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Zhou H, Meng F, Jiang W, Lu X, Zhang R, Huang A, Wu K, Deng P, Wang Y, Zhao H, Du Y, Huo J, Du X, Feng N, Zheng D. Potassium indole-3-butyric acid affects rice's adaptability to salt stress by regulating carbon metabolism, transcription factor genes expression, and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2024; 15:1416936. [PMID: 39290739 PMCID: PMC11405336 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2024.1416936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
Soil salinity pollution is increasing worldwide, seriously affecting plant growth and crop production. Existing reports on how potassium indole-3-butyric acid (IBAK) regulates rice salt stress adaptation by affecting rice carbon metabolism, transcription factor (TF) genes expression, and biosynthesis of secondary metabolites still have limitations. In this study, an IBAK solution at 40 mg L-1 was sprayed on rice leaves at the seedling stage. The results showed that the IBAK application could promote shoot and root growth, decrease sucrose and fructose content, increase starch content, and enhance acid invertase (AI) and neutral invertase (NI) activity under salt stress, indicating altered carbon allocation. Furthermore, the expression of TF genes belonging to the ethylene responsive factor (ERF), WRKY, and basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) families was influenced by IBAK. Many key genes (OsSSIIc, OsSHM1, and OsPPDKB) and metabolites (2-oxoglutaric acid, fumaric acid, and succinic acid) were upregulated in the carbon metabolism pathway. In addition, this study highlighted the role of IBAK in regulating the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites pathway, potentially contributing to rice stress adaptability. The results of this study can provide new sustainable development solutions for agricultural production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Zhou
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
- School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Fengyan Meng
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Wenxin Jiang
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
- School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Xutong Lu
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
- School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Rui Zhang
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Anqi Huang
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Kunlun Wu
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
- School of Tropical Agriculture and Forestry, Hainan University, Haikou, China
| | - Peng Deng
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Yaxin Wang
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Huimin Zhao
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Youwei Du
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Jingxin Huo
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Xiaole Du
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Naijie Feng
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
| | - Dianfeng Zheng
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang, China
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Pagano A, Kunz L, Dittmann A, Araújo SDS, Macovei A, Shridhar Gaonkar S, Sincinelli F, Wazeer H, Balestrazzi A. Changes in Medicago truncatula seed proteome along the rehydration-dehydration cycle highlight new players in the genotoxic stress response. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2023; 14:1188546. [PMID: 37409306 PMCID: PMC10319343 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2023.1188546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Several molecular aspects underlying the seed response to priming and the resulting vigor profile are still poorly understood. Mechanisms involved in genome maintenance deserve attention since the balance between stimulation of germination and DNA damage accumulation versus active repair is a key determinant for designing successful seed priming protocols. Methods Changes in the Medicago truncatula seed proteome were investigated in this study, using discovery mass spectrometry and label-free quantification, along the rehydration-dehydration cycle of a standard vigorization treatment (hydropriming plus dry-back), and during post-priming imbibition. Resuts and discussion From 2056 to 2190 proteins were detected in each pairwise comparison, among which six were differentially accumulated and 36 were detected only in one condition. The following proteins were selected for further investigation: MtDRP2B (DYNAMIN-RELATED PROTEIN), MtTRXm4 (THIOREDOXIN m4), and MtASPG1 (ASPARTIC PROTEASE IN GUARD CELL 1) showing changes in seeds under dehydration stress; MtITPA (INOSINE TRIPHOSPHATE PYROPHOSPHORYLASE), MtABA2 (ABSCISIC ACID DEFICIENT 2), MtRS2Z32 (SERINE/ARGININE-RICH SPLICING FACTOR RS2Z32), and MtAQR (RNA HELICASE AQUARIUS) that were differentially regulated during post-priming imbibition. Changes in the corresponding transcript levels were assessed by qRT-PCR. In animal cells, ITPA hydrolyses 2'-deoxyinosine triphosphate and other inosine nucleotides, preventing genotoxic damage. A proof of concept was performed by imbibing primed and control M. truncatula seeds in presence/absence of 20 mM 2'-deoxyinosine (dI). Results from comet assay highlighted the ability of primed seeds to cope with dI-induced genotoxic damage. The seed repair response was assessed by monitoring the expression profiles of MtAAG (ALKYL-ADENINE DNA GLYCOSILASE) and MtEndoV (ENDONUCLEASE V) genes that participate in the repair of the mismatched I:T pair in BER (base excision repair) and AER (alternative excision repair) pathways, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pagano
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology ‘L. Spallanzani’, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Laura Kunz
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich (FGCZ), University of Zurich/Eidgenossische Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Antje Dittmann
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich (FGCZ), University of Zurich/Eidgenossische Technische Hochschule (ETH) Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Susana De Sousa Araújo
- Association BLC3 - Campus of Technology and Innovation, Centre BIO R&D Unit | North Delegation, Macedo de Cavaleiros, Portugal
| | - Anca Macovei
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology ‘L. Spallanzani’, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Federico Sincinelli
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology ‘L. Spallanzani’, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Hisham Wazeer
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology ‘L. Spallanzani’, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Alma Balestrazzi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology ‘L. Spallanzani’, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), Palermo, Italy
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Pagano A, Macovei A, Balestrazzi A. Molecular dynamics of seed priming at the crossroads between basic and applied research. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2023; 42:657-688. [PMID: 36780009 PMCID: PMC9924218 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-023-02988-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/20/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
The potential of seed priming is still not fully exploited. Our limited knowledge of the molecular dynamics of seed pre-germinative metabolism is the main hindrance to more effective new-generation techniques. Climate change and other recent global crises are disrupting food security. To cope with the current demand for increased food, feed, and biofuel production, while preserving sustainability, continuous technological innovation should be provided to the agri-food sector. Seed priming, a pre-sowing technique used to increase seed vigor, has become a valuable tool due to its potential to enhance germination and stress resilience under changing environments. Successful priming protocols result from the ability to properly act on the seed pre-germinative metabolism and stimulate events that are crucial for seed quality. However, the technique still requires constant optimization, and researchers are committed to addressing some key open questions to overcome such drawbacks. In this review, an update of the current scientific and technical knowledge related to seed priming is provided. The rehydration-dehydration cycle associated with priming treatments can be described in terms of metabolic pathways that are triggered, modulated, or turned off, depending on the seed physiological stage. Understanding the ways seed priming affects, either positively or negatively, such metabolic pathways and impacts gene expression and protein/metabolite accumulation/depletion represents an essential step toward the identification of novel seed quality hallmarks. The need to expand the basic knowledge on the molecular mechanisms ruling the seed response to priming is underlined along with the strong potential of applied research on primed seeds as a source of seed quality hallmarks. This route will hasten the implementation of seed priming techniques needed to support sustainable agriculture systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Pagano
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'L. Spallanzani', Via Ferrata 1, 27100, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anca Macovei
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'L. Spallanzani', Via Ferrata 1, 27100, Pavia, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - Alma Balestrazzi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology 'L. Spallanzani', Via Ferrata 1, 27100, Pavia, Italy.
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), 90133, Palermo, Italy.
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Sharma S, Kaur P, Gaikwad K. Role of cytokinins in seed development in pulses and oilseed crops: Current status and future perspective. Front Genet 2022; 13:940660. [PMID: 36313429 PMCID: PMC9597640 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2022.940660] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Accepted: 07/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytokinins constitutes a vital group of plant hormones regulating several developmental processes, including growth and cell division, and have a strong influence on grain yield. Chemically, they are the derivatives of adenine and are the most complex and diverse group of hormones affecting plant physiology. In this review, we have provided a molecular understanding of the role of cytokinins in developing seeds, with special emphasis on pulses and oilseed crops. The importance of cytokinin-responsive genes including cytokinin oxidases and dehydrogenases (CKX), isopentenyl transferase (IPT), and cytokinin-mediated genetic regulation of seed size are described in detail. In addition, cytokinin expression in germinating seeds, its biosynthesis, source-sink dynamics, cytokinin signaling, and spatial expression of cytokinin family genes in oilseeds and pulses have been discussed in context to its impact on increasing economy yields. Recently, it has been shown that manipulation of the cytokinin-responsive genes by mutation, RNA interference, or genome editing has a significant effect on seed number and/or weight in several crops. Nevertheless, the usage of cytokinins in improving crop quality and yield remains significantly underutilized. This is primarily due to the multigene control of cytokinin expression. The information summarized in this review will help the researchers in innovating newer and more efficient ways of manipulating cytokinin expression including CKX genes with the aim to improve crop production, specifically of pulses and oilseed crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandhya Sharma
- National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi, India
| | | | - Kishor Gaikwad
- National Institute for Plant Biotechnology, Indian Council of Agricultural Research, New Delhi, India
- *Correspondence: Kishor Gaikwad,
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Experimental Evidence for Seed Metabolic Allometry in Barrel Medic (Medicago truncatula Gaertn.). Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23158484. [PMID: 35955618 PMCID: PMC9369157 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23158484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Seed size is often considered to be an important trait for seed quality, i.e., vigour and germination performance. It is believed that seed size reflects the quantity of reserve material and thus the C and N sources available for post-germinative processes. However, mechanisms linking seed size and quality are poorly documented. In particular, specific metabolic changes when seed size varies are not well-known. To gain insight into this aspect, we examined seed size and composition across different accessions of barrel medic (Medicago truncatula Gaertn.) from the genetic core collection. We conducted multi-elemental analyses and isotope measurements, as well as exact mass GC–MS metabolomics. There was a systematic increase in N content (+0.17% N mg−1) and a decrease in H content (–0.14% H mg−1) with seed size, reflecting lower lipid and higher S-poor protein quantity. There was also a decrease in 2H natural abundance (δ2H), due to the lower prevalence of 2H-enriched lipid hydrogen atoms that underwent isotopic exchange with water during seed development. Metabolomics showed that seed size correlates with free amino acid and hexoses content, and anticorrelates with amino acid degradation products, disaccharides, malic acid and free fatty acids. All accessions followed the same trend, with insignificant differences in metabolic properties between them. Our results show that there is no general, proportional increase in metabolite pools with seed size. Seed size appears to be determined by metabolic balance (between sugar and amino acid degradation vs. utilisation for storage), which is in turn likely determined by phloem source metabolite delivery during seed development.
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Bagautdinova ZZ, Omelyanchuk N, Tyapkin AV, Kovrizhnykh VV, Lavrekha VV, Zemlyanskaya EV. Salicylic Acid in Root Growth and Development. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23042228. [PMID: 35216343 PMCID: PMC8875895 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23042228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2022] [Revised: 02/10/2022] [Accepted: 02/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
In plants, salicylic acid (SA) is a hormone that mediates a plant’s defense against pathogens. SA also takes an active role in a plant’s response to various abiotic stresses, including chilling, drought, salinity, and heavy metals. In addition, in recent years, numerous studies have confirmed the important role of SA in plant morphogenesis. In this review, we summarize data on changes in root morphology following SA treatments under both normal and stress conditions. Finally, we provide evidence for the role of SA in maintaining the balance between stress responses and morphogenesis in plant development, and also for the presence of SA crosstalk with other plant hormones during this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zulfira Z. Bagautdinova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (Z.Z.B.); (N.O.); (A.V.T.); (V.V.K.); (V.V.L.)
| | - Nadya Omelyanchuk
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (Z.Z.B.); (N.O.); (A.V.T.); (V.V.K.); (V.V.L.)
| | - Aleksandr V. Tyapkin
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (Z.Z.B.); (N.O.); (A.V.T.); (V.V.K.); (V.V.L.)
- Department of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Vasilina V. Kovrizhnykh
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (Z.Z.B.); (N.O.); (A.V.T.); (V.V.K.); (V.V.L.)
| | - Viktoriya V. Lavrekha
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (Z.Z.B.); (N.O.); (A.V.T.); (V.V.K.); (V.V.L.)
- Department of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Elena V. Zemlyanskaya
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia; (Z.Z.B.); (N.O.); (A.V.T.); (V.V.K.); (V.V.L.)
- Department of Natural Sciences, Novosibirsk State University, 630090 Novosibirsk, Russia
- Correspondence:
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7
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Plitta-Michalak BP, Ramos AA, Pupel P, Michalak M. Oxidative damage and DNA repair in desiccated recalcitrant embryonic axes of Acer pseudoplatanus L. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2022; 22:40. [PMID: 35045819 PMCID: PMC8767751 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-021-03419-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most plants encounter water stress at one or more different stages of their life cycle. The maintenance of genetic stability is the integral component of desiccation tolerance that defines the storage ability and long-term survival of seeds. Embryonic axes of desiccation-sensitive recalcitrant seeds of Acer pseudoplatnus L. were used to investigate the genotoxic effect of desiccation. Alkaline single-cell gel electrophoresis (comet assay) methodology was optimized and used to provide unique insights into the onset and repair of DNA strand breaks and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydroguanine (8-oxoG) formation during progressive steps of desiccation and rehydration. RESULTS The loss of DNA integrity and impairment of damage repair were significant predictors of the viability of embryonic axes. In contrast to the comet assay, automated electrophoresis failed to detect changes in DNA integrity resulting from desiccation. Notably, no significant correlation was observed between hydroxyl radical (٠OH) production and 8-oxoG formation, although the former is regarded to play a major role in guanine oxidation. CONCLUSIONS The high-throughput comet assay represents a sensitive tool for monitoring discrete changes in DNA integrity and assessing the viability status in plant germplasm processed for long-term storage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beata P. Plitta-Michalak
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A/103, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Alice A. Ramos
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences Abel Salazar (ICBAS), University of Porto (U. Porto), Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313 Porto, Portugal
- Interdisciplinary Center for Marine and Environmental Research (CIIMAR), University of Porto (U. Porto), Avenida General Norton de Matos, 4450-208 Matosinhos, Portugal
| | - Piotr Pupel
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A/103, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
| | - Marcin Michalak
- Department of Plant Physiology, Genetics and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Oczapowskiego 1A/103, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland
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8
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de Oliveira RS, Souza FVD, dos Santos IL, Souza SDO, Aona LYS, de Souza EH. Cryopreservation and low-temperature storage of seeds of Tillandsia species (Bromeliaceae) with ornamental potential. 3 Biotech 2021; 11:186. [PMID: 33927977 PMCID: PMC7984166 DOI: 10.1007/s13205-021-02730-x] [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: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Tillandsia (Bromeliaceae) species have high endemism, and due to their strong ornamental potential, predatory extraction is threatening the extinction or drastic population reduction of many of them. In light of this scenario, it is necessary to find strategies for the conservation of these endangered species. The objective of this study was to evaluate two seed preservation strategies (freezing at - 5 °C and cryopreservation at - 196 °C) for 20 Tillandsia species occurring in the state of Bahia. We initially evaluated the morphometry, thousand-seed weight, and water content, followed by tests of germination and desiccation. After selecting the best result of the germination test (Germitest paper and incubation at 30 °C) and desiccation (3 h on silica gel), we established conservation tests utilizing two temperatures (freezing at - 5 °C and liquid nitrogen at - 196 °C), with storage times of 1, 7, 30, 180 and 450 days. Analysis of variance indicated that the 20 species had different behaviors when submitted to the two temperatures and different storage times. After 450 days there was a reduction in the germination percentage and germination speed index (GSI) of all the species studied when the seeds were preserved in the freezer. The storage in liquid nitrogen was efficient for the preservation of Tillandsia seeds when dried to a moisture content of approximately 7%. Our results support the establishment of a cryobank for Tillandsia to conserve these endemic species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaelle Souza de Oliveira
- Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Rua Rui Barbosa, 710, Centro, Cruz das Almas, BA 44380-000 Brazil
| | | | - Iasmin Lima dos Santos
- Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Rua Rui Barbosa, 710, Centro, Cruz das Almas, BA 44380-000 Brazil
| | - Sandra de Oliveira Souza
- Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Rua Rui Barbosa, 710, Centro, Cruz das Almas, BA 44380-000 Brazil
| | - Lidyanne Yuriko Saleme Aona
- Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Rua Rui Barbosa, 710, Centro, Cruz das Almas, BA 44380-000 Brazil
| | - Everton Hilo de Souza
- Universidade Federal do Recôncavo da Bahia, Rua Rui Barbosa, 710, Centro, Cruz das Almas, BA 44380-000 Brazil
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Gualtieri C, Gianella M, Pagano A, Cadeddu T, Araújo S, Balestrazzi A, Macovei A. Exploring microRNA Signatures of DNA Damage Response Using an Innovative System of Genotoxic Stress in Medicago truncatula Seedlings. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:645323. [PMID: 33767724 PMCID: PMC7985446 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.645323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2021] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
One of the challenges that living organisms face is to promptly respond to genotoxic stress to avoid DNA damage. To this purpose, all organisms, including plants, developed complex DNA damage response (DDR) mechanisms. These mechanisms are highly conserved among organisms and need to be finely regulated. In this scenario, microRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as active players, thus attracting the attention of the research community. The involvement of miRNAs in DDR has been investigated prominently in human cells whereas studies in plants are still scarce. To experimentally investigate the involvement of plant miRNAs in the regulation of DDR-associated pathways, an ad hoc system was developed, using the model legume Medicago truncatula. Specific treatments with camptothecin (CPT) and/or NSC120686 (NSC), targeting distinct components of DDR, namely topoisomerase I (TopI) and tyrosyl-DNA phosphodiesterase 1 (TDP1), were used. Phenotypic (germination percentage and speed, seedling growth) and molecular (cell death, DNA damage, and gene expression profiles) analyses demonstrated that the imposed treatments impact DDR. Our results show that these treatments do not influence the germination process but rather inhibit seedling development, causing an increase in cell death and accumulation of DNA damage. Moreover, treatment-specific changes in the expression of suppressor of gamma response 1 (SOG1), master-regulator of plant DDR, were observed. Additionally, the expression of multiple genes playing important roles in different DNA repair pathways and cell cycle regulation were differentially expressed in a treatment-specific manner. Subsequently, specific miRNAs identified from our previous bioinformatics approaches as putatively targeting genes involved in DDR processes were investigated alongside their targets. The obtained results indicate that under most conditions when a miRNA is upregulated the corresponding candidate target gene is downregulated, providing an indirect evidence of miRNAs action over these targets. Hence, the present study extends the present knowledge on the information available regarding the roles played by miRNAs in the post-transcriptional regulation of DDR in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Gualtieri
- Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Maraeva Gianella
- Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Pagano
- Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Tiziano Cadeddu
- Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Susana Araújo
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Oeiras, Portugal
- Association BLC3, Technology and Innovation Campus, Centre BIO- R&D Unit, Lagares da Beira, Portugal
| | - Alma Balestrazzi
- Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Anca Macovei
- Plant Biotechnology Laboratory, Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani”, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
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10
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Hydropriming and Biopriming Improve Medicago truncatula Seed Germination and Upregulate DNA Repair and Antioxidant Genes. Genes (Basel) 2020; 11:genes11030242. [PMID: 32106615 PMCID: PMC7140799 DOI: 10.3390/genes11030242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Revised: 02/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Seed germination is a critical parameter for the successful development of sustainable agricultural practices. While seed germination is impaired by environmental constraints emerging from the climate change scenario, several types of simple procedures, known as priming, can be used to enhance it. Seed priming is defined as the process of regulating seed germination by managing a series of parameters during the initial stages of germination. Hydropriming is a highly accessible and economic technique that involves soaking of seeds in water followed by drying. Biopriming refers to the inoculation of seeds with beneficial microorganism. The present study aims to investigate whether hydropriming and biopriming could enhance seed germination. Thereby, the germination of Medicago truncatula seeds exposed to hydropriming and/or Bacillus spp. isolates was monitored for two-weeks. The seeds were sown in trays containing two types of in situ agricultural soils collected from Northern India (Karsara, Varanasi). This region is believed to be contaminated by solid waste from a nearby power plant. Phenotypic parameters had been monitored and compared to find the most appropriate combination of treatments. Additionally, qRT-PCR was used to evaluate the expression levels of specific genes used as molecular indicators of seed quality. The results show that, while hydropriming significantly enhanced seed germination percentage, biopriming resulted in improved seedling development, represented by increased biomass rather than seedling length. At a molecular level, this is reflected by the upregulation of genes involved in DNA damage repair and antioxidant defence. In conclusion, hydropriming and biopriming are efficient to improve seed germination and seedling establishment in soils collected from damaged sites of Northern India; this is reflected by morphological parameters and molecular hallmarks of seed quality.
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Macovei A, Pagano A, Cappuccio M, Gallotti L, Dondi D, De Sousa Araujo S, Fevereiro P, Balestrazzi A. A Snapshot of the Trehalose Pathway During Seed Imbibition in Medicago truncatula Reveals Temporal- and Stress-Dependent Shifts in Gene Expression Patterns Associated With Metabolite Changes. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2019; 10:1590. [PMID: 31921241 PMCID: PMC6930686 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2019.01590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Trehalose, a non-reducing disaccharide with multiple functions, among which source of energy and carbon, stress protectant, and signaling molecule, has been mainly studied in relation to plant development and response to stress. The trehalose pathway is conserved among different organisms and is composed of three enzymes: trehalose-6-phosphate synthase (TPS), which converts uridine diphosphate (UDP)-glucose and glucose-6-phosphate to trehalose-6-phosphate (T6P), trehalose-6-phosphatase (TPP), which dephosphorylates T6P to produce trehalose, and trehalase (TRE), responsible for trehalose catabolism. In plants, the trehalose pathway has been mostly studied in resurrection plants and the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, where 11 AtTPS, 10 AtTPP, and 1 AtTRE genes are present. Here, we aim to investigate the involvement of the trehalose pathway in the early stages of seed germination (specifically, seed imbibition) using the model legume Medicago truncatula as a working system. Since not all the genes belonging to the trehalose pathway had been identified in M. truncatula, we first conducted an in silico analysis using the orthologous gene sequences from A. thaliana. Nine MtTPSs, eight MtTPPs, and a single MtTRE gene were hereby identified. Subsequently, the expression profiles of all the genes (together with the sucrose master-regulator SnRK1) were investigated during seed imbibition with water or stress agents (polyethylene glycol and sodium chloride). The reported data show a temporal distribution and preferential expression of specific TPS and TPP isoforms during seed imbibition with water. Moreover, it was possible to distinguish a small set of genes (e.g., MtTPS1, MtTPS7, MtTPS10, MtTPPA, MtTPPI, MtTRE) having a potential impact as precocious hallmarks of the seed response to stress. When the trehalose levels were measured by high-performance liquid chromatography, a significant decrease was observed during seed imbibition, suggesting that trehalose may act as an energy source rather than osmoprotectant. This is the first report investigating the expression profiles of genes belonging to the trehalose pathway during seed imbibition, thus ascertaining their involvement in the pre-germinative metabolism and their potential as tools to improve seed germination efficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anca Macovei
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani,” University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Pagano
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani,” University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Michela Cappuccio
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani,” University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier (ITQB-NOVA), Green-it Research Unit, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Lucia Gallotti
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Daniele Dondi
- Department of Chemistry, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Susana De Sousa Araujo
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier (ITQB-NOVA), Green-it Research Unit, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Pedro Fevereiro
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier (ITQB-NOVA), Green-it Research Unit, Oeiras, Portugal
- Departamento de Biologia Vegetal, Faculdade de Ciências da Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Alma Balestrazzi
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology “L. Spallanzani,” University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
- *Correspondence: Alma Balestrazzi,
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