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Rapid change in environmental conditions is likely to override the adaptive efficiency of plants.Jasmonates are a class of plant hormones that have strong potential to ameliorate various abiotic and biotic stresses, such as exposure to mechanical stress, osmotic stress, herbivory, exposure to UV irradiation, damage from ozone, and heavy metal stress. This new book highlights the beneficial presence and roles of jasmonates in plants, discussing the use of jasmonates in nano- and micromolecular concentrations to mitigate the toxic effects of various biotic and abiotic stresses and to improve crop yield in an eco-friendly and sustainable manner. It discusses in detail the genetic basis of jasmonates'action, effects of jasmonates on the antioxidant defense system, crosstalk between jasmonates and other plant hormones, how jasmonates enhance plant defense under biotic and abiotic stresses, and more.

Plants, being sessile, are negatively affected by the biotic and abiotic (environmental) stresses, reducing plant growth, productivity, and quality to a larger extent. Plants have evolved different physiological, biochemical, and molecular mechanisms to combat these stress conditions to maintain their growth, development, and productivity. Understanding the mechanisms involved in the plant response to stress conditions is the foremost step in the development of stress-tolerant plants. One of the important adaptations to stress conditions is the precise and fine regulation of gene expression in both time and space. Although gene regulation occurs at different levels through different mechanisms, the most crucial is at the level of transcription. One of the important posttranscriptional gene regulatory mechanisms used by the plants to restore and maintain cellular homeostasis during the stress conditions are microRNAs.MicroRNAs, a group of approximately 22-nucleotide-long, non-coding RNAs, have recently been identified as a new class of regulators governing gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. MiRNAs can silence genes either by guiding the degradation of the target mRNAs or by repressing the mRNA translation. Plant miRNAs have been demonstrated to regulate many genes involved in various developmental processes, for example, auxin signaling, organ polarity/radial patterning, developmental transitions, and secondary metabolism regulation. Moreover, increasing evidence indicates the role of plant miRNA-guided gene regulation in response to biotic and abiotic stresses. High-throughput sequencing approaches have significantly elucidated the identification and functional characterization of numerous miRNAs in plants. Understanding the role and mechanism of action of miRNAs during abiotic and biotic stresses can potentially offer new approaches to improve plant growth and productivity.This unique book covers the different aspects of plant microRNAomics including the discovery, biogenesis, role in different stress conditions, and applications of microRNAs in developing stress-tolerant plants. Chapters cover the updated knowledge in the field of plant microRNA research. The book, miRNAomics and Stress Management in Plants, intends to demonstrate the breadth of research and the significant advances that have been made in understanding the role of miRNAs in the plant development and stress management.This comprehensive volume will be of value to plant physiologists, plant biochemists, geneticists, molecular biologists, agronomists, environmental researchers, and graduate and undergraduate students of plant science.

The book discusses nano-phytoremediation: the use of nanotechnology in combination with phytoremediation to restore polluted environs. The potentiality of plants in association with nanomaterials to effectively remediate polluted areas is elaborated meritoriously in this book. New strategies are necessary because anthropogenic actions represent a serious threat to life on Earth. This book has given enough space for a discussion of innovative and efficient technologies to restore damaged environs primarily focused on nano-phytoremediation. The first part of the book is dedicated to exploring organic and inorganic pollution and the threats they pose to living forms. The second part explores the joint use of plants and nanomaterials and the nano-phytoremediation of water and soil ecosystems. The book offers readers extensive knowledge on nano-phytoremediation as a feasible strategy to clean environmental pollution. The key features of the book are as follows: Nano-phytoremediation strategies to remediate soil and water ecosystems. Special chapters dedicated to different kinds of pollutants and methods of phytoremediation. Strategies to evaluate the success of nano-phytoremediation strategies, cost-effectiveness, and nano informatics to safe nanotechnology. The book can be used as a primary or supplementary text in undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate courses such as biotechnology, biochemistry, and environmental engineering. It is an interesting edition for instructors, researchers, and scientists working on environmental management and pollution control.

Molecular Impacts of Nanoparticles on Plants and Algae covers molecular mechanisms of plants/algae related to cellular uptake and translocation of nanoparticles, and genome, transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome responses against it. The book introduces readers to state-of-the-art developments and trends of nanoparticles and plants/algae including interaction of nanoparticles with biological compounds in vitro. Nanoscience and nanotechnology have rapidly been developed in the last few decades, and they have a wide range of applications in industry, medicine, food, and agriculture. In agriculture, nanoparticles (NPs) have successfully been used for growth regulation, crop protection and improvement. They are also employed to cope with plant nutrient deficiencies. A predicted significant increase in the output of NPs will cause the discharge of a remarkable number of NPs to ecosystems, creating a need to understand how to optimize or mitigate their impact depending on their potential impact. These include serious health concerns for living organisms in aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric environments as well as human health through their potential existence in plant-based foods. The impact of NPs on living organisms including plants and algae, and uptake, translocation and molecular response mechanisms should be carefully considered before producing and using nanoparticles in large amounts as NPs, when entered to the body, induce changes in gene expressions related to the photosystem, water transport, cell wall formation, and cell division. Further recent studies have showed that NPs are potential agents or stressors to alter proteome, transcriptome, genome and metabolome responses. Impacts of nanoparticles on molecular mechanisms of plants and algae presents the most recent findings on nanoparticle and plant/algae interaction by focusing to molecular response mechanisms at genome, transcriptome, proteome and metabolome levels. In addition, uptake and translocation mechanism of nanoparticles will be assessed both in plant and algae Throughout this book, the latest developments and discoveries will be highlighted as well as open problems and future challenges in molecular mechanisms of plants/algae as a response of nanoparticles. - Presents genome, transcriptome, proteome, and metabolome responses in plants/algae, along with cellular uptake and translocation mechanisms - Illustrates nano-particle-plant/algae interactions - Covers both simple and higher organisms, addressing both algae and plant

Sustainable Plant Nutrition: Molecular Interventions and Advancements for Crop Improvement explores the significant opportunities for sustainable, eco-friendly approaches in plant nutrition and agricultural crop production. The book highlights the various prospects involved in optimizing plant nutrient uptake agriculture and includes chapters representing diverse areas dealing with biotechnology, nanotechnology, molecular biology, proteomics, genomics and metabolomics. This book is an ideal resource for those seeking to ensure a sustainable plant production future. While plants have evolved a set of elaborate mechanisms to cope with nutrient limitations, the traditional supplementation by the application of fertilizers to plant productivity may then lead to overfertilization which can actually reduce plant growth and have adverse effects on the environment. To tackle these issues, a detailed understanding of the responses of plants to nutrients and nutrient deficiency at the physiological, metabolic, transcriptome and epigenetic level is essential. - Illustrates the central role of sustainable plant nutrition to address current and future challenges - Presents global insights and research ranging from signaling to sensing and translational research - Provides a forward-looking perspective for future plans of action

This new volume offers a valuable introduction to plant ecology from a genomics point of view, presenting a thorough foundation and summary of modern approaches, methodologies, research goals, and evidence of plant ecology in the modern genomic era. The book also presents important updated information on the most recent knowledge of thedifferent aspects of plant populations. The volume gives an overview of the approaches to unravelling the genetic basis underlying fundamental responses of plants to their natural environments, describing in detail the concepts, aims, and approaches of plant ecological genomics along with the genomic tools embraced by ecologists for mining various ecological problems. Recent advances and breakthroughs made in molecular markers along with their applications in plant ecogenomic studies are shared, and specific applications, techniques, and tools are described as well, such advanced molecular techniques, next-generation sequencing, eDNA metabarcoding, among others.

This new book provides valuable insight into the role of mushrooms in the treatment of diabetes mellitus. Mushrooms are enriched with various bioactive constituents with antidiabetic efficacy such as polysaccharides, terpenes, sterols, etc. The extracts as well as bioactive constituents through different mechanisms exhibit antidiabetic action. Medicinal mushrooms such as Ganoderma lucidum, Innotus obliquus, Grifola frondosa, Phellinus species, etc. are considered in this volume for their beneficial qualities toward the mitigation of the disease. The volume considers mushroom powders, mushroom extracts, and their bioactive components for the management of diabetic syndrome. It presents various in vitro, in vivo, and clinical studies on lowering hyperglycemia and other diabetes associated with secondary abnormalities as well as provides information regarding mushroom-based antidiabetic market products.

'An indispensable source for researchers, teachers, and graduate and postgraduate students interested in mutation breeding and genetic engineering. It introduces readers to contemporary knowledge and state-of-the-art technologies in the field of mutation breeding, including fundamental mechanisms and applications.... It will provide new directions, and avenues for enhancement of food security and food quality by using the latest techniques for the'mutation as breeding'approach.'- From Prof. Jameel M. Al-Khayri, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia This comprehensive three-volume set book aims to help combat the challenge of providing enough food for the world by the use of advanced genetic processes to improve crop production, both in quantity and quality. Volume 1: Mutagenesis and Crop Improvement discusses mutagenesis, cytotoxicity, and crop improvement, covering the processes, mutagenic effectiveness, and mechanisms. The volume emphasizes the improvement of agronomic characteristics by manipulating the genotype of plant species, resulting in increased productivity. Volume 2: Revolutionizing Plant Biology covers the use of mutagenesis and biotechnology to explore the variability of mutant genes for crop improvement. The chapters deal with in-vitro mutagenesis to exploit the somaclonal variations induced in cell culture and highlight the importance of in-vitro mutagenesis in inducing salt resistance, heat resistance, and drought resistance. Volume 3: Mechanisms for Genetic Manipulation of Plants and Plant Mutants reviews the genetic engineering techniques used to mutate genes and to incorporate them into different plant species of cereals, pulses, vegetables, and fruits. Also discussed are the principles of genetic engineering by which desired genes can be transferred from plants to animals to microorganisms and vice versa.

'An indispensable source for researchers, teachers, and graduate and postgraduate students interested in mutation breeding and genetic engineering. It introduces readers to contemporary knowledge and state-of-the-art technologies in the field of mutation breeding, including fundamental mechanisms and applications.... It will provide new directions, and avenues for enhancement of food security and food quality by using the latest techniques for the'mutation as breeding'approach.'- From Prof. Jameel M. Al-Khayri, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia This comprehensive three-volume set book aims to help combat the challenge of providing enough food for the world by the use of advanced genetic processes to improve crop production, both in quantity and quality. Volume 1: Mutagenesis and Crop Improvement discusses mutagenesis, cytotoxicity, and crop improvement, covering the processes, mutagenic effectiveness, and mechanisms. The volume emphasizes the improvement of agronomic characteristics by manipulating the genotype of plant species, resulting in increased productivity. Volume 2: Revolutionizing Plant Biology covers the use of mutagenesis and biotechnology to explore the variability of mutant genes for crop improvement. The chapters deal with in-vitro mutagenesis to exploit the somaclonal variations induced in cell culture and highlight the importance of in-vitro mutagenesis in inducing salt resistance, heat resistance, and drought resistance. Volume 3: Mechanisms for Genetic Manipulation of Plants and Plant Mutants reviews the genetic engineering techniques used to mutate genes and to incorporate them into different plant species of cereals, pulses, vegetables, and fruits. Also discussed are the principles of genetic engineering by which desired genes can be transferred from plants to animals to microorganisms and vice versa.

'An indispensable source for researchers, teachers, and graduate and postgraduate students interested in mutation breeding and genetic engineering. It introduces readers to contemporary knowledge and state-of-the-art technologies in the field of mutation breeding, including fundamental mechanisms and applications.... It will provide new directions, and avenues for enhancement of food security and food quality by using the latest techniques for the'mutation as breeding'approach.'- From Prof. Jameel M. Al-Khayri, King Faisal University, Saudi Arabia This comprehensive three-volume set book aims to help combat the challenge of providing enough food for the world by the use of advanced genetic processes to improve crop production, both in quantity and quality. Volume 1: Mutagenesis and Crop Improvement discusses mutagenesis, cytotoxicity, and crop improvement, covering the processes, mutagenic effectiveness, and mechanisms. The volume emphasizes the improvement of agronomic characteristics by manipulating the genotype of plant species, resulting in increased productivity. Volume 2: Revolutionizing Plant Biology covers the use of mutagenesis and biotechnology to explore the variability of mutant genes for crop improvement. The chapters deal with in-vitro mutagenesis to exploit the somaclonal variations induced in cell culture and highlight the importance of in-vitro mutagenesis in inducing salt resistance, heat resistance, and drought resistance. Volume 3: Mechanisms for Genetic Manipulation of Plants and Plant Mutants reviews the genetic engineering techniques used to mutate genes and to incorporate them into different plant species of cereals, pulses, vegetables, and fruits. Also discussed are the principles of genetic engineering by which desired genes can be transferred from plants to animals to microorganisms and vice versa.

Here is a comprehensive resource on the devastating effect of locust outbreaks on crop production along with valuable coverage of traditional as well as new and emerging control and mitigation strategies. Begining with an introduction to and history of locust attacks, the volume describes the deleterious effects of locusts on crops and delves into both traditional and state-of-the art control and management technologies to combat locust outbreaks, including such advanced technologies as geographical information systems (GIS) and global positioning systems (GPS) and methods such as employing entomopathogenic fungi as a pest control measure. The book also evaluates how climate change has exacerbated the damage from locusts and the environmental ramifications. The book considers the scientific aspect of the role of pheromones on the reproduction of locusts and discusses the culture of using locusts as a food source in some countries. Topically, the volume also considers the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on locust outbreaks on the world's economy. This important and unique volume is a highly valuable resource for those working on meeting the challenges of locust invasions and their terrible consequences on crops, societies, and economies.

Diverse Applications of Nanotechnology in the Biological Sciences: An Essential Tool in Agri-Business and Health Care Systems explores the diverse roles that nanobiotechnology plays in the medical sciences, pharmacy, healthcare, and in plants and agriculture.Looking at the diverse applications of nanotechnology in the healthcare field, the chapter authors discuss its importance in drug delivery, biomedical imaging and medical diagnostics, and healthcare management. The volume emphasizes how nanomedicine can treat different types of cancers and can improve medical imaging for the diagnosis of different kinds of diseases, resulting in quicker and more accurate diagnosis and better treatment options.The volume delves into nanobiotechnology in plants and its application in nanofertilizers and nano-pesticides in agriculture. It also documents how agri-nanobiotechnology can be a tool for innovative green technology that can be applied for global food security, biodiversity, and climate change solutions.The themes of nanobiotechnology in medicine and in plants are merged in the chapter on the types and therapeutic effects of plant product-based nanomedicine for malignancies. The potential toxicity of nanoparticles in plants is also elucidated.This volume provides an insightful overview of nanobiotechnology in medicine and in plants and agriculture that will be valuable for researchers and scientists and faculty and students in the areas of nanobiotechnology, agriculture, plant molecular biology, and medicine and healthcare.

This volume discusses how plant and algae organisms play a pivotal role in the transformation of solar energy to essential metabolites, and explores the numerous beneficial roles these metabolites have at an industrial level. It presents information on the utilization of plant and algae for biomass production, and shows how this is a practical option for large scale biofuel production. The book examines how these bio-metabolites can then be used to extract biofuel. Biomass produced from plants and algae can act as the source of feedstock for biofuel production and industrially important compounds. This book also explores that by curtailing culturing cost using wastewater, seawater, and industrial water as a nutrient and water source, biomass becomes an economical energy source. The introductory chapters of the book focus on the appreciative values of a pollution-free atmosphere, with special reference to enhanced greenhouse effect, and then are followed by chapters on the potential of plant and algae as a liquid energy resource. This book targets researchers, graduate students, and energy and fuel industry professionals interested in the plant sciences, biotechnology and renewable energy.

Metals and Metalloids in Soil-Plant-Water Systems: Phytophysiology and Remediation Techniques examines the impact of metal/metalloid contamination on the plant lifecycle, along with microbes present in soil. Highlighting uptake and translocation, the book also examines antioxidant, photosynthesis and growth characteristics of plants grown in metal contaminated soil. Beginning with an introduction to different sources of soil and water pollution, chapters assess the environmental cytotoxicity pollution impact on plants, as well as how the generation of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species in plant tissues is affected. The book also discusses various soil remediation methodologies, including the potential applications of metal oxidizing microbes and nanomaterials. This is an essential resource for researchers and students interested in plant physiology, soil science, environmental science and agriculture. - Provides a comprehensive overview of metal and metalloids speciation, fractionation, bioavailability and transfer to plants - Analyzes properties of plants grown with excess metals/metalloids in soils - Highlights applications of biochar and other biostimulants for sustainable metal/metalloid remediation

This edited book highlights the plant and cell/organ culture systems, and environmental and genetic transformation-based modulation of biochemical pathways. Special focus is given to microRNA-based technology, heterologous systems expression of enzymes and pathways leading to products of interest, as well as applications using both model and non-model plant species. Metabolic engineering is usually defined as the re-routing of one or more enzymatic reactions to generate new compounds, increase the production of existing compounds, or facilitate the degradation of compounds. Plants are the foundation of numerous compounds which are synthesized via assimilated complex biosynthetic routes. Plants have evolved an incredible arrangement of metabolic pathways leading to molecules/compounds capable of responding promptly and effectively to stress situations imposed by biotic and abiotic factors, some of which supply the ever-growing needs of humankind for natural chemicals, such as pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, agrochemicals, food and chemical additives, biofuels, and biomass. However, in foreseeable future we will be forced to think about the accessibility of resources for the generations to come. For these reasons, the book proposes alternative options of food/food supplement, medicines and other essential items, by using plant metabolic engineering approach. This book is of interest to teachers, researchers and academic experts. Also, the book serves as additional reading material for undergraduate and graduate students of biotechnology and molecular biology of plants.

This edited book highlights the molecular basis of various enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants, defense mechanisms and adaptation strategies employed by plants to avoid the stressful conditions. Special focus is given to gene expression, omics and other latest technologies such as CRISPR-Cas mediated genome editing applications for defense related studies in plants. Environmental stresses such as drought, salinity or floods etc. induce the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) which causes severe damage to cell membrane integrity by accelerating lipid peroxidation. To counteract the detrimental effect of ROS, plants are inherited with an intricate and vibrant antioxidant defense system, comprised of enzymatic (catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, glutathione reductase, glutathione S-transferase, guaiacol peroxidase, monodehydroascorbate reductase, dehydroascorbate reductase etc.), and non-enzymatic (glutathione, ascorbate, α-tocopherol, carotenoids, flavonoids etc.) antioxidants, which scavenge and/or reduce excess ROS and improve plant tolerance to various stresses. Stress tolerance in most crop plants is positively correlated with an efficient antioxidant system. Therefore, studying the efficiency of antioxidant defense systems in plants is necessary for facilitating the plant's nature of adaptation against challenging environments. This book is of interest to teachers, researchers and academic experts. Also, the book serves as additional reading material for undergraduate and graduate students of biotechnology and molecular biology of plants.

This two-volume set highlights the various innovative and emerging techniques and molecular applications that are currently being used in plant abiotic stress physiology. Volume 1: Responses and Adaptations focuses on the responses and adaptations of plants to stress factors at the cellular and molecular levels and offers a variety of advanced management strategies and technologies. Volume 2: Molecular Advancements introduces a range of state-of-the-art molecular advances for the mitigation of abiotic stress in plants.With contributions from specialists in the field, Volume 1 first discusses the physiology and defense mechanisms of plants and the various kinds of stress, such as from challenging environments, climate change, and nutritional deficiencies. It goes on to discuss trailblazing management techniques that include genetics approaches for improving abiotic stress tolerance in crop plants along with CRISPR/CAS-mediated genome editing technologies.Volume 2 discusses how plants have developed diverse physiological and molecular adjustments to safeguard themselves under challenging conditions and how emerging new technologies can utilize these plant adaptations to enhance plant resistance. These include using plant-environment interactions to develop crop species that are resilient to climate change, applying genomics and phenomics approaches from the study of abiotic stress tolerance and more.Agriculture today faces countless challenges to meet the rising need for sustainable food supplies and guarantees of high-quality nourishment for a quickly increasing population. To ensure sufficient food production, it is necessary to address the difficult environmental circumstances that are causing cellular oxidative stress in plants due to abiotic factors, which play a defining role in shaping yield of crop plants. These two volumes help to meet these challenges by providing a rich source of information on plant abiotic stress physiology and effective management techniques.

This two-volume set highlights the various innovative and emerging techniques and molecular applications that are currently being used in plant abiotic stress physiology. Volume 1: Responses and Adaptations focuses on the responses and adaptations of plants to stress factors at the cellular and molecular levels and offers a variety of advanced management strategies and technologies. Volume 2: Molecular Advancements introduces a range of state-of-the-art molecular advances for the mitigation of abiotic stress in plants.With contributions from specialists in the field, Volume 1 first discusses the physiology and defense mechanisms of plants and the various kinds of stress, such as from challenging environments, climate change, and nutritional deficiencies. It goes on to discuss trailblazing management techniques that include genetics approaches for improving abiotic stress tolerance in crop plants along with CRISPR/CAS-mediated genome editing technologies.Volume 2 discusses how plants have developed diverse physiological and molecular adjustments to safeguard themselves under challenging conditions and how emerging new technologies can utilize these plant adaptations to enhance plant resistance. These include using plant-environment interactions to develop crop species that are resilient to climate change, applying genomics and phenomics approaches from the study of abiotic stress tolerance and more.Agriculture today faces countless challenges to meet the rising need for sustainable food supplies and guarantees of high-quality nourishment for a quickly increasing population. To ensure sufficient food production, it is necessary to address the difficult environmental circumstances that are causing cellular oxidative stress in plants due to abiotic factors, which play a defining role in shaping yield of crop plants. These two volumes help to meet these challenges by providing a rich source of information on plant abiotic stress physiology and effective management techniques.

This volume focuses on tackling the harmful impact of agricultural waste with the use of sustainable practices, bio-techniques, and new technologies that either make use of the waste as a raw material or convert the waste into a useful resource that can help achieve environmental sustainability. The agriculture sector is one of the major producers of waste around the world. These wastes are produced at various stages of the various processes in the agricultural industry. Agricultural practices such as mechanical tillage, mono-cropping, application of agro-chemicals, irrigation with waste and industrial waters affect soil health and productivity. The resulting agricultural wastes can have a deleterious impact on the different components of the environment, resulting in harmful problems that pose a huge risk to ecological stability. The book investigates the sources and impacts of agri-waste on the environment and goes on to offer effective techniques, processes, and sustainable practices that can be implemented for effective agricultural waste management. Chapters also discuss a selection of innovative engineering-based technologies. The volume includes discussions of many remediation techniques, such as the use of biofertilizers, biocontrol agents, vermicomposting, green chemistry, microbial interventions, and more. The book explores the various uses of agri-waste with special emphasis on their applications in the plant-soil system. This book is a valuable reference source for academicians, professionals, researchers, students, and policymakers who are interested in the innovative management of the agricultural waste.

Phytoremediation: Biotechnological Strategies for Promoting Invigorating Environs focuses on phytoremediation's history, present and future potential, discussing mechanisms of remediation, different types of pollutant and polluted environs, cell signaling, biotechnology, and molecular biology, including site-directed DNA and the omics related to plant sciences. Sections focus on phytoremediation as an economically feasible and environmentally safe strategy, including its mechanisms from macroscopic to microscopic level, strategies of assisted phytoremediation, the role of omics on innovations on the field, the development of genetically modified plants (GMPs) to deal with pollutants, the future prospects of targeted genetic engineering in phytoremediation and remediation advantages and disadvantages. Other sections in the book explore the phytoremediation of specific environs (water and soil) and specific contaminants that are of major worldwide concern. - Presents phytoremediation mechanisms at a microscopic level (molecular mechanisms) - Covers remediation in different environs and in different kinds of pollutants - Conveys the economic aspects relating to phytoremediation

The dependence of present farming on artificial input of “chemical fertilizers” has caused numerous ecological tribulations associated with global warming and soil contamination. Moreover, there is an essential requirement for realistic agricultural practices on a comprehensive level. Accordingly, biofertilizers including microbes have been recommended as feasible environmentally sound solutions for agricultural practices which not only are natural, and cost-effective but also preserve soil environs and important biota of agricultural land. In addition, it enhances the nutrient quantity of soils organically. Microbial biofertilizers promote plant growth by escalating proficient absorption of nutrients for the plants and by providing an excellent disease-fighting mechanism.Agriculture, the backbone of human sustenance, has been put under tremendous pressure by the ever-increasing human population. Although various modern agro-techniques boosted agricultural production, the excessive useof synthetic fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides have proven extremely detrimental to agriculture as well as to the environment in which it is carried out. Besides this some faulty agricultural practices like monoculture and defective irrigation, further complicate the scenario by eliminating biodiversity, increasing the efflux of nutrients into the water bodies, the formation of algal blooms, eutrophication, damaging the water quality and lowering fish stocks. Biofertilizers are the organic compounds applied to crops for their sustainable growth and the sustainability of the environment as the microbiota associated with biofertilizers interact with the soil, roots and seeds to enhance soil fertility. Application of biofertilizers results in the increased mineral and water uptake, root development, vegetative growth and nitrogen fixation besides liberating growth-promoting substances and minerals that help the maintenance of soil fertility. They further act as antagonists and play a pivotal role in neutralising soil-borne plant pathogens and thus, help in the bio-control of diseases. Application of biofertilizers instead of synthetic fertilizers could be a promising technique to raise agricultural productivity without degrading environmental quality. The present book focuses on the latest research approaches and updates from the microbiota and their applications in the agriculture industry. We believe this book addresses various challenges and shed lights on the possible future of the sustainable agricultural system.

Agriculture faces many challenges to fulfil the growing demand for sustainable food production and ensure high-quality nutrition for a rapidly growing population. To guarantee adequate food production, it is necessary to increase the yield per area of arable land. A method for achieving this goal has been the application of growth regulators to modulate plant growth. Plant growth regulators (PGRs) are substances in specific formulations which, when applied to plants or seeds, have the capacity to promote, inhibit, or modify physiological traits, development and/or stress responses. They maintain proper balance between source and sink for enhancing crop yield. PGRs are used to maximize productivity and quality, improve consistency in production, and overcome genetic and abiotic limitations to plant productivity. Suitable PGRs include hormones such as cytokinins and auxins, and hormone-like compounds such as mepiquat chloride and paclobutrazol. The use of PGRs in mainstream agriculture has steadily increased within the last 20 years as their benefits have become better understood by growers. Unfortunately, the growth of the PGR market may be constrained by a lack of innovation at a time when an increase in demand for new products will require steady innovation and discovery of novel, cost-competitive, specific, and effective PGRs.A plant bio-stimulant is any substance or microorganism applied to plants with the aim to enhance nutrition efficiency, abiotic stress tolerance and/or crop quality traits, regardless of its nutrients content. Apart from traditional PGRs, which are mostly plant hormones, there are a number of substances/molecules such as nitric oxide, methyl jasmonate, brassinosteroids, seaweed extracts, strigolactones, plant growth promoting rhizobacteria etc. which act as PGRs. These novel PGRs or bio-stimulants have been reported to play important roles in stress responses and adaptation. They can protect plants against various stresses, including water deficit, chilling and high temperatures, salinity and flooding. This book includes chapters ranging from sensing and signalling in plants to translational research. In addition, the cross-talk operative in plants in response to varied signals of biotic and abiotic nature is also presented. Ultimately the objective of this book is to present the current scenario and the future plan of action for the management of stresses through traditional as well as novel PGRs. We believe that this book will initiate and introduce readers to state-of-the-art developments and trends in this field of study.

Before the concept of history began, humans undoubtedly acquired life benefits by discovering medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) that were food and medicine. Today, a variety of available herbs and spices are used and enjoyed throughout the world and continue to promote good health. The international market is also quite welcoming for MAPs and essential oils. The increasing environment and nature conscious buyers encourage producers to produce high quality essential oils. These consumer choices lead to growing preference for organic and herbal based products in the world market. As the benefits of medicinal and aromatic plants are recognized, these plants will have a special role for humans in the future. Until last century, the production of botanicals relies to a large degree on wild-collection. However, the increasing commercial collection, largely unmonitored trade, and habitat loss lead to an incomparably growing pressure on plant populationsin the wild. Therefore, medicinal and aromatic plants are of high priority for conservation. Given the above, we bring forth a comprehensive volume, “Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Healthcare and Industrial Applications”, highlighting the various healthcare, industrial and pharmaceutical applications that are being used on these immensely important MAPs and its future prospects. This collection of chapters from the different areas dealing with MAPs caters to the need of all those who are working or have interest in the above topic.

Plants and microbes have co-evolved and interacted with each other in nature. Understanding the complex nature of the plant-microbe interface can pave the way for novel strategies to improve plant productivity in an eco-friendly manner. The microbes associated with plants, often called plant microbiota, are an integral part of plant life. The significance of the plant microbiome is a reliable approach toward sustainability to meet future food crises and rejuvenate soil health. Profiling plant-associate microbiomes (genome assemblies of all microbes) is an emerging concept in understanding plant-microbe interactions. Microbiota extends the plant capacity to acclimatize fluctuating environmental conditions through several mechanisms. Thus, unraveling the mystery of plant-microbe dynamics through latest technologies to better understand the role of metabolites and signal pathway mechanisms is very important.This book shares the latest insight on omics technologies to unravel plant-microbe dynamic interactions and other novel phytotechnologies for cleaning contaminated soils. Besides, it also provides brief insight on the recently discovered clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats CRISPR-Cas9, which is a genome editing tool to explore plant-microbe interactions and how this genome editing tool helps to improve the ability of microbes/plants to combat abiotic/biotic stresses.

Phytomedicine: A Treasure of Pharmacologically Active Products from Plants aims to present updated knowledge of plant-based medicines in terms of their research and development, production, and utilization, from the viewpoint of sustainability and by using the latest technologies. The book explores different phytometabolites on a mass scale, coupled with the efficacy, performance and applicability on target organisms to treat curable and fatal diseases. Readers will find a coherent package of phytotherapeutic information regarding inclusive assortment of research based, scientific amplitude of metabolites from the plant world encompassing various action plans. Information is presented sequentially regarding phytochemistry, biological activity and the serviceable aspects of bioactive compounds. The book also addresses various advancements and achievements of novel drugs from plants using molecular and enzymatic activities, and various technological tools in an ecofriendly fashion. - Discusses phytotherapeutic properties for a wide range of medical conditions, including anti-pyretic, anti-infective, anti-malarial, Anti-AIDS, anti-diabetic, anti-cancerous, immune-modulatory applications - Includes a discussion of synergistic effects of formulations and antagonistic drug interactions - Addresses advancements and achievements of novel plant-based drugs using molecular, enzymatic activities and various technological tools in an eco-friendly fashion

Plants face a wide range of environmental challenges, which are expected to become more intense as a result of global climate change. Plant–soil interactions play an important role in the functioning of ecosystems. Soil properties represent a strong selection pressure for plant diversity and influence the structure of plant communities and biodiversity. The complexity of plant–soil interactions has recently been studied by developing a trait-based approach in which responses and effects of plants on soil environment are quantified and modelled. This fundamental research on plant–soil interaction in ecosystems is essential to transpose knowledge of functional ecology to environmental management.Frontiers in Plant-Soil Interaction: Molecular Insights into Plant Adaptation will address topics that provide advances in understanding plant responses to soil conditions through the integration of genetic, molecular, and plant-level studies of diverse biotic and abiotic stresses under field and laboratory conditions. This book will be beneficial to students and researchers working on stress physiology and stress proteins, genomics, proteomics, genetic engineering and other fields of plant-soil interactions. Frontiers in Plant-Soil Interaction will also help scientists explore new horizons in their area of research. - Brings together global leaders working in the area of plant–environment interactions and shares their research findings - Presents current and future scenarios for the management of stressors - Illustrates the central role for plant-soil interactions in applying basic research to address current and future challenges to humans

Plants are an important source of fats and oils, which are essential for the human diet. In recent years, genomics of oil biosynthesis in plants have attracted great interest, especially in high oil-bearing plants, such as sesame, olive, sunflower, and palm. Considering that, genome sequencing projects of these plants have been undertaken with the help of advanced genomics tools such as next generation sequencing. Several genome sequencing projects of oil crops are in progress and many others are en route. In addition to genome information, advanced genomics approaches are discussed such as transcriptomics, genomics-assisted breeding, genome-wide association study (GWAS), genotyping by sequencing (GBS), and CRISPR. These have all improved our understanding of the oil biosynthesis mechanism and breeding strategies for oil production.There is, however, no book that covers the genomes and genomics of oil crops. For this reason, in this volume we collected the most recent knowledge of oil crop genomics for researchers who study oil crop genomes, genomics, biotechnology, pharmacology, and medicine. This book covers all genome-sequenced oil crops as well as the plants producing important oil metabolites. Throughout this book, the latest genomics developments and discoveries are highlighted as well as open problems and future challenges in oil crop genomics. In doing so, we have covered the state-of-the-art of developments and trends of oil crop genomics.

Growing consumer interest in organic and herbal-based products has led to great demand in the botanicals industry in the past few years. However, the growing number of products utilizing medicinal and aromatic plants (MAPs) has threatened an estimated 9,000 medicinal plant species worldwide, making it critical to reevaluate their research and development, production, and utilization. Continuing advances in Omics methodologies and instrumentation are essential to understanding how plants cope with the dynamic nature of their growing environment, how yields and characteristics can be improved, and how to most effectively direct conservation efforts. With a focus on metabolomics, genomics, proteomics, transcriptomics, and more, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Expanding Their Horizons through Omics illustrates the genetic mechanisms of MAPs, providing a better understanding of MAPs conservation and methods to improve characteristics for medical applications. With an introduction on the role of MAPs in human health, subsequent chapters discuss using proteomics to increase MAP yields and plant quality, genome editing, and CRISPR/Cas9. A valuable resource for farmers, scientists, chemists, biochemists, pharmacists, and students interested in medicinal and aromatic plants and plant biology, Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Expanding Their Horizons through Omics ensures readers have the background knowledge to put the necessary methodologies into practice themselves. - Includes in-depth analysis of Omics technologies for the enhancement of MAPs - Discusses applications of MAPs including their role in human health Written by world-wide leading experts in the field

An increasing population has put tremendous pressure on agricultural productivity to fulfill the demands of human consumption. Numerous agricultural activities and techniques have been developed to raise annual crop production globally. While agriculture has succeeded in enhancing the yearly crop productivity, this achievement is at the cost of environmental degradation by applying synthetic persistent substances, such as industrial fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides, etc. Chemical fertilizers are nearly as destructive as they are productive, causing monocultures and consequences associated with elimination of diversity, nutrient pollution as evidenced by algae blooms, eutrophication, water quality issues, lower oxygen levels and dangers to fish stocks. Therefore, the scientific approach to maintain sustainable fertility in soil and plants is to switch over to biofertilisers.Biofertilisers are compounds of organic matter that are applied to crops for growth and health. Their constituent micro-organisms interact in an ecofriendly manner with the soil, root and seeds of plants, promoting the growth of micro-flora that enhances soil fertility. They are known to play a number of vital roles in soil fertility, crop productivity and production in agriculture. Application of biofertilisers results in increased mineral and water uptake, root development, vegetative growth and nitrogen fixation. They liberate growth promoting substances and vitamins and help to maintain soil fertility. They act as antagonists and play a pivotal role in neutralising the soil borne plant pathogens, thereby assisting in the bio-control of diseases. Application of biofertilisers in lieu of synthetic fertilizers could be the promising technique to raise agricultural productivity without degrading the environmental quality. The present book focuses on the latest research approaches and updates from the microbiota ecosystem and their applications in agriculture industry. It also highlightsthe great potential and possible future of action of microbiota in the development of sustainable agricultural systems.

Allelopathic studies may be defined in various aspects; weed against weed/crop and vice versa. This book focuses on the ways to utilize the allelopathic potential of weeds or crops for controlling weeds in the agroecosystems. Vigorous use of herbicides is poisoning our environment at an alarming rate; allelopathy can be employed as a useful alternative to control weeds naturally under field conditions. The book contains chapters on the history of allelopathy; allelopathic potential of several important crops (rice, wheat, sorghum, maize, mustard, sunflower) and weeds (members of Solanaceae, Convolvulaceae, Asteraceae, Verbenaceae). Moreover, it highlights how the allelopathic potential of these weeds and crops can be employed effectively to suppress weeds under field conditions. The book also discusses topics on the role of allelochemicals in agroecosystems; impact on local flora; biotic stress induced by allelochemicals; mechanism of action of allelochemicals and future prospectiveof allelopathy. Prepared with basic concepts and importance of allelopathy, this book is intended for the agricultural community, botanists, students and researchers.

Natural remedies play an important role in curing ailments that happen by chance or adoptively. Adhatoda vasica is a natural Asian remedy that has the potential to treat respiratory disorders, among others. While existing literature does exist on this medicinal plant, it can be cumbersome to sort through for information relevant to academics, research, and practice. This work reframes and consolidates information on Adhatoda vasica so that it is easier to approach through academic, research, and practitioner perspectives.

Agriculture is considered as a backbone of developing nations as it caters the needs of the people, directly or indirectly. The global agriculture currently faces enormous challenges like land degradation and reduced soil fertility, shrinking of land, low production yield, water accessibility and a dearth of labor due to evacuation of individuals from farming. Besides, the global population increases at an exponential rate and it is predicted that the global population will be 9 billion by 2050 that in turn leads to food crisis in near future. Although, green revolution revolutionizes the agriculture sector by enhancing the yield but it was not considered as a sustainable approach. Exorbitant use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides to boost the crop yield is definitely not a convenient approach for agriculture sustainability in the light of the fact that these chemical fertilizers are considered as double-edged sword, which on one hand enhance the crop yield but at the same timepossess deleterious effect on the soil microflora and thus declines its fertility. Besides, it cause irreversible damage to the soil texture and disrupts the equilibrium in the food chain across ecosystem, which might in turn lead to genetic mutations in future generations of consumers. Thus, the increased dependence on fabricated agricultural additives during and post green revolution has generated serious issues pertaining to sustainability, environmental impact and health hazards. Therefore, nano-biotechnology has emerged as a promising tool to tackle the above problems especially in the agriculture sector. Nano-agribusiness is an emerged field to enhance crop yield, rejuvenate soil health, provide precision farming and stimulate plant growth. Nano-biotechnology is an essential tool in modern agriculture and is considered as a primary economic driver in near future. It is evaluated that joining of cutting edge nanotechnology in agribusiness would push the worldwide monetary development to approximately US$ 3.4 trillion by 2020 which clearly indicates that how agri-nanobiotechnology plays a pivotal role in the agricultural sector, without any negative impact on the environment and other regulatory issues of biosafety. Agri-nanobiotechnology is an innovative green technology, which provides the solution to global food security, sustainability and climate change. The current book is presenting the role of nano-biotechnology in modern agriculture and how it plays a pivotal role to boost the agri-business.

This new volume presents some of the latest research trends and areas of improvement to benefit the floriculture industry and to understand its future directions and prospects. The research addresses the global floriculture industry's shift from a traditional to a commercial focus. The global economy has spurred entrepreneurs to focus on the growing trend of exportoriented floriculture under controlled climatic conditions. The volume also looks at the role of plants in stabilizing the environment and the use of scientific knowledge through research that has changed the perspective of modern floriculture. This new book is a valuable compilation of the latest research work and areas of improvement in floriculture today. Key features: Provides an overview of the global floriculture industry Looks at the role of bulbous ornamentals Considers enhancing consumer-preferred traits in floriculture crops through genetic manipulation Discusses using ornamental plants to stabilize the environment

Plants require essential nutrients (macronutrients and micronutrients) for normal functioning. Sufficiency range is the levels of nutrients necessary to meet the plant's needs for optimal growth. This range depends on individual plant species and the particular nutrient. Nutrient levels outside of a plant's sufficiency range cause overall crop growth and health to decline, due either to deficiency or toxicity from over-accumulation. Apart from micronutrients (B, Cl, Mn, Fe, Zn, Cu and Mo), Aluminum (Al), cerium (Ce), cobalt (Co), iodine (I), lanthanum (La), sodium (Na), selenium (Se), silicon (Si), titanium (Ti), and vanadium (V) are emerging as novel biostimulants that may enhance crop productivity and nutritional quality. These beneficial elements are not'essential'but when supplied at low dosages, they augment plant growth, development, and yield by stimulating specific molecular, biochemical, and physiological pathways in responses to challenging environments.The book is the first reference volume that approaches plant micronutrient management with the latest biotechnological and omics tools. Expertly curated chapters highlight working solutions as well as open problems and future challenges in plant micronutrient deficiency or toxicity. We believe this book will introduce readers to state-of-the-art developments and research trends in this field.

Bioinformatics is an integrative field of computer science, genetics, genomics, proteomics, and statistics, which has undoubtedly revolutionized the study of biology and medicine in past decades. It mainly assists in modeling, predicting and interpreting large multidimensional biological data by utilizing advanced computational methods. Despite its enormous potential, bioinformatics is not widely integrated into the academic curriculum as most life science students and researchers are still not equipped with the necessary knowledge to take advantage of this powerful tool. Hence, the primary purpose of our book is to supplement this unmet need by providing an easily accessible platform for students and researchers starting their career in life sciences. This book aims to avoid sophisticated computational algorithms and programming. Instead, it will mostly focus on simple DIY analysis and interpretation of biological data with personal computers. Our belief is that once the beginners acquire these basic skillsets, they will be able to handle most of the bioinformatics tools for their research work and to better understand their experimental outcomes.The third volume is titled In Silico Life Sciences: Agriculture. It focuses on plant genetic, genomic, transcriptomic, proteomic and metabolomics data. Using examples of new crop diseases-emergence, crop productivity and biotic/abiotic stress tolerance, this book illustrates how bioinformatics can be an integral components of modern day plant science research.

Plants have to manage a series of environmental stresses throughout their entire lifespan. Among these, abiotic stress is the most detrimental; one that is responsible for nearly 50% of crop yield reduction and appears to be a potential threat to global food security in coming decades. Plant growth and development reduces drastically due to adverse effects of abiotic stresses. It has been estimated that crop can exhibit only 30% of their genetic potentiality under abiotic stress condition. So, this is a fundamental need to understand the stress responses to facilitate breeders to develop stress resistant and stress tolerant cultivars along with good management practices to withstand abiotic stresses. Also, a holistic approach to understanding the molecular and biochemical interactions of plants is important to implement the knowledge of resistance mechanisms under abiotic stresses. Agronomic practices like selecting cultivars that is tolerant to wide range of climatic condition, planting date, irrigation scheduling, fertilizer management could be some of the effective short-term adaptive tools to fight against abiotic stresses. In addition, “system biology” and “omics approaches” in recent studies offer a long-term opportunity at the molecular level in dealing with abiotic stresses. The genetic approach, for example, selection and identification of major conditioning genes by linkage mapping and quantitative trait loci (QTL), production of mutant genes and transgenic introduction of novel genes, has imparted some tolerant characteristics in crop varieties from their wild ancestors. Recently research has revealed the interactions between micro-RNAs (miRNAs) and plant stress responses exposed to salinity, freezing stress and dehydration. Accordingly transgenic approaches to generate stress-tolerant plant are one of the most interesting researches to date.This book presents the recent development of agronomic and molecular approaches in conferring plant abiotic stress tolerance in an organized way. The present volume will be of great interest among research students and teaching community, and can also be used as reference material by professional researchers.

Early anthropological evidence for plant use as medicine is 60,000 years old as reported from the Neanderthal grave in Iraq. The importance of plants as medicine is further supported by archeological evidence from Asia and the Middle East. Today, around 1.4 billion people in South Asia alone have no access to modern health care, and rely instead on traditional medicine to alleviate various symptoms. On a global basis, approximately 50 to 80 thousand plant species are used either natively or as pharmaceutical derivatives for life-threatening conditions that include diabetes, hypertension and cancers. As the demand for plant-based medicine rises, there is an unmet need to investigate the quality, safety and efficacy of these herbals by the “scientific methods”. Current research on drug discovery from medicinal plants involves a multifaceted approach combining botanical, phytochemical, analytical, and molecular techniques. For instance, high throughput robotic screens have been developed by industry; it is now possible to carry out 50,000 tests per day in the search for compounds which act on a key enzyme or a subset of receptors. This and other bioassays thus offer hope that one may eventually identify compounds for treating a variety of diseases or conditions. However, drug development from natural products is not without its problems. Frequent challenges encountered include the procurement of raw materials, the selection and implementation of appropriate high-throughput bioassays, and the scaling-up of preparative procedures.Research scientists should therefore arm themselves with the right tools and knowledge in order to harness the vast potentials of plant-based therapeutics. The main objective of Plant and Human Health is to serve as a comprehensive guide for this endeavor. Volume 1 highlights how humans from specific areas or cultures use indigenous plants. Despite technological developments, herbal drugs still occupy a preferential place in a majority of the population in the third world and have slowly taken roots as alternative medicine in the West. The integration of modern science with traditional uses of herbal drugs is important for our understanding of this ethnobotanical relationship. Volume 2 deals with the phytochemical and molecular characterization of herbal medicine. Specifically, it will focus on the secondary metabolic compounds which afford protection against diseases. Lastly, Volume 3 focuses on the physiological mechanisms by which the active ingredients of medicinal plants serve to improve human health. Together this three-volume collection intends to bridge the gap for herbalists, traditional and modern medical practitioners, and students and researchers in botany and horticulture.

Early anthropological evidence for plant use as medicine is 60,000 years old as reported from the Neanderthal grave in Iraq. The importance of plants as medicine is further supported by archeological evidence from Asia and the Middle East. Today, around 1.4 billion people in South Asia alone have no access to modern health care, and rely instead on traditional medicine to alleviate various symptoms. On a global basis, approximately 50 to 80 thousand plant species are used either natively or as pharmaceutical derivatives for life-threatening conditions that include diabetes, hypertension and cancers. As the demand for plant-based medicine rises, there is an unmet need to investigate the quality, safety and efficacy of these herbals by the “scientific methods”. Current research on drug discovery from medicinal plants involves a multifaceted approach combining botanical, phytochemical, analytical, and molecular techniques. For instance, high throughput robotic screens have been developed by industry; it is now possible to carry out 50,000 tests per day in the search for compounds which act on a key enzyme or a subset of receptors. This and other bioassays thus offer hope that one may eventually identify compounds for treating a variety of diseases or conditions. However, drug development from natural products is not without its problems. Frequent challenges encountered include the procurement of raw materials, the selection and implementation of appropriate high-throughput bioassays, and the scaling-up of preparative procedures. Research scientists should therefore arm themselves with the right tools and knowledge in order to harness the vast potentials of plant-based therapeutics. The main objective of Plant and Human Health is to serve as a comprehensive guide for this endeavor. Volume 1 highlights how humans from specific areas or cultures use indigenous plants. Despite technological developments, herbal drugs still occupy a preferential place in a majority of the population in the third world and have slowly taken roots as alternative medicine in the West. The integration of modern science with traditional uses of herbal drugs is important for our understanding of this ethnobotanical relationship. Volume 2 deals with the phytochemical and molecular characterization of herbal medicine. Specifically, It will focus on the secondary metabolic compounds which afford protection against diseases. Lastly, Volume 3 focuses on the physiological mechanisms by which the active ingredients of medicinal plants serve to improve human health. Together this three-volume collection intends to bridge the gap for herbalists, traditional and modern medical practitioners, and students and researchers in botany and horticulture.

Oral health loss is one of the major problems existing all over the world and is one of the top causes of death when unmanaged. The oral cavity is home to numerous pathogenic microorganisms, some of which are responsible for the progression and development of various systemic diseases such as cancer, diabetes and myocardial infarction. Worldwide, 60–90% of school children and nearly 100% of adults have dental cavities, often leading to pain and discomfort. There are implications for the global economy as well, due to the continuous burden of investing resources to maintain oral hygiene. Not surprisingly, developing countries are disproportionally affected. There is thus an urgent need to develop economical solutions for the treatment of oral diseases. The trend of exploring plants or plant-derived compounds for the prevention and cure of death-causing diseases is on the rise. The use of traditional medicine for oral diseases is an ancient practice in which medicinal herbs playa major role. Medicinal plants have minimal side effects and no denigrating properties. Accordingly the use of medicinal plants to curtail oral pathogens has been reported by a number of studies.The present book updates the issues related to oral health, oral diseases and the role of medicinal plants in overcoming orally-derived health problems. We also highlight the knowledge gaps in oral health related problems with medicinal plants as one of the solutions. Our ultimate goal is to encourage future research and application of medicinal plants for economical and efficient treatment of oral diseases.

Early anthropological evidence for plant use as medicine is 60,000 years old as reported from the Neanderthal grave in Iraq. The importance of plants as medicine is further supported by archeological evidence from Asia and the Middle East. Today, around 1.4 billion people in South Asia alone have no access to modern health care, and rely instead on traditional medicine to alleviate various symptoms. On a global basis, approximately 50 to 80 thousand plant species are used either natively or as pharmaceutical derivatives for life-threatening conditions that include diabetes, hypertension and cancers. As the demand for plant-based medicine rises, there is an unmet need to investigate the quality, safety and efficacy of these herbals by the “scientific methods”. Current research on drug discovery from medicinal plants involves a multifaceted approach combining botanical, phytochemical, analytical, and molecular techniques. For instance, high throughput robotic screens have been developed by industry; it is now possible to carry out 50,000 tests per day in the search for compounds, which act on a key enzyme or a subset of receptors. This and other bioassays thus offer hope that one may eventually identify compounds for treating a variety of diseases or conditions. However, drug development from natural products is not without its problems. Frequent challenges encountered include the procurement of raw materials, the selection and implementation of appropriate high-throughput bioassays, and the scaling-up of preparative procedures. Research scientists should therefore arm themselves with the right tools and knowledge in order to harness the vast potentials of plant-based therapeutics. The main objective of Plant and Human Health is to serve as a comprehensive guide for this endeavor. Volume 1 highlights how humans from specific areas or cultures use indigenous plants. Despite technological developments, herbal drugs still occupy a preferential place in a majority of the population in the third world and have slowly taken roots as alternative medicine in the West. The integration of modern science with traditional uses of herbal drugs is important for our understanding of this ethnobotanical relationship. Volume 2 deals with the phytochemical and molecular characterization of herbal medicine. Specifically, it focuess on the secondary metabolic compounds, which afford protection against diseases. Lastly, Volume 3 discusses the physiological mechanisms by which the active ingredients of medicinal plants serve to improve human health. Together this three-volume collection intends to bridge the gap for herbalists, traditional and modern medical practitioners, and students and researchers in botany and horticulture.

Increase in world population, extreme weather conditions, decrease in fresh water supplies, and changes of dietary habits are major issues that affect global food security. We are expected to face the challenges of land use by 2050 because population will reach 9 billion while agricultural productivity losses are expected due to overuse of lands. How can we feed the next generations in a manner that respects our finite natural resources? Managing our resources in a sustainable way have only begun for selected crops. Much remains to be done to increase food yield. Cropping practices capable of sustainable production need to be elaborated, especially in fragile ecosystems. Typical applications will include the improvement and use of genetic resources; crop management and diversification; diffusion of improved varieties; development of cropping systems; sustainable cropping systems for areas prone to environmental degradation; use of agro-ecological data for crop production forecasting; and networks for regional coordination, and data exchange. The impetus behind this book is to bring attention to a cropping system that bears direct relevance to sustainable agriculture and food security. “Underutilized” crops are found in numerous agricultural ecosystems and often survive mainly in marginal areas. It is timely to review their status because, in recent decades, scientific and economic interests have emerged which focus on lesser-known cultivated species. Underutilized crops have a great potential to alleviate hunger directly, through increasing food production in challenging environments where major crops are severely limited.“Global Perspectives on Underutilized Crops” is therefore topical and highlights the unmet agricultural challenges that we face today. This book is an important resource for students and researchers of crop science and agricultural policy makers.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza) is one of the most widely used in foods, herbal medicine and one of the extensively researched medicinal plants of the world. In traditional medicine licorice roots have been used against treating many ailments including lung diseases, arthritis, kidney diseases, eczema, heart diseases, gastric ulcer, low blood pressure, allergies, liver toxicity, and certain microbial infections. Licorice extract contains sugars, starch, bitters, resins, essential oils, tannins, inorganic salts and low levels of nitrogenous constituents such as proteins, individual amino acids, and nucleic acids. A large number of biologically active compounds have been isolated from Glycyrrhiza species, where triterpene, saponins and flavonoids are the main constitutes which show broad biological activities.The present book will discuss the botany, the commercial interests as well as the recent studies on the phytochemistry and pharmacology of licorice. It will also describe the side effects and toxicity of licorice and its bioactive components, an underrepresented subjects of importance.It will be the first book to present global perspectives of licorice in detail. It will serve as a carefully researched introduction for students, healthcare practitioners, botanists and plant biochemists; full of historical background and bridges the gap between botany, ecology, pharmacology, as well as treatment of diseases.

This book: (i) introduces fundamental and applied bioinformatics research in the field of plant life sciences; (ii) enlightens the potential users towards the recent advances in the development and application of novel computational methods available for the analysis and integration of plant -omics data; (iii) highlights relevant databases, softwares, tools and web resources developed till date to make ease of access for researchers working to decipher plant responses towards stresses; and (iv) presents a critical cross-talks on the available high-throughput data in plant research. Therefore, in addition to being a reference for the professional researchers, it is also of great interest to students and their professors. Considering immense significance of plants for all lives on Earth, the major focus of research in plant biology has been to: (a) select plants that best fit the purposes of human, (b) develop crop plants superior in quality, quantity and farming practiceswhen compared to natural (wild) plants, and (c) explore strategies to help plants to adapt biotic and abiotic/environmental stress factors. Accordingly the development of novel techniques and their applications have increased significantly in recent years. In particular, large amount of biological data have emerged from multi-omics approaches aimed at addressing numerous aspects of the plant systems under biotic or abiotic stresses. However, even though the field is evolving at a rapid pace, information on the cross-talks and/or critical digestion of research outcomes in the context of plant bioinformatics is scarce. “Plant Bioinformatics: Decoding the Phyta” is aimed to bridge this gap.

The interactions between the plant, soil and microbes are complex in nature. Events may be antagonistic, mutualistic or synergistic, depending upon the types of microorganisms and their association with the plant and soil in question. Multi-trophic tactics can therefore be employed to nourish plants in various habitats and growth conditions. Understanding the mechanisms of these interactions is thus highly desired in order to utilize the knowledge in an ecofriendly and sustainable way. This holistic approach to crop improvement may not only resolve the upcoming food security issues, but also make the environment greener by reducing the chemical inputs. Plant, soil and microbe, Volume 1: Implications in Crop Science, along with the forthcoming Volume 2: Mechanisms and Molecular Interactions, provide detailed accounts of the exquisite and delicate balance between the three critical components of agronomy. Specifically, these two titles focus on the basis of nutrient exchange between the microorganisms and the host plants, the mechanism of disease protection and the recent molecular details emerged from studying this multi-tropic interaction. Together they aim to provide a solid foundation for the students, teachers, and researchers interested in soil microbiology, plant pathology, ecology and agronomy.

The interactions between the plant, soil, and microbes are very complex in nature and may be antagonistic, mutualistic, or synergistic, depending upon the types of microorganisms and their association with the plant and soil. The multi-trophictactics are involved in these types of interactions to nourish the plants in various habitats and conditions. Understanding the mechanisms of these interactions is highly desired to utilize the knowledge in such an eco-friendly and sustainable way, which may not only resolve the upcoming food security issues but also make the environment green by reducing the chemical inputs. Plant, Soil and Microbes: Mechanisms and Molecular Interactions, along with the recently published Plant, Soil and Microbes: Implications in Crop Science, provide detailed accounts of the exquisite and delicate balance between the three critical components of agronomy. Specifically, these two titles focus on the basis of nutrient exchange between the microorganisms and thehost plants, the mechanism of disease protection and the recent molecular details emerged from studying this multitropic interaction. Together they provide a solid foundation for the students, teachers, and researchers interested in soil microbiology, plant pathology, ecology and agronomy.

To comprehend the organizational principle of cellular functions at diff erent levels, an integrative approach with large-scale experiments, the so-called ‘omics'data including genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics, is needed. Omics aims at the collective characterization and quantifi cation of pools of biological molecules that translate into the structure, function, and dynamics of an organism or organisms. Currently, omics is an essential tool to understand the molecular systems that underlie various plant functions. Furthermore, in several plant species, the development of omicsresources has progressed to address the particular biological properties of individual species. Integration of knowledge from omics-based research is an emerging issue as researchers seek to identify significance, gain biological insights and promote translational research. From these perspectives, we intend to provide the emerging aspects of plant systems research based on omics and bioinformatics analyses together with their associated resources and technological advances. Th e present book covers a wide range of omics topics, and discusses the latest trends and application area of plant sciences. In this volume, we have highlighted the working solutions as well as open problems and future challenges in plant omics studies. We believe that this book will initiate and introduce readers to state-of-the-art developments and trends in omics-driven research.

Soil is the most important natural non-renewable resource developed over a longer period of time due to weathering of rocks and subsequently enrichment of organic matter. Soil provides habitat for numerous microorganisms and serves as a natural medium for plant growth, thereby providing the plants with anchorage, nutrients and water to sustain the growth. Soil also serves as a universal sink for all types of pollutants, purifies ground water and is a major reserve of carbon in the universe. The role of soils to provide ecosystem services, maintenance of environmental/human health and ensuring the food security makes it as the most important and basic natural resource. Soil Science helps us to elaborate and understand how the soils provide all these services. Soil Science also provides us the basic knowledge dealing with the origin of the soil parent material, weathering of parent material and the formation of soils, morphological, physico-chemical and biological features of soils, classification of soils and role of soils in the provision and maintenance of ecosystem services, food security and environmental quality. This book encompasses the various processes, functions and behaviour of soils very comprehensively to acquaint the students of soil, plant and environmental sciences about their role to perform different agricultural and environmental functions.

In the era of current industrial and civil development, everyone is expressing a deep concern about the problem of environmental pollution. The majority of the global community has a vested interest in supporting and sustaining any move for the protection of environment. In the greater part of the last century it was the fast pace of industrialization, galloping demand for energy and reckless exploitation of natural resources that were mainly responsible for creating the problem of environmental pollution. In the current scenario, high illiteracy rates of the developing nations leads to increasing environmental pollution. When it comes to the hazards of environmental pollution, there is only a very thin dividing line between different countries. One pollutes and the other suffers-there are no eventual winners without significant changes globally. Pollution is posing serious threats to all kinds of diversities on earth in particular plants. The plant world is of vital importance for our planet. It is a worldwide priority aimed at better meeting the needs for food, livelihoods and nature. To meet the food demand of fast-growing population, global food production will have to be doubled. The sustainability of food production depends on the sustainability of plant resources and using tolerant varieties to augment food production.This volume therefore covers discussions on the recent developments in this connection and the emerging role of plants as indicators, remediation, and such related issues as biodiversity conservation and the effects of on edible plants. It reviews issues concerning the future of plant life. Taking cognizance of this, several experts from different parts of the globe have contributed from their experience and knowledge to the critical issues of'Environmental Pollution,'and the'Role of Plants in this connection”.

Meeting the world's food security challenge will require a multi-national, collaborative effort to integrate the best research from science, engineering and socioeconomics so that technological advances can bring benefits where they are most needed. The present book covers the effect of major environmental problems on crop production and how to cope with these issues for sustainable agriculture and improvements of crops. The world's population is predicted to hit 9.6 Billion by 2050, up from today's total of nearly 7.3 Billion, and with it food demand is predicted to increase substantially. The post-war ‘second agricultural revolution'in developed countries, and the ‘green revolution'in developing nations in the mid- 1960s converted agricultural practices and elevated crop yields spectacularly, but the outcome is levelling off and will not meet projected demand. Simultaneously, crop production is affected by many other factors, including industrial pollution, overuse of fertilizers and insecticides, heavy metal and radiation stresses etc. It has been noted that many pests are becoming resistant to insecticides. Estimates vary, but around 25% of crops can be lost to pests and diseases. Climate change associated with agriculture is also a global issue. Agriculture is a significant contributor to greenhouse gases and is estimated to account for 10-12% of total greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Many of the issues highlighted are global problems and are addressed thoroughly in this work.

This book covers studies on the systematics of plant taxa and will include general vegetational aspects and ecological characteristics of plant life at altitudes above 1000 m. from different parts of the world. This volume also addresses how upcoming climate change scenarios will impact high altitude plant life. It presents case studies from the most important mountainous areas like the Himalayas, Caucasus and South America covering the countries like Malaysia, Sri Lanka, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Kirghizia, Georgia, Russia,Turkey, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Americas. The book will serve as an invaluable resource source undergraduates, graduate students, and researchers.