1
|
Maupilé L, Chaib J, Boualem A, Bendahmane A. Parthenocarpy, a pollination-independent fruit set mechanism to ensure yield stability. TRENDS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024:S1360-1385(24)00151-1. [PMID: 39034223 DOI: 10.1016/j.tplants.2024.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 06/11/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
Fruit development is essential for flowering plants' reproduction and a significant food source. Climate change threatens fruit yields due to its impact on pollination and fertilization processes, especially vulnerable to extreme temperatures, insufficient light, and pollinator decline. Parthenocarpy, the development of fruit without fertilization, offers a solution, ensuring yield stability in adverse conditions and enhancing fruit quality. Parthenocarpic fruits not only secure agricultural production but also exhibit improved texture, appearance, and shelf life, making them desirable for food processing and other applications. Recent research unveils the molecular mechanisms behind parthenocarpy, implicating transcription factors (TFs), noncoding RNAs, and phytohormones such as auxin, gibberellin (GA), and cytokinin (CK). Here we review recent findings, construct regulatory models, and identify areas for further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lea Maupilé
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91190 Gif sur Yvette, France; Vilmorin & Cie, Route d'Ennezat, 63720 Chappes, France
| | - Jamila Chaib
- Vilmorin & Cie, Paraje La Reserva, 04725 La Mojonera, Spain
| | - Adnane Boualem
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91190 Gif sur Yvette, France; Université de Paris, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91190 Gif sur Yvette, France.
| | - Abdelhafid Bendahmane
- Université Paris-Saclay, CNRS, INRAE, Université Evry, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91190 Gif sur Yvette, France; Université de Paris, Institute of Plant Sciences Paris-Saclay (IPS2), 91190 Gif sur Yvette, France.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ziemmer JK, Dos Reis de Oliveira T, Santa-Catarina C, do Nascimento Vieira L, Goldenberg R, Pacheco de Freitas Fraga H. Plant regeneration capacity in seeds of three species of Miconia (Melastomataceae) may be related to endogenous polyamine profiles. PROTOPLASMA 2024:10.1007/s00709-024-01945-y. [PMID: 38530427 DOI: 10.1007/s00709-024-01945-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
In plant tissue culture, differences in endogenous levels of species-specific plant growth regulators (PGRs) may explain differences in regenerative capacity. In the case of polyamines (PAs), their dynamics and distribution may vary between species, genotypes, tissues, and developmental pathways, such as sexual reproduction and apomixis. In this study, for the first time, we aimed to assess the impact of varying endogenous PAs levels in seeds from distinct reproductive modes in Miconia spp. (Melastomataceae), on their in vitro regenerative capacity. We quantified the free PAs endogenous content in seeds of Miconia australis (obligate apomictic), Miconia hyemalis (facultative apomictic), and Miconia sellowiana (sexual) and evaluated their in vitro regenerative potential in WPM culture medium supplemented with a combination of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) and 6-benzylaminopurine (BAP). The morphogenic responses were characterized by light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy and discussed regarding the endogenous PAs profiles found. Seeds of M. sellowiana presented approximately eight times more putrescine than M. australis, which was associated with a higher percentage of regenerated calluses (76.67%) than M. australis (5.56%). On the other hand, spermine levels were significantly higher in M. australis. Spermine is indicated as an inhibitor of auxin-carrying gene expression, which may have contributed to its lower regenerative capacity under the tested conditions. These findings provide important insights into in vitro morphogenesis mechanisms in Miconia and highlight the significance of endogenous PA levels in plant regeneration. These discoveries can potentially optimize future regeneration protocols in Miconia, a plant group still underexplored in this area.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juliana Klostermann Ziemmer
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Biologia Vegetal, Campinas, Universidade Estadual de Campinas, São Paulo, 13083-862, Brazil.
| | - Tadeu Dos Reis de Oliveira
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, 28013-602, Brazil
| | - Claudete Santa-Catarina
- Laboratório de Biologia Celular e Tecidual, Centro de Biociências e Biotecnologia, Universidade Estadual do Norte Fluminense Darcy Ribeiro, Campos dos Goytacazes, Rio de Janeiro, 28013-602, Brazil
| | | | - Renato Goldenberg
- Departamento de Botânica, Universidade Federal do Paraná, Curitiba, Paraná, 81531-970, Brazil
| | | |
Collapse
|
3
|
Tang Q, Wang X, Jin X, Peng J, Zhang H, Wang Y. CRISPR/Cas Technology Revolutionizes Crop Breeding. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:3119. [PMID: 37687368 PMCID: PMC10489799 DOI: 10.3390/plants12173119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2023] [Revised: 08/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023]
Abstract
Crop breeding is an important global strategy to meet sustainable food demand. CRISPR/Cas is a most promising gene-editing technology for rapid and precise generation of novel germplasm and promoting the development of a series of new breeding techniques, which will certainly lead to the transformation of agricultural innovation. In this review, we summarize recent advances of CRISPR/Cas technology in gene function analyses and the generation of new germplasms with increased yield, improved product quality, and enhanced resistance to biotic and abiotic stress. We highlight their applications and breakthroughs in agriculture, including crop de novo domestication, decoupling the gene pleiotropy tradeoff, crop hybrid seed conventional production, hybrid rice asexual reproduction, and double haploid breeding; the continuous development and application of these technologies will undoubtedly usher in a new era for crop breeding. Moreover, the challenges and development of CRISPR/Cas technology in crops are also discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qiaoling Tang
- National Nanfan Research Institute (Sanya), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya 572024, China;
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China;
| | - Xujing Wang
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China;
| | - Xi Jin
- Hebei Technology Innovation Center for Green Management of Soi-Borne Diseases, Baoding University, Baoding 071000, China;
| | - Jun Peng
- National Nanfan Research Institute (Sanya), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya 572024, China;
| | - Haiwen Zhang
- National Nanfan Research Institute (Sanya), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya 572024, China;
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China;
| | - Youhua Wang
- National Nanfan Research Institute (Sanya), Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Sanya 572024, China;
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Beijing 100081, China;
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Rojek J, Ohad N. The phenomenon of autonomous endosperm in sexual and apomictic plants. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2023; 74:4324-4348. [PMID: 37155961 PMCID: PMC10433939 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erad168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Endosperm is a key nutritive tissue that supports the developing embryo or seedling, and serves as a major nutritional source for human and livestock feed. In sexually-reproducing flowering plants, it generally develops after fertilization. However, autonomous endosperm (AE) formation (i.e. independent of fertilization) is also possible. Recent findings of AE loci/ genes and aberrant imprinting in native apomicts, together with a successful initiation of parthenogenesis in rice and lettuce, have enhanced our understanding of the mechanisms bridging sexual and apomictic seed formation. However, the mechanisms driving AE development are not well understood. This review presents novel aspects related to AE development in sexual and asexual plants underlying stress conditions as the primary trigger for AE. Both application of hormones to unfertilized ovules and mutations that impair epigenetic regulation lead to AE development in sexual Arabidopsis thaliana, which may point to a common pathway for both phenomena. Apomictic-like AE development under experimental conditions can take place due to auxin-dependent gene expression and/or DNA methylation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joanna Rojek
- Department of Plant Cytology and Embryology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdansk, Gdansk, Poland
| | - Nir Ohad
- School of Plant Sciences and Food Security, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
He Z, Lei Y, Gong W, Ye M, Luo X. Karyotype and Phylogenetic Relationship Analysis of Five Varieties and Cultivars of Zanthoxylum armatum Based on Oligo-FISH. Genes (Basel) 2023; 14:1459. [PMID: 37510363 PMCID: PMC10379346 DOI: 10.3390/genes14071459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Revised: 07/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Green prickly ash (Zanthoxylum armatum) has edible and medicinal value and is an economically significant plant in many countries. Z. armatum has many cultivars and varieties with similar phenotypes that are difficult to distinguish via traditional methods. In this study, we utilized oligo-FISH to distinguish five varieties and cultivars of Z. armatum on the basis of three oligonucleotide probes of 5S rDNA, (AG3T3)3, and (GAA)6. Karyotype analysis of the five varieties and cultivars of Z. armatum showed that the Z. armatum 'Tengjiao' karyotype formula was 2n = 2x = 98m with karyotype type 1C and an arm ratio of 4.3237, including two pairs of 5S rDNA signals and five pairs of (GAA)6 signals. The karyotype formula of Z. armatum 'Youkangtengjiao' was 2n = 2x = 128m + 8sm with karyotype type 2B and an arm ratio of 3.5336, including three pairs of 5S rDNA signals and 17 pairs of (GAA)6 signals. The karyotype formula of Z. armatum var. novemfolius was 2n = 2x = 134m + 2sm with karyotype type 1C and an arm ratio of 5.5224, including two pairs of 5S rDNA signals and eight pairs of (GAA)6 signals. The karyotype formula of Z. armatum 'YT-03' was 2n = 2x = 2M + 128m + 4sm + 2st with karyotype type 2C and an arm ratio of 4.1829, including three pairs of 5S rDNA signals and nine pairs of (GAA)6 signals. The karyotype formula of Z. armatum 'YT-06' was 2n = 2x = 126m + 10sm with cytotype 2B and an arm ratio of 3.3011, including three pairs of 5S rDNA signals and two pairs of (GAA)6 signals. The five varieties and cultivars of Z. armatum had (AG3T3)3 signals on all chromosomes. The chromosomal symmetry of Z. armatum 'Tengjiao' was high, whereas the chromosomal symmetry of Z. armatum 'YT-03' was low, with the karyotypes of the five materials showing a trend toward polyploid evolution. The phylogenetic relationship between Z. armatum 'Tengjiao' and Z. armatum var. novemfolius was the closest, while that between Z. armatum 'YT-03' and Z. armatum 'YT-06' was closer than with Z. armatum 'Youkangtengjiao' according to oligo-FISH. The results provided a karyotype profile and a physical map that contributes to the distinction of varieties and cultivars of Z. armatum and provides strategies for distinguishing other cultivated species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhoujian He
- College of Forestry, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yuting Lei
- College of Forestry, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Wei Gong
- College of Forestry, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Meng Ye
- College of Forestry, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Xiaomei Luo
- National Forestry and Grassland Administration Key Laboratory of Forest Resources Conservation and Ecological Safety on the Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River & Forestry Ecological Engineering in the Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu 611130, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Dusi DMA, Alves ER, Cabral GB, Mello LV, Rigden DJ, Silveira ÉD, Alves-Ferreira M, Guimarães LA, Gomes ACMM, Rodrigues JCM, Carneiro VTC. An exonuclease V homologue is expressed predominantly during early megasporogenesis in apomictic Brachiaria brizantha. PLANTA 2023; 258:5. [PMID: 37219749 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-023-04162-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/15/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
MAIN CONCLUSION An exonuclease V homologue from apomictic Brachiaria brizantha is expressed and localized in nucellar cells at key moments when these cells differentiate to give rise to unreduced gametophytes. Brachiaria is a genus of forage grasses with economical and agricultural importance to Brazil. Brachiaria reproduces by aposporic apomixis, in which unreduced embryo sacs, derived from nucellar cells, other than the megaspore mother cell (MMC), are formed. The unreduced embryo sacs produce an embryo without fertilization resulting in clones of the mother plant. Comparative gene expression analysis in ovaries of sexual and apomictic Brachiaria spp. revealed a sequence from B. brizantha that showed a distinct pattern of expression in ovaries of sexual and apomictic plants. In this work, we describe a gene named BbrizExoV with strong identity to exonuclease V (Exo V) genes from other grasses. Sequence analysis in signal prediction tools showed that BbrizExoV might have dual localization, depending on the translation point. A longer form to the nucleus and a shorter form which would be directed to the chloroplast. This is also the case for monocot sequences analyzed from other species. The long form of BbrizExoV protein localizes to the nucleus of onion epidermal cells. Analysis of ExoV proteins from dicot species, with exception of Arabidopsis thaliana ExoVL protein, showed only one localization. Using a template-based AlphaFold 2 modelling approach the structure of BbrizExoV in complex with metal and ssDNA was predicted based on the holo structure of the human counterpart. Features predicted to define ssDNA binding but a lack of sequence specificity are shared between the human enzyme and BbrizExoV. Expression analyses indicated the precise site and timing of transcript accumulation during ovule development, which coincides with the differentiation of nucelar cells to form the typical aposporic four-celled unreduced gametophyte. A putative function for this protein is proposed based on its homology and expression pattern.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diva M A Dusi
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Cx. Postal 02372, Brasilia, DF, 70770-917, Brazil
| | - Elizângela R Alves
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Cx. Postal 02372, Brasilia, DF, 70770-917, Brazil
- Department of Celular Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Gláucia B Cabral
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Cx. Postal 02372, Brasilia, DF, 70770-917, Brazil
| | - Luciane V Mello
- School of Life Sciences, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Daniel J Rigden
- Institute of Systems, Molecular and Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Crown St, Liverpool, L69 7ZB, UK
| | - Érica D Silveira
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Cx. Postal 02372, Brasilia, DF, 70770-917, Brazil
- Department of Genetics, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Prof. Rodolpho Paulo Rocco, s/n Prédio do CCS Instituto de Biologia, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Márcio Alves-Ferreira
- Department of Genetics, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Prof. Rodolpho Paulo Rocco, s/n Prédio do CCS Instituto de Biologia, Rio de Janeiro, RJ, Brazil
| | - Larissa A Guimarães
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Cx. Postal 02372, Brasilia, DF, 70770-917, Brazil
- Department of Celular Biology, University of Brasilia, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Ana Cristina M M Gomes
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Cx. Postal 02372, Brasilia, DF, 70770-917, Brazil
| | - Júlio C M Rodrigues
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Cx. Postal 02372, Brasilia, DF, 70770-917, Brazil.
| | - Vera T C Carneiro
- Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), Embrapa Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Cx. Postal 02372, Brasilia, DF, 70770-917, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Jawhari FZ, Imtara H, El Moussaoui A, Khalis H, Es-Safi I, Al Kamaly O, Saleh A, Parvez MK, Guemmouh R, Bari A. Reproductive Biology of the Two Varieties of Anacyclus pyrethrum L.—Anacyclus pyrethrum var. pyrethrum (L.) Link and Anacyclus pyrethrum var. depressus (Ball.) Maire—An Endemic Endangered Species. PLANTS 2022; 11:plants11172299. [PMID: 36079684 PMCID: PMC9459999 DOI: 10.3390/plants11172299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 08/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The reproductive system is essential for the structuring and transmission of genetic diversity. Understanding the reproductive biology of threatened endemic species is considered to be a crucial element for the implementation of effective conservation strategies. Given the lack of information and the insufficient state of knowledge on the reproductive system of Anacyclus pyrethrum L., a threatened medicinal species endemic to Morocco, we are the first to study the reproductive biology of two varieties of Anacyclus pyrethrum L.: Anacyclus pyrethrum var. pyrethrum (L.) Link and Anacyclus pyrethrum var. depressus (Ball.) Maire. The reproductive biology of the two varieties was examined in detail by studying the development of the inflorescence, phenology of flowering, breeding system, pollinators, production, and seed dispersal. The experimental results described in this work suggest that Anacyclus pyrethrum L. is a gynomonic species, with a mixed autogamy–allogamy reproductive regime with a high predominance of allogamy. It appears to be partially self-incompatible, with allogamy rates for Anacyclus pyrethrum var. depressus (Ball.) Maire and Anacyclus pyrethrum var. pyrethrum (L.) Link of 78.70% and 79.01%, respectively. It depends on pollination vectors to produce a large number of seeds. This study on the breeding system of Anacyclus pyrethrum L. provides a tool for developing management strategies and adequate conservation measures.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fatima Zahra Jawhari
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Environment, Agri-Food and Health (LBEAS), Faculty of Sciences, University Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah (USMBA), B.P. 1796, Fez 30003, Morocco
| | - Hamada Imtara
- Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Arab American University Palestine, Jenin P.O. Box 240, Palestine
| | - Abdelfattah El Moussaoui
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Environment, Agri-Food and Health (LBEAS), Faculty of Sciences, University Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah (USMBA), B.P. 1796, Fez 30003, Morocco
| | - Hind Khalis
- Laboratory of Geodynamics and Natural Resources LGRN, Faculty of Sciences, University of Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdullah, (USMBA), B.P. 1796, Fez 30003, Morocco
| | - Imane Es-Safi
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Environment, Agri-Food and Health (LBEAS), Faculty of Sciences, University Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah (USMBA), B.P. 1796, Fez 30003, Morocco
| | - Omkulthom Al Kamaly
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asmaa Saleh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh 11671, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Khalid Parvez
- Department of Pharmacognosy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Raja Guemmouh
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Conservation and Valorisation of Natural Resources (LBCVR), Faculty of Sciences, University Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah (USMBA), Fez 30003, Morocco
| | - Amina Bari
- Laboratory of Biotechnology, Environment, Agri-Food and Health (LBEAS), Faculty of Sciences, University Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah (USMBA), B.P. 1796, Fez 30003, Morocco
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Yin PP, Tang LP, Zhang XS, Su YH. Options for Engineering Apomixis in Plants. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:864987. [PMID: 35371148 PMCID: PMC8967160 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.864987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
In plants, embryogenesis and reproduction are not strictly dependent on fertilization. Several species can produce embryos in seeds asexually, a process known as apomixis. Apomixis is defined as clonal asexual reproduction through seeds, whereby the progeny is identical to the maternal genotype, and provides valuable opportunities for developing superior cultivars, as its induction in agricultural crops can facilitate the development and maintenance of elite hybrid genotypes. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of apomixis and highlight the successful introduction of apomixis methods into sexual crops. In addition, we discuss several genes whose overexpression can induce somatic embryogenesis as candidate genes to induce parthenogenesis, a unique reproductive method of gametophytic apomixis. We also summarize three schemes to achieve engineered apomixis, which will offer more opportunities for the realization of apomictic reproduction.
Collapse
|
9
|
Petrella R, Cucinotta M, Mendes MA, Underwood CJ, Colombo L. The emerging role of small RNAs in ovule development, a kind of magic. PLANT REPRODUCTION 2021; 34:335-351. [PMID: 34142243 PMCID: PMC8566443 DOI: 10.1007/s00497-021-00421-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/08/2021] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
In plants, small RNAs have been recognized as key genetic and epigenetic regulators of development. Small RNAs are usually 20 to 30 nucleotides in length and they control, in a sequence specific manner, the transcriptional or post-transcriptional expression of genes. In this review, we present a comprehensive overview of the most recent findings about the function of small RNAs in ovule development, including megasporogenesis and megagametogenesis, both in sexual and apomictic plants. We discuss recent studies on the role of miRNAs, siRNAs and trans-acting RNAs (ta-siRNAs) in early female germline differentiation. The mechanistic complexity and unique regulatory features are reviewed, and possible directions for future research are provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosanna Petrella
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Mara Cucinotta
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Marta A Mendes
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Charles J Underwood
- Department of Chromosome Biology, Max Planck Institute for Plant Breeding Research, Carl-von-Linné-Weg 10, 50829, Cologne, Germany
| | - Lucia Colombo
- Dipartimento di Bioscienze, Università Degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Carballo J, Zappacosta D, Selva JP, Caccamo M, Echenique V. Eragrostis curvula, a Model Species for Diplosporous Apomixis. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:1818. [PMID: 34579351 PMCID: PMC8472828 DOI: 10.3390/plants10091818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2021] [Revised: 08/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Eragrostis curvula (Schrad.) Ness is a grass with a particular apomictic embryo sac development called Eragrostis type. Apomixis is a type of asexual reproduction that produces seeds without fertilization in which the resulting progeny is genetically identical to the mother plant and with the potential to fix the hybrid vigour from more than one generation, among other advantages. The absence of meiosis and the occurrence of only two rounds of mitosis instead of three during embryo sac development make this model unique and suitable to be transferred to economically important crops. Throughout this review, we highlight the advances in the knowledge of apomixis in E. curvula using different techniques such as cytoembryology, DNA methylation analyses, small-RNA-seq, RNA-seq, genome assembly, and genotyping by sequencing. The main bulk of evidence points out that apomixis is inherited as a single Mendelian factor, and it is regulated by genetic and epigenetic mechanisms controlled by a complex network. With all this information, we propose a model of the mechanisms involved in diplosporous apomixis in this grass. All the genetic and epigenetic resources generated in E. curvula to study the reproductive mode changed its status from an orphan to a well-characterised species.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jose Carballo
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS–CCT–CONICET Bahía Blanca), Camino de la Carrindanga km 7, Bahía Blanca 8000, Argentina; (J.C.); (J.P.S.); (V.E.)
| | - Diego Zappacosta
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS–CCT–CONICET Bahía Blanca), Camino de la Carrindanga km 7, Bahía Blanca 8000, Argentina; (J.C.); (J.P.S.); (V.E.)
- Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), San Andrés 800, Bahía Blanca 8000, Argentina
| | - Juan Pablo Selva
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS–CCT–CONICET Bahía Blanca), Camino de la Carrindanga km 7, Bahía Blanca 8000, Argentina; (J.C.); (J.P.S.); (V.E.)
- Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), San Juan 670, Bahía Blanca 8000, Argentina
| | - Mario Caccamo
- NIAB, 93 Lawrence Weaver Road, Cambridge CB3 0LE, UK;
| | - Viviana Echenique
- Centro de Recursos Naturales Renovables de la Zona Semiárida (CERZOS–CCT–CONICET Bahía Blanca), Camino de la Carrindanga km 7, Bahía Blanca 8000, Argentina; (J.C.); (J.P.S.); (V.E.)
- Departamento de Agronomía, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), San Andrés 800, Bahía Blanca 8000, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fei X, Shi Q, Lei Y, Wang S, Qi Y, Hu H, Wei A. Pollination promotes ABA synthesis but not sexual reproduction in the apomictic species Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. TREE PHYSIOLOGY 2021; 41:1497-1509. [PMID: 33440426 DOI: 10.1093/treephys/tpab004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2020] [Revised: 12/20/2020] [Accepted: 01/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Apomixis is a form of reproduction that does not involve the fertilization of female gametes by male gametes but instead involves the production of offspring directly from the female parent. The offspring of apomixis are genetically identical to the female parent and inherit its traits. Therefore, apomixis has great potential for application to agricultural genetic breeding. However, it remains unclear whether apomictic species require pollination, and the impacts of pollination on such species are poorly understood. We investigated the effects of pollination on the apomictic species Zanthoxylum bungeanum Maxim. by analyzing its fertilization process, assembling its transcriptome, and measuring hormone concentrations, fruit setting rate and gene expression levels. Transcriptome sequencing of pollinated and unpollinated fruits resulted in a total of 69,131 PacBio reads. Of these, 7102 genes were up-regulated and 6491 genes were down-regulated. Analysis of the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and construction of a weighted gene co-expression network showed that many DEGs were involved in plant hormone signal transduction, suggesting that hormonal signaling during development differs between pollinated and unpollinated fruit. The germination rate of Z. bungeanum pollen in vitro was only 11%, and pollen could not germinate in the embryo sac to complete fertilization. Although pollination did not enable Z. bungeanum to complete the sexual reproduction process, it significantly increased abscisic acid (ABA) concentration and fruit setting rate. Spraying 100 μg l-1 ABA also significantly increased the fruit setting rate. Therefore, ABA appears to be a key factor in the regulation of fruit setting in apomictic Z. bungeanum. Based on these results, we suggest that some male plants be cultivated in Z. bungeanum plantations or exogenous ABA be sprayed to increase the likelihood of pollination and thereby increase the fruit setting rate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xitong Fei
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
| | - Qianqian Shi
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
| | - Yu Lei
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
| | - Shujie Wang
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
| | - Yichen Qi
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
| | - Haichao Hu
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
| | - Anzhi Wei
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, No. 3 Taicheng Road, Yangling district, Xianyang City, Shaanxi Province, 712100, China
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Soliman M, Podio M, Marconi G, Di Marsico M, Ortiz JPA, Albertini E, Delgado L. Differential Epigenetic Marks Are Associated with Apospory Expressivity in Diploid Hybrids of Paspalum rufum. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:plants10040793. [PMID: 33920644 PMCID: PMC8072704 DOI: 10.3390/plants10040793] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Apomixis seems to emerge from the deregulation of preexisting genes involved in sexuality by genetic and/or epigenetic mechanisms. The trait is associated with polyploidy, but diploid individuals of Paspalum rufum can form aposporous embryo sacs and develop clonal seeds. Moreover, diploid hybrid families presented a wide apospory expressivity variation. To locate methylation changes associated with apomixis expressivity, we compare relative DNA methylation levels, at CG, CHG, and CHH contexts, between full-sib P. rufum diploid genotypes presenting differential apospory expressivity. The survey was performed using a methylation content-sensitive enzyme ddRAD (MCSeEd) strategy on samples at premeiosis/meiosis and postmeiosis stages. Based on the relative methylation level, principal component analysis and heatmaps, clearly discriminate samples with contrasting apospory expressivity. Differential methylated contigs (DMCs) showed 14% of homology to known transcripts of Paspalum notatum reproductive transcriptome, and almost half of them were also differentially expressed between apomictic and sexual samples. DMCs showed homologies to genes involved in flower growth, development, and apomixis. Moreover, a high proportion of DMCs aligned on genomic regions associated with apomixis in Setaria italica. Several stage-specific differential methylated sequences were identified as associated with apospory expressivity, which could guide future functional gene characterization in relation to apomixis success at diploid and tetraploid levels.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mariano Soliman
- CONICET-UNR/Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias Agrarias de Rosario (IICAR), Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Zavalla S2123, Argentina; (M.S.); (M.P.); (J.P.A.O.)
| | - Maricel Podio
- CONICET-UNR/Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias Agrarias de Rosario (IICAR), Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Zavalla S2123, Argentina; (M.S.); (M.P.); (J.P.A.O.)
| | - Gianpiero Marconi
- Department Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Marco Di Marsico
- Department Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Juan Pablo A. Ortiz
- CONICET-UNR/Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias Agrarias de Rosario (IICAR), Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Zavalla S2123, Argentina; (M.S.); (M.P.); (J.P.A.O.)
| | - Emidio Albertini
- Department Agricultural, Food and Environmental Sciences, University of Perugia, 06121 Perugia, Italy; (G.M.); (M.D.M.)
| | - Luciana Delgado
- CONICET-UNR/Laboratorio de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Agrarias, Instituto de Investigaciones en Ciencias Agrarias de Rosario (IICAR), Universidad Nacional de Rosario, Zavalla S2123, Argentina; (M.S.); (M.P.); (J.P.A.O.)
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Fei X, Shi Q, Qi Y, Wang S, Lei Y, Hu H, Liu Y, Yang T, Wei A. ZbAGL11, a class D MADS-box transcription factor of Zanthoxylum bungeanum, is involved in sporophytic apomixis. HORTICULTURE RESEARCH 2021; 8:23. [PMID: 33518706 PMCID: PMC7848008 DOI: 10.1038/s41438-020-00459-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Apomixis is a reproductive model that bypasses sexual reproduction, so it does not require the combination of paternal and maternal gametes but instead results in the production of offspring directly from maternal tissues. This reproductive mode results in the same genetic material in the mother and the offspring and has significant applications in agricultural breeding. Molecular and cytological methods were used to identify the reproductive type of Zanthoxylum bungeanum (ZB). Fluorescence detection of the amplified products of 12 pairs of polymorphic SSR primers showed consistent fluorescence signals for mother and offspring, indicating that no trait separation occurred during reproduction. In addition, the cytological observation results showed differentiation of ZB embryos (2n) from nucellar cells (2n) to form indefinite embryonic primordia and then form adventitious embryos (2n), indicating that the apomictic type of ZB is sporophytic apomixis. The MADS-box transcription factor ZbAGL11 was highly expressed during the critical period of nucellar embryo development in ZB. Unpollinated ZbAGL11-OE Arabidopsis produced fertile offspring and exhibited an apomictic phenotype. The overexpression of ZbAGL11 increased the callus induction rate of ZB tissue. In addition, the results of the yeast two-hybrid experiment showed that ZbAGL11 could interact with the ZbCYP450 and ZbCAD11 proteins. Our results demonstrate that ZbAGL11 can cause developmental disorders of Arabidopsis flower organs and result in apomixis-like phenotypes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xitong Fei
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, China
| | - Qianqian Shi
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
| | - Yichen Qi
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, China
| | - Shujie Wang
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, China
| | - Yu Lei
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, China
| | - Haichao Hu
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, China
| | - Yulin Liu
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, China
| | - Tuxi Yang
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, China
| | - Anzhi Wei
- College of Forestry, Northwest Agriculture and Forestry University, Yangling, Shaanxi, China.
- Research Centre for Engineering and Technology of Zanthoxylum State Forestry Administration, Yangling, Xianyang, 712100, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Fiaz S, Wang X, Younas A, Alharthi B, Riaz A, Ali H. Apomixis and strategies to induce apomixis to preserve hybrid vigor for multiple generations. GM CROPS & FOOD 2021; 12:57-70. [PMID: 32877304 PMCID: PMC7553744 DOI: 10.1080/21645698.2020.1808423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Hybrid seeds of several important crops with supreme qualities including yield, biotic and abiotic stress tolerance have been cultivated for decades. Thus far, a major challenge with hybrid seeds is that they do not have the ability to produce plants with the same qualities over subsequent generations. Apomixis, an asexual mode of reproduction by avoiding meiosis, exists naturally in flowering plants, and ultimately leads to seed production. Apomixis has the potential to preserve hybrid vigor for multiple generations in economically important plant genotypes. The evolution and genetics of asexual seed production are unclear, and much more effort will be required to determine the genetic architecture of this phenomenon. To fix hybrid vigor, synthetic apomixis has been suggested. The development of MiMe (mitosis instead of meiosis) genotypes has been utilized for clonal gamete production. However, the identification and parental origin of genes responsible for synthetic apomixis are little known and need further clarification. Genome modifications utilizing genome editing technologies (GETs), such as clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR)/CRISPR-associated protein (cas), a reverse genetics tool, have paved the way toward the utilization of emerging technologies in plant molecular biology. Over the last decade, several genes in important crops have been successfully edited. The vast availability of GETs has made functional genomics studies easy to conduct in crops important for food security. Disruption in the expression of genes specific to egg cell MATRILINEAL (MTL) through the CRISPR/Cas genome editing system promotes the induction of haploid seed, whereas triple knockout of the Baby Boom (BBM) genes BBM1, BBM2, and BBM3 cause embryo arrest and abortion, which can be fully rescued by male-transmitted BBM1. The establishment of synthetic apomixis by engineering the MiMe genotype by genome editing of BBM1 expression or disruption of MTL leads to clonal seed production and heritability for multiple generations. In the present review, we discuss current developments related to the use of CRISPR/Cas technology in plants and the possibility of promoting apomixis in crops to preserve hybrid vigor. In addition, genetics, evolution, epigenetic modifications, and strategies for MiMe genotype development are discussed in detail.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sajid Fiaz
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, The University of Haripur 22620 , Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
| | - Xiukang Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Yan'an University , Yan'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Afifa Younas
- Department of Botany, Lahore College for Women University , Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Badr Alharthi
- College of Science and Engineering, Flinders University , Adelaide, Australia
- University College of Khurma, Taif University , Taif, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adeel Riaz
- Biotechnology Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences , Beijing, China
| | - Habib Ali
- Department of Agricultural Engineering, Khawaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology , Rahim Yar Khan, Pakistan
- Department of Entomology, Sub-Campus Depalpur, University of Agriculture Faisalabad , Faisalabad, Pakistan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Controlling Apomixis: Shared Features and Distinct Characteristics of Gene Regulation. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11030329. [PMID: 32245021 PMCID: PMC7140868 DOI: 10.3390/genes11030329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2020] [Revised: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/18/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
In higher plants, sexual and asexual reproduction through seeds (apomixis) have evolved as alternative strategies. As apomixis leads to the formation of clonal offspring, its great potential for agricultural applications has long been recognized. However, the genetic basis and the molecular control underlying apomixis and its evolutionary origin are to date not fully understood. Both in sexual and apomictic plants, reproduction is tightly controlled by versatile mechanisms regulating gene expression, translation, and protein abundance and activity. Increasing evidence suggests that interrelated pathways including epigenetic regulation, cell-cycle control, hormonal pathways, and signal transduction processes are relevant for apomixis. Additional molecular mechanisms are being identified that involve the activity of DNA- and RNA-binding proteins, such as RNA helicases which are increasingly recognized as important regulators of reproduction. Together with other factors including non-coding RNAs, their association with ribosomes is likely to be relevant for the formation and specification of the apomictic reproductive lineage. Subsequent seed formation appears to involve an interplay of transcriptional activation and repression of developmental programs by epigenetic regulatory mechanisms. In this review, insights into the genetic basis and molecular control of apomixis are presented, also taking into account potential relations to environmental stress, and considering aspects of evolution.
Collapse
|