Epigenetics-mediated breeding(epibreeding)involves engineering crop traits and stress responses through the targeted manipulation of key epigenetic features to enhance agricultural productivity.While conventional bree...Epigenetics-mediated breeding(epibreeding)involves engineering crop traits and stress responses through the targeted manipulation of key epigenetic features to enhance agricultural productivity.While conventional breeding methods raise concerns about reduced genetic diversity,epibreeding propels crop improvement through epigenetic variations that regulate gene expression,ultimately impacting crop yield.Epigenetic regulation in crops encompasses various modes,including histone modification,DNA modification,RNA modification,non-coding RNA,and chromatin remodeling.This review summarizes the epigenetic mechanisms underlying major agronomic traits in maize and identifies candidate epigenetic landmarks in the maize breeding process.We propose a valuable strategy for improving maize yield through epibreeding,combining CRISPR/Cas-based epigenome editing technology and Synthetic Epigenetics(SynEpi).Finally,we discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with maize trait improvement through epibreeding.展开更多
Rice seedling blight,caused by various fungi,including Fusarium oxysporum,poses a severe threat to rice production.As awareness grows regarding the environmental and safety hazards associated with the application of f...Rice seedling blight,caused by various fungi,including Fusarium oxysporum,poses a severe threat to rice production.As awareness grows regarding the environmental and safety hazards associated with the application of fungicides for managing rice seedling blight,there has been a shift in focus towards biological control agents.In this study,we isolated biocontrol bacteria from paddy fields that significantly inhibited the growth of F.oxysporum in vitro and identified the strains as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens T40 and Bacillus pumilus T208.Additionally,our findings indicated that the combined application of these Bacillus strains in soil was more effective in reducing the incidence of rice seedling blight than their individual use.Analysis of 16S and internal transcribed spacer rRNA gene sequencing data revealed that the mixture of the T40 and T208 strains exhibited the lowest average clustering coefficients,which were negatively correlated with the biomass of F.oxysporum-inoculated rice seedlings.Furthermore,this mixture led to higher stochastic assembly(average|βNTI|<2)and reduced selection pressures on rice rhizosphere bacteria compared with individual strain applications.The mixture of the T40 and T208 strains also significantly increased the expression of defense-related genes.In conclusion,the mixture of the T40 and T208 strains effectively modulates microbial community structures,enhances microbial network stability,and boosts the resistance against rice seedling blight.Our study supports the development and utilization of biological resources for crop protection.展开更多
Peel color is an important appearance quality of melons that significantly affects consumer preferences.In this study,a near-isogenic line NIL-G(dark green peel)was generated from B8(grey-green peel)and B15(white peel...Peel color is an important appearance quality of melons that significantly affects consumer preferences.In this study,a near-isogenic line NIL-G(dark green peel)was generated from B8(grey-green peel)and B15(white peel).The F_2 population constructed by crossing NIL-G and B15 was used to study the inheritance pattern of peel color,and bulked-segregant analysis sequencing(BSA-seq)was employed to identify the interval in which the target gene was located.Genetic analysis showed that a dominant gene controls the dark green peel trait at maturity.BSAseq and molecular markers were used to localize the candidate gene in a 263.7 kb interval of chromosome 4,which contained the CmAPRR2 gene with known functions.Moreover,allelic sequence analysis revealed four SNP variations of the CmAPRR2 gene in B15,of which SNP.G614331A was located at the junction of the 6th exon and 6th intron.The G-to-A mutation caused alternative splicing of the transcript of CmAPRR2 in B15,generating two transcripts(CmAPRR2-A and CmAPRR2-B)with premature termination codons.Furthermore,the Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR(KASP)marker,APRR2-G/A,was developed based on this SNP and shown to co-segregate with the peel color phenotype in the F_(2) population.Compared to white-peel B15,the expression level of CmAPRR2 in dark green peel NIL-G was higher at each growth stage.Therefore,CmAPRR2 may be the key gene controlling the fruit color of melons.This study identified a novel allelic variant of CmAPRR2 that leads to white peel formation in mature melons.We also provides a theoretical basis for further research on the gene regulatory mechanism of melon peel colors,which promotes using molecular marker-assisted selection to modify melon peel colors in the future.展开更多
Leaf color mutants (LCMs) provide crucial insights into the regulatory mechanisms underlying chloroplast development,photo synthesis,and stre ss adaptation.In this study,we identified a temperature-sensitive albino mu...Leaf color mutants (LCMs) provide crucial insights into the regulatory mechanisms underlying chloroplast development,photo synthesis,and stre ss adaptation.In this study,we identified a temperature-sensitive albino mutant,tsa4,characterized by an albino phenotype at the seedling stage and abnormal chloroplast development at temperatures below 25℃.展开更多
Following the publication of Liu et al.(2024),an error was identified in Figure 4B,in which the image representing the lung from the E529G group was inadvertently duplicated with the image of the lung from the WT grou...Following the publication of Liu et al.(2024),an error was identified in Figure 4B,in which the image representing the lung from the E529G group was inadvertently duplicated with the image of the lung from the WT group during figure preparation.展开更多
Highlights ZmMYC2 promoter contains favorable haplotypes selected during domestication,enhancing its expression level in modern maize.ZmMYC2 may balance the trade-off between growth and defense via jasmonate and auxin...Highlights ZmMYC2 promoter contains favorable haplotypes selected during domestication,enhancing its expression level in modern maize.ZmMYC2 may balance the trade-off between growth and defense via jasmonate and auxin signaling pathways.ZmMYC2 regulates drought-response genes(CER2 and TIP3c)to optimize drought stress resilience.展开更多
Despite its negative impacts on plant functioning,climate change benefits plants at the cellular level.For example,the stimulation of C3 photosynthesis by elevated CO_(2)can increase N2 fixation by 73%and grain yield ...Despite its negative impacts on plant functioning,climate change benefits plants at the cellular level.For example,the stimulation of C3 photosynthesis by elevated CO_(2)can increase N2 fixation by 73%and grain yield by 10%–11%.The global elevated atmospheric CO_(2)concentration has already decreased the nitrogen content in C3 crop species and C3 woody vegetation by 14%and 21%,respectively,regardless of added nitrogen fertilizer.^(15)N-feeding experiments have shown that,after 19 h under elevated CO_(2),the^(15)N concentration in the stems,roots plus rhizomes,and whole plants of Scirpus olneyi(S.olneyi)decreased by 51%,63%,and 74%,respectively.Moreover,S.olneyi showed reduced NH_(4)^(+)assimilation under elevated CO_(2),which decreased the amino acid contents in the stems by 25.6%for glycine and 65.0%for serine,and that in the roots plus rhizomes by 2%for gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA)and 80%for glutamate.Wheat grain protein has also been found to decrease by 7.4%under elevated CO_(2)due to reductions in threonine,valine,iso-leucine,leucine,and phenylalanine.The mineral nutrient contents in grains of rice and maize were similarly found to decrease under high CO_(2)by 1.0%and 7.1%for phosphorus,7.8%and 2.1%for sulfur,5.2%and 5.8%for iron,3.3%and 5.2%for zinc,10.6%and 9.9%for copper,and 7.5%and 4.2%for manganese,respectively.In general,mineral concentrations in C3 plants are predicted to decrease by 8%under elevated CO_(2),while total non-structural carbohydrates(mainly starch and sugars)are expected to increase.These decreases in grain protein,amino acids,and mineral nutrients could double the incidence of global protein-calorie malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency—especially in Africa,where agricultural soils are inherently low in nutrient elements.Additionally,the increase in total non-structural carbohydrates(mainly starch and sugars)in cereal crops could elevate diabetes incidence due to heavy reliance on starchy diets.The negative effects of elevated CO_(2)on rice,maize,and wheat—the world's three major staple crops—suggest an increase in global food insecurity with rising atmospheric CO_(2)concentration.展开更多
Increasing plant density is an effective strategy for enhancing crop yield per unit land area.A key architectural trait for crops adapting to high planting density is a smaller leaf angle(LA).Previous studies have dem...Increasing plant density is an effective strategy for enhancing crop yield per unit land area.A key architectural trait for crops adapting to high planting density is a smaller leaf angle(LA).Previous studies have demonstrated that LG1,a SQUAMOSA BINDING PROTEIN(SBP)transcription factor,plays a critical role in LA establishment.However,the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of LG1 on LA formation remain largely unclear.In this study,we conduct comparative RNA-seq analysis of the preligule band(PLB)region of wild type and lg1 mutant leaves.Gene Ontology(GO)term enrichment analysis reveals enrichment of phytohormone pathways and transcription factors,including three auxin transporter genes ZmPIN1a,ZmPIN1b,and ZmPIN1c.Further molecular experiments demonstrate that LG1 can directly bind to the promoter region of these auxin transporter genes and activate their transcription.We also show that double and triple mutants of these ZmPINs genes exhibit varying degrees of auricle size reduction and thus decreased LA.On the contrary,overexpression of ZmPIN1a causes larger auricle and LA.Taken together,our findings establish a functional link between LG1 and auxin transport in regulating PLB formation and provide valuable targets for genetic improvement of LA for breeding high-density tolerant maize cultivars.展开更多
Cotton is an essential agricultural commodity,but its global yield is greatly affected by climate change,which poses a serious threat to the agriculture sector.This review aims to provide an overview of the impact of ...Cotton is an essential agricultural commodity,but its global yield is greatly affected by climate change,which poses a serious threat to the agriculture sector.This review aims to provide an overview of the impact of climate change on cotton production and the use of genomic approaches to increase stress tolerance in cotton.This paper discusses the effects of rising temperatures,changing precipitation patterns,and extreme weather events on cotton yield.It then explores various genomic strategies,such as genomic selection and marker-assisted selection,which can be used to develop stress-tolerant cotton varieties.The review emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary research efforts and policy interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on cotton production.Furthermore,this paper presents advanced prospects,including genomic selection,gene editing,multi-omics integration,highthroughput phenotyping,genomic data sharing,climate-informed breeding,and phenomics-assisted genomic selection,for enhancing stress resilience in cotton.Those innovative approaches can assist cotton researchers and breeders in developing highly resilient cotton varieties capable of withstanding the challenges posed by climate change,ensuring the sustainable and prosperous future of cotton production.展开更多
A later heading date generally leads to higher grain yield in favorable ecological regions;however,grain yield reaches a limit as the heading date exceeds a certain threshold.Ghd7 is the first cloned major gene that r...A later heading date generally leads to higher grain yield in favorable ecological regions;however,grain yield reaches a limit as the heading date exceeds a certain threshold.Ghd7 is the first cloned major gene that regulates heading date,plant height and grain number.Here,we investigated the relationship between Ghd7 and florigen genes Hd3a and RFT1,to determine their roles in regulating heading date and grain number under different photoperiods.Our results revealed that under long-day(LD)conditions,Hd3a acts prior to RFT1 to promote heading while negatively regulating plant height and grain number.In contrast,Ghd7 positively regulates heading date,plant height,and grain number by inhibiting both Hd3a and RFT1.Under short-day(SD)conditions,the functions of Hd3a and RFT1 remain consistent with those under LD conditions,but Ghd7 does not inhibit their expression,resulting in a weaker phenotypic effect compared to Hd3a.Additionally,under both LD and SD conditions,increased Ghd7 expression enhances its inhibitory effect on Hd3a and RFT1,leading to later heading and increased grain number;however,once the heading date exceeds 94 d,grain number no longer increases.Moreover,the gn1a allele increased grain number by 16.5%to 42.5%,while combinations of the elite alleles from Ghd7,Hd3a,RFT1,and Gn1a significantly increased grain number by up to 240.9%.Therefore,we propose a new breeding strategy to optimize the heading date and grain number using the Ghd7Hd3aRFT1gn1a combination of Ghd7,Hd3a,RFT1,and Gn1a under LD conditions,and the Ghd7hd3aRFT1gn1a combination under SD conditions.This strategy improved the yield of the high-quality Northeast variety Kongyu 131(KY131)by 69.1%in Beijing and 93.7%in Hainan.This strategy will greatly improve the efficiency of north-to-south adaptation in rice,providing theoretical guidance for expanding the geographical adaptability of rice varieties.展开更多
Chemically modified lignin refers to a class of high-value products derived from the treatment of industrial lignin using physical,chemical,or biological methods,which alter its structure and properties.The modificati...Chemically modified lignin refers to a class of high-value products derived from the treatment of industrial lignin using physical,chemical,or biological methods,which alter its structure and properties.The modification of lignin will enhance its thermostability,antioxidant property,adsorbability,antibacterial property,degradability and plasticity,and opens new avenues for its use in biomass utilization,consequently expanding its potential applications.This paper reviews the theoretical foundations and preparation methods of modified lignin,such as amination modification,sulfonation modification,demethylation modification,oxidation modification,graft copolymerization modification and alkylation modification,were reviewed in this paper,with a particular focus on its applications in adhesives,dispersants,drug delivery systems,luminophores,carbon-based energy storage electrodes,and some other areas.Additionally,the paper addresses the challenges and issues faced by modified lignin.This review offers valuable theoretical insights for the green production of modified lignin and its expanded applications.展开更多
Marine natural products have long been recognized as a vast and diverse source of bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic applications,particularly in oncology.This review provides an updated overview of the si...Marine natural products have long been recognized as a vast and diverse source of bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic applications,particularly in oncology.This review provides an updated overview of the significant advances made in the discovery and development of marine-derived anticancer drugs between 2019 and 2023.With a focus on recent research findings,the review explores the rich biodiversity of marine organisms,including sponges,corals,algae,and microorganisms,which have yielded numerous compounds exhibiting promising anticancer properties.Emphasizing the multifaceted mechanisms of action,the review discusses the molecular targets and pathways targeted by these compounds,such as cell cycle regulation,apoptosis induction,angiogenesis inhibition,and modulation of signaling pathways.Additionally,the review highlights the innovative strategies employed in the isolation,structural elucidation,and chemical modification of marine natural products to enhance their potency,selectivity,and pharmacological properties.Furthermore,it addresses the challenges and opportunities associated with the development of marine-derived anticancer drugs,including issues related to supply,sustainability,synthesis,and clinical translation.Finally,the review underscores the immense potential of marine natural products as a valuable reservoir of novel anticancer agents and advocates for continued exploration and exploitation of the marine environment to address the unmet medical needs in cancer therapy.展开更多
Aim： To detect the expression of hepatitis B virus （HBV） genes （HB S and C genes） in early embryonic cells after introducing motile human sperm carrying HBV DNA into zona-free hamster oocytes via the in vitro fer...Aim： To detect the expression of hepatitis B virus （HBV） genes （HB S and C genes） in early embryonic cells after introducing motile human sperm carrying HBV DNA into zona-free hamster oocytes via the in vitro fertilization （IVF） technique. Methods： Human sperm-mediated HBV genes were delivered into zona-free hamster oocytes by the IVF method. Polymerase chain reaction （PCR） was used to detect HB S and pre-Core/Core （pre-C/C） coding genes both in one- and two-cell embryos. Reverse transcription-PCR （RT-PCR） analysis was used to study the expression of the two genes. Fluorescence in situ hybridization （FISH） analysis using the full-length HBV DNA as the hybridization probe was performed to confirm the integration of viral DNA in the host embryonic genome. Results： Both HB S and pre-C/C coding genes are present and transcribed in one- and two-cell embryos originated from hamster ova IVF with human spermatozoa carrying HBV DNA sequences. Conclusion： Sperm-mediated HBV genes are able to replicate and express themselves in early embryonic cells. These results provide direct evidence that HBV DNA could transmit vertically to the next generation via the male germ line.展开更多
Objective:To detect the in vitro total phenolics,flavonoids contents and antioxidant activity of essential oil,various organic extracts from the leaves of tropical medicinal plant Tetrastigma from Sabah.Methods:The dr...Objective:To detect the in vitro total phenolics,flavonoids contents and antioxidant activity of essential oil,various organic extracts from the leaves of tropical medicinal plant Tetrastigma from Sabah.Methods:The dry powder leaves of Tetrastigma were extracted with different organic solvent such as hexane.ethyl acetate,chloroform,butanol and aqueous methanol.The total phenolic and total flavonoids contents of the essential oil and various organic extracts such as hexane,ethyl acetate,chloroform,butanol and aqueous ethanol were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu method and the assayed antioxidant activity was determined in vitro models such as antioxidant capacity by radical scavenging activity usingα,α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method.Results:The total phenolic contents of the essential oil and different extracts as gallic acid equivalents were found to be highest in methanol extract(386.22 mg/g) followed by ethyl acetate(190.89 mg/g).chloroform(175.89 mg/g).hexane(173.44 mg/g).and Imtanol extract (131.72 mg/g) and the phenolic contents not detected in essential oil.The antioxidant capacity of the essential oil and different extracts as ascorbic acid standard was in the order of methanol extract】ethyl acetate extract】chloroform】butanol】hexane extract also the antioxidant activity was not detected in essential oil.Conclusions:The findings show that the extent of antioxidant activity of the essential oil and all extracts are in accordance with the amount of phenolics present in that extract.Leaves of Tetrastigma being rich in phenolics may provide a good source of antioxidant.展开更多
AIM: To investigate whether microvessel density (MVD) is related with prognosis in gastric cancer patients, and the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and vessel endothelial growth factor (VEGF) so as to determine...AIM: To investigate whether microvessel density (MVD) is related with prognosis in gastric cancer patients, and the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and vessel endothelial growth factor (VEGF) so as to determine the possible role of COX-2 and VEGF in gastric cancer angiogenesis.METHODS: Forty-seven formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples of gastric cancer were evaluated for COX-2, VEGF by immunohitochemical staining. To assess tumor angiogenesis, MVD was determined by immunohitochemical staining of endothelial protein factor Ⅷ-related antigen. The relationship among COX-2 and VEGF expression, MVD, and clinicopathologic parameters was analyzed. RESULTS: Among the 67 samples, high MVD was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis and poor survival. Multivariate survival analysis showed that MVD value and lymph node metastasis were independent prognostic factors. The expression rate of COX-2 and VEGF was significantly higher than that of the adjacent tissues. COX-2 and VEGF expression in gastric cancer was significantly correlated with tumor differentiation and depth of invasion, but not with survival. The mean MVD value of COX-2 or VEGF positive tumors was higher than that of COX-2 or VEGF negative tumors. A significant correlation was found between the expressions of COX-2and VEGF. CONCLUSION: MVD may be one of the important prognostic factors for gastric cancer patients. COX-2 and VEGF may play an important role in tumor progression by stimulating angiogenesis. VEGF might play a main role in the COX-2 angiogenic pathway. The inhibition of angiogenesis or COX-2, VEGF activity may have an important therapeutic benefit in the control of gastric cancer.展开更多
The regeneration ability of four alfalfa （Medicago sativa L.） cultivars, Xinjiang Daye, Longdong, Gannong 1 and Gannong 3, was studied, and the effects of various cultivars, explant sources and medium recipes on reg...The regeneration ability of four alfalfa （Medicago sativa L.） cultivars, Xinjiang Daye, Longdong, Gannong 1 and Gannong 3, was studied, and the effects of various cultivars, explant sources and medium recipes on regeneration were compared. The better callus forming frequency obtained from hypocotyls of Xinjiang Daye is 88.5% and regeneration frequency is 9.8% in our initial experiments. To further optimize regeneration system for genetic transformation, we therefore changed concentrations of plant growth regulators and supplemented with glutamine into callus-induction and shoot-regeneration media. Callus forming frequency and shoot differentiation frequency were increased to 100%. The time taken to generate transgenic plants （16 weeks） was shorter than that for previouse procedure （25 weeks） and regeneration frequency was promoted to 15.1%. The results show that addition of glutamine is particularly important for shortening period of regeneration and promoting regeneration frequency. For study of genetic transformation of alfalfa, Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation of Xinjiang Daye was developed based on this optimized regeneration system. The plant expression vector carrying two glutamine synthetases （GS 1 and GS2） and △1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase （P5CS） gene was used for alfalfa in vitro transformation. Six transgenic alfalfa plantlets with resistance to PPT were obtained. The introduction of foreign genes into plants was assessed in the transformants by PCR analysis and Southern hybridizations.展开更多
Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma continues to heavily burden clinicians worldwide. Researchers have discovered the genomic landscape of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, which holds promise for an era of personali...Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma continues to heavily burden clinicians worldwide. Researchers have discovered the genomic landscape of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, which holds promise for an era of personalized oncology care. One of the most pressing problems facing this issue is to improve the understanding of the newly available genomic data, and identify the driver-gene mutations, pathways, and networks. The emergence of a legion of novel targeted agents has generated much hope and hype regarding more potent treatment regimens, but the accuracy of drug selection is still arguable. Other problems, such as cancer heterogeneity, drug resistance, exceptional responders, and side effects, have to be surmounted. Evolving topics in personalized oncology, such as interpretation of genomics data, issues in targeted therapy, research approaches for targeted therapy, and future perspectives, will be discussed in this editorial.展开更多
Given the public concern over the safety of genetically modified （GM） technology and products, the article elaborated the safety regulatory and administration on agricultural GMOs in China. China has made a set of l...Given the public concern over the safety of genetically modified （GM） technology and products, the article elaborated the safety regulatory and administration on agricultural GMOs in China. China has made a set of laws and regulations of GMO safety management and confirmed competent authorities with clear-cut responsibilities. According to the laws and regulations, GMO products before entering markets have to pass through safety evaluation, get production and processing permission and be labeled correctly. For the importation of GM products, China has set up an import approval system. In addition, China has established technical supportive systems, including safety evaluation specifications, trial specifications and criteria specifications. The existing regulatory system supervises and regulates all activities and work related to agri- cultural GMOs in China.展开更多
Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is an important cytokine in generating an immune response against infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV). The functions of TNF-α may be altered by single-nucleotide polymorphisms ...Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is an important cytokine in generating an immune response against infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV). The functions of TNF-α may be altered by single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in its gene structure. We hypothesized that SNPs in TNF-α may be important in determining the outcome of an HCV infection. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the role of the polymorphism -308G/A, which is located in the promoter region of the TNF-α gene, in the progression of HCV infection in Egyptian patients using a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The distribution of this polymorphism and its impact on the serum level of TNF-α was compared between 90 HCV-infected patients [45 with HCV-induced cirrhosis and 45 with HCV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)] and 45 healthy Egyptian volunteers without any history of liver disease. Our results showed that at the TNF-α -308 position, the G/G allele was most common (78.5% ) in the study population, with the G/A and A/A alleles occurring less frequently (13.3% and 8.1% , respectively). Frequencies of G/G, G/A, and A/A genotypes were 87%, 7%, and 6% in patients with liver cirrhosis and were 94% , 4% , and 2% in patients with HCC, respectively. Serum levels of TNF-α were significantly higher in HCV-infected patients than in healthy controls, indicating that the TNF-α -308 polymorphism does not influence the production of TNF-α. The serum level of TNF-α was positively correlated with HCV infection. Taken together, these findings suggest that the TNF-α -308 polymorphism may not be a host genetic factor associated with the severity of HCV infection, but may be an independent risk factor for HCC.展开更多
基金supported by funding from the National Key R&D Program of China(2023ZD0407304)the Sci-Tech Innovation 2030 Agenda(2022ZD0115703)Fundamental Research Funds for Central Non-Profit of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(Y2023PT20).
文摘Epigenetics-mediated breeding(epibreeding)involves engineering crop traits and stress responses through the targeted manipulation of key epigenetic features to enhance agricultural productivity.While conventional breeding methods raise concerns about reduced genetic diversity,epibreeding propels crop improvement through epigenetic variations that regulate gene expression,ultimately impacting crop yield.Epigenetic regulation in crops encompasses various modes,including histone modification,DNA modification,RNA modification,non-coding RNA,and chromatin remodeling.This review summarizes the epigenetic mechanisms underlying major agronomic traits in maize and identifies candidate epigenetic landmarks in the maize breeding process.We propose a valuable strategy for improving maize yield through epibreeding,combining CRISPR/Cas-based epigenome editing technology and Synthetic Epigenetics(SynEpi).Finally,we discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with maize trait improvement through epibreeding.
基金supported by the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation,China(Grant No.LQ24C010007)Zhejiang Science and Technology Major Program on Rice New Variety Breeding,China(Grant No.2021C02063)+4 种基金the Agricultural Sciences and Technologies Innovation Program,China(Grant No.CAAS-CSCB-202301)the Key Projects of Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation,China(Grant No.LZ23C130002)the Youth Innovation Program of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(Grant No.Y2023QC22)the Joint Open Competitive Project of the Yazhou Bay Seed Laboratory and China National Seed Company Limited(Grant Nos.B23YQ1514 and B23CQ15EP)the External Cooperation Projects of Biotechnology Research Institute,Fujian Academy of Agricultural Sciences,China(Grant No.DWHZ2024-07).
文摘Rice seedling blight,caused by various fungi,including Fusarium oxysporum,poses a severe threat to rice production.As awareness grows regarding the environmental and safety hazards associated with the application of fungicides for managing rice seedling blight,there has been a shift in focus towards biological control agents.In this study,we isolated biocontrol bacteria from paddy fields that significantly inhibited the growth of F.oxysporum in vitro and identified the strains as Bacillus amyloliquefaciens T40 and Bacillus pumilus T208.Additionally,our findings indicated that the combined application of these Bacillus strains in soil was more effective in reducing the incidence of rice seedling blight than their individual use.Analysis of 16S and internal transcribed spacer rRNA gene sequencing data revealed that the mixture of the T40 and T208 strains exhibited the lowest average clustering coefficients,which were negatively correlated with the biomass of F.oxysporum-inoculated rice seedlings.Furthermore,this mixture led to higher stochastic assembly(average|βNTI|<2)and reduced selection pressures on rice rhizosphere bacteria compared with individual strain applications.The mixture of the T40 and T208 strains also significantly increased the expression of defense-related genes.In conclusion,the mixture of the T40 and T208 strains effectively modulates microbial community structures,enhances microbial network stability,and boosts the resistance against rice seedling blight.Our study supports the development and utilization of biological resources for crop protection.
基金supported by the Innovation and Development Program of Beijing Vegetable Research Center,China(KYCX202301)the Construction of Cucurbits Collaboration and Innovation Center,China(XTCX202301)+3 种基金the Youth Research Fund of Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences,China(QNJJ202426)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(U21A20229 and 32102397)the Scientific Research Foundation of the Higher Education Institutions for Distinguished Young Scholars in Anhui Province,China(2022AH020037)and the Key Research and Development Projects of Anhui Province,China(2023z04020019)。
文摘Peel color is an important appearance quality of melons that significantly affects consumer preferences.In this study,a near-isogenic line NIL-G(dark green peel)was generated from B8(grey-green peel)and B15(white peel).The F_2 population constructed by crossing NIL-G and B15 was used to study the inheritance pattern of peel color,and bulked-segregant analysis sequencing(BSA-seq)was employed to identify the interval in which the target gene was located.Genetic analysis showed that a dominant gene controls the dark green peel trait at maturity.BSAseq and molecular markers were used to localize the candidate gene in a 263.7 kb interval of chromosome 4,which contained the CmAPRR2 gene with known functions.Moreover,allelic sequence analysis revealed four SNP variations of the CmAPRR2 gene in B15,of which SNP.G614331A was located at the junction of the 6th exon and 6th intron.The G-to-A mutation caused alternative splicing of the transcript of CmAPRR2 in B15,generating two transcripts(CmAPRR2-A and CmAPRR2-B)with premature termination codons.Furthermore,the Kompetitive Allele Specific PCR(KASP)marker,APRR2-G/A,was developed based on this SNP and shown to co-segregate with the peel color phenotype in the F_(2) population.Compared to white-peel B15,the expression level of CmAPRR2 in dark green peel NIL-G was higher at each growth stage.Therefore,CmAPRR2 may be the key gene controlling the fruit color of melons.This study identified a novel allelic variant of CmAPRR2 that leads to white peel formation in mature melons.We also provides a theoretical basis for further research on the gene regulatory mechanism of melon peel colors,which promotes using molecular marker-assisted selection to modify melon peel colors in the future.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.32341026 and 32171998)the Hunan Provincial Science and Technology Innovation Program,China(Grant No.2023NK1010)the Changsha Natural Science Foundation,China(Grant No.20209001).
文摘Leaf color mutants (LCMs) provide crucial insights into the regulatory mechanisms underlying chloroplast development,photo synthesis,and stre ss adaptation.In this study,we identified a temperature-sensitive albino mutant,tsa4,characterized by an albino phenotype at the seedling stage and abnormal chloroplast development at temperatures below 25℃.
文摘Following the publication of Liu et al.(2024),an error was identified in Figure 4B,in which the image representing the lung from the E529G group was inadvertently duplicated with the image of the lung from the WT group during figure preparation.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2023YFD1200503 to Shuai Ma and 2021YFD1200700 to Tianyu Wang)。
文摘Highlights ZmMYC2 promoter contains favorable haplotypes selected during domestication,enhancing its expression level in modern maize.ZmMYC2 may balance the trade-off between growth and defense via jasmonate and auxin signaling pathways.ZmMYC2 regulates drought-response genes(CER2 and TIP3c)to optimize drought stress resilience.
基金supported by the Nanfan special project,CAAS(YBXM2408)the Innovation Program of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(CAAS-CSIAF-202303)to Huihui Li+1 种基金a grant from Sanya Municipal Program for Science and Technology Innovation(2022KJCX87)the Nanfan special project,CAAS(YBXM2319),to Jun Zhao。
文摘Despite its negative impacts on plant functioning,climate change benefits plants at the cellular level.For example,the stimulation of C3 photosynthesis by elevated CO_(2)can increase N2 fixation by 73%and grain yield by 10%–11%.The global elevated atmospheric CO_(2)concentration has already decreased the nitrogen content in C3 crop species and C3 woody vegetation by 14%and 21%,respectively,regardless of added nitrogen fertilizer.^(15)N-feeding experiments have shown that,after 19 h under elevated CO_(2),the^(15)N concentration in the stems,roots plus rhizomes,and whole plants of Scirpus olneyi(S.olneyi)decreased by 51%,63%,and 74%,respectively.Moreover,S.olneyi showed reduced NH_(4)^(+)assimilation under elevated CO_(2),which decreased the amino acid contents in the stems by 25.6%for glycine and 65.0%for serine,and that in the roots plus rhizomes by 2%for gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA)and 80%for glutamate.Wheat grain protein has also been found to decrease by 7.4%under elevated CO_(2)due to reductions in threonine,valine,iso-leucine,leucine,and phenylalanine.The mineral nutrient contents in grains of rice and maize were similarly found to decrease under high CO_(2)by 1.0%and 7.1%for phosphorus,7.8%and 2.1%for sulfur,5.2%and 5.8%for iron,3.3%and 5.2%for zinc,10.6%and 9.9%for copper,and 7.5%and 4.2%for manganese,respectively.In general,mineral concentrations in C3 plants are predicted to decrease by 8%under elevated CO_(2),while total non-structural carbohydrates(mainly starch and sugars)are expected to increase.These decreases in grain protein,amino acids,and mineral nutrients could double the incidence of global protein-calorie malnutrition and micronutrient deficiency—especially in Africa,where agricultural soils are inherently low in nutrient elements.Additionally,the increase in total non-structural carbohydrates(mainly starch and sugars)in cereal crops could elevate diabetes incidence due to heavy reliance on starchy diets.The negative effects of elevated CO_(2)on rice,maize,and wheat—the world's three major staple crops—suggest an increase in global food insecurity with rising atmospheric CO_(2)concentration.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2021YFF1000301)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32472179,32130077,32201835)+2 种基金the Natural Science Foundation of Hebei Province(C2022407068)the Natural Science Foundation of Guangdong Province(2024A1515030237,2022A1515011002)the Hainan Yazhou Bay Seed Lab(B21HJ8101).
文摘Increasing plant density is an effective strategy for enhancing crop yield per unit land area.A key architectural trait for crops adapting to high planting density is a smaller leaf angle(LA).Previous studies have demonstrated that LG1,a SQUAMOSA BINDING PROTEIN(SBP)transcription factor,plays a critical role in LA establishment.However,the molecular mechanisms underlying the regulation of LG1 on LA formation remain largely unclear.In this study,we conduct comparative RNA-seq analysis of the preligule band(PLB)region of wild type and lg1 mutant leaves.Gene Ontology(GO)term enrichment analysis reveals enrichment of phytohormone pathways and transcription factors,including three auxin transporter genes ZmPIN1a,ZmPIN1b,and ZmPIN1c.Further molecular experiments demonstrate that LG1 can directly bind to the promoter region of these auxin transporter genes and activate their transcription.We also show that double and triple mutants of these ZmPINs genes exhibit varying degrees of auricle size reduction and thus decreased LA.On the contrary,overexpression of ZmPIN1a causes larger auricle and LA.Taken together,our findings establish a functional link between LG1 and auxin transport in regulating PLB formation and provide valuable targets for genetic improvement of LA for breeding high-density tolerant maize cultivars.
基金supported by major national R&D projects(No.2023ZD04040-01)National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.5201101621)National Key R&D Plan(No.2022YFD1200304).
文摘Cotton is an essential agricultural commodity,but its global yield is greatly affected by climate change,which poses a serious threat to the agriculture sector.This review aims to provide an overview of the impact of climate change on cotton production and the use of genomic approaches to increase stress tolerance in cotton.This paper discusses the effects of rising temperatures,changing precipitation patterns,and extreme weather events on cotton yield.It then explores various genomic strategies,such as genomic selection and marker-assisted selection,which can be used to develop stress-tolerant cotton varieties.The review emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary research efforts and policy interventions to mitigate the adverse effects of climate change on cotton production.Furthermore,this paper presents advanced prospects,including genomic selection,gene editing,multi-omics integration,highthroughput phenotyping,genomic data sharing,climate-informed breeding,and phenomics-assisted genomic selection,for enhancing stress resilience in cotton.Those innovative approaches can assist cotton researchers and breeders in developing highly resilient cotton varieties capable of withstanding the challenges posed by climate change,ensuring the sustainable and prosperous future of cotton production.
基金supported by grants from the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDA24010101)the Biological Breeding-National Science and Technology Major Project(2024ZD04077)+2 种基金the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2023YFF1001200)Natural Science Foundation of Zhejiang Province(LD24C130001)the Agricultural Science and Technology Innovation Program(ASTIP)of CAAS。
文摘A later heading date generally leads to higher grain yield in favorable ecological regions;however,grain yield reaches a limit as the heading date exceeds a certain threshold.Ghd7 is the first cloned major gene that regulates heading date,plant height and grain number.Here,we investigated the relationship between Ghd7 and florigen genes Hd3a and RFT1,to determine their roles in regulating heading date and grain number under different photoperiods.Our results revealed that under long-day(LD)conditions,Hd3a acts prior to RFT1 to promote heading while negatively regulating plant height and grain number.In contrast,Ghd7 positively regulates heading date,plant height,and grain number by inhibiting both Hd3a and RFT1.Under short-day(SD)conditions,the functions of Hd3a and RFT1 remain consistent with those under LD conditions,but Ghd7 does not inhibit their expression,resulting in a weaker phenotypic effect compared to Hd3a.Additionally,under both LD and SD conditions,increased Ghd7 expression enhances its inhibitory effect on Hd3a and RFT1,leading to later heading and increased grain number;however,once the heading date exceeds 94 d,grain number no longer increases.Moreover,the gn1a allele increased grain number by 16.5%to 42.5%,while combinations of the elite alleles from Ghd7,Hd3a,RFT1,and Gn1a significantly increased grain number by up to 240.9%.Therefore,we propose a new breeding strategy to optimize the heading date and grain number using the Ghd7Hd3aRFT1gn1a combination of Ghd7,Hd3a,RFT1,and Gn1a under LD conditions,and the Ghd7hd3aRFT1gn1a combination under SD conditions.This strategy improved the yield of the high-quality Northeast variety Kongyu 131(KY131)by 69.1%in Beijing and 93.7%in Hainan.This strategy will greatly improve the efficiency of north-to-south adaptation in rice,providing theoretical guidance for expanding the geographical adaptability of rice varieties.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.22108135)Natural Science Foundation of Shandong Province(No.ZR2024MB126,ZR2020QB197)+1 种基金Shandong University youth innovation team(No.2023KJ137)key Laboratory of Pulp and Paper Science,Technology of Ministry of Education of Qilu University of Technology(Shandong Academy of Sciences)(KF202310).
文摘Chemically modified lignin refers to a class of high-value products derived from the treatment of industrial lignin using physical,chemical,or biological methods,which alter its structure and properties.The modification of lignin will enhance its thermostability,antioxidant property,adsorbability,antibacterial property,degradability and plasticity,and opens new avenues for its use in biomass utilization,consequently expanding its potential applications.This paper reviews the theoretical foundations and preparation methods of modified lignin,such as amination modification,sulfonation modification,demethylation modification,oxidation modification,graft copolymerization modification and alkylation modification,were reviewed in this paper,with a particular focus on its applications in adhesives,dispersants,drug delivery systems,luminophores,carbon-based energy storage electrodes,and some other areas.Additionally,the paper addresses the challenges and issues faced by modified lignin.This review offers valuable theoretical insights for the green production of modified lignin and its expanded applications.
文摘Marine natural products have long been recognized as a vast and diverse source of bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic applications,particularly in oncology.This review provides an updated overview of the significant advances made in the discovery and development of marine-derived anticancer drugs between 2019 and 2023.With a focus on recent research findings,the review explores the rich biodiversity of marine organisms,including sponges,corals,algae,and microorganisms,which have yielded numerous compounds exhibiting promising anticancer properties.Emphasizing the multifaceted mechanisms of action,the review discusses the molecular targets and pathways targeted by these compounds,such as cell cycle regulation,apoptosis induction,angiogenesis inhibition,and modulation of signaling pathways.Additionally,the review highlights the innovative strategies employed in the isolation,structural elucidation,and chemical modification of marine natural products to enhance their potency,selectivity,and pharmacological properties.Furthermore,it addresses the challenges and opportunities associated with the development of marine-derived anticancer drugs,including issues related to supply,sustainability,synthesis,and clinical translation.Finally,the review underscores the immense potential of marine natural products as a valuable reservoir of novel anticancer agents and advocates for continued exploration and exploitation of the marine environment to address the unmet medical needs in cancer therapy.
基金Acknowledgment This work was supported by a grant from the National Nature Science Foundation of China （No. 39970374）. The authors wish to thank Professor Yi-Pong Hu, Second Military Medical University of China, for his kindness in providing us the recombinant plasmid （pBR322-HBV）. We wish to thank Mr. Michael Talion of Shantou University Medical College, English Language Training Section for his assistance in proofreading this manuscript. We gratefully acknowledge the support of the leaders of Shantou University Medical College.
文摘Aim： To detect the expression of hepatitis B virus （HBV） genes （HB S and C genes） in early embryonic cells after introducing motile human sperm carrying HBV DNA into zona-free hamster oocytes via the in vitro fertilization （IVF） technique. Methods： Human sperm-mediated HBV genes were delivered into zona-free hamster oocytes by the IVF method. Polymerase chain reaction （PCR） was used to detect HB S and pre-Core/Core （pre-C/C） coding genes both in one- and two-cell embryos. Reverse transcription-PCR （RT-PCR） analysis was used to study the expression of the two genes. Fluorescence in situ hybridization （FISH） analysis using the full-length HBV DNA as the hybridization probe was performed to confirm the integration of viral DNA in the host embryonic genome. Results： Both HB S and pre-C/C coding genes are present and transcribed in one- and two-cell embryos originated from hamster ova IVF with human spermatozoa carrying HBV DNA sequences. Conclusion： Sperm-mediated HBV genes are able to replicate and express themselves in early embryonic cells. These results provide direct evidence that HBV DNA could transmit vertically to the next generation via the male germ line.
基金Biotechnology Research Institute,University Malaysia Sabah,Malaysia for financial support of this entire work
文摘Objective:To detect the in vitro total phenolics,flavonoids contents and antioxidant activity of essential oil,various organic extracts from the leaves of tropical medicinal plant Tetrastigma from Sabah.Methods:The dry powder leaves of Tetrastigma were extracted with different organic solvent such as hexane.ethyl acetate,chloroform,butanol and aqueous methanol.The total phenolic and total flavonoids contents of the essential oil and various organic extracts such as hexane,ethyl acetate,chloroform,butanol and aqueous ethanol were determined by Folin-Ciocalteu method and the assayed antioxidant activity was determined in vitro models such as antioxidant capacity by radical scavenging activity usingα,α-diphenyl-β-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method.Results:The total phenolic contents of the essential oil and different extracts as gallic acid equivalents were found to be highest in methanol extract(386.22 mg/g) followed by ethyl acetate(190.89 mg/g).chloroform(175.89 mg/g).hexane(173.44 mg/g).and Imtanol extract (131.72 mg/g) and the phenolic contents not detected in essential oil.The antioxidant capacity of the essential oil and different extracts as ascorbic acid standard was in the order of methanol extract】ethyl acetate extract】chloroform】butanol】hexane extract also the antioxidant activity was not detected in essential oil.Conclusions:The findings show that the extent of antioxidant activity of the essential oil and all extracts are in accordance with the amount of phenolics present in that extract.Leaves of Tetrastigma being rich in phenolics may provide a good source of antioxidant.
基金Supported by the Major State Basic Research Development Program (973 Program) of China (No. 2003CB515507) and Science and Technology Fund by Department of Education of Anhui Province
文摘AIM: To investigate whether microvessel density (MVD) is related with prognosis in gastric cancer patients, and the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and vessel endothelial growth factor (VEGF) so as to determine the possible role of COX-2 and VEGF in gastric cancer angiogenesis.METHODS: Forty-seven formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue samples of gastric cancer were evaluated for COX-2, VEGF by immunohitochemical staining. To assess tumor angiogenesis, MVD was determined by immunohitochemical staining of endothelial protein factor Ⅷ-related antigen. The relationship among COX-2 and VEGF expression, MVD, and clinicopathologic parameters was analyzed. RESULTS: Among the 67 samples, high MVD was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis and poor survival. Multivariate survival analysis showed that MVD value and lymph node metastasis were independent prognostic factors. The expression rate of COX-2 and VEGF was significantly higher than that of the adjacent tissues. COX-2 and VEGF expression in gastric cancer was significantly correlated with tumor differentiation and depth of invasion, but not with survival. The mean MVD value of COX-2 or VEGF positive tumors was higher than that of COX-2 or VEGF negative tumors. A significant correlation was found between the expressions of COX-2and VEGF. CONCLUSION: MVD may be one of the important prognostic factors for gastric cancer patients. COX-2 and VEGF may play an important role in tumor progression by stimulating angiogenesis. VEGF might play a main role in the COX-2 angiogenic pathway. The inhibition of angiogenesis or COX-2, VEGF activity may have an important therapeutic benefit in the control of gastric cancer.
基金supported by the National Special Program for Research and Industrialization of Transgenic Plants,China(J2002-B-008)
文摘The regeneration ability of four alfalfa （Medicago sativa L.） cultivars, Xinjiang Daye, Longdong, Gannong 1 and Gannong 3, was studied, and the effects of various cultivars, explant sources and medium recipes on regeneration were compared. The better callus forming frequency obtained from hypocotyls of Xinjiang Daye is 88.5% and regeneration frequency is 9.8% in our initial experiments. To further optimize regeneration system for genetic transformation, we therefore changed concentrations of plant growth regulators and supplemented with glutamine into callus-induction and shoot-regeneration media. Callus forming frequency and shoot differentiation frequency were increased to 100%. The time taken to generate transgenic plants （16 weeks） was shorter than that for previouse procedure （25 weeks） and regeneration frequency was promoted to 15.1%. The results show that addition of glutamine is particularly important for shortening period of regeneration and promoting regeneration frequency. For study of genetic transformation of alfalfa, Agrobacterium tumefaciens-mediated transformation of Xinjiang Daye was developed based on this optimized regeneration system. The plant expression vector carrying two glutamine synthetases （GS 1 and GS2） and △1-pyrroline-5-carboxylate synthetase （P5CS） gene was used for alfalfa in vitro transformation. Six transgenic alfalfa plantlets with resistance to PPT were obtained. The introduction of foreign genes into plants was assessed in the transformants by PCR analysis and Southern hybridizations.
基金Supported by Grants from Beijing Academic Leaders Program,NO.2009-2-17Beijing Natural Science Foundation,No.7102029+5 种基金Capital Medical Developed Research Fund,No.2007-1023New Scholar Star Program of Ministry of EducationNational Basic Research Program of China,No.2011CB504300Specialized Research Fund for the Doctoral Program of Higher Education,No.20130001110108National Natural Science Foundation for Distinguished Young Scholars,No.81301748Science Fund for Creative Research Groups of the National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.IRT13003 and No.NIH/NCI U54 CA156735
文摘Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma continues to heavily burden clinicians worldwide. Researchers have discovered the genomic landscape of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, which holds promise for an era of personalized oncology care. One of the most pressing problems facing this issue is to improve the understanding of the newly available genomic data, and identify the driver-gene mutations, pathways, and networks. The emergence of a legion of novel targeted agents has generated much hope and hype regarding more potent treatment regimens, but the accuracy of drug selection is still arguable. Other problems, such as cancer heterogeneity, drug resistance, exceptional responders, and side effects, have to be surmounted. Evolving topics in personalized oncology, such as interpretation of genomics data, issues in targeted therapy, research approaches for targeted therapy, and future perspectives, will be discussed in this editorial.
文摘Given the public concern over the safety of genetically modified （GM） technology and products, the article elaborated the safety regulatory and administration on agricultural GMOs in China. China has made a set of laws and regulations of GMO safety management and confirmed competent authorities with clear-cut responsibilities. According to the laws and regulations, GMO products before entering markets have to pass through safety evaluation, get production and processing permission and be labeled correctly. For the importation of GM products, China has set up an import approval system. In addition, China has established technical supportive systems, including safety evaluation specifications, trial specifications and criteria specifications. The existing regulatory system supervises and regulates all activities and work related to agri- cultural GMOs in China.
文摘Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) is an important cytokine in generating an immune response against infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV). The functions of TNF-α may be altered by single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in its gene structure. We hypothesized that SNPs in TNF-α may be important in determining the outcome of an HCV infection. To test this hypothesis, we investigated the role of the polymorphism -308G/A, which is located in the promoter region of the TNF-α gene, in the progression of HCV infection in Egyptian patients using a quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The distribution of this polymorphism and its impact on the serum level of TNF-α was compared between 90 HCV-infected patients [45 with HCV-induced cirrhosis and 45 with HCV-related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC)] and 45 healthy Egyptian volunteers without any history of liver disease. Our results showed that at the TNF-α -308 position, the G/G allele was most common (78.5% ) in the study population, with the G/A and A/A alleles occurring less frequently (13.3% and 8.1% , respectively). Frequencies of G/G, G/A, and A/A genotypes were 87%, 7%, and 6% in patients with liver cirrhosis and were 94% , 4% , and 2% in patients with HCC, respectively. Serum levels of TNF-α were significantly higher in HCV-infected patients than in healthy controls, indicating that the TNF-α -308 polymorphism does not influence the production of TNF-α. The serum level of TNF-α was positively correlated with HCV infection. Taken together, these findings suggest that the TNF-α -308 polymorphism may not be a host genetic factor associated with the severity of HCV infection, but may be an independent risk factor for HCC.
