivíduos foram agrupados univariamente em três grupos distintos. Tais resultados permitem concluir que tanto progenitores femininos como masculinos podem influenciar os resultados obtidos em esquemas de seleção massal.

This research was aiemd at evaluating the influence of the relactive pollination of pollen donor plant in obtaition higher fruits of yellow passion (Passiflora edulis f. falvicarpa). To do so, an experiment was conduced according to the controlled crosses, using 23 male plants and 103 pollen receptor plants. The total of fruits obtained was 185 units, that were evaluated according to the following traits: fruit weight, fruit diameter, fruit length, fruit seed number and relative weight of 100 seeds. The data were analyzed by using multivariate analysis (MANOVA). The discriminant function was constituted by the first canonic variable based on matrix of square sum of male (relative importance = 58.1). The discriminant function analysis permitted to verify high effect of male in relation to fruit traits, whose individuals were grouped in three distinct classes. The results indicate that female as well as male can influence the results obtained in mass selection.

Lâminas de irrigação e coberturas do solo sobre a incidência da mancha fisiológica e produtividade do mamão "Golden" / Irrigation dosages and soil coverings in the incidence of skin freckles and yield components of papaya 'Golden'

Nesse experimento, avaliou-se o efeito de diferentes lâminas de irrigação e coberturas do solo sobre aspectos qualitativos e de produção do mamão cv. "Golden" no período de dezembro de 2003 a novembro de 2004. Utilizou-se delineamento em blocos casualizados, com três repetições, em esquema fatorial. Os resultados encontrados demonstram uma alta correlação entre a época de colheita com a incidência da mancha fisiológica e as variáveis de produção. Com relação à mancha fisiológica do mamão (MFM), confirmou-se o aspecto sazonal de incidência, sendo que a cv. "Golden" apresentou a maior incidência do distúrbio no mês de setembro. Com relação às coberturas de solo, a cobertura morta se mostrou promissora para os fatores em estudo, ao contrário da cobertura verde com a leguminosa Arachis pintoe, pois a mesma, provavelmente, competiu por água e nutrientes com o mamoeiro, acarretando, assim, redução na sua produtividade.

In this experiment the effect of different irrigation rates and soil coverings on qualitative aspects as well as yield components of the papaya cv. 'Golden' during the period December 2003 to November 2004 were evaluated. A randomized complete block design was used with three replications in a factorial scheme. The results demonstrate high correlation involving the factors harvest season, incidence of skin freckles and yield components. With relation to skin freckles a seasonal incidence was confirmed, showing that for cv. 'Golden', the major incidence of the disturbance was verified in September. The mulching treatment was promising for the factors studied, in contrast to the green covering using the leguminosae Arachis pintoe, due to competition with the papaya trees for water and nutrients, causing a reduction in the yield components.