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Erland LA. Views and perspectives on the indoleamines serotonin and melatonin in plants: past, present and future. PLANT SIGNALING & BEHAVIOR 2024; 19:2366545. [PMID: 38899558 PMCID: PMC11195476 DOI: 10.1080/15592324.2024.2366545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
In the decades since their discovery in plants in the mid-to-late 1900s, melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) and serotonin (5-methoxytryptamine) have been established as their own class of phytohormone and have become popular targets for examination and study as stress ameliorating compounds. The indoleamines play roles across the plant life cycle from reproduction to morphogenesis and plant environmental perception. There is growing interest in harnessing the power of these plant neurotransmitters in applied and agricultural settings, particularly as we face increasingly volatile climates for food production; however, there is still a lot to learn about the mechanisms of indoleamine action in plants. A recent explosion of interest in these compounds has led to exponential growth in the field of melatonin research in particular. This concept paper aims to summarize the current status of indoleamine research and highlight some emerging trends.
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Aghdam MS, Arnao MB. Phytomelatonin: From Intracellular Signaling to Global Horticulture Market. J Pineal Res 2024; 76:e12990. [PMID: 39030989 DOI: 10.1111/jpi.12990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 06/25/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/22/2024]
Abstract
Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine), a well-known mammalian hormone, has been having a great relevance in the Plant World in recent years. Many of its physiological actions in plants are leading to possible features of agronomic interest, especially those related to improvements in tolerance to stressors and in the postharvest life of fruits and vegetables. Thus, through the exogenous application of melatonin or by modifying the endogenous biosynthesis of phytomelatonin, some change can be made in the functional levels of melatonin in tissues and their responses. Also, acting in the respective phytomelatonin biosynthesis enzymes, regulating the expression of tryptophan decarboxylase (TDC), tryptamine 5-hydroxylase (T5H), serotonin N-acetyltransferase (SNAT), N-acetylserotonin O-methyltransferase (ASMT), and caffeic acid O-methyltransferase (COMT), and recently the possible action of deacetylases on some intermediates offers promising opportunities for improving fruits and vegetables in postharvest and its marketability. Other regulators/effectors such as different transcription factors, protein kinases, phosphatases, miRNAs, protein-protein interactions, and some gasotransmitters such as nitric oxide or hydrogen sulfide were also considered in an exhaustive vision. Other interesting aspects such as the role of phytomelatonin in autophagic responses, the posttranslational reprogramming by protein-phosphorylation, ubiquitylation, SUMOylation, PARylation, persulfidation, and nitrosylation described in the phytomelatonin-mediated responses were also discussed, including the relationship of phytomelatonin and several plant hormones, for chilling injury and fungal decay alleviating. The current data about the phytomelatonin receptor in plants (CAND2/PMTR1), the effect of UV-B light and cold storage on the postharvest damage are presented and discussed. All this on the focus of a possible new action in the preservation of the quality of fruits and vegetables.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marino B Arnao
- Phytohormones and Plant Development Laboratory, Department of Plant Biology (Plant Physiology), Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
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Kang L, Jia Y, Wu Y, Liu H, Zhao D, Ju Y, Pan C, Mao J. Selenium Nanoparticle and Melatonin Treatments Improve Melon Seedling Growth by Regulating Carbohydrate and Polyamine. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7830. [PMID: 39063071 PMCID: PMC11276989 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2024] [Revised: 07/12/2024] [Accepted: 07/15/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Bio-stimulants, such as selenium nanoparticles and melatonin, regulate melon growth. However, the effects of individual and combined applications of selenium nanoparticles and melatonin on the growth of melon seedlings have not been reported. Here, two melon cultivars were sprayed with selenium nanoparticles, melatonin, and a combined treatment, and physiological and biochemical properties were analyzed. The independent applications of selenium nanoparticles, melatonin, and their combination had no significant effects on the plant heights and stem diameters of Jiashi and Huangmengcui melons. Compared with the controls, both selenium nanoparticle and melatonin treatments increased soluble sugars (6-63%) and sucrose (11-88%) levels, as well as the activity of sucrose phosphate synthase (171-237%) in melon leaves. The phenylalanine ammonia lyase (29-95%), trans cinnamate 4-hydroxylase (32-100%), and 4-coumaric acid CoA ligase (26-113%), as well as mRNA levels, also increased in the phenylpropanoid metabolism pathway. Combining the selenium nanoparticles and melatonin was more effective than either of the single treatments. In addition, the levels of superoxide dismutase (43-130%), catalase (14-43%), ascorbate peroxidase (44-79%), peroxidase (25-149%), and mRNA in melon leaves treated with combined selenium nanoparticles and melatonin were higher than in controls. The results contribute to our understanding of selenium nanoparticles and melatonin as bio-stimulants that improve the melon seedlings' growth by regulating carbohydrate, polyamine, and antioxidant capacities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lu Kang
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Pest Chemical Control and Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (L.K.)
- State Key Laboratory of Desert and Oasis Ecology, Key Laboratory of Ecological Safety and Sustainable Development in Arid Lands, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi 830011, China
- Institute of Agricultural Quality Standards and Testing Technology, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Urumqi 830091, China
| | - Yujiao Jia
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Pest Chemical Control and Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (L.K.)
| | - Yangliu Wu
- School of Biological Science and Technology, University of Jinan, Jinan 250022, China
| | - Hejiang Liu
- Institute of Agricultural Quality Standards and Testing Technology, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Urumqi 830091, China
| | - Duoyong Zhao
- Institute of Agricultural Quality Standards and Testing Technology, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Urumqi 830091, China
| | - Yanjun Ju
- Institute of Agricultural Quality Standards and Testing Technology, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Urumqi 830091, China
| | - Canping Pan
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Pest Chemical Control and Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, China; (L.K.)
| | - Jiefei Mao
- State Key Laboratory of Desert and Oasis Ecology, Key Laboratory of Ecological Safety and Sustainable Development in Arid Lands, Xinjiang Institute of Ecology and Geography, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Urumqi 830011, China
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Mukherjee S, Roy S, Arnao MB. Nanovehicles for melatonin: a new journey for agriculture. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 29:232-248. [PMID: 38123438 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2023.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The important role of melatonin in plant growth and metabolism together with recent advances in the potential use of nanomaterials have opened up interesting applications in agriculture. Various nanovehicles have been explored as melatonin carriers in animals, and it is now important to explore their application in plants. Recent findings have substantiated the use of silicon and chitosan nanoparticles (NPs) in targeting melatonin to plant tissues. Although melatonin is an amphipathic molecule, nanocarriers can accelerate its uptake and transport to various plant organs, thereby relieving stress and improving plant shelf-life in the post-harvest stages. We review the scope and biosafety concerns of various nanomaterials to devise novel methods for melatonin application in crops and post-harvest products.
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Affiliation(s)
- Soumya Mukherjee
- Department of Botany, Jangipur College, West Bengal 742213, India
| | - Suchismita Roy
- Department for Cell and Molecular Medicine, University of California, San Diego, CA 92093, USA
| | - Marino B Arnao
- Phytohormones and Plant Development Laboratory, Department of Plant Biology (Plant Physiology), University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain.
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Ahammed GJ, Li Z, Chen J, Dong Y, Qu K, Guo T, Wang F, Liu A, Chen S, Li X. Reactive oxygen species signaling in melatonin-mediated plant stress response. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2024; 207:108398. [PMID: 38359555 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108398] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are crucial signaling molecules in plants that play multifarious roles in prompt response to environmental stimuli. Despite the classical thoughts that ROS are toxic when accumulate in excess, recent advances in plant ROS signaling biology reveal that ROS participate in biotic and abiotic stress perception, signal integration, and stress-response network activation, hence contributing to plant defense and stress tolerance. ROS production, scavenging and transport are fine-tuned by plant hormones and stress-response signaling pathways. Crucially, the emerging plant hormone melatonin attenuates excessive ROS accumulation under stress, whereas ROS signaling mediates melatonin-induced plant developmental response and stress tolerance. In particular, RESPIRATORY BURST OXIDASE HOMOLOG (RBOH) proteins responsible for apoplastic ROS generation act downstream of melatonin to mediate stress response. In this review, we discuss promising developments in plant ROS signaling and how ROS might mediate melatonin-induced plant resilience to environmental stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golam Jalal Ahammed
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, PR China
| | - Zhe Li
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, PR China
| | - Jingying Chen
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, PR China
| | - Yifan Dong
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, PR China
| | - Kehao Qu
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, PR China
| | - Tianmeng Guo
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, PR China
| | - Fenghua Wang
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, PR China
| | - Airong Liu
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, PR China
| | - Shuangchen Chen
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, PR China.
| | - Xin Li
- Key Laboratory of Tea Quality and Safety Control, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tea Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Hangzhou, 310008, PR China.
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Agathokleous E, Frei M, Knopf OM, Muller O, Xu Y, Nguyen TH, Gaiser T, Liu X, Liu B, Saitanis CJ, Shang B, Alam MS, Feng Y, Ewert F, Feng Z. Adapting crop production to climate change and air pollution at different scales. NATURE FOOD 2023; 4:854-865. [PMID: 37845546 DOI: 10.1038/s43016-023-00858-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023]
Abstract
Air pollution and climate change are tightly interconnected and jointly affect field crop production and agroecosystem health. Although our understanding of the individual and combined impacts of air pollution and climate change factors is improving, the adaptation of crop production to concurrent air pollution and climate change remains challenging to resolve. Here we evaluate recent advances in the adaptation of crop production to climate change and air pollution at the plant, field and ecosystem scales. The main approaches at the plant level include the integration of genetic variation, molecular breeding and phenotyping. Field-level techniques include optimizing cultivation practices, promoting mixed cropping and diversification, and applying technologies such as antiozonants, nanotechnology and robot-assisted farming. Plant- and field-level techniques would be further facilitated by enhancing soil resilience, incorporating precision agriculture and modifying the hydrology and microclimate of agricultural landscapes at the ecosystem level. Strategies and opportunities for crop production under climate change and air pollution are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenios Agathokleous
- Collaborative Innovation Center on Forecast and Evaluation of Meteorological Disasters (CIC-FEMD), Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Ecosystem Carbon Source and Sink, China Meteorological Administration (ECSS-CMA), School of Applied Meteorology, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Michael Frei
- Department of Agronomy and Crop Physiology, Institute for Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Oliver M Knopf
- Institute of Bio- and Geoscience 2: plant sciences (IBG-2), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Germany
| | - Onno Muller
- Institute of Bio- and Geoscience 2: plant sciences (IBG-2), Forschungszentrum Jülich GmbH, Jülich, Germany
| | - Yansen Xu
- Collaborative Innovation Center on Forecast and Evaluation of Meteorological Disasters (CIC-FEMD), Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Ecosystem Carbon Source and Sink, China Meteorological Administration (ECSS-CMA), School of Applied Meteorology, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | | | | | - Xiaoyu Liu
- Institute of Resource, Ecosystem and Environment of Agriculture, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Bing Liu
- National Engineering and Technology Center for Information Agriculture, Engineering Research Center of Smart Agriculture, Ministry of Education, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Costas J Saitanis
- Lab of Ecology and Environmental Science, Agricultural University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Bo Shang
- Collaborative Innovation Center on Forecast and Evaluation of Meteorological Disasters (CIC-FEMD), Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Ecosystem Carbon Source and Sink, China Meteorological Administration (ECSS-CMA), School of Applied Meteorology, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
| | - Muhammad Shahedul Alam
- Department of Agronomy and Crop Physiology, Institute for Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | - Yanru Feng
- Department of Agronomy and Crop Physiology, Institute for Agronomy and Plant Breeding, Justus-Liebig University Giessen, Giessen, Germany
| | | | - Zhaozhong Feng
- Collaborative Innovation Center on Forecast and Evaluation of Meteorological Disasters (CIC-FEMD), Nanjing University of Information Science & Technology, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
- Key Laboratory of Ecosystem Carbon Source and Sink, China Meteorological Administration (ECSS-CMA), School of Applied Meteorology, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, People's Republic of China.
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Jia Y, Kang L, Wu Y, Zhou C, Li D, Li J, Pan C. Review on Pesticide Abiotic Stress over Crop Health and Intervention by Various Biostimulants. JOURNAL OF AGRICULTURAL AND FOOD CHEMISTRY 2023; 71:13595-13611. [PMID: 37669447 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c04013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Plants are essential for life on earth, and agricultural crops are a primary food source for humans. For the One Health future, crop health is crucial for safe, high-quality agricultural products and the development of future green commodities. However, the overuse of pesticides in modern agriculture raises concerns about their adverse effects on crop resistance and product quality. Recently, biostimulants, including microecological bacteria agents and nanoparticles, have garnered worldwide interest for their ability to sustain plant health and enhance crop resistance. This review analyzed the effects and mechanisms of pesticide stress on crop health. It also investigated the regulation of biostimulants on crop health and the multiomics mechanism, combining research on nanoselenium activating various crop health aspects conducted by the authors' research group. The paper helps readers understand the impact of pesticides on crop health and the positive influence of various biostimulants, especially nanomaterials and small molecules, on crop health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujiao Jia
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Pest Chemical Control, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
| | - Lu Kang
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Pest Chemical Control, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
- Institute of Agricultural Quality Standards and Testing Technology, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Urumqi 830091, P. R. China
| | - Yangliu Wu
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Pest Chemical Control, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
| | - Chunran Zhou
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Pest Chemical Control, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
| | - Dong Li
- Key Laboratory of Green Prevention and Control of Tropical Plant Diseases and Pests, Ministry of Education, College of Plant Protection, Hainan University, Haikou, Hainan 570228, P. R. China
| | - Jiaqi Li
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
| | - Canping Pan
- Innovation Center of Pesticide Research, Department of Applied Chemistry, College of Science, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Pest Chemical Control, China Agricultural University, Beijing 100193, P. R. China
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Kisvarga S, Hamar-Farkas D, Ördögh M, Horotán K, Neményi A, Kovács D, Orlóci L. The Role of the Plant-Soil Relationship in Agricultural Production-With Particular Regard to PGPB Application and Phytoremediation. Microorganisms 2023; 11:1616. [PMID: 37375118 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms11061616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2023] [Revised: 06/09/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) and other living organisms can help with the challenges of modern agriculture. PGPB offer ever-expanding possibilities for science and commerce, and the scientific results have been very advanced in recent years. In our current work, we collected the scientific results of recent years and the opinions of experts on the subject. Opinions and results on soil-plant relations, as well as the importance of PGPB and the latest related experiences, are important topics of our review work, which highlights the scientific results of the last 3-4 years. Overall, it can be concluded from all these observations that the bacteria that promote plant development are becoming more and more important in agriculture almost all over the world, thus, promoting more sustainable and environmentally conscious agricultural production and avoiding the use of artificial fertilizers and chemicals. Since many mechanisms of action, namely biochemical and operational processes, are still under investigation, a new emerging scientific direction is expected in the coming years with regard to PGPB, microbial, and other plant growth-stimulating substances, in which omics and microbial modulation also play a leading role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Szilvia Kisvarga
- Ornamental Plant and Green System Management Research Group, Institute of Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning and Garden Art, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), 1223 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dóra Hamar-Farkas
- Ornamental Plant and Green System Management Research Group, Institute of Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning and Garden Art, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), 1223 Budapest, Hungary
- Department of Floriculture and Dendrology, Institute of Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning and Garden Art, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), 1118 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Máté Ördögh
- Department of Floriculture and Dendrology, Institute of Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning and Garden Art, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), 1118 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Katalin Horotán
- Zoological Department, Institute of Biology, Eszterházy Károly Catholic University, 3300 Eger, Hungary
| | - András Neményi
- Ornamental Plant and Green System Management Research Group, Institute of Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning and Garden Art, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), 1223 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Dezső Kovács
- Department of Floriculture and Dendrology, Institute of Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning and Garden Art, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), 1118 Budapest, Hungary
| | - László Orlóci
- Ornamental Plant and Green System Management Research Group, Institute of Landscape Architecture, Urban Planning and Garden Art, Hungarian University of Agriculture and Life Sciences (MATE), 1223 Budapest, Hungary
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Rai PK, Sonne C, Kim KH. Heavy metals and arsenic stress in food crops: Elucidating antioxidative defense mechanisms in hyperaccumulators for food security, agricultural sustainability, and human health. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 874:162327. [PMID: 36813200 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The spread of heavy metal(loid)s at soil-food crop interfaces has become a threat to sustainable agricultural productivity, food security, and human health. The eco-toxic effects of heavy metals on food crops can be manifested through reactive oxygen species that have the potential to disturb seed germination, normal growth, photosynthesis, cellular metabolism, and homeostasis. This review provides a critical overview of stress tolerance mechanisms in food crops/hyperaccumulator plants against heavy metals and arsenic (HM-As). The HM-As antioxidative stress tolerance in food crops is associated with changes in metabolomics (physico-biochemical/lipidomics) and genomics (molecular level). Furthermore, HM-As stress tolerance can occur through plant-microbe, phytohormone, antioxidant, and signal molecule interactions. Information regarding the avoidance, tolerance, and stress resilience of HM-As should help pave the way to minimize food chain contamination, eco-toxicity, and health risks. Advanced biotechnological approaches (e.g., genome modification with CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing) in concert with traditional sustainable biological methods are useful options to develop 'pollution safe designer cultivars' with increased climate change resilience and public health risks mitigation. Further, the usage of HM-As tolerant hyperaccumulator biomass in biorefineries (e.g., environmental remediation, value added chemicals, and bioenergy) is advocated to realize the synergy between biotechnological research and socio-economic policy frameworks, which are inextricably linked with environmental sustainability. The biotechnological innovations, if directed toward 'cleaner climate smart phytotechnologies' and 'HM-As stress resilient food crops', should help open the new path to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs) and a circular bioeconomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prabhat Kumar Rai
- Department of Environmental Science, Mizoram University, Aizawl 796004, India
| | - Christian Sonne
- Department of Ecoscience, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, PO Box 358, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Ki-Hyun Kim
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-Ro, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea.
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Wang Y, Wang J, Guo H, Wu X, Hao M, Zhang R. Integrative transcriptome and metabolome analysis reveals the mechanism of exogenous melatonin alleviating drought stress in maize roots. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY : PPB 2023; 199:107723. [PMID: 37163805 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2023.107723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2023] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin (MT) is essential for plant development and drought adaptation. However, the molecular and metabolic mechanisms underlying MT-induced drought tolerance in maize roots remain largely unclear. Herein, we investigated the effects of MT on drought tolerance in maize roots using integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses, and identified MT-induced genes and metabolites associated with drought resistance. Compared with the untreated control plants, MT application alleviated the deleterious effects of drought on roots, by decreasing the malondialdehyde level and increasing the solute potential, eventually promoting root growth. Transcriptome and metabolome analysis demonstrated that MT significantly upregulates the expression of genes related to flavonoid biosynthesis (PAL, C4H, 4CL, HCT, CHS, CHI, F3'5'H, and DFR), activates drought-responsive transcription factors (ERFs, NACs, MYBs, and bHLHs), and regulates hormone signaling-related genes, especially ethylene response factors (ERF4, ERF81, and ERF110). Moreover, MT increased the accumulation of flavonoid metabolites, particularly apigenin, luteolin, and quercetin, under drought-stress conditions. These findings were further supported by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction analysis and total flavonoid measurements. Altogether, our findings suggest that MT promotes maize root growth during drought by regulating flavonoid synthesis pathways, transcription factors, and plant hormone signals. This study provides new insights into the complex mechanisms by which MT enhances crop resistance to drought damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Wang
- College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Jiarui Wang
- College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Haoxue Guo
- College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Xi Wu
- College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Miaoyi Hao
- College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Renhe Zhang
- College of Agronomy, Northwest A&F University, Shaanxi, Yangling, 712100, China.
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Aghdam MS, Mukherjee S, Flores FB, Arnao MB, Luo Z, Corpas FJ. Functions of Melatonin during Postharvest of Horticultural Crops. PLANT & CELL PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 63:1764-1786. [PMID: 34910215 DOI: 10.1093/pcp/pcab175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin, a tryptophan-derived molecule, is endogenously generated in animal, plant, fungal and prokaryotic cells. Given its antioxidant properties, it is involved in a myriad of signaling functions associated with various aspects of plant growth and development. In higher plants, melatonin (Mel) interacts with plant regulators such as phytohormones, as well as reactive oxygen and nitrogen species including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H2S). It shows great potential as a biotechnological tool to alleviate biotic and abiotic stress, to delay senescence and to conserve the sensory and nutritional quality of postharvest horticultural products which are of considerable economic importance worldwide. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the biochemistry of Mel, whose endogenous induction and exogenous application can play an important biotechnological role in enhancing the marketability and hence earnings from postharvest horticultural crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Morteza Soleimani Aghdam
- Department of Horticultural Science, Imam Khomeini International University, Qazvin 34148-96818, Iran
| | - Soumya Mukherjee
- Department of Botany, Jangipur College, University of Kalyani, West Bengal 742213, India
| | - Francisco Borja Flores
- Department of Stress Biology and Plant Pathology, CEBAS-CSIC, Espinardo-Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Marino B Arnao
- Department of Plant Biology (Plant Physiology), Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain
| | - Zisheng Luo
- College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Key Laboratory of Agro-Products Postharvest Handling Ministry of Agriculture, Zhejiang Key Laboratory for Agro-Food Processing, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, People's Republic of China
| | - Francisco J Corpas
- Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology of Plants, Group of Antioxidants, Free Radicals and Nitric Oxide in Biotechnology, Food and Agriculture, Estación Experimental del Zaidín, CSIC, C/Profesor Albareda, 1, Granada 18008, Spain
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12
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Chmur M, Bajguz A. Melatonin Involved in Protective Effects against Cadmium Stress in Wolffia arrhiza. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24021178. [PMID: 36674694 PMCID: PMC9867261 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24021178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 01/02/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin (MT) is a new plant hormone that protects against adverse environmental conditions. In the present study, the responses of Wolffia arrhiza exposed to cadmium (Cd) and MT were analyzed. Quantitative analysis of MT and precursors of its biosynthesis was performed using LC-MS-MS. The photosynthetic pigments and phytochelatins (PCs) contents were determined using HPLC, while protein and monosaccharides, stress markers, and antioxidant levels were determined using spectrophotometric methods. Interestingly, the endogenous level of MT and its substrates in W. arrhiza exposed to 1-100 µM Cd was significantly higher compared to the control. Additionally, the application of 25 µM MT and Cd intensified the biosynthesis of these compounds. The most stimulatory effect on the growth and content of pigments, protein, and sugars was observed in plants treated with 25 µM MT. In contrast, Cd treatment caused a decrease in plant weight and level of these compounds, while the application of 25 µM MT mitigated the inhibitory effect of Cd. Additionally, Cd enhanced the level of stress markers; simultaneously, MT reduced their content in duckweed exposed to Cd. In plants treated with Cd, PC levels were increased by Cd treatment and by 25 µM MT. These results confirmed that MT mitigated the adverse effect of Cd. Furthermore, MT presence was reported for the first time in W. arrhiza. In summary, MT is an essential phytohormone for plant growth and development, especially during heavy metal stress.
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13
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Effect of exogenous melatonin on the isoflavone content and antioxidant properties of soybean sprouts. Lebensm Wiss Technol 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lwt.2023.114498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
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14
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Application of Exogenous Melatonin Improves Tomato Fruit Quality by Promoting the Accumulation of Primary and Secondary Metabolites. Foods 2022; 11:foods11244097. [PMID: 36553839 PMCID: PMC9778358 DOI: 10.3390/foods11244097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 12/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin plays key roles in improving fruit quality and yield by regulating various aspects of plant growth. However, the effects of how melatonin regulates primary and secondary metabolites during fruit growth and development are poorly understood. In this study, the surfaces of tomato fruit were sprayed with different concentrations of melatonin (0, 50, and 100 µmol·L-1) on the 20th day after anthesis; we used high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) to determine the changes in primary and secondary metabolite contents during fruit development and measured the activity of sucrose metabolizing enzymes during fruit development. Our results showed that 100 µmol·L-1 melatonin significantly promoted the accumulation of soluble sugar in tomato fruit by increasing the activities of sucrose synthase (SS), sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS), and acid convertase (AI). The application of 100 µmol·L-1 melatonin also increased the contents of ten amino acids in tomato fruit as well as decreased the contents of organic acids. In addition, 100 µmol·L-1 melatonin application also increased the accumulation of some secondary metabolites, such as six phenolic acids, three flavonoids, and volatile substances (including alcohols, aldehydes, and ketones). In conclusion, melatonin application improves the internal nutritional and flavor quality of tomato fruit by regulating the accumulation of primary and secondary metabolites during tomato fruit ripening. In the future, we need to further understand the molecular mechanism of melatonin in tomato fruit to lay a solid foundation for quality improvement breeding.
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15
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Arnao MB, Hernández-Ruiz J, Cano A. Role of Melatonin and Nitrogen Metabolism in Plants: Implications under Nitrogen-Excess or Nitrogen-Low. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315217. [PMID: 36499543 PMCID: PMC9741234 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315217] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a new plant hormone involved in multiple physiological functions in plants such as germination, photosynthesis, plant growth, flowering, fruiting, and senescence, among others. Its protective role in different stress situations, both biotic and abiotic, has been widely demonstrated. Melatonin regulates several routes in primary and secondary plant metabolism through the up/down-regulation of many enzyme/factor genes. Many of the steps of nitrogen metabolism in plants are also regulated by melatonin and are presented in this review. In addition, the ability of melatonin to enhance nitrogen uptake under nitrogen-excess or nitrogen-low conditions is analyzed. A model that summarizes the distribution of nitrogen compounds, and the osmoregulation and redox network responses mediated by melatonin, are presented. The possibilities of using melatonin in crops for more efficient uptake, the assimilation and metabolization of nitrogen from soil, and the implications for Nitrogen Use Efficiency strategies to improve crop yield are also discussed.
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Sati H, Khandelwal A, Pareek S. Effect of exogenous melatonin in fruit postharvest, crosstalk with hormones, and defense mechanism for oxidative stress management. FOOD FRONTIERS 2022. [DOI: 10.1002/fft2.180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Hansika Sati
- Department of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management Kundli Sonipat India
| | - Aparna Khandelwal
- Department of Biochemistry Pandit Bhagwat Dayal Sharma Post Graduate Institute of Medical Sciences Rohtak Haryana India
| | - Sunil Pareek
- Department of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences National Institute of Food Technology Entrepreneurship and Management Kundli Sonipat India
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Corpas FJ, Rodríguez-Ruiz M, Muñoz-Vargas MA, González-Gordo S, Reiter RJ, Palma JM. Interactions of melatonin, reactive oxygen species, and nitric oxide during fruit ripening: an update and prospective view. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2022; 73:5947-5960. [PMID: 35325926 PMCID: PMC9523826 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erac128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Fruit ripening is a physiological process that involves a complex network of signaling molecules that act as switches to activate or deactivate certain metabolic pathways at different levels, not only by regulating gene and protein expression but also through post-translational modifications of the involved proteins. Ethylene is the distinctive molecule that regulates the ripening of fruits, which can be classified as climacteric or non-climacteric according to whether or not, respectively, they are dependent on this phytohormone. However, in recent years it has been found that other molecules with signaling potential also exert regulatory roles, not only individually but also as a result of interactions among them. These observations imply the existence of mutual and hierarchical regulations that sometimes make it difficult to identify the initial triggering event. Among these 'new' molecules, hydrogen peroxide, nitric oxide, and melatonin have been highlighted as prominent. This review provides a comprehensive outline of the relevance of these molecules in the fruit ripening process and the complex network of the known interactions among them.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Rodríguez-Ruiz
- Group of Antioxidants, Free Radicals and Nitric Oxide in Biotechnology, Food and Agriculture, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology of Plants, Estación Experimental del Zaidín (Spanish National Research Council, CSIC), C/ Profesor Albareda, 1, 18008 Granada, Spain
| | - María A Muñoz-Vargas
- Group of Antioxidants, Free Radicals and Nitric Oxide in Biotechnology, Food and Agriculture, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology of Plants, Estación Experimental del Zaidín (Spanish National Research Council, CSIC), C/ Profesor Albareda, 1, 18008 Granada, Spain
| | - Salvador González-Gordo
- Group of Antioxidants, Free Radicals and Nitric Oxide in Biotechnology, Food and Agriculture, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology of Plants, Estación Experimental del Zaidín (Spanish National Research Council, CSIC), C/ Profesor Albareda, 1, 18008 Granada, Spain
| | - Russel J Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long School of Medicine, UT Health San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
| | - José M Palma
- Group of Antioxidants, Free Radicals and Nitric Oxide in Biotechnology, Food and Agriculture, Department of Biochemistry, Cell and Molecular Biology of Plants, Estación Experimental del Zaidín (Spanish National Research Council, CSIC), C/ Profesor Albareda, 1, 18008 Granada, Spain
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18
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Wang K, Xing Q, Ahammed GJ, Zhou J. Functions and prospects of melatonin in plant growth, yield, and quality. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2022; 73:5928-5946. [PMID: 35640564 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erac233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is an indole molecule widely found in animals and plants. It is well known that melatonin improves plant resistance to various biotic and abiotic stresses due to its potent free radical scavenging ability while being able to modulate plant signaling and response pathways through mostly unknown mechanisms. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have shown that melatonin plays a crucial role in improving crop quality and yield by participating in the regulation of various aspects of plant growth and development. Here, we review the effects of melatonin on plant vegetative growth and reproductive development, and systematically summarize its molecular regulatory network. Moreover, the effective concentrations of exogenously applied melatonin in different crops or at different growth stages of the same crop are analysed. In addition, we compare endogenous phytomelatonin concentrations in various crops and different organs, and evaluate a potential function of phytomelatonin in plant circadian rhythms. The prospects of different approaches in regulating crop yield and quality through exogenous application of appropriate concentrations of melatonin, endogenous modification of phytomelatonin metabolism-related genes, and the use of nanomaterials and other technologies to improve melatonin utilization efficiency are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaixin Wang
- Department of Horticulture/Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Integrative Biology, Zhejiang University, Yuhangtang Road 866, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Hainan Institute, Zhejiang University, Sanya 572025, China
| | - Qufan Xing
- Department of Horticulture/Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Integrative Biology, Zhejiang University, Yuhangtang Road 866, Hangzhou, 310058, China
| | - Golam Jalal Ahammed
- College of Horticulture and Plant Protection, Henan University of Science and Technology, Luoyang, 471023, China
- Henan International Joint Laboratory of Stress Resistance Regulation and Safe Production of Protected Vegetables, Luoyang, 471023, China
| | - Jie Zhou
- Department of Horticulture/Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plant Integrative Biology, Zhejiang University, Yuhangtang Road 866, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Hainan Institute, Zhejiang University, Sanya 572025, China
- Key Laboratory of Horticultural Plants Growth, Development and Quality Improvement, Agricultural Ministry of China, Yuhangtang Road 866, Hangzhou, 310058, China
- Shandong (Linyi) Institute of Modern Agriculture, Zhejiang University, Linyi, 276000, China
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19
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Arnao MB, Cano A, Hernández-Ruiz J. Phytomelatonin: an unexpected molecule with amazing performances in plants. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2022; 73:5779-5800. [PMID: 35029657 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
Phytomelatonin, a multifunctional molecule that has been found to be present in all plants examined to date, has an important role in plants as a modulatory agent (a biostimulator) that improves plant tolerance to both biotic and abiotic stress. We present a review of phytomelatonin that considers its roles in plant metabolism and in particular its interactions with plant hormone network. In the primary metabolism of plants, melatonin improves the rate and efficiency of photosynthesis, as well related factors such as stomatal conductance, intercellular CO2, and Rubisco activity. It has also been shown to down-regulate some senescence transcription factors. Melatonin up-regulates many enzyme transcripts related to carbohydrates (including sucrose and starch), amino acids, and lipid metabolism, optimizing N, P, and S uptake. With respect to the secondary metabolism, clear increases in polyphenol, glucosinolate, terpenoid, and alkaloid contents have been described in numerous melatonin-treated plants. Generally, the most important genes of these secondary biosynthesis pathways have been found to be up-regulated by melatonin. The great regulatory capacity of melatonin is a result of its control of the redox and plant hormone networks. Melatonin acts as a plant master regulator, up-/down-regulating different plant hormone levels and signalling, and is a key player in redox homeostasis. It has the capacity to counteract diverse critical situations such as pathogen infections and abiotic stresses, and provide plants with varying degrees of tolerance. We propose possible future applications of melatonin for crop improvement and post-harvest product preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marino B Arnao
- Department of Plant Biology (Plant Physiology), Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, 30100-Murcia, Spain
| | - Antonio Cano
- Department of Plant Biology (Plant Physiology), Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, 30100-Murcia, Spain
| | - Josefa Hernández-Ruiz
- Department of Plant Biology (Plant Physiology), Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, 30100-Murcia, Spain
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20
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Chen Q, Arnao MB. Phytomelatonin: an emerging new hormone in plants. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2022; 73:5773-5778. [PMID: 36178429 PMCID: PMC9523825 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erac307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Accepted: 07/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
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21
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Xie Q, Zhang Y, Cheng Y, Tian Y, Luo J, Hu Z, Chen G. The role of melatonin in tomato stress response, growth and development. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2022; 41:1631-1650. [PMID: 35575808 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-022-02876-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin has attracted widespread attention after its discovery in higher plants. Tomato is a key model economic crop for studying fleshy fruits. Many studies have shown that melatonin plays important role in plant stress resistance, growth, and development. However, the research progress on the role of melatonin and related mechanisms in tomatoes have not been systematically summarized. This paper summarizes the detection methods and anabolism of melatonin in tomatoes, including (1) the role of melatonin in combating abiotic stresses, e.g., drought, heavy metals, pH, temperature, salt, salt and heat, cold and drought, peroxidation hydrogen and carbendazim, etc., (2) the role of melatonin in combating biotic stresses, such as tobacco mosaic virus and foodborne bacillus, and (3) the role of melatonin in tomato growth and development, such as fruit ripening, postharvest shelf life, leaf senescence and root development. In addition, the future research directions of melatonin in tomatoes are explored in combination with the role of melatonin in other plants. This review can provide a theoretical basis for enhancing the scientific understanding of the role of melatonin in tomatoes and the improved breeding of fruit crops.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yu Zhang
- Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
| | | | | | | | - Zongli Hu
- Chongqing University, Chongqing, China
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22
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Effect of Melatonin in Broccoli Postharvest and Possible Melatonin Ingestion Level. PLANTS 2022; 11:plants11152000. [PMID: 35956477 PMCID: PMC9370688 DOI: 10.3390/plants11152000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 07/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The post-harvest stage of broccoli production requires cold storage to obtain enough days of shelf life. It has been proved that melatonin is useful as a post-harvest agent in fruits and vegetables, including broccoli. In this study, the broccoli heads treated with melatonin have a longer shelf life than the control samples, which was reflected in parameters such as fresh weight, hue angle (expresses color quality), and chlorophyll and carotenoid contents. Treatments with 100 μM melatonin for 15 or 30 min seem to be the most appropriate, extending the broccoli’s shelf life to almost 42 days, when it is normally around 4 weeks. In addition, a study on the possible impact that melatonin treatments in broccoli could have on melatonin intake in humans is presented. The levels of superficial melatonin, called washing or residual melatonin, are measured, showing the possible incidence in estimated blood melatonin levels. Our results suggest that post-harvest treatments with melatonin do not have to be a handicap from a nutritional point of view, but more research is needed.
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Giraldo Acosta M, Cano A, Hernández-Ruiz J, Arnao MB. Melatonin as a Possible Natural Safener in Crops. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:plants11070890. [PMID: 35406870 PMCID: PMC9003551 DOI: 10.3390/plants11070890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Revised: 03/25/2022] [Accepted: 03/25/2022] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Melatonin is a well-known animal hormone with relevant and multiple cellular and hormonal roles. Its discovery in plants in 1995 has led to a great diversity of molecular and physiological studies that have been showing its multiple actions also in plants. Its roles as a biostimulator and modulator agent of responses to abiotic and biotic stresses have been widely studied. This review raises the possible use of melatonin as a natural safener in herbicide treatments. Existing studies have shown excellent co-acting qualities between both the following agents: herbicide and melatonin. The presence of melatonin reduces the damage caused by the herbicide in the crop and enhances the stress antioxidant response of plants. In this area, a similar role is suggested in the co-action between fungicides and melatonin, where a synergistic response has been demonstrated in some cases. The possible reduction in the fungicide doses is proposed as an eco-friendly advance in the use of these pesticides in certain crops. Finally, future research and applied actions of melatonin on these pest control agents are suggested.
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Function, Mechanism, and Application of Plant Melatonin: An Update with a Focus on the Cereal Crop, Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.). Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11040634. [PMID: 35453319 PMCID: PMC9028855 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11040634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 03/24/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Melatonin is a multiple-function molecule that was first identified in animals and later in plants. Plant melatonin regulates versatile processes involved in plant growth and development, including seed germination, root architecture, flowering time, leaf senescence, fruit ripening, and biomass production. Published reviews on plant melatonin have been focused on two model plants: (1) Arabidopsis and (2) rice, in which the natural melatonin contents are quite low. Efforts to integrate the function and the mechanism of plant melatonin and to determine how plant melatonin benefits human health are also lacking. Barley is a unique cereal crop used for food, feed, and malt. In this study, a bioinformatics analysis to identify the genes required for barley melatonin biosynthesis was first performed, after which the effects of exogenous melatonin on barley growth and development were reviewed. Three integrated mechanisms of melatonin on plant cells were found: (1) serving as an antioxidant, (2) modulating plant hormone crosstalk, and (3) signaling through a putative plant melatonin receptor. Reliable approaches for characterizing the function of barley melatonin biosynthetic genes and to modulate the melatonin contents in barley grains are discussed. The present paper should be helpful for the improvement of barley production under hostile environments and for the reduction of pesticide and fungicide usage in barley cultivation. This study is also beneficial for the enhancement of the nutritional values and healthcare functions of barley in the food industry.
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Exogenous Melatonin Protects Lime Plants from Drought Stress-Induced Damage by Maintaining Cell Membrane Structure, Detoxifying ROS and Regulating Antioxidant Systems. HORTICULTURAE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/horticulturae8030257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Lime is an important commercial product in tropical and subtropical regions, where drought stress is becoming one of the most severe environmental challenges in the agricultural sector. Melatonin is an antioxidant molecule that helps plants regulate their development and respond to a variety of stresses. In this research, the effects of exogenous melatonin treatments were evaluated at different concentrations (0, 50, 100, and 150 μM) on biochemical aspects and gene expression in two species of lime plants (“Mexican lime” and “Persian lime”) under normal (100% field capacity (FC)) and drought stress conditions (75% and 40% FC). The experiments were factorial and based on a completely randomized design (CRD) with four replicates. Drought stress caused electrolyte leakage (EL) as well as accumulations of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and malondialdehyde (MDA), indicating the occurrence of damage to cellular membranes. In contrast, the melatonin pretreatment at various concentrations reduced the levels of EL, H2O2 and MDA while mitigating the negative effects of drought stress on the two lime species. The application of melatonin (100-μM) significantly increased the level of proline content and activity of antioxidant enzymes in plants under drought stress compared to control plants. According to real-time PCR analysis, drought stress and melatonin treatment enhanced the expression of genes involved in ROS scavenging, proline biosynthesis, and cell redox regulation in both species, as compared to their respective controls. According to these findings, melatonin is able to detoxify ROS and regulate antioxidant systems, thereby protecting lime plants from drought stress-induced damages.
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Kaya C, Sarıoglu A, Ashraf M, Alyemeni MN, Ahmad P. The combined supplementation of melatonin and salicylic acid effectively detoxifies arsenic toxicity by modulating phytochelatins and nitrogen metabolism in pepper plants. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 297:118727. [PMID: 34973379 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2021.118727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2021] [Revised: 11/28/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The main objective of the study was to assess if joint application of melatonin (MT, 0.1 mM) and salicylic acid (SA 0.5 mM) could improve tolerance of pepper plants to arsenic (As) as sodium hydrogen arsenate heptahydrate (0.05 mM). The imposition of arsenic stress led to accumulation of As in roots and leaves, and increased contents of leaf proline, phytochelatins, malondialdehyde (MDA) and H2O2, but it reduced plant biomass, chlorophylls (Chl), PSII maximum efficiency (Fv/Fm) and leaf water potential. Melatonin and SA applied jointly or alone enhanced nitrogen metabolism by triggering the activities of glutamate synthase, glutamine synthetase, and nitrite reductases and nitrate. In comparison with a single treatment of MT or SA, the joint treatment of MT and SA had better impact on enhancing growth and key biological events and decreasing tissue As content. This clearly shows a cooperative function of both agents in enhancing tolerance to As-toxicity in pepper plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cengiz Kaya
- Soil Science and Plant Nutrition Department, Harran University, Sanliurfa, Turkey
| | - Ali Sarıoglu
- Soil Science and Plant Nutrition Department, Harran University, Sanliurfa, Turkey
| | - Muhammad Ashraf
- University of Lahore, Lahore, Pakistan; International Centre for Chemical and Biological Sciences, University of Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Mohammed Nasser Alyemeni
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Parvaiz Ahmad
- Botany and Microbiology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
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Hernández-Ruiz J, Cano A, Arnao MB. A Phytomelatonin-Rich Extract Obtained from Selected Herbs with Application as Plant Growth Regulator. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10102143. [PMID: 34685952 PMCID: PMC8540480 DOI: 10.3390/plants10102143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Revised: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The animal hormone melatonin (N-acetyl-5-methoxytryptamine) is a pleiotropic molecule with multiple and various functions. Phytomelatonin is the melatonin from plants and was discovered in 1995 in some species. Phytomelatonin is considered an interesting molecule in the physiology of plants, as it seems to be involved in many actions, such as germination, growth, rooting and parthenocarpy, including fruit set and ripening; it also seems to play a role during postharvest. It has been studied in processes such as primary and secondary metabolism, photosynthesis and senescence, as well as in the nitrogen and sulfur cycles. Phytomelatonin up- and down-regulates many relevant genes related to plant hormones and key genes related to the above-mentioned aspects. One of the most decisive aspects of phytomelatonin is its relevant role as a bioprotective and alleviating agent against both biotic and abiotic stressors, which has opened up the possibility of using melatonin as a phytoprotector and biostimulant in agriculture. In this respect, using material of plant origin to obtain extracts rich in phytomelatonin instead of using synthetic melatonin (thus avoiding unwanted by-products) has become a topic of discussion. This work characterized the phytomelatonin-rich extracts obtained from selected herbs and determined their contents of phytomelatonin, phenols and flavonoids; the antioxidant activity was also measured. Finally, two melatonin-specific bioassays in plants were applied to demonstrate the excellent biological properties of the natural phytomelatonin-rich extracts obtained. The herb composition and the protocols for obtaining the extracts rich in phytomelatonin are in the process of registration for their legal protection.
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Arnao MB, Hernández-Ruiz J, Cano A, Reiter RJ. Melatonin and Carbohydrate Metabolism in Plant Cells. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:1917. [PMID: 34579448 PMCID: PMC8472256 DOI: 10.3390/plants10091917] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Revised: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Melatonin, a multifunctional molecule that is present in all living organisms studied, is synthesized in plant cells in several intercellular organelles including in the chloroplasts and in mitochondria. In plants, melatonin has a relevant role as a modulatory agent which improves their tolerance response to biotic and abiotic stress. The role of melatonin in stress conditions on the primary metabolism of plant carbohydrates is reviewed in the present work. Thus, the modulatory actions of melatonin on the various biosynthetic and degradation pathways involving simple carbohydrates (mono- and disaccharides), polymers (starch), and derivatives (polyalcohols) in plants are evaluated. The possible applications of the use of melatonin in crop improvement and postharvest products are examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marino B. Arnao
- Department of Plant Biology (Plant Physiology), Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (J.H.-R.); (A.C.)
| | - Josefa Hernández-Ruiz
- Department of Plant Biology (Plant Physiology), Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (J.H.-R.); (A.C.)
| | - Antonio Cano
- Department of Plant Biology (Plant Physiology), Faculty of Biology, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain; (J.H.-R.); (A.C.)
| | - Russel J. Reiter
- Department of Cell Systems and Anatomy, UT Health, Long School of Medicine, San Antonio, TX 78229, USA
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