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Hung JC, Li NJ, Peng CY, Yang CC, Ko SS. Safe Farming: Ultrafine Bubble Water Reduces Insect Infestation and Improves Melon Yield and Quality. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 13:537. [PMID: 38498517 PMCID: PMC10891724 DOI: 10.3390/plants13040537] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/14/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024]
Abstract
Melon pest management relies on the excessive application of pesticides. Reducing pesticide spraying has become a global issue for environmental sustainability and human health. Therefore, developing a new cropping system that is sustainable and eco-friendly is important. This study found that melon seedlings irrigated with ultrafine water containing H2 and O2 (UFW) produced more root hairs, increased shoot height, and produced more flowers than the control irrigated with reverse osmosis (RO) water. Surprisingly, we also discovered that UFW irrigation significantly reduced aphid infestation in melons. Based on cryo-scanning electron microscope (cryo-SEM) observations, UFW treatment enhanced trichome development and prevented aphid infestation. To investigate whether it was H2 or O2 that helped to deter insect infestation, we prepared UF water enrichment of H2 (UF+H2) and O2 (UF+O2) separately and irrigated melons. Cryo-SEM results indicated that both UF+H2 and UF+O2 can increase the density of trichomes in melon leaves and petioles. RT-qPCR showed that UF+H2 significantly increased the gene expression level of the trichome-related gene GLABRA2 (GL2). We planted melons in a plastic greenhouse and irrigated them with ultrafine water enrichment of hydrogen (UF+H2) and oxygen (UF+O2). The SPAD value, photosynthetic parameters, root weight, fruit weight, and fruit sweetness were all better than the control without ultrafine water irrigation. UFW significantly increased trichome development, enhanced insect resistance, and improved fruit traits. This system thus provides useful water management for pest control and sustainable agricultural production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jo-Chi Hung
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan;
- Biotechnology Center in Southern Taiwan, Academia Sinica, Tainan 711, Taiwan
| | - Ning-Juan Li
- Season Agricultural Technology Co., Ltd., Tainan 711, Taiwan; (N.-J.L.); (C.-Y.P.)
| | - Ching-Yen Peng
- Season Agricultural Technology Co., Ltd., Tainan 711, Taiwan; (N.-J.L.); (C.-Y.P.)
| | - Ching-Chieh Yang
- Season Agricultural Technology Co., Ltd., Tainan 711, Taiwan; (N.-J.L.); (C.-Y.P.)
| | - Swee-Suak Ko
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei 115, Taiwan;
- Biotechnology Center in Southern Taiwan, Academia Sinica, Tainan 711, Taiwan
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Cheng P, Wang Y, Cai C, Li L, Zeng Y, Cheng X, Shen W. Molecular hydrogen positively regulates nitrate uptake and seed size by targeting nitrate reductase. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2023; 193:2734-2749. [PMID: 37625793 DOI: 10.1093/plphys/kiad474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 07/31/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Although the sources of molecular hydrogen (H2) synthesis in plants remain to be fully elucidated, ample evidence shows that plant-based H2 can regulate development and stress responses. Here, we present genetic and molecular evidence indicating that nitrate reductase (NR) might be a target of H2 sensing that positively regulates nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and seed size in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). The expression level of NR and changes of NUE under control and, in particular, low nitrogen supply were positively associated with H2 addition supplied exogenously or through genetic manipulation. The improvement in nitrate assimilation achieved by H2 was also mediated via NR dephosphorylation. H2 control of seed size was impaired by NR mutation. Further genetic evidence revealed that H2, NR, and nitric oxide can synergistically regulate nitrate assimilation in response to N starvation conditions. Collectively, our data indicate that NR might be a target for H2 sensing, ultimately positively regulating nitrate uptake and seed size. These results provide insights into H2 signaling and its functions in plant metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengfei Cheng
- College of Life Sciences, Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yueqiao Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Chenxu Cai
- College of Life Sciences, Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Longna Li
- College of Life Sciences, Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
| | - Yan Zeng
- Life Science Group, Air Liquide (China) R&D Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201108, China
| | - Xu Cheng
- Life Science Group, Air Liquide (China) R&D Co., Ltd., Shanghai 201108, China
| | - Wenbiao Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China
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Wang X, An Z, Liao J, Ran N, Zhu Y, Ren S, Meng X, Cui N, Yu Y, Fan H. The Role and Mechanism of Hydrogen-Rich Water in the Cucumis sativus Response to Chilling Stress. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:ijms24076702. [PMID: 37047675 PMCID: PMC10095547 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24076702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Revised: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2023] [Indexed: 04/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Cucumber is a warm climate vegetable that is sensitive to chilling reactions. Chilling can occur at any period of cucumber growth and development and seriously affects the yield and quality of cucumber. Hydrogen (H2) is a type of antioxidant that plays a critical role in plant development and the response to stress. Hydrogen-rich water (HRW) is the main way to use exogenous hydrogen. This study explored the role and mechanism of HRW in the cucumber defense response to chilling stress. The research results showed that applying 50% saturated HRW to the roots of cucumber seedlings relieved the damage caused by chilling stress. The growth and development indicators, such as plant height, stem diameter, leaf area, dry weight, fresh weight, and root length, increased under the HRW treatment. Photosynthetic efficiency, chlorophyll content, and Fv/Fm also improved and reduced energy dissipation. In addition, after HRW treatment, the REC and MDA content were decreased, and membrane lipid damage was reduced. NBT and DAB staining results showed that the color was lighter, and the area was smaller under HRW treatment. Additionally, the contents of O2- and H2O2 also decreased. Under chilling stress, the application of HRW increased the activity of the antioxidases SOD, CAT, POD, GR, and APX and improved the expression of the SOD, CAT, POD, GR, and APX antioxidase genes. The GSSG content was reduced, and the GSH content was increased. In addition, the ASA content also increased. Therefore, exogenous HRW is an effective measure for cucumber to respond to chilling stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Wang
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Zhonghui An
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Jiameng Liao
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Nana Ran
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Yimeng Zhu
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Shufeng Ren
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Xiangnan Meng
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Na Cui
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Yang Yu
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
| | - Haiyan Fan
- College of Bioscience and Biotechnology, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
- Key Laboratory of Protected Horticulture of Ministry of Education, Shenyang Agricultural University, Shenyang 110866, China
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Liu F, Wang Y, Zhang G, Li L, Shen W. Molecular hydrogen positively influences lateral root formation by regulating hydrogen peroxide signaling. PLANT SCIENCE : AN INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL PLANT BIOLOGY 2022; 325:111500. [PMID: 36257409 DOI: 10.1016/j.plantsci.2022.111500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Although a previous study discovered that exogenous molecular hydrogen (H2) supplied with hydrogen-rich water (HRW) can mediate lateral root (LR) development, whether or how endogenous H2 influences LR formation is still elusive. In this report, mimicking the induction responses in tomato seedlings achieved by HRW or exogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2; a positive control), transgenic Arabidopsis that overexpressed the hydrogenase1 gene (CrHYD1) from Chlamydomonas reinhardtii not only stimulated endogenous hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production, but also markedly promoted LR formation. Above H2 and H2O2 responses were abolished by the removal of endogenous H2O2. Moreover, the changes in transcriptional patterns of representative cell cycle genes and auxin signaling-related genes during LR development in both tomato and transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana matched with above phenotypes. The alternations in the levels of GUS transcripts driven by the CYCB1 promoter and expression of PIN1 protein further indicated that H2O2 synthesis was tightly linked to LR formation achieved by endogenous H2, and cell cycle regulation and auxin-dependent pathway might be their targets. There results might provide a reference for molecular mechanism underlying the regulation of root morphogenesis by H2.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feijie Liu
- College of Life Sciences, Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Yueqiao Wang
- College of Life Sciences, Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Guhua Zhang
- College of Life Sciences, Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Longna Li
- College of Life Sciences, Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China
| | - Wenbiao Shen
- College of Life Sciences, Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, Jiangsu 210095, China.
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Hancock JT. Editorial for Special Issue: “Production and Role of Molecular Hydrogen in Plants”. PLANTS 2022; 11:plants11152047. [PMID: 35956525 PMCID: PMC9370376 DOI: 10.3390/plants11152047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 07/18/2022] [Accepted: 08/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Molecular hydrogen (H2) is an extremely small molecule, which is relatively insoluble in water and relatively inert [...]
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Affiliation(s)
- John T Hancock
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK
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Integrated Metabolomic and Transcriptomic Analyses to Understand the Effects of Hydrogen Water on the Roots of Ficus hirta Vahl. PLANTS 2022; 11:plants11050602. [PMID: 35270073 PMCID: PMC8912395 DOI: 10.3390/plants11050602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2021] [Revised: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 02/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Wuzhimaotao (Ficus hirta Vahl) is an important medicinal and edible plant in China. The extract from the roots of Ficus hirta Vahl contains phenylpropanoid compounds, such as coumarins and flavonoids, which are the main active components of this Chinese herbal medicine. In this study, we analyzed the transcriptomic and metabolomic data of the hydrogen-water-treated roots of Ficus hirta Vahl and a control group. The results showed that many genes and metabolites were regulated in the roots of Ficus hirta Vahl that were treated with hydrogen water. Compared with the control group, 173 genes were downregulated and 138 genes were upregulated in the hydrogen-rich water treatment group. Differential metabolite analysis through LC-MS showed that 168 and 109 metabolites had significant differences in positive and negative ion mode, respectively. In the upregulated metabolites, the main active components of Wuzhimaotao, such as the phenylpropane compounds naringin, bergaptol, hesperidin, and benzofuran, were found. Integrated transcriptomic and metabolomic data analysis showed that four and one of the most relevant pathways were over enriched in positive and negative ion mode, respectively. In the relationship between metabolites and DEGs, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and metabolism play an important role. This indicates that phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and metabolism may be the main metabolic pathways regulated by hydrogen water. Our transcriptome analysis showed that most of the DEGs with |log2FC| ≥ 1 are transcription factor genes, and most of them are related to plant hormone signal transduction, stress resistance, and secondary metabolism, mainly phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and metabolism. This study provides important evidence and clues for revealing the botanical effect mechanism of hydrogen and a theoretical basis for the application of hydrogen agriculture in the cultivation of Chinese herbal medicine.
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Abstract
Since the late 18th century, molecular hydrogen (H2) has been shown to be well tolerated, firstly in animals, and then in humans. However, although research into the beneficial effects of molecular hydrogen in both plant and mammalian physiology is gaining momentum, the idea of utilising this electrochemically neutral and non-polar diatomic compound for the benefit of health has yet to be widely accepted by regulatory bodies worldwide. Due to the precise mechanisms of H2 activity being as yet undefined, the lack of primary target identification, coupled with difficulties regarding administration methods (e.g., dosage and dosage frequencies, long-term effects of treatment, and the patient’s innate antioxidant profile), there is a requirement for H2 research to evidence how it can reasonably and most effectively be incorporated into medical practice. This review collates and assesses the current information regarding the many routes of molecular hydrogen administration in animals and humans, whilst evaluating how targeted delivery methods could be integrated into a modern healthcare system.
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Abstract
Improvements in the growth, yield, and quality of horticultural crops require the development of simply integrated, cost-efficient, and eco-friendly solutions. Hydrogen gas (H2) has been observed to have fertilization effects on soils by influencing rhizospheric microorganisms, resulting in improvements in crop yield and quality. Ample studies have shown that H2 has positive effects on horticultural crops, such as promoting root development, enhancing tolerance against abiotic and biotic stress, prolonging storage life, and improving postharvest quality of fruits, vegetables and cut flowers. In this review, we aim to evaluate the feasibility of molecular hydrogen application in horticulture and the strategies for its application, including H2 delivery methods, treatment timing, and the concentration of H2 applied. The discussion will be accompanied by outlining the effects of H2 and the likely mechanisms of its efficacy. In short, the application of H2 may provide novel opportunities for simple and cost efficient improvements of horticultural production in terms of increased yield and product quality but with low carbon dioxide emissions.
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Hancock JT, LeBaron TW, May J, Thomas A, Russell G. Molecular Hydrogen: Is This a Viable New Treatment for Plants in the UK? PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:plants10112270. [PMID: 34834633 PMCID: PMC8618766 DOI: 10.3390/plants10112270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Despite being trialed in other regions of the world, the use of molecular hydrogen (H2) for enhanced plant growth and the postharvest storage of crops has yet to be widely accepted in the UK. The evidence that the treatment of plants and plant products with H2 alleviates plant stress and slows crop senescence continues to grow. Many of these effects appear to be mediated by the alteration of the antioxidant capacity of plant cells. Some effects seem to involve heme oxygenase, whilst the reduction in the prosthetic group Fe3+ is also suggested as a mechanism. Although it is difficult to use as a gaseous treatment in a field setting, the use of hydrogen-rich water (HRW) has the potential to be of significant benefit to agricultural practices. However, the use of H2 in agriculture will only be adopted if the benefits outweigh the production and application costs. HRW is safe and relatively easy to use. If H2 gas or HRW are utilized in other countries for agricultural purposes, it is tempting to suggest that they could also be widely used in the UK in the future, particularly for postharvest storage, thus reducing food waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T. Hancock
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK; (J.M.); (A.T.); (G.R.)
| | - Tyler W. LeBaron
- Centre of Experimental Medicine, Institute for Heart Research, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Faculty of Natural Sciences of Comenius University, 84104 Bratislava, Slovakia;
- Molecular Hydrogen Institute, Enoch, UT 84721, USA
- Department of Kinesiology and Outdoor Recreation, Southern Utah University, Cedar City, UT 84720, USA
| | - Jennifer May
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK; (J.M.); (A.T.); (G.R.)
| | - Adam Thomas
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK; (J.M.); (A.T.); (G.R.)
| | - Grace Russell
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK; (J.M.); (A.T.); (G.R.)
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Xu Y, Fan M, Yang W, Xiao Y, Zeng L, Wu X, Xu Q, Su C, He Q. Homogeneous Carbon/Potassium-Incorporation Strategy for Synthesizing Red Polymeric Carbon Nitride Capable of Near-Infrared Photocatalytic H 2 Production. ADVANCED MATERIALS (DEERFIELD BEACH, FLA.) 2021; 33:e2101455. [PMID: 34369623 DOI: 10.1002/adma.202101455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2021] [Revised: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The efficient utilization of near-infrared (NIR) light for photocatalytic hydrogen generation is vitally important to both solar hydrogen energy and hydrogen medicine, but remains a challenge at present, owing to the strict requirement of the semiconductor for high NIR responsiveness, narrow bandgap, and suitable redox potentials. Here, an NIR-active carbon/potassium-doped red polymeric carbon nitride (RPCN) is achieved for by using a similar-structure dopant as the melamine (C3 H6 N6 ) precursor with the solid KCl. The homogeneous and high incorporation of carbon and potassium remarkably narrows the bandgap of carbon nitride (1.7 eV) and endows RPCN with a high NIR-photocatalytic activity for H2 evolution from water at the rate of 140 µmol h-1 g-1 under NIR irradiation (700 nm ≤ λ ≤ 780 nm), and the apparent quantum efficiency is high as 0.84% at 700 ± 10 nm (and 13% at 500 ± 10 nm). A proof-of-concept experiment on a tumor-bearing mouse model verifies RPCN as being capable of intratumoral NIR-photocatalytic hydrogen generation and simultaneous glutathione deprivation for safe and high-efficacy drug-free cancer therapy. The results shed light on designing efficient photocatalysts to capture the full spectrum of solar energy, and also pioneer a new pathway to develop NIR photocatalysts for hydrogen therapy of major diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangsen Xu
- SZU-NUS Collaborative Center and International Collaborative Laboratory of 2D Materials for Optoelectronic Science & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Mingjian Fan
- SZU-NUS Collaborative Center and International Collaborative Laboratory of 2D Materials for Optoelectronic Science & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, China
| | - Wenjuan Yang
- SZU-NUS Collaborative Center and International Collaborative Laboratory of 2D Materials for Optoelectronic Science & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Yonghao Xiao
- SZU-NUS Collaborative Center and International Collaborative Laboratory of 2D Materials for Optoelectronic Science & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Lingting Zeng
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, China
| | - Xiao Wu
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, Science Drive 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Qinghua Xu
- Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, Science Drive 3, Singapore, 117543, Singapore
| | - Chenliang Su
- SZU-NUS Collaborative Center and International Collaborative Laboratory of 2D Materials for Optoelectronic Science & Technology of Ministry of Education, College of Optoelectronic Engineering, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518060, China
| | - Qianjun He
- Marshall Laboratory of Biomedical Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, 518071, China
- Center of Hydrogen Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, 200240, China
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Zulfiqar F, Russell G, Hancock JT. Molecular hydrogen in agriculture. PLANTA 2021; 254:56. [PMID: 34420086 DOI: 10.1007/s00425-021-03706-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/14/2021] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
H2 gas, usually in the form of H2-saturated water, could play a useful role in improving many aspects of plant growth and productivity, including resistance to stress tolerance and improved post-harvest durability. Therefore, molecular hydrogen delivery systems should be considered as a valuable addition within agricultural practice. Agriculture and food security are both impacted by plant stresses, whether that is directly from human impact or through climate change. A continuously increasing human population and rising food consumption means that there is need to search for agriculturally useful and environment friendly strategies to ensure future food security. Molecular hydrogen (H2) research has gained momentum in plant and agricultural science owing to its multifaceted and diverse roles in plants. H2 application can mitigate against a range of stresses, including salinity, heavy metals and drought. Therefore, knowing how endogenous, or exogenously applied, H2 enhances the growth and tolerance against numerous plant stresses will enhance our understanding of how H2 may be useful for future to agriculture and horticulture. In this review, recent progress and future implication of H2 in agriculture is highlighted, focusing on how H2 impacts on plant cell function and how it can be applied for better plant performance. Although the exact molecular action of H2 in plants remains elusive, this safe and easy to apply treatment should have a future in agricultural practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal Zulfiqar
- Department of Horticultural Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture and Environment, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, 63100, Pakistan.
| | - Grace Russell
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | - John T Hancock
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
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Jiang K, Kuang Y, Feng L, Liu Y, Wang S, Du H, Shen W. Molecular Hydrogen Maintains the Storage Quality of Chinese Chive through Improving Antioxidant Capacity. PLANTS 2021; 10:plants10061095. [PMID: 34072565 PMCID: PMC8227461 DOI: 10.3390/plants10061095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2021] [Revised: 05/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/27/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Chinese chive usually becomes decayed after a short storage time, which was closely observed with the redox imbalance. To cope with this practical problem, in this report, molecular hydrogen (H2) was used to evaluate its influence in maintaining storage quality of Chinese chive, and the changes in antioxidant capacity were also analyzed. Chives were treated with 1%, 2%, or 3% H2, and with air as the control, and then were stored at 4 ± 1 °C. We observed that, compared with other treatment groups, the application of 3% H2 could significantly prolong the shelf life of Chinese chive, which was also confirmed by the obvious mitigation of decreased decay index, the loss ratio of weight, and the reduction in soluble protein content. Meanwhile, the decreasing tendency in total phenolic, flavonoid, and vitamin C contents was obviously impaired or slowed down by H2. Results of antioxidant capacity revealed that the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) was differentially alleviated, which positively matched with 2,2-Diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging activity and the improved activities of antioxidant enzymes, including superoxide dismutase (SOD), guaiacol peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APX). Above results clearly suggest that postharvest molecular hydrogen application might be a potential useful approach to improve the storage quality of Chinese chive, which is partially achieved through the alleviation of oxidative damage happening during the storage periods. These findings also provide potential theoretical and practical significance for transportation and consumption of perishable vegetables.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ke Jiang
- Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (K.J.); (Y.K.); (L.F.); (Y.L.); (S.W.)
- Center of Hydrogen Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
| | - Yong Kuang
- Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (K.J.); (Y.K.); (L.F.); (Y.L.); (S.W.)
| | - Liying Feng
- Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (K.J.); (Y.K.); (L.F.); (Y.L.); (S.W.)
| | - Yuhao Liu
- Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (K.J.); (Y.K.); (L.F.); (Y.L.); (S.W.)
| | - Shu Wang
- Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (K.J.); (Y.K.); (L.F.); (Y.L.); (S.W.)
| | - Hongmei Du
- School of Design, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China;
| | - Wenbiao Shen
- Laboratory Center of Life Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing 210095, China; (K.J.); (Y.K.); (L.F.); (Y.L.); (S.W.)
- Center of Hydrogen Science, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200240, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-25-84-399-032; Fax: +86-25-84-396-542
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Russell G, Nenov A, Hancock JT. Oxy-hydrogen Gas: The Rationale Behind Its Use as a Novel and Sustainable Treatment for
COVID-19 and Other Respiratory Diseases. EUROPEAN MEDICAL JOURNAL 2021. [DOI: 10.33590/emj/21-00027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Oxy-hydrogen gas (HHO) is a gaseous mixture of molecular hydrogen and molecular oxygen that is generated by the electrolysis of water and delivered in a 2:1 ratio (66% and 33%, respectively) through the use of noninvasive inhalation devices such as nasal cannulas or nebulisers. Although there is a paucity of scientific evidence supporting this new and emerging therapy, initial investigations indicate that HHO proffers cytoprotective qualities, typically by reducing oxidative stress and attenuating
the inflammatory response. These aspects are particularly favourable when considering respiratory medicine because underlying inflammation is known to drive the pathological progress of numerous respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, and, pertinently, coronavirus disease (COVID-19). Direct delivery to the lung parenchyma is also likely to increase the effectiveness of this emerging medical therapy. This narrative review aims to delineate how this particular combination of gases can affect cellular processes at the molecular level by focussing on the evolutionary requirement for both oxygen and hydrogen. Furthermore, the authors assess the current available data for the safety and efficacy of HHO in a clinical setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Russell
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
| | | | - John T. Hancock
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol, UK
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Hancock JT, Russell G. Downstream Signalling from Molecular Hydrogen. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2021; 10:367. [PMID: 33672953 PMCID: PMC7918658 DOI: 10.3390/plants10020367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Molecular hydrogen (H2) is now considered part of the suite of small molecules that can control cellular activity. As such, H2 has been suggested to be used in the therapy of diseases in humans and in plant science to enhance the growth and productivity of plants. Treatments of plants may involve the creation of hydrogen-rich water (HRW), which can then be applied to the foliage or roots systems of the plants. However, the molecular action of H2 remains elusive. It has been suggested that the presence of H2 may act as an antioxidant or on the antioxidant capacity of cells, perhaps through the scavenging of hydroxyl radicals. H2 may act through influencing heme oxygenase activity or through the interaction with reactive nitrogen species. However, controversy exists around all the mechanisms suggested. Here, the downstream mechanisms in which H2 may be involved are critically reviewed, with a particular emphasis on the H2 mitigation of stress responses. Hopefully, this review will provide insight that may inform future research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- John T. Hancock
- Department of Applied Sciences, University of the West of England, Bristol BS16 1QY, UK;
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Zulfiqar F, Ashraf M. Bioregulators: unlocking their potential role in regulation of the plant oxidative defense system. PLANT MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2021; 105:11-41. [PMID: 32990920 DOI: 10.1007/s11103-020-01077-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Plant bioregulators play an important role in managing oxidative stress tolerance in plants. Utilizing their ability in stress sensitive crops through genetic engineering will be a meaningful approach to manage food production under the threat of climate change. Exploitation of the plant defense system against oxidative stress to engineer tolerant plants in the climate change scenario is a sustainable and meaningful strategy. Plant bioregulators (PBRs), which are important biotic factors, are known to play a vital role not only in the development of plants, but also in inducing tolerance in plants against various environmental extremes. These bioregulators include auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, abscisic acid, brassinosteroids, polyamines, strigolactones, and ascorbic acid and provide protection against the oxidative stress-associated reactive oxygen species through modulation or activation of a plant's antioxidant system. Therefore, exploitation of their functioning and accumulation is of considerable significance for the development of plants more tolerant of harsh environmental conditions in order to tackle the issue of food security under the threat of climate change. Therefore, this review summarizes a new line of evidence that how PBRs act as inducers of oxidative stress resistance in plants and how they could be modulated in transgenic crops via introgression of genes. Reactive oxygen species production during oxidative stress events and their neutralization through an efficient antioxidants system is comprehensively detailed. Further, the use of exogenously applied PBRs in the induction of oxidative stress resistance is discussed. Recent advances in engineering transgenic plants with modified PBR gene expression to exploit the plant defense system against oxidative stress are discussed from an agricultural perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faisal Zulfiqar
- Institute of Horticultural Sciences, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Faisalabad, Pakistan.
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