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Sharma A, Hazarika M, Heisnam P, Pandey H, Devadas VASN, Kesavan AK, Kumar P, Singh D, Vashishth A, Jha R, Misra V, Kumar R. Controlled Environment Ecosystem: A Cutting-Edge Technology in Speed Breeding. ACS OMEGA 2024; 9:29114-29138. [PMID: 39005787 PMCID: PMC11238293 DOI: 10.1021/acsomega.3c09060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2024] [Accepted: 05/31/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
The controlled environment ecosystem is a meticulously designed plant growing chamber utilized for cultivating biofortified crops and microgreens, addressing hidden hunger and malnutrition prevalent in the growing population. The integration of speed breeding within such controlled environments effectively eradicates morphological disruptions encountered in traditional breeding methods such as inbreeding depression, male sterility, self-incompatibility, embryo abortion, and other unsuccessful attempts. In contrast to the unpredictable climate conditions that often prolong breeding cycles to 10-15 years in traditional breeding and 4-5 years in transgenic breeding within open ecosystems, speed breeding techniques expedite the achievement of breeding objectives and F1-F6 generations within 2-3 years under controlled growing conditions. In comparison, traditional breeding may take 5-10 years for plant population line creation, 3-5 years for field trials, and 1-2 years for variety release. The effectiveness of speed breeding in trait improvement and population line development varies across different crops, requiring approximately 4 generations in rice and groundnut, 5 generations in soybean, pea, and oat, 6 generations in sorghum, Amaranthus sp., and subterranean clover, 6-7 generations in bread wheat, durum wheat, and chickpea, 7 generations in broad bean, 8 generations in lentil, and 10 generations in Arabidopsis thaliana annually within controlled environment ecosystems. Artificial intelligence leverages neural networks and algorithm models to screen phenotypic traits and assess their role in diverse crop species. Moreover, in controlled environment systems, mechanistic models combined with machine learning effectively regulate stable nutrient use efficiency, water use efficiency, photosynthetic assimilation product, metabolic use efficiency, climatic factors, greenhouse gas emissions, carbon sequestration, and carbon footprints. However, any negligence, even minor, in maintaining optimal photoperiodism, temperature, humidity, and controlling pests or diseases can lead to the deterioration of crop trials and speed breeding techniques within the controlled environment system. Further comparative studies are imperative to comprehend and justify the efficacy of climate management techniques in controlled environment ecosystems compared to natural environments, with or without soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avinash Sharma
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Arunachal University of Studies, Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh 792103, India
| | - Mainu Hazarika
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Arunachal University of Studies, Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh 792103, India
| | - Punabati Heisnam
- College of Agriculture, Central Agricultural University, Iroisemba, Manipur 795004, India
| | - Himanshu Pandey
- PG Department of Agriculture, Khalsa College, Amritsar, Punjab 143002, India
| | | | - Ajith Kumar Kesavan
- Faculty of Agricultural Sciences, Arunachal University of Studies, Namsai, Arunachal Pradesh 792103, India
| | - Praveen Kumar
- Agricultural Research Station, Agriculture University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan 342304, India
| | - Devendra Singh
- Faculty of Biotechnology, Shri Ramswaroop Memorial University, Barabanki, Uttar Pradesh 225003, India
| | - Amit Vashishth
- Patanjali Herbal Research Department, Patanjali Research Institute, Haridwar, Uttarakhand 249405, India
| | - Rani Jha
- ISBM University, Gariyaband, Chhattishgarh 493996, India
| | - Varucha Misra
- Division of Crop Improvement, ICAR-Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226002, India
| | - Rajeev Kumar
- Division of Plant Physiology and Biochemistry, ICAR-Indian Institute of Sugarcane Research, Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh 226002, India
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Pagliarello R, Bennici E, Di Sarcina I, Villani ME, Desiderio A, Nardi L, Benvenuto E, Cemmi A, Massa S. Effects of gamma radiation on engineered tomato biofortified for space agriculture by morphometry and fluorescence-based indices. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1266199. [PMID: 37877080 PMCID: PMC10591191 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1266199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/26/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Future long-term space missions will focus to the solar system exploration, with the Moon and Mars as leading goals. Plant cultivation will provide fresh food as a healthy supplement to astronauts' diet in confined and unhealthy outposts. Ionizing radiation (IR) are a main hazard in outer space for their capacity to generate oxidative stress and DNA damage. IR is a crucial issue not only for human survival, but also for plant development and related value-added fresh food harvest. To this end, efforts to figure out how biofortification of plants with antioxidant metabolites (such as anthocyanins) may contribute to improve their performances in space outposts are needed. Methods MicroTom plants genetically engineered to express the Petunia hybrida PhAN4 gene, restoring the biosynthesis of anthocyanins in tomato, were used. Seeds and plants from wild type and engineered lines AN4-M and AN4-P2 were exposed to IR doses that they may experience during a long-term space mission, simulated through the administration of gamma radiation. Plant response was continuously evaluated along life cycle by a non-disturbing/non-destructive monitoring of biometric and multiparametric fluorescence-based indices at both phenotypic and phenological levels, and indirectly measuring changes occurring at the primary and secondary metabolism level. Results Responses to gamma radiation were influenced by the phenological stage, dose and genotype. Wild type and engineered plants did not complete a seed-to-seed cycle under the exceptional condition of 30 Gy absorbed dose, but were able to cope with 0.5 and 5 Gy producing fruits and vital seeds. In particular, the AN4-M seeds and plants showed advantages over wild type: negligible variation of fluorimetric parameters related to primary metabolism, no alteration or improvement of yield traits at maturity while maintaining smaller habitus than wild type, biosynthesis of anthocyanins and maintained levels of these compounds compared to non-irradiated controls of the same age. Discussion These findings may be useful in understanding phenotypic effects of IR on plant growth in space, and lead to the exploitation of new breeding efforts to optimize plant performances to develop appropriate ideotypes for future long-term space exploration extending the potential of plants to serve as high-value product source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Pagliarello
- Biotechnology Laboratory, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Department for Sustainability, Casaccia Research Center, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), University of Tuscia, Viterbo, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Bennici
- Biotechnology Laboratory, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Department for Sustainability, Casaccia Research Center, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Ilaria Di Sarcina
- Fusion and Nuclear Safety Technologies Department, Casaccia Research Center, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Elena Villani
- Biotechnology Laboratory, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Department for Sustainability, Casaccia Research Center, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Angiola Desiderio
- Biotechnology Laboratory, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Department for Sustainability, Casaccia Research Center, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Luca Nardi
- Biotechnology Laboratory, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Department for Sustainability, Casaccia Research Center, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Eugenio Benvenuto
- Biotechnology Laboratory, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Department for Sustainability, Casaccia Research Center, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia Cemmi
- Fusion and Nuclear Safety Technologies Department, Casaccia Research Center, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Massa
- Biotechnology Laboratory, Biotechnology and Agro-Industry Division, Department for Sustainability, Casaccia Research Center, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development (ENEA), Rome, Italy
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De Micco V, Amitrano C, Mastroleo F, Aronne G, Battistelli A, Carnero-Diaz E, De Pascale S, Detrell G, Dussap CG, Ganigué R, Jakobsen ØM, Poulet L, Van Houdt R, Verseux C, Vlaeminck SE, Willaert R, Leys N. Plant and microbial science and technology as cornerstones to Bioregenerative Life Support Systems in space. NPJ Microgravity 2023; 9:69. [PMID: 37620398 PMCID: PMC10449850 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-023-00317-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Long-term human space exploration missions require environmental control and closed Life Support Systems (LSS) capable of producing and recycling resources, thus fulfilling all the essential metabolic needs for human survival in harsh space environments, both during travel and on orbital/planetary stations. This will become increasingly necessary as missions reach farther away from Earth, thereby limiting the technical and economic feasibility of resupplying resources from Earth. Further incorporation of biological elements into state-of-the-art (mostly abiotic) LSS, leading to bioregenerative LSS (BLSS), is needed for additional resource recovery, food production, and waste treatment solutions, and to enable more self-sustainable missions to the Moon and Mars. There is a whole suite of functions crucial to sustain human presence in Low Earth Orbit (LEO) and successful settlement on Moon or Mars such as environmental control, air regeneration, waste management, water supply, food production, cabin/habitat pressurization, radiation protection, energy supply, and means for transportation, communication, and recreation. In this paper, we focus on air, water and food production, and waste management, and address some aspects of radiation protection and recreation. We briefly discuss existing knowledge, highlight open gaps, and propose possible future experiments in the short-, medium-, and long-term to achieve the targets of crewed space exploration also leading to possible benefits on Earth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica De Micco
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici (NA), Italy.
| | - Chiara Amitrano
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici (NA), Italy
| | - Felice Mastroleo
- Microbiology Unit, Nuclear Medical Applications, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), 2400, Mol, Belgium
| | - Giovanna Aronne
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici (NA), Italy
| | - Alberto Battistelli
- Istituto di Ricerca sugli Ecosistemi Terrestri Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche Viale Marconi 2, 05010, Porano (TR), Italy
| | - Eugenie Carnero-Diaz
- Institute of Systematic, Evolution, Biodiversity, Sorbonne University, National Museum of Natural History, CNRS, EPHE, UA, 45, rue Buffon CP50, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Stefania De Pascale
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici (NA), Italy
| | - Gisela Detrell
- Institute of Space Systems, University of Stuttgart, Pfaffenwaldring 29, 70569, Stuttgart, Germany
| | - Claude-Gilles Dussap
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut Pascal, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Ramon Ganigué
- Center for Microbial Ecology and Technology, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000, Gent, Belgium
| | - Øyvind Mejdell Jakobsen
- Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Space (CIRiS), NTNU Social Research, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Lucie Poulet
- Université Clermont Auvergne, Clermont Auvergne INP, CNRS, Institut Pascal, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Rob Van Houdt
- Microbiology Unit, Nuclear Medical Applications, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), 2400, Mol, Belgium
| | - Cyprien Verseux
- Center of Applied Space Technology and Microgravity (ZARM), University of Bremen, 28359, Bremen, Germany
| | - Siegfried E Vlaeminck
- Research Group of Sustainable Energy, Air and Water Technology, University of Antwerp, 2020, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - Ronnie Willaert
- Research Groups NAMI and NANO, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Pleinlaan 2, 1050, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Natalie Leys
- Microbiology Unit, Nuclear Medical Applications, Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), 2400, Mol, Belgium
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De Micco V, Aronne G, Caplin N, Carnero-Diaz E, Herranz R, Horemans N, Legué V, Medina FJ, Pereda-Loth V, Schiefloe M, De Francesco S, Izzo LG, Le Disquet I, Kittang Jost AI. Perspectives for plant biology in space and analogue environments. NPJ Microgravity 2023; 9:67. [PMID: 37604914 PMCID: PMC10442387 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-023-00315-x] [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: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Advancements in plant space biology are required for the realization of human space exploration missions, where the re-supply of resources from Earth is not feasible. Until a few decades ago, space life science was focused on the impact of the space environment on the human body. More recently, the interest in plant space biology has increased because plants are key organisms in Bioregenerative Life Support Systems (BLSS) for the regeneration of resources and fresh food production. Moreover, plants play an important role in psychological support for astronauts. The definition of cultivation requirements for the design, realization, and successful operation of BLSS must consider the effects of space factors on plants. Altered gravitational fields and radiation exposure are the main space factors inducing changes in gene expression, cell proliferation and differentiation, signalling and physiological processes with possible consequences on tissue organization and organogenesis, thus on the whole plant functioning. Interestingly, the changes at the cellular and molecular levels do not always result in organismic or developmental changes. This apparent paradox is a current research challenge. In this paper, the main findings of gravity- and radiation-related research on higher plants are summarized, highlighting the knowledge gaps that are still necessary to fill. Existing experimental facilities to simulate the effect of space factors, as well as requirements for future facilities for possible experiments to achieve fundamental biology goals are considered. Finally, the need for making synergies among disciplines and for establishing global standard operating procedures for analyses and data collection in space experiments is highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica De Micco
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici (NA), Italy.
| | - Giovanna Aronne
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici (NA), Italy
| | - Nicol Caplin
- SciSpacE Team, Directorate of Human and Robotic Exploration Programmes, European Space Agency (ESA), Noordwijk, Netherlands
| | - Eugénie Carnero-Diaz
- Institute of Systematic, Evolution, Biodiversity, Sorbonne University, National Museum of Natural History, CNRS, EPHE, UA, 45, rue Buffon CP50, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Raúl Herranz
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas - CSIC, Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - Nele Horemans
- Belgian Nuclear Research Centre (SCK CEN), Biosphere Impact Studies (BIS), Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium
| | - Valérie Legué
- Université Clermont Auvergne, INRAE, PIAF, F-63000, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - F Javier Medina
- Centro de Investigaciones Biológicas Margarita Salas - CSIC, Ramiro de Maeztu 9, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Mona Schiefloe
- NTNU Social Research, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Space (CIRiS) Dragvoll Allé 38 B, 7049, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Sara De Francesco
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici (NA), Italy
| | - Luigi Gennaro Izzo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, via Università 100, 80055, Portici (NA), Italy
| | - Isabel Le Disquet
- Institute of Systematic, Evolution, Biodiversity, Sorbonne University, National Museum of Natural History, CNRS, EPHE, UA, 45, rue Buffon CP50, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Ann- Iren Kittang Jost
- NTNU Social Research, Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Space (CIRiS) Dragvoll Allé 38 B, 7049, Trondheim, Norway
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Izzo LG, El Nakhel C, Rouphael Y, Proietti S, Paglialunga G, Moscatello S, Battistelli A, Iovane M, Romano LE, De Pascale S, Aronne G. Applying productivity and phytonutrient profile criteria in modelling species selection of microgreens as Space crops for astronaut consumption. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1210566. [PMID: 37636122 PMCID: PMC10450622 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1210566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2023] [Accepted: 07/06/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Long-duration missions in outer Space will require technologies to regenerate environmental resources such as air and water and to produce food while recycling consumables and waste. Plants are considered the most promising biological regenerators to accomplish these functions, due to their complementary relationship with humans. Plant cultivation for Space starts with small plant growth units to produce fresh food to supplement stowed food for astronauts' onboard spacecrafts and orbital platforms. The choice of crops must be based on limiting factors such as time, energy, and volume. Consequently, small, fast-growing crops are needed to grow in microgravity and to provide astronauts with fresh food rich in functional compounds. Microgreens are functional food crops recently valued for their color and flavor enhancing properties, their rich phytonutrient content and short production cycle. Candidate species of microgreens to be harvested and eaten fresh by crew members, belong to the families Brassicaceae, Asteraceae, Chenopodiaceae, Lamiaceae, Apiaceae, Amarillydaceae, Amaranthaceae, and Cucurbitaceae. Methods In this study we developed and applied an algorithm to objectively compare numerous genotypes of microgreens intending to select those with the best productivity and phytonutrient profile for cultivation in Space. The selection process consisted of two subsequent phases. The first selection was based on literature data including 39 genotypes and 25 parameters related to growth, phytonutrients (e.g., tocopherol, phylloquinone, ascorbic acid, polyphenols, lutein, carotenoids, violaxanthin), and mineral elements. Parameters were implemented in a mathematical model with prioritization criteria to generate a ranking list of microgreens. The second phase was based on germination and cultivation tests specifically designed for this study and performed on the six top species resulting from the first ranking list. For the second selection, experimental data on phytonutrients were expressed as metabolite production per day per square meter. Results and discussion In the final ranking list radish and savoy cabbage resulted with the highest scores based on their productivity and phytonutrient profile. Overall, the algorithm with prioritization criteria allowed us to objectively compare candidate species and obtain a ranking list based on the combination of numerous parameters measured in the different species. This method can be also adapted to new species, parameters, or re-prioritizing the parameters for specific selection purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigi Gennaro Izzo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Christophe El Nakhel
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Youssef Rouphael
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Simona Proietti
- National Research Council of Italy, Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems, Porano, Italy
| | - Gabriele Paglialunga
- National Research Council of Italy, Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems, Porano, Italy
| | - Stefano Moscatello
- National Research Council of Italy, Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems, Porano, Italy
| | - Alberto Battistelli
- National Research Council of Italy, Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems, Porano, Italy
| | - Maurizio Iovane
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Leone Ermes Romano
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Stefania De Pascale
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Giovanna Aronne
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
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Amitrano C, Paglialunga G, Battistelli A, De Micco V, Del Bianco M, Liuzzi G, Moscatello S, Paradiso R, Proietti S, Rouphael Y, De Pascale S. Defining growth requirements of microgreens in space cultivation via biomass production, morpho-anatomical and nutritional traits analysis. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1190945. [PMID: 37538067 PMCID: PMC10394706 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1190945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 08/05/2023]
Abstract
During long-term manned missions to the Moon or Mars, the integration of astronauts' diet with fresh food rich in functional compounds, like microgreens, could strengthen their physiological defenses against the oxidative stress induced by the exposure to space factors. Therefore, the development of targeted cultivation practices for microgreens in space is mandatory, since the cultivation in small, closed facilities may alter plant anatomy, physiology, and resource utilization with species-specific responses. Here, the combined effect of two vapor pressure deficit levels (VPD: 0.14 and 1.71 kPa) and two light intensities (150 and 300 µmol photons m-2 s-1 PPFD) on two species for microgreen production (Brassica oleracea var. capitata f. sabauda 'Vertus' and Raphanus raphanistrum subsp. sativus 'Saxa'), was tested on biomass production per square meter, morpho-anatomical development, nutritional and nutraceutical properties. Microgreens were grown in fully controlled conditions under air temperature of 18/24°C, on coconut fiber mats, RGB light spectrum and 12 h photoperiod, till they reached the stage of first true leaves. At this stage microgreens were samples, for growth and morpho-anatomical analyses, and to investigate the biochemical composition in terms of ascorbic acid, phenols, anthocyanin, carotenoids, carbohydrates, as well as of anti-nutritional compounds, such as nitrate, sulfate, and phosphate. Major differences in growth were mostly driven by the species with 'Saxa' always presenting the highest fresh and dry weight as well as the highest elongation; however light intensity and VPDs influenced the anatomical development of microgreens, and the accumulation of ascorbic acid, carbohydrates, nitrate, and phosphate. Both 'Saxa' and 'Vertus' at low VPD (LV) and 150 PPFD increased the tissue thickness and synthetized high β-carotene and photosynthetic pigments. Moreover, 'Vertus' LV 150, produced the highest content of ascorbate, fundamental for nutritional properties in space environment. The differences among the treatments and their interaction suggested a relevant difference in resource use efficiency. In the light of the above, microgreens can be considered suitable for cultivation in limited-volume growth modules directly onboard, provided that all the environmental factors are combined and modulated according to the species requirements to enhance their growth and biomass production, and to achieve specific nutritional traits.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Amitrano
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Naples, Italy
| | - Gabriele Paglialunga
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems (IRET), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Porano, Terni, Italy
| | - Alberto Battistelli
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems (IRET), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Porano, Terni, Italy
| | - Veronica De Micco
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Naples, Italy
| | | | - Greta Liuzzi
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefano Moscatello
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems (IRET), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Porano, Terni, Italy
| | - Roberta Paradiso
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Naples, Italy
| | - Simona Proietti
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems (IRET), National Research Council of Italy (CNR), Porano, Terni, Italy
| | - Youssef Rouphael
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefania De Pascale
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Naples, Italy
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Concepcion Ii R, Palconit MG, Vicerra RR, Bandala A, Aronne G, Izzo LG. Maize root behavior as three-inputs-three-outputs logical gates due to positive gravitropism and nutritropism. Biosystems 2023; 225:104847. [PMID: 36758718 DOI: 10.1016/j.biosystems.2023.104847] [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: 07/10/2022] [Revised: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 02/10/2023]
Abstract
Root growth and their interactions can provide valuable information for the development of asynchronous logic systems. Here, maize root behavior due to positive gravitropism and nutritropism is evaluated as three-inputs-three-outputs logical gates. Using plant roots as the element for unconventional computing, the Boolean functions of each root tropism were constructed through arithmetic-logical operations. One gravity gate (rGG) and two nutrient gates (rNG1 and rNG2) were fabricated using additive manufacturing. The rGG platform was oriented with roots directly pulled down by gravity which computes (x, y, z) = (xz + yz, x + y¯z+yz¯, xy + yz), whereas specific output channels in rNG1 and rNG2 were fertigated with high phosphorus concentration resulting in (x, y, z) = (x + y + z, xy + xz, xyz) for rNG1 and (x, y, z) = (xyz, xy¯z+xyz¯, x + y + z) for rNG2. For rGG, rNG1, and rNG2, the symbols x, y, and z pertain to "root presence" in the related channel, whereas top bar on the symbols indicates "root absence". Anatomical traits of roots were evaluated to assess possible differences in vascular tissues due to gravitropic and nutritropic responses. Overall, maize primary roots showed prominent positive gravitropism and nutritropism, and the roots that were most attracted by gravitational or nutritional stimuli showed an increase in the diameter of phloem and xylem. The logic exhibited by roots was dependent on the gravitropic and nutritropic stimuli to which they were exposed in the different logic gates. The responsiveness of maize roots to environmental stimuli such as gravity and nutrients provided valuable information to be used in computational bioelectronics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronnie Concepcion Ii
- Department of Manufacturing Engineering and Management, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines.
| | - Maria Gemel Palconit
- Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
| | - Ryan Rhay Vicerra
- Department of Manufacturing Engineering and Management, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
| | - Argel Bandala
- Department of Electronics and Computer Engineering, De La Salle University, Manila, Philippines
| | - Giovanna Aronne
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy
| | - Luigi Gennaro Izzo
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Portici, Italy.
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Pandith JA, Neekhra S, Ahmad S, Sheikh RA. Recent developments in space food for exploration missions: A review. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2023; 36:123-134. [PMID: 36682821 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2022.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Food and nutrition have greatly influenced the effectiveness of space exploration missions. With the development of technology, attention is now being paid more and more to preparing food for the microgravity environment, taking into account factors like nutrient density, shelf life, optimized packaging, preservations, innovations, challenges, and applications. The spectrum of food products is designed to meet the balanced nutritional requirements, reduce hazards encountered by astronauts, and utilize space in explorers during space missions. For the long duration of space missions and, consequently, for human permanence in space, it is crucial to provide humans with an adequate supply of fresh food to meet their nutritional needs. By doing this, astronauts could reduce the health risks associated with psychological stress, microgravity, and radiation exposure from space. Maintaining astronauts' health, happiness, and vitality during long-duration human-crewed missions has recently emerged as an essential and critical research area. The food they eat appears to be an important factor. For short-term space missions, astronauts' food could be brought from earth. Still, for long-term space missions to the Moon, Mars, and other distant missions, which are the current research destinations, they must find a way to eat, such as by cultivating plants or finding other means of survival. Scientists and researchers are attempting to develop novel food production technologies or systems that require minimal inputs while maximizing safe, nutritionally balanced, and delicious food outputs for long-duration space missions that could benefit people on earth. This review summarizes various aspects of space food, including evolution, innovations, technological advancements to prolong shelf life, and astronauts' problems. It also involves current research, including space foods like 3D printing and space farming for a long-term space mission.
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Affiliation(s)
- Junaid Ahmad Pandith
- Department of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202002, India.
| | - Somya Neekhra
- Department of Food Engineering and Technology, Institute of Engineering and Technology, Bundelkhand University, Jhansi, 284128, India
| | - Saghir Ahmad
- Department of Post-Harvest Engineering and Technology, Faculty of Agriculture, Aligarh Muslim University, Aligarh, 202002, India
| | - Rayees Ahmad Sheikh
- Department of Chemistry, Government Degree College Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, 192301, India
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De Micco V, Arena C, Di Fino L, Narici L. Radiation environment in exploration-class space missions and plants' responses relevant for cultivation in Bioregenerative Life Support Systems. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:1001158. [PMID: 36212311 PMCID: PMC9540851 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.1001158] [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: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
For deep space exploration, radiation effects on astronauts, and on items fundamental for life support systems, must be kept under a pre-agreed threshold to avoid detrimental outcomes. Therefore, it is fundamental to achieve a deep knowledge on the radiation spatial and temporal variability in the different mission scenarios as well as on the responses of different organisms to space-relevant radiation. In this paper, we first consider the radiation issue for space exploration from a physics point of view by giving an overview of the topics related to the spatial and temporal variability of space radiation, as well as on measurement and simulation of irradiation, then we focus on biological issues converging the attention on plants as one of the fundamental components of Bioregenerative Life Support Systems (BLSS). In fact, plants in BLSS act as regenerators of resources (i.e. oxygen production, carbon dioxide removal, water and wastes recycling) and producers of fresh food. In particular, we summarize some basic statements on plant radio-resistance deriving from recent literature and concentrate on endpoints critical for the development of Space agriculture. We finally indicate some perspective, suggesting the direction future research should follow to standardize methods and protocols for irradiation experiments moving towards studies to validate with space-relevant radiation the current knowledge. Indeed, the latter derives instead from experiments conducted with different radiation types and doses and often with not space-oriented scopes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica De Micco
- Laboratory of Plant and Wood Anatomy, Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmen Arena
- Laboratory of Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Luca Di Fino
- Physics Department, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
| | - Livio Narici
- Physics Department, University of Rome “Tor Vergata”, Rome, Italy
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De Micco V, De Francesco S, Amitrano C, Arena C. Comparative Analysis of the Effect of Carbon- and Titanium-Ions Irradiation on Morpho-Anatomical and Biochemical Traits of Dolichos melanophthalmus DC. Seedlings Aimed to Space Exploration. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:plants10112272. [PMID: 34834635 PMCID: PMC8618800 DOI: 10.3390/plants10112272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The realization of manned missions for space exploration requires the development of Bioregenerative Life Support Systems (BLSSs) to make human colonies self-sufficient in terms of resources. Indeed, in these systems, plants contribute to resource regeneration and food production. However, the cultivation of plants in space is influenced by ionizing radiation which can have positive, null, or negative effects on plant growth depending on intrinsic and environmental/cultivation factors. The aim of this study was to analyze the effect of high-LET (Linear Energy Transfer) ionizing radiation on seed germination and seedling development in eye bean. Dry seeds of Dolichos melanophthalmus DC. (eye bean) were irradiated with two doses (1 and 10 Gy) of C- and Ti-ions. Seedlings from irradiated seeds were compared with non-irradiated controls in terms of morpho-anatomical and biochemical traits. Results showed that the responses of eye bean plants to radiation are dose-specific and dependent on the type of ion. The information obtained from this study will be useful for evaluating the radio-resistance of eye bean seedlings, for their possible cultivation and utilization as food supplement in space environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica De Micco
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 100, 80055 Portici, Italy; (S.D.F.); (C.A.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Sara De Francesco
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 100, 80055 Portici, Italy; (S.D.F.); (C.A.)
| | - Chiara Amitrano
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Via Università 100, 80055 Portici, Italy; (S.D.F.); (C.A.)
| | - Carmen Arena
- Department of Biology, University of Naples Federico II, Via Cinthia, 80126 Napoli, Italy;
- Interuniversity Center for Studies on Bioinspired Agro-Environmental Technology (BAT Center), 80055 Portici, Italy
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Romano LE, Aronne G. The World Smallest Plants ( Wolffia Sp.) as Potential Species for Bioregenerative Life Support Systems in Space. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:1896. [PMID: 34579428 PMCID: PMC8470744 DOI: 10.3390/plants10091896] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
To colonise other planets, self-sufficiency of space missions is mandatory. To date, the most promising technology to support long-duration missions is the bioregenerative life support system (BLSS), in which plants as autotrophs play a crucial role in recycling wastes and producing food and oxygen. We reviewed the scientific literature on duckweed (Lemnaceae) and reported available information on plant biological traits, nutritional features, biomass production, and space applications, especially of the genus Wolffia. Results confirmed that the smallest existing higher plants are the best candidate for space BLSS. We discussed needs for further research before criticalities to be addressed to finalise the adoption of Wolffia species for space missions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leone Ermes Romano
- Department of Agricultural Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, 80055 Portici, Italy;
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