Potential value of the common vetch (Vicia sativaL.) as an animal feedstuff: a review

Εleven Greek Legume Beans: Assessment of Genotypic Effect on Their Phytochemical Content and Antioxidant Properties

Legumes, one of the first crops of humanity, inherently constitute a staple nutritional source for mankind, attracting significant research attention that has been afforded to the development of numerous cultivars. The study herein concerns the exploitation of the nutritional and bio-functional content of beans harvested from eleven Greek cultivars belonging to five different species, namely Cicer arietinum L., Pisum sativum L., Vicia faba L., Lens culinaris L., and Phaseolus vulgaris L. The final goal is to define their varietal identity and correlate their phytochemical content with their potential utilization as functional foods and/or feed of high nutritional value. In this respect, their extracts were screened against the presence of 27 fatty acids and 19 phenolic compounds, revealing the presence of 22 and 15 molecules, respectively. Specifically, numerous fatty acids were detected in significant amounts in all but C. arietinum extract, while significant polyphenolic content was confirmed only in P. vulgaris. Among individual compounds, linoleic acid was the major fatty acid detected in amounts averaging more than 150 mg/g, followed by oleic acid, which was present as a major compound in all extracts. Among the nine polyphenols detected in P. vulgaris, the molecules of genistein (3.88 mg/g) and coumestrol (0.82 mg/g) were the most abundant. Their antioxidant properties were evaluated through DPPH and FRAP assays, which were highlighted as most potent in both tests of the V. faba extract, while C. arietinum was determined as totally inactive, indicating a potential correlation between the phenolic content of the plant species and antioxidant activity. These results are indicative of the significant advances achieved for the cultivars investigated and reveal their important role as nutritional crops for human and animal consumption.

Transcriptome Profiling Reveals Molecular Responses to Salt Stress in Common Vetch (Vicia sativa L.)

Common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) is an important annual diploid leguminous forage. In the present study, transcriptomic profiling in common vetch in response to salt stress was conducted using a salt-tolerant line (460) and a salt-sensitive line (429). The common responses in common vetch and the specific responses associated with salt tolerance in 460 were analyzed. Several KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathways, including plant hormone and MAPK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) signaling, galactose metabolism, and phenylpropanoid phenylpropane biosynthesis, were enriched in both lines, though some differentially expressed genes (DEGs) showed distinct expression patterns. The roots in 460 showed higher levels of lignin than in 429. α-linolenic acid metabolism, carotenoid biosynthesis, the photosynthesis-antenna pathway, and starch and sucrose metabolism pathways were specifically enriched in salt-tolerant line 460, with higher levels of accumulated soluble sugars in the leaves. In addition, higher transcript levels of genes involved in ion homeostasis and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging were observed in 460 than in 429 in response to salt stress. The transcriptomic analysis in common vetch in response to salt stress provides useful clues for further investigations on salt tolerance mechanism in the future.

Biochemical and thermodynamic properties of de novo synthesized urease from Vicia sativa seeds with enhanced industrial applications

Urease is one of the most significant enzymes in the industry. The objective of this research was to isolate and partially purify urease from Vicia sativa seeds with urease characterization. With a 6.4 % yield, the purification fold was 9.0. By using chromatography, it was determined that the isolated urease had a molecular weight of 55 kDa. The maximum urease activity was found following a 60-s incubation period at 40 °C and pH 8. The activity of urease was significantly boosted by a mean of calcium, barium, DL-dithiothreitol, Na2EDTA, and citrate (16.9, 26.6, 18.6, 13.6, and 31 %), respectively. But nickel and mercury caused inhibitory effects and completely inhibited urease activity, indicating the presence of a thiol (-SH) group in the enzyme active site. The Arrhenius plot was used to analyze the thermodynamic constants of activation, Ea, ΔH*, ΔG*, and ΔS*. The results showed that the values were 30 kJ/mol, 93.14 kJ/mol, 107.17 kJ/mol/K, and -40.80 J/mol/K, respectively. The significance of urease extraction from various sources may contribute to our understanding of the metabolism of urea in plants. The current report has novelty as it explained for the first time the kinetics and thermodynamics of hydrolysis of urea and inactivation of urease from V. sativa seeds.

Chemical composition and anticancer activity of the essential oil from Vicia ochroleuca Ten., quite rare plant in Kabylia (Algeria)

The search for new bioactive substances with anticancer activity and the understanding of their mechanisms of action are high priorities in the research effort toward more effective cancer treatments. In this article, we analyzed, for the first time, the chemical composition of the essential oil (EO) hydrodistilled from the aerial parts of Vicia ochroleuca Ten. (Leguminosae) by GC-MS. A total of sixteen compounds representing 82.2% of the total composition were identified. The major compounds were phytone (20.11%), hexadecanoic acid (10.23%), 1-octen-3-ol (9.84%), and 10-epi-α-cadinol (7.13%). Additionally, using the MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide) method, the EO was tested in vitro against a panel of human cancer cells, including breast (MDA-MB 231), colon (HCT116), melanoma (A375), and glioblastoma (T98G), with corresponding IC50 values of 23.07, 47.05, 51.64, and 64.07 μg/mL, respectively. The results demonstrate cytotoxic activity and suggest that V. ochroleuca EO could be regarded as a natural bioactive source.

Incorporating the pedigree information in multi-environment trial analyses for improving common vetch

Common vetch is one of the most profitable forage legumes due to its versatility in end-use which includes grain, hay, green manure, and silage. Furthermore, common vetch is one of the best crops to rotate with cereals as it can increase soil fertility which results in higher yield in cereal crops. The National Vetch Breeding Program located in South Australia is focused on developing new vetch varieties with higher grain and dry matter yields, better resistance to major diseases, and wider adaptability to Australian cropping environments. As part of this program, a study was conducted with 35 field trials from 2015 to 2021 in South Australia, Western Australia, Victoria, and New South Wales with the objective of determining the best parents for future crosses and the vetch lines with highest commercial value in terms of grain yield production. A total of 392 varieties were evaluated. The individual field trials were combined in a multi-environment trial data, where each trial is identified as an environment. Multiplicative mixed models were used to analyze the data and a factor analytic approach to model the genetic by environment interaction effects. The pedigree of the lines was then assembled and incorporated into the analysis. This approach allowed to partition the total effects into additive and non-additive components. The total and additive genetic effects were inspected across and within environments for broad and specific selections of the lines with the best commercial value and the best parents. Summary measures of overall performance and stability were used to aid with selection of parents. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study which used the pedigree information to breed common vetch. In this paper, the application of this statistical methodology has been successfully implemented with the inclusion of the pedigree improving the fit of the models to the data with most of the total genetic variation explained by the additive heritable component. The results of this study have shown the importance of including the pedigree information for common vetch breeding programs and have improved the ability of breeders to select superior commercial lines and parents.

An Interdisciplinary Assessment of Biochemical and Antioxidant Attributes of Six Greek Vicia sativa L. Varieties

Common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) is one of the most cultivated feed crops with extensive agricultural diversity and numerous cultivars. This study concerns the first-time investigation of the dry plant biomass and grains of six vetch cultivars to define the detailed fingerprint of their phenolic and fatty acid content, along with their respective antioxidant potencies. The results revealed a substantial variation in the feed quality traits among the tested Vicia sativa varieties, highlighting the crucial role and influence the genotype plays in the achievement of high-quality livestock nutrition. Among the six varieties tested, Istros and M-6900 displayed a particularly intriguing phytochemical profile characterized by elevated phenolic content, significant antioxidant potency and remarkably high fatty acid indices. These findings are indicative of the great potential of these varieties to function as suitable candidates for incorporation into farm animal diets either in the form of dry biomass (hay) or as a grain feed additive.

Transcriptomic analysis revealed the candidate metabolic pathways and genes associated with cold tolerance in a mutant without anthocyanin accumulation in common vetch (Vicia sativa L.)

Common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) is a leguminous crop used to feed livestock with vegetative organs or fertilize soils by returning to the field. Survival of fall-seeded plants is often affected by freezing damage during overwintering. This study aims to investigate the transcriptomic profiling in response to cold in a mutant with reduced accumulation of anthocyanins under normal growth and low-temperature conditions for understanding the underlying mechanisms. The mutant had increased cold a tolerance with higher survival rate and biomass during overwintering compared to the wild type, which led to increased forage production. Transcriptomic analysis in combination with qRT-PCR and physiological measurements revealed that reduced anthocyanins accumulation in the mutant resulted from reduced expression of serial genes involving in anthocyanin biosynthesis, which led to the altered metabolism, with an increased accumulation of free amino acids and polyamines. The higher levels of free amino acids and proline in the mutant under low temperature were associated with improved cold tolerance. The altered expression of some genes involved in ABA and GA signaling was also associated with increased cold tolerance in the mutant.

Nutritional and pharmacological potentials of orphan legumes: Subfamily faboideae

Legumes are a major food crop in many developing nations. However, orphan or underutilized legumes are domesticated legumes that have valuable properties but are less significant than main legumes due to use and supply restrictions. Compared to other major legumes, they are better suited to harsh soil and climate conditions, and their great tolerance to abiotic environmental circumstances like drought can help to lessen the strains brought on by climate change. Despite this, their economic significance in international markets is relatively minimal. This article is aimed at carrying out a comprehensive review of the nutritional and pharmacological benefits of orphan legumes from eight genera in the sub-family Faboidea, namely Psophocarpus Neck. ex DC., Tylosema (Schweinf.) Torre Hillc., Vigna Savi., Vicia L., Baphia Afzel. ex G. Lodd., Mucuna Adans, Indigofera L. and Macrotyloma (Wight & Arn.) Verdc, and the phytoconstituents that have been isolated and characterized from these plants. A literature search was conducted using PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct for articles that have previously reported the relevance of underutilized legumes. The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list of threatened species was also conducted for the status of the species. References were scrutinized and citation searches were performed on the study. The review showed that many underutilized legumes have a lot of untapped potential in terms of their nutritional and pharmacological activities. The phytoconstituents from plants in the subfamily Faboideae could serve as lead compounds for drug discovery for the treatment of a variety of disorders, indicating the need to explore these plant species.

Designing Novel Strategies for Improving Old Legumes: An Overview from Common Vetch

Common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) is a grain legume used in animal feeding, rich in protein content, fatty acid, and mineral composition that makes for a very adequate component to enrich feedstuff. In addition, relevant pharmacological properties have been reported in humans. The common vetch, similar to other legumes, can fix atmospheric nitrogen, a crucial feature for sustainable agricultural systems. These properties enhance the use of vetch as a cover crop and its sowing in intercropping systems. Moreover, several studies have recently pointed out the potential of vetch in the phytoremediation of contaminated soils. These characteristics make vetch a relevant crop, which different potential improvements target. Varieties with different yields, flowering times, shattering resistance, nutritional composition, rhizobacteria associations, drought tolerance, nitrogen fixation capacity, and other agronomic-relevant traits have been identified when different vetch accessions are compared. Recently, the analysis of genomic and transcriptomic data has allowed the development of different molecular markers to be used for assisted breeding purposes, promoting crop improvement. Here, we review the potential of using the variability of V. sativa genetic resources and new biotechnological and molecular tools for selecting varieties with improved traits to be used in sustainable agriculture systems.

Screening and identification of multiple abiotic stress responsive candidate genes based on hybrid-sequencing in Vicia sativa

Common vetch is an important leguminous forage for both livestock fodder and green manure and has a tremendous latent capacity in a sustainable agroecosystem. In the present study, a comprehensive transcriptome analysis of the aboveground leaves and underground roots of common vetch under multiple abiotic stress treatments, including NaCl, drought, cold, and cold drought, was performed using hybrid-sequencing technology, i. e. single-molecule real-time sequencing technology (SMRT) and supplemented by next-generation sequencing (NGS) technology. A total of 485,038 reads of insert (ROIs) with a mean length of 2606 bp and 228,261 full-length nonchimeric (FLNC) reads were generated. After deduplication, 39,709 transcripts were generated. Of these transcripts, we identified 1059 alternative splicing (AS) events, 17,227 simple sequence repeats (SSRs), and 1647 putative transcription factors (TFs). Furthermore, 640 candidates long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) and 28,256 complete coding sequences (CDSs) were identified. In gene annotation analyses, a total of 38,826 transcripts (97.78%) were annotated in eight public databases. Finally, seven multiple abiotic stress-responsive candidate genes were obtained through gene expression, annotation information, and protein-protein interaction (PPI) networks. Our research not only enriched the structural information of FL transcripts in common vetch, but also provided useful information for exploring the molecular mechanism of multiple abiotic stress tolerance between aboveground and underground tissues in common vetch and related legumes.

Effect of Vicia sativa L. on Motility, Mortality and Expression Levels of hsp Genes in J2 Stage of Meloidogyne hapla

Assuming that the seeds of Vicia sativa L. have a stressful effect on J2 stage Meloidogyne hapla, we undertook research on the effect of these seeds on the motility and mortality of J2 and determined the expression levels of selected hsp genes in J2. The assessment of the effect of V. sativa seeds on the motility of M. hapla specimens consisted of observing the movement of J2 immersed in a seed diffusate or in a tomato root filtrate at temperatures of 10, 17, and 21°C. In J2 treated with V. sativa (cv. Ina) seed diffusates, the expression level of hsp genes was determined by qPCR. J2 exposed to V. sativa diffusates were found to lose their motility, while their mortality did not exceed 30%. J2 in the seed diffusate were characterized by an increase in the expression levels of the Mh-hsp90, Mh-hsp1, and Mh-hsp43 genes. It is suggested that the hsp90 gene may be a potential bioindicator of the environmental impact on Meloidogyne nematodes. The impaired ability to move in J2 of M. hapla is attributable to the occurrence of V. sativa seeds in their habitat. These studies may contribute to developing methods of reducing crop damage caused by M. hapla.

Soybean Replacement by Alternative Protein Sources in Pig Nutrition and Its Effect on Meat Quality

Soybean is one of the most expensive and limiting feed ingredients in diet formulations; however, in pig farming, it represents the main source of protein. The production and supply of soybean are critical steps due to their environmental impact and feed/food competition for land use. Therefore, research is focusing on finding alternatives to replace soybean partially or totally. However, alternative ingredients should ensure similar growth performance, carcass traits, and meat quality characteristics compared to conventional soybean-based diets. The objective of this review was to evaluate the impact of different alternative protein sources to soybean in pig nutrition and their effects on growth performance, carcass, and meat quality traits. The review process was performed on Scopus^®, and it considered research findings published from 2012 to the present on the Sus scrofa species. Articles without a control group fed with soybean were discarded. The main alternative protein sources identified were other legumes and distillers' dried grain with solubles (fish and animal proteins, oilseed by- and co-products). Interesting innovative protein sources included by-products from other industries (residues), microalgae and insects. Nevertheless, in dietary formulations, close attention must be paid to address the nutritional requirements, balance the supply of amino acids, avoid anti-nutritional or toxic compounds occasionally present in alternative protein sources, as well as determine the availability of protein feed in specific geographical areas.

Evaluation of salt tolerance in common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) germplasms and the physiological responses to salt stress

Common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) is an important leguminous crop, providing humans with starch from seeds, feeding livestock with vegetative organs, or fertilizing soils by returning to field. It is aimed to evaluate salt tolerance in common vetch collections for breeding programs and to investigate the underlined physiological mechanisms. Relative germination rate and relative seedling growth showed great difference among common vetch collections in response to salt. A lower level of Na⁺ and higher levels of K⁺ and K⁺/Na⁺ ratio were maintained in both shoots and roots in salt-tolerant collections than in salt-sensitive ones under salt stress. Expression of the genes involved in transportation and redistribution of Na⁺ and K⁺ were cooperatively responsible for salt stress. Transcript levels of NHX7, HKT1, AKT2, and HAK17 in leaves and roots were induced after salt stress, with higher transcript levels in salt-tolerant collections compared with the sensitive ones. Proline and P5CS1 transcript levels were increased after salt stress, with higher levels in salt-tolerant collection compared with salt-sensitive ones. Both O₂^- and H₂O₂ were accumulated after salt stress, and lower levels were accumulated in salt-tolerant collection compared with salt-sensitive ones. Superoxide dismutase, catalase and ascorbate peroxidase activities were altered in response to salt and higher levels were maintained in salt-tolerant collections compared with salt-sensitive ones. It is suggested that salt tolerance in common vetch is associated with maintenance of K⁺ and Na⁺ homeostasis and the associated gene expression and promoted proline accumulation and antioxidant defense system.

Full-length transcriptional analysis reveals the complex relationship of leaves and roots in responses to cold-drought combined stress in common vetch

Plant responses to single or combined abiotic stresses between aboveground and underground parts are complex and require crosstalk signaling pathways. In this study, we explored the transcriptome data of common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) subjected to cold and drought stress between leaves and roots via meta-analysis to identify the hub abiotic stress-responsive genes. A total of 4,836 and 3,103 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the leaves and roots, respectively. Transcriptome analysis results showed that the set of stress-responsive DEGs to concurrent stress is distinct from single stress, indicating a specialized and unique response to combined stresses in common vetch. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses identified that "Photosystem II," "Defence response," and "Sucrose synthase/metabolic activity" were the most significantly enriched categories in leaves, roots, and both tissues, respectively. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis results indicated that "ABC transporters" are the most enriched pathway and that all of the genes were upregulated in roots. Furthermore, 29 co-induced DEGs were identified as hub genes based on the consensus expression profile module of single and co-occurrence stress analysis. In transgenic yeast, the overexpression of three cross-stress tolerance candidate genes increased yeast tolerance to cold-drought combined stress. The elucidation of the combined stress-responsive network in common vetch to better parse the complex regulation of abiotic responses in plants facilitates more adequate legume forage breeding for combined stress tolerance.

Physicochemical, structural and functional properties of protein isolates and major protein fractions from common vetch (Vicia sativa L.)

Common vetch (CV), a leguminous crop cultivated for green manure and fodder rich in protein and starch, is widespread over much area of the northern hemisphere. Its seeds can be used as a protein source to human consumption. CV protein isolates (CVPI) and major protein fractions (CV albumin protein, CVAP; CV globulin protein, CVGP; CV glutelin protein, CVGTP) from 4 samples were investigated the properties to facilitate full use of protein resources. Protein comprises 27.70 %-32.14 % of the dry CV seed weight, which is mainly composed by CVAP (26.79 %-56.12 %) and CVGP (22.78 %-52.42 %). CVPI, CVAP and CVGP mainly presented 7S and 11S components. CVGTP mainly contained the 11S component. They showed difference in thermal properties and surface hydrophobicity. Circular dichroism data showed that α-helix was their major secondary structure. CVPI and major protein fractions exhibited a U-shape protein solubility. CVPI and CVAP had advantages in emulsifying and foaming properties. This study provided novel insights on unexploited sources of CV proteins with interesting characteristics in terms of potential uses as protein-based foods.

Nutritional and Food Composition Survey of Major Pulses Toward Healthy, Sustainable, and Biofortified Diets

The world's food demand is increasing rapidly due to fast population growth that has posed a challenge to meeting the requirements of nutritionally balanced diets. Pulses could play a major role in the human diet to combat these challenges and provide nutritional and physiological benefits. Pulses such as chickpeas, green gram, peas, horse gram, beans, lentils, black gram, etc., are rich sources of protein (190–260 g kg−1), carbohydrates (600–630 g kg−1), dietary fibers, and bioactive compounds. There are many health benefits of phytochemicals present in pulses, like flavonoids, phenolics, tannins, phytates, saponins, lectins, oxalates, phytosterols peptides, and enzyme inhibitors. Some of them have anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcerative, anti-microbial, and anti-cancer effects. Along with these, pulses are also rich in vitamins and minerals. In this review, we highlight the potential role of pulses in global food systems and diets, their nutritional value, health benefits, and prospects for biofortification of major pulses. The food composition databases with respect to pulses, effect of processing techniques, and approaches for improvement of nutritional profile of pulses are elaborated.

Surface tension of native and modified plant seed proteins

The present review, dedicated to Prof. Zbigniew Adamczyk on the occasion of his 70th anniversary, covers the literature data on surface tension and surface compression (dilational) rheology of the adsorbed layers of 21 plant seed proteins (10 leguminous and 11 non-leguminous plants). They are typically analyzed as protein concentrates or isolates, the latter usually obtained by isoelectric precipitation or diafiltration. Despite generally lower solubility, as compared to their animal counterparts (lactoglobulins, caseins, albumins, etc.), the plant seed proteins are also capable of lowering surface tension and forming viscoelastic adsorbed layers. Many seed proteins serve mostly as amino acids reservoirs for the future seedling (storage proteins), hence their instantaneous amphiphilicity is not always sufficient to induce strong adsorption at the aqueous-air interface. They can be, however, conveniently unfolded, hydrolyzed and/or chemically/enzymatically modified to expose more hydrophilic or hydrophobic patches. As shown in numerous contributions reviewed below, the resulting shift of the hydrophilic-lipophilic balance can boost their surface activity to the level comparable to that of many animal proteins or low molecular weight surfactants. An important advantage of the plant seed proteins over the animal ones is their much lower environmental cost and abundance in many plants (e.g. ~40% in sunflower or soybean seeds).

Identification of novel drought-responsive miRNA regulatory network of drought stress response in common vetch (Vicia sativa)

Drought is among the most important natural disasters with severe effects on animals and plants. MicroRNAs are a class of noncoding RNAs that play a crucial role in plant growth, development, and response to stress factors, including drought. However, the microRNAs in drought responses in common vetch (Vicia sativa), an annual herbaceous leguminous plant commonly used for forage by including it in mixed seeding during winter and spring, have not been characterized. To explore the microRNAs' response to drought in common vetch, we sequenced 10 small RNA (sRNA) libraries by the next-generation sequencing technology. We obtained 379 known miRNAs belonging to 38 families and 47 novel miRNAs. The two groups had varying numbers of differentially expressed miRNAs: 85 in the comparison group D5 vs C5 and 38 in the comparison group D3 vs C3. Combined analysis of mRNA and miRNA in the same samples under drought treatment identified 318 different target genes of 123 miRNAs. Functional annotation of the target genes revealed that the miRNAs regulate drought-responsive genes, such as leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase-encoding genes (LRR-RLKs), ABC transporter G family member 1 (ABCG1), and MAG2-interacting protein 2 (MIP2). The genes were involved in various pathways, including cell wall biosynthesis, reactive oxygen removal, and protein transport. The findings in this study provide new insights into the miRNA-mediated regulatory networks of drought stress response in common vetch.

Intercropping Vicia sativa L. Improves the Moisture, Microbial Community, Enzyme Activity and Nutrient in Rhizosphere Soils of Young Kiwifruit Plants and Enhances Plant Growth

Drought, low nutrition, and weeds have become the major limiting factors of young kiwifruit orchards. In this study, the effects of intercropping Vicia sativa L. on the moisture, microbe community, enzyme activity, and nutrients in rhizosphere soils of young kiwifruit plants and their growth were investigated. The results show that intercropping V. sativa could effectively enhance soil moisture by 1.39–1.47 folds compared with clean tillage. Moreover, intercropping V. sativa could significantly (p < 0.01) increase the microbial community, enzyme activity and nutrient of kiwifruit rhizosphere soils, and improve plant height, stem girth, leaf number, maximum leaf length, maximum leaf width, and chlorophyll content of young kiwifruit plants by 43.60%, 18.68%, 43.75%, 18.09%, 21.15%, and 67.57% compared to clean tillage, respectively. The moisture, microbial quantity, enzyme activity, and nutrients in rhizosphere soils of young kiwifruit plants exhibited good correlations with their plant height, stem girth, leaf number, maximum leaf length, maximum leaf width, and chlorophyll content. This study highlights that intercropping V. sativa in young kiwifruit orchard can be used as an effective, labor-saving, economical and sustainable practice to improve the moisture, microbial community, enzyme activity, and nutrient of soils, and enhance kiwifruit plant growth and control weeds.

Search for Resistant Genotypes to Cuscuta campestris Infection in Two Legume Species, Vicia sativa and Vicia ervilia

The dodders (Cuscuta spp.) are parasitic plants that feed on the stems of their host plants. Cuscuta campestris is one of the most damaging parasitic plants for the worldwide agricultural production of broad-leaved crops. Its control is limited or non-existent, therefore resistance breeding is the best alternative both economically and environmentally. Common vetch (Vicia sativa) and bitter vetch (Vicia ervilia) are highly susceptible to C. campestris, but no resistant genotypes have been identified. Thus, the aim of this study was to identify in V. sativa and V.ervilia germplasm collections genotypes resistant to C. campestris infection for use in combating this parasitic plant. Three greenhouse screening were conducted to: (1) identify resistant responses in a collection of 154 accessions of bitter vetch and a collection of 135 accessions of common vetch genotypes against infection of C. campestris; (2) confirm the resistant response identified in common vetch accessions; and (3) characterize the effect of C. campestris infection on biomass of V. sativa resistant and susceptible accessions. Most common vetch and bitter vetch genotypes tested were susceptible to C. campestris. However, the V. sativa genotype Vs.1 exhibited high resistance. The resistant phenotype was characterized by a delay in the development of C. campestris posthaustorial growth and a darkening resembling a hypersensitive-like response at the penetration site. The resistant mechanism was effective in limiting the growth of C. campestris as the ratio of parasite/host shoot dry biomass was more significantly reduced than the rest of the accessions. To the best or our knowledge, this is the first identification of Cuscuta resistance in V. sativa genotypes.

Rearing Tenebrio molitor and Alphitobius diaperinus Larvae on Seed Cleaning Process Byproducts

The exploitation of agricultural byproducts and organic side-streams as insect feeding substrates is advantageous for insect farming both from an economic and a sustainability perspective. In this context, in the present study we evaluated the suitability of ten byproducts of the cereal and legume seed cleaning process for the rearing of larvae of the yellow mealworm, Tenebrio molitor, and the lesser mealworm, Alphitobius diaperinus. Byproducts were offered singly to 20 T. molitor and 50 A. diaperinus larvae with provision of carrots as moisture source. After four weeks of undisturbed development, larval weight and survival was evaluated biweekly until pupation. Feed utilization and economic feasibility parameters were determined for each byproduct at the end of the bioassays. Our results show the suitability of several of the byproducts tested for the rearing of T. molitor and A. diaperinus larvae. The best results though among the byproducts tested in terms of larval growth and survival, development time and feed utilization were obtained with larvae fed with lupin and triticale byproducts, which efficiently supported complete larval development. The results of our study aim to boost the integration of circular economy strategies with insect farming practices.

Common Vetch, Valuable Germplasm for Resilient Agriculture: Genetic Characterization and Spanish Core Collection Development

Common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) is a legume used for animal feed because of its high protein content and great capacity for nitrogen fixation, making this crop relevant in sustainable agriculture. The Spanish vetch collection, conserved at the Spanish Plant Genetic Resources Center (CRF), is one of the largest collections of this species worldwide, including landraces, wild relatives mainly collected in Spain, and commercial cultivars, but also accessions of international origin. The analysis of the genetic diversity of this material, whose genome has not been sequenced yet, and the assembly of a representative collection could play a pivotal role in conserving and exploiting these genetic resources in breeding programs mainly in those focused on consequences and demands of climate change. In this work, a set of 14 simple sequence repeat (SSR) reference alleles for genetic diversity analysis of the CRF vetch collection has been developed, used for genotyping more than 545 common vetch accessions from all over the world and validated. All the tested markers were polymorphic for the analyzed accessions. Overall, at least 86 different loci were identified with 2-11 alleles per locus with an average of 6.1 alleles per locus. Also, the analyses of the generated SSR database support that most of these SSR markers are transferable across closely related species of Vicia genus. Analysis of molecular variance revealed that wild relatives have a higher genetic diversity than landraces. However, cultivars have similar diversity than landraces, indicating that genetic variability has been barely lost due to the breeding of this legume. Low differences of genetic variations between Spanish and non-Spanish accessions have been observed, suggesting a high degree of diversity within Spanish genotypes, which provide 95% of the total genetic variation, so we have focused our efforts on characterizing genotypes of Spanish origin that were further studied using storage protein profiles. Based on SSR, seed protein profiles, and agromorphological and passport data, a vetch core collection (VCC) containing 47 V. sativa accessions of Spanish origin has been established. In this collection, the characterization has been expanded using ISSR markers, and it has been reevaluated with new agromorphological data, including drought tolerance characters. This VCC presents a minimum loss of genetic diversity concerning the total collection and constitutes an invaluable material that can be used in future breeding programs for direct use in a resilient agricultural system.

Effects of oat hay and leguminous forage mixture feeding on enteric methane emission, energy utilization, and feed conversion efficiency in male crossbred Simmental beef cattle

Dietary manipulation has the potential to mitigate methane (CH₄ ) emission and to maintain or enhance livestock productivity. We conducted two experiments to investigate the effects of replacing oat hay by leguminous forages (alfalfa hay [AH], 0, 8, 16, and 24%, experiment 1; common vetch hay [CVH], 0, 10, 20, and 30%, experiment 2) on energy metabolism of crossbred Simmental cattle. In experiment 1, total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentrations increased quadratically with increasing AH proportions (p = .006) with a forage-to-concentrate ratio of approximately 50:50, whereas the CH₄ energy to gross energy intake ratio (CH₄ -E:GEI) was significantly lower with 16% AH compared with 24% AH diet (p < .05). In experiment 2, there were no differences in the total VFA concentrations among the four diet groups with a forage-to-concentrate ratio of around 60:40 (p > .05); however, CH₄ -E:GEI was significantly lower in the 30% CVH diet compared with the 10% CVH diet (p < .05). There was no significant difference in feed conversion efficiency among the four diet groups in each experiment. The results suggest that substituting 16 and 30% oat hay by AH and CVH provide optimal diets with forage-to-concentrate ratios of 50:50 and 60:40, respectively, which may reduce CH₄ emission without compromising the feed conversion efficiency of crossbred Simmental cattle.

Foraging behaviour, digestion and growth performance of sheep grazing on dried vetch pasture cropped under conservation agriculture

This study aimed to investigate the replacement value of half time grazing of wheat stubbles by vetch, which had been cropped under the context of conservation agriculture (CA). Three grazing treatments were evaluated on Barbarine lambs (initial BW 18 ± 1.42 kg). Treatment 1 consists of 6-hr grazing on dried vetch only (V). For treatment 2, the sheep were grazing 3 hr on wheat stubbles in morning and 3 hr on dried vetch in the afternoon (VWS). Treatment 3 consists of 6-hr grazing of wheat stubbles only (WS). At grain maturity stage, biomass yield of vetch averaged 7 tons DM/ha allowing a grazing period of 2 consecutive months. Along this period, vetch conserved its pods indehiscent. Biomass and nutritive value of vetch and wheat stubbles were decreasing from the start to the end of the grazing period. Residual biomass was higher in vetch and wheat stubble assigned to treatment VWS. WS lambs spent more time on walking and standing, while V and VWS lambs allocated more time on biomass uptake. The DM, OM and CP intakes were higher in animal grazing vetch alone or combined to wheat stubble. Rumen fermentation parameters (pH, ammonia nitrogen concentration and protozoa count) were not affected (p > .05) by any of the three treatments. The average daily gain of lambs on V and VWS lambs was three times greater (p < .05) than that of WS lambs (164, 152 and 49.5 g respectively). Cold carcass yield averaged 444, 428 and 388 g/ kg for lambs assigned to V, VWS and WS treatments respectively. It is concluded that grazing vetch alone or combined with WS increased substantially the growth performance and carcass yield of lambs compared with WS grazing only. Therefore, dried vetch grazing could be a solution to make possible mulching and biomass uptake by sheep under the context of CA.

Vicia plants-A comprehensive review on chemical composition and phytopharmacology

The plants belonging to the genus Vicia are of great interest as a source of many bioactive compounds and micronutrients. A snapshot of their cultivation, habitat, main components, from which essential oils can be obtained, is given. The traditional medicinal uses of Vicia plants are also reported, as well as the wide spectrum of the main biological activities attributed to Vicia plants is discussed regarding potential health beneficial properties, in particular anti-Parkinson, anticholinesterase, antidepressant, anticonvulsant, antimicrobial, cytotoxic, antioxidant, antiinflammatory and antinociceptive, antidiabetic, antihemolytic, anticoagulant, estrogenic, diuretic, antihypoxic activities.

Black oat grown with common vetch improves the chemical composition and degradability rate of forage

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of cultivating a combination of common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) with black oats (Avena strigosa Schreb.) on the chemical composition of forage and the grazing behavior of heifers. To accomplish this, two paddocks 2500m2 each from a Voisin Rational Grazing management system were divided into three blocks each and then into thirds (278m²) characterizing a randomized block design. Three different forage compositions were distributed into these thirds: oats grown alone, vetch grown alone, and oats grown with vetch. Forage samples were collected after 65 days through the square method. Right after collection, three groups of four heifers each grazed the plots for two hours in a 3x3 double Latin Square design for behavioral observation, grazing simulation through the hand-plucking method, and biting rate determination. Forage samples collected either by hand-plucking or the square method, were analyzed for chemical composition and “in vitro” degradability.  Statistical analyses were performed using the R package lme4. Data were evaluated with linear mixed-effects models. The inclusion of common vetch significantly increased forage production and oat protein content, but decreased the fiber content, which promoted better “in vitro” degradability. Grazing frequency was higher in pasture where oats were grown with vetch, but the biting rate was similar in all the three forage compositions evaluated. Forage collected by the square method did not differ from forage consumed by the heifers, probably meaning low herbage selectivity by heifers.  Furthermore, no interaction of investigated variables occurred between forage compositions and the method of collection. The inclusion of common vetch with black oats increased forage chemical composition, “in vitro” degradability, and forage production, thus having positive effects on the time cows spent grazing.

Coordinated mechanisms of leaves and roots in response to drought stress underlying full-length transcriptome profiling in Vicia sativa L

BACKGROUND

Common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) is an important self-pollinating annual forage legume and is of interest for drought prone regions as a protein source to feed livestock and human consumption. However, the development and production of common vetch are negatively affected by drought stress. Plants have evolved common or distinct metabolic pathways between the aboveground and underground in response to drought stress. Little is known regarding the coordinated response of aboveground and underground tissues of common vetch to drought stress.

RESULTS

Our results showed that a total of 30,427 full-length transcripts were identified in 12 samples, with an average length of 2278.89 bp. Global transcriptional profiles of the above 12 samples were then analysed via Illumina-Seq. A total of 3464 and 3062 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified in the leaves and roots, respectively. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment analyses identified that the dehydrin genes and Δ¹-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthase were induced for the biosynthesis of proline and water conservation. The Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analysis results indicated that the DEGs were significantly enriched in hormone signal transduction, starch and sucrose metabolism, and arginine and proline metabolism, and various drought response candidate genes were also identified. Abscisic acid (ABA; the AREB/ABF-SnRK2 pathway) regulates the activity of AMY3 and BAM1 to induce starch degradation in leaves and increase carbon export to roots, which may be associated with the drought stress responses in common vetch. Among the co-induced transcription factors (TFs), AREB/ABF, bHLH, MYB, WRKY, and AP2/ERF had divergent expression patterns and may be key in the crosstalk between leaves and roots during adaption to drought stress. In transgenic yeast, the overexpression of four TFs increased yeast tolerance to osmotic stresses.

CONCLUSION

The multipronged approach identified in the leaves and roots broadens our understanding of the coordinated mechanisms of drought response in common vetch, and further provides targets to improve drought resistance through genetic engineering.

Initial Characterization of the Chloroplast Genome of Vicia sepium, an Important Wild Resource Plant, and Related Inferences About Its Evolution

Lack of complete genomic information concerning Vicia sepium (Fabaceae: Fabeae) precludes investigations of evolution and populational diversity of this perennial high-protein forage plant suitable for cultivation in extreme conditions. Here, we present the complete and annotated chloroplast genome of this important wild resource plant. V. sepium chloroplast genome includes 76 protein-coding genes, 29 tRNA genes, 4 rRNA genes, and 1 pseudogene. Its 124,095 bp sequence has a loss of one inverted repeat (IR). The GC content of the whole genome, the protein-coding, intron, tRNA, rRNA, and intergenic spacer regions was 35.0%, 36.7%, 34.6%, 52.3%, 54.2%, and 29.2%, respectively. Comparative analyses with plastids from related genera belonging to Fabeae demonstrated that the greatest variation in the V. sepium genome length occurred in protein-coding regions. In these regions, some genes and introns were lost or gained; for example, ycf4, clpP intron, and rpl16 intron deletions and rpl20 and ORF292 insertions were observed. Twelve highly divergent regions, 66 simple sequence repeats (SSRs) and 27 repeat sequences were also found in these regions. Detailed evolutionary rate analysis of protein-coding genes showed that Vicia species exhibit additional interesting characteristics including positive selection of ccsA, clpP, rpl32, rpl33, rpoC1, rps15, rps2, rps4, and rps7, and the evolutionary rates of atpA, accD, and rps2 in Vicia are significantly accelerated. These genes are important candidate genes for understanding the evolutionary strategies of Vicia and other genera in Fabeae. The phylogenetic analysis showed that Vicia and Lens are included in the same clade and that Vicia is paraphyletic. These results provide evidence regarding the evolutionary history of the chloroplast genome.

Molecular bases for drought tolerance in common vetch: designing new molecular breeding tools

BACKGROUND

Common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) is a forage grain legume of high protein content and high nitrogen fixation, relevant in sustainable agriculture systems. Drought is the main limiting factor of this crop yield. Genetic resources collections are essential to provide genetic variability for breeding. The analysis of drought associated parameters has allowed us to identify drought tolerant and sensitive ecotypes in a vetch core collection.

RESULTS

To understand the mechanisms involved in drought response we analysed transcriptomic differences between tolerant and sensitive accessions. Polymorphic variants (SNPs and SSRs) in these differential expressed genes (DEGs) have also been analysed for the design of drought-associated markers. A total of 1332 transcripts were commonly deregulated in both genotypes under drought. To know the drought adaptive response, we also analysed DEGs between accessions. A total of 2646 transcripts are DEG between sensitive and tolerant ecotypes, in watered and drought conditions, including important genes involved in redox homeostasis, cell wall modifications and stress-response. The integration of this functional and genetic information will contribute to understand the molecular mechanisms of drought response and the adaptive mechanisms of drought tolerance in common vetch. The identification of polymorphic variants in these DEGs has also been screened for the design of drought-associated markers that could be used in future breeding program strategies.

CONCLUSIONS

Our studies shed light for the first time in common vetch about the genes and pathways associated with drought tolerance. In addition, we identify over 100 potential drought associated polymorphism, as SNPs or SSRs, which are differently present in drought and tolerant genotypes. The use of these molecular markers for trait prediction would enable the development of genomic tools for future engineering strategies by screening of germplasm crop collections for traits related with crop drought resilience, adaptability or yield in vetch.

Determining the nutritive value of some commercial pulse screenings using in sacco and in vitro methods

The present study aimed at determining in sacco and in vitro the nutritive value of lentil screenings (LS), common vetch screenings (CVS) and bitter vetch screenings (BVS). For this purpose, three experiments (Exp.) were conducted. Ruminal degradation characteristics of the screenings were determined in Exp. 1 by the nylon bag technique using three ruminally fistulated rams. Gas production kinetics, and ruminal degradability and fermentation indices of the screenings were determined using 144 and 24-h incubations, respectively in Exp. 2. In Exp. 3, a basal growing ration for lambs (control) was supplemented by 175 or 350 g/kg of either LS, CVS or BVS (LS175, LS350, CVS175, CVS350, BVS175 and BVS350 respectively), and ruminal degradability and fermentation of the rations were evaluated in vitro. Soluble and potentially degradable fractions of protein were 0.321 and 0.719, 0.362 and 0.688, and 0.333 and 0.707, for LS, BVS and CVS respectively. Metabolisable energy was 11.1, 11.6 and 12.1 MJ/kg DM for LS, BVS and CVS respectively. The screenings had comparable gas production profiles, ruminal digestibility and total volatile fatty acid concentration. However, CVS and BVS had a higher propionate and a lower acetate:propionate ratio than LS (P &lt; 0.05). Including BVS and LS in the mixed ration increased total volatile fatty acid at both inclusion levels, but only BVS enhanced propionate proportion and lowered the acetate:propionate ratio (P &lt; 0.05). These results revealed that these screenings have a good nutritional value and can be used in ruminant diets without adversely affecting the rumen fermentation.

Morphological fractions, chemical composition and in vitro digestibility of stover of four common vetch varieties grown on the Tibetan plateau

This study evaluated the varietal variability and interrelationship of the grain and stover yields, and stover quality characteristics of four common vetch varieties (three improved varieties and one local variety) used on the Tibetan Plateau. Stover quality attributes determined included chemical composition, in vitro true digestibility of dry matter (IVTD) and neutral detergent fibre (dNDF). The improved varieties were superior to the local variety in grain yield, harvest index and potential utility index (PUI). The wide ranges in the proportions of leaf (24.3%-34.6%), pod (22.0%-45.6%) and stem (29.5%-44.7%) fractions were observed. Significant varietal differences (p < .001) were observed for the whole-stover content of crude protein [CP; 78.1-101 g/kg dry matter (DM)], neutral detergent fibre (aNDF; 520-564 g/kg DM), acid detergent fibre (ADF; 520-564 g/kg DM), IVTD (597-658 g/kg DM) and dNDF (305-384 g/kg aNDF). The leaf fraction had the highest levels of CP, IVTD and dNDF, while the highest contents of aNDF and ADF were observed in the stem fraction. Canonical correlation analysis showed that significant (p < .001) correlations between the quality attributes of whole stover and proportions and quality attributes of stover morphological fractions. Pearson correlation between the grain and stover yield was negative and significant (r = -.295; p = .001), while the correlations between the grain/stover yield and stover quality traits were positive or non-significant. Ranking of the varieties differed when grain yield, PUI and stover quality scores were investigated. Of the varieties tested, Lanjian No.2 has the best potential for use as a ruminant feed, as indicated by PUI and stover quality.

Comparative Grain Yield, Straw Yield, Chemical Composition, Carbohydrate and Protein Fractions, In Vitro Digestibility and Rumen Degradability of Four Common Vetch Varieties Grown on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau

Four varieties of common vetch, including three improved varieties (Lanjian No. 1, Lanjian No. 2, and Lanjian No. 3) and one local variety (333A), were evaluated for varietal variations in grain yield, straw yield and straw quality attributes on the Qinghai-Tibetan Plateau. Crops were harvested at pod maturity to determine grain yield, straw yield, harvest index, and potential utility index (PUI). Straw quality was determined by measuring chemical composition, carbohydrate and protein fractions, in vitro gas production and in situ ruminal degradability. Results showed a significant effect (p < 0.01) of variety on the grain yield [875.2-1255 kg dry matter (DM)/ha], straw yield (3154-5556 kg DM/ha), harvest index (15.6-28.7%) and PUI (53.3-63.2%). Variety also had a significant effect on chemical composition, carbohydrate and protein fractions (p < 0.05) except non-structural carbohydrates and rapidly degradable sugars. Significant differences (p < 0.05) were observed among the varieties in potential gas production [188-234 mL/g DM], in vitro organic matter (OM) digestibility (43.7-54.2% of OM), and metabolizable energy (6.40-7.92 MJ/kg DM) of straw. Significant differences (p < 0.001) were also observed among the varieties in rapidly degradable DM fraction and effective DM degradability of straw; however, no difference was observed in other DM degradation parameters and neutral detergent fiber degradation parameters. In conclusion, based on straw yield and quality, Lanjian No. 1 has the greatest potential among the tested varieties as a crop for supplementing ruminant diets for smallholder farmers on the Qinghai-Tibetan plateau.

Comparative Grain Chemical Composition, Ruminal Degradation In Vivo, and Intestinal Digestibility In Vitro of Vicia Sativa L. Varieties Grown on the Tibetan Plateau

Simple Summary

Common vetch (Vicia sativa L.) grain is an important source of protein in rations for ruminants, but little information is available on the protein value of common vetch grains, both in terms of chemical composition and protein degradability, and regarding variation between intra-species and year. The objective of this study was to evaluate grain chemical composition, ruminal protein degradability in vivo, and intestinal protein digestibility in vitro of four common vetch varieties over two cropping years on the Tibetan Plateau. This study was also conducted to establish correlations of grain chemical composition with ruminal degradability parameters of grain protein and with intestinal digestibility of grain protein. Results of this study demonstrated that grain quality characteristics varied significantly among varieties and years. The relationship between grain chemical composition and intestinally absorbable digestible protein (IADP) was best described by a linear regression equation, and coefficients of determination remained very high (R² = 0.891). Overall, the results indicated that in terms of effective crude protein degradability and IADP of grain, common vetch varieties Lanjian No. 2 and Lanjian No. 3 have the greatest potential among varieties examined for supplementing ruminant diets when grown on the Tibetan Plateau.

Abstract

Four varieties of common vetch, three improved varieties and one local variety, were evaluated for grain chemical composition, rumen protein degradability, and intestinal protein digestibility over two cropping years on the Tibetan Plateau. This study also examined correlations of grain chemical composition with rumen degradability parameters of grain protein and with intestinal digestibility of grain protein. Results of this study showed that grain quality attributes varied (p < 0.05) among varieties and cropping years. Significant intra-species variation was observed for concentrations (g/kg dry matter) of crude protein (CP; range = 347–374), ether extract (range = 15.8–19.6), neutral detergent fiber (aNDF; range = 201–237), acid detergent fiber (range = 58.2–71.6), ash (range = 27.6–31.0), effective CP degradability (EDCP; range = 732–801 g/kg CP), and intestinally absorbable digestible protein (IADP; range = 136–208 g/kg CP). The relationship between grain chemical composition and IADP was best described by the linear regression equation IADP = –0.828CP + 8.80ash + 0.635aNDF + 70.2 (R² = 0.891), indicating that chemical analysis offers a quick and reliable method for IADP of common vetch grain. In terms of EDCP and IADP of grain, common vetch varieties, Lanjian No.2 and Lanjian No. 3, have the greatest potential among varieties tested for supplementing ruminant diets when grown on the Tibetan Plateau.