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Sheath blight disease in rice, induced by the necrotrophic basidiomycetes Rhizoctonia solani, has emerged as a significant menace to global rice cultivation, especially with the widespread adoption of high-yielding varieties. The pathogen’s capacity to endure unfavorable conditions and its wide host range contribute to the increased challenge for management. The occurrence of sheath blight in rice is intensified when high-yielding semi-dwarf cultivars are employed, coupled with dense planting and the application of substantial amounts of nitrogenous fertilizers. Managing this pathogen is a formidable challenge due to its broad host range, substantial genetic variability, and the absence of satisfactory levels of natural resistance in the existing rice germplasm. Due to the absence of complete resistance sources, the predominant approach for managing sheath blight has been through chemical control methods. It is imperative to explore solutions to combat this pathogen, in order to reduce rice yield losses and safeguard global food security. Developing genetic resistance provides an alternative to the use of potentially harmful chemical fungicides. This review crucially delivers efforts to enhance the understanding of the host–pathogen relationship, which involves identification of gene loci/markers associated with resistance responses, modification of host genome through transgenic approaches, examining the wide host range, epidemiology and its managemental approaches. Recent advancements and current research on the R. solani–rice pathosystem, along with a gap analysis, are presented.

The current study aimed to detect the genetic variability of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) cytochrome B (CYTB) gene in 80 native Egyptian rabbits (NER) belonging to three populations in three different agriculture regions (Delta, Middle, and Upper Egypt) and also investigate the origin of these breeds by phylogenetic relationship analysis. A total of 62 haplotypes were recorded among the three NER populations. The native Upper Egypt rabbits (NUER) expressed the highest number of haplotypes, mutations, polymorphic sites, and haplotype diversity (23, 55, 51, and 1.00, respectively). While it gave the lowest values of nucleotide diversity (0.0262) and Tajima's D (−0.01435), the percentage of mutual haplotypes was 4.8 % between the Middle and Delta Egypt populations. The phylogenetic analysis showed that there were more separated haplotypes of NUER compared to other populations. The same finding was also observed when supported by 31 sequences of different rabbit breeds retrieved from the GeneBank database. A mutual haplotype was observed between native Delta Egyptian rabbits (NDER) and New Zealand (NWZ) rabbits. The results of this study shed light on the importance of indigenous breeds in rural areas through mtDNA, which contributes to finding sustainable strategies to conserve and improve genetic resources in Egyptian rural areas.

This research was carried out to evaluate the pedigree data of the Debrecen White rabbit breed. Pedigree information was supplied by the Debrecen White Rabbit Breeder Association. The final dataset contained all available information on animals registered by the breeding association up to 2023. The reference population was the active breeding stock in 2023. The estimated complete generation equivalent was 7.8, while the mean of maximum generations was 16.29 for the present stock. All individuals within the current population were inbred, with a 5.37% mean inbreeding coefficient. The division of the inbreeding coefficient showed that homozygosity is increasing in the current population. The genetic conservation index (GCI) was higher than 30 for 10.11% for the total population, and was above 38.69% for the current population.

Abstract Trait heritability and the response to selection depend on genetic variation, a prerequisite to developing sorghum varieties with desirable agronomic traits and high carbon sequestration for sustainable crop production and soil health. The present study aimed to assess the extent of genetic variability and associations among agronomic and carbon storage traits in selected sorghum genotypes to identify the best candidates for production or breeding. Fifty genotypes were evaluated at Ukulinga, Bethlehem and Silverton sites in South Africa during the 2022/23 growing season. The following agronomic and carbon storage traits were collected: days to 50% heading (DTH), days to 50% maturity (DTM), plant height (PH), total plant biomass (PB), shoot biomass (SB), root biomass (RB), root-to-shoot biomass ratio (RS), grain yield (GY), harvest index (HI), shoot carbon content (SCc), root carbon content (RCc), grain carbon content (GCc), total plant carbon stock (PCs), shoot carbon stock (SCs), root carbon stock (RCs), and root-to-shoot carbon stock ratio (RCs/SCs), and grain carbon stock (GCs). Higher genotypic coefficient of variations (GCVs) were recorded for GY at 45.92%, RB (39.24%), RCs/SCs (38.45), and RCs (34.62). Higher phenotypic coefficient of variations (PCVs) were recorded for PH (68.91%), followed by GY (51.8%), RB (50.51%), RS (41.96%), RCs/SCs (44.90%), and GCs (41.90%). High broad-sense heritability and genetic advance were recorded for HI (83.76 and 24.53%), GY (78.59 and 9.98%), PB (74.14 and 13.18%) and PCs (53.63 and 37.57%), respectively, suggesting a marked genetic contribution to the traits. Grain yield exhibited positive association with HI (r = 0.76; r = 0.79), DTH (r = 0.13; r = 0.31), PH (r = 0.1; r = 0.27), PB (r = 0.01; r = 0.02), RB (r = 0.05; r = 0.06) based on genotypic and phenotypic correlations, respectively. Further, the path analysis revealed significant positive direct effects of SB (0.607) and RB (0.456) on GY. The RS exerted a positive and significant indirect effect (0.229) on grain yield through SB. The study revealed that PB, SB, RB, RS, RCs, and RCs/SCs are the principal traits when selecting sorghum genotypes with high yield and carbon storage capacity.

Diversity information mining about a crop for different attributes is an essential step for effective breeding programs. The present investigation evaluates the quantum of genetic variability and determines the relationship among the important agro-economic traits based on two years of phenotypic data of 210 accessions of linseed. The traits, capsule weight per plant, capsule per plant, husk weight per plant, and seed weight per plant exhibited comparatively higher genetic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV). In contrast, oil content and seed per capsule exhibited a lower value. The high magnitude of broad sense heritability was observed for all traits except seeds per capsule and husk weight per plant. The trait, capsules per plant, plant height, and days to 50% flowering showed high genetic advance coupled with high heritability. Hierarchical cluster analysis grouped 210 accessions into six distinct clusters. Out of 210, 144 (68.57%) accessions were grouped into three clusters (I, II, and III), in which cluster-III was the largest, containing 64 accessions followed by cluster II and cluster-I. The highest inter-cluster distance was observed between clusters-I and V (127.85), while the lowest was between clusters-II and IV (27.09). The positive correlation of capsule weight per plant with the seed weight per plant and a negative correlation with the days to 50% flowering indicates that high yielding linseed varieties with early flowering/maturity could be developed through direct and indirect selection. Further, seed yield and oil content could be enhanced together as indicated by ghe positive association among these two important traits. In this study, high yielding accessions with moderate to high oil content such as GP36, GP31, GP14, GP54, GP26, GP24, GP34, GP21, GP37 and GP27 and early flowering (less than 70 days) accessions such as GP2, GP26, GP27, CG33, CG44, CG42, CG132, and CG31 identified as potential genetic materials that could be exploited for developing early maturing varieties with high yield. In addition, information’s on various genetic parameters will help breeders to devise suitable breeding methodology for linseed genetic improvement for targeted traits.

The current study involved 40 castor genotypes and revealed significant variation in agro-morphological traits among them. Genetic estimates showed higher values, alongside a narrow range of genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variance for key traits such as seed yield, plant height, 100-seed weight, effective primary spike length, and number of capsules on primary spikes, indicating a favorable scope for selection. Out of the ten analysed traits, four exhibited a positive direct effect, while six showed a negative direct effect on seed yield per plant. Maximum positive direct effects were observed for total length of primary spike, days to maturity of primary spike, percent oil content, and hundred-seed weight. Hence, genotypes possessing these traits could play a pivotal role in breeding elite cultivars within improvement programme. The seed yield per plant, plant height, 100-seed weight, effective primary spike length, and number of capsules on primary spikes showed high estimates for both GCV and PCV, indicating substantial variability with minimal environmental influence. This suggests that these traits offer a strong opportunity for selection and breeding, as the genetic variability in these traits is more significant than environmental factors. Most quantitative traits studied exhibited high heritability and high genetic advance, indicating that these traits are largely controlled by additive genetic effects, which is favourable for selection.

Pigeonpea, a predominant protein source for vast vegetarian population is constrained by numerous biotic and abiotic stresses. Inefficient exploitation of pigeonpea germplasm has limited its utilization. Therefore it is important to identify and select breeding material from germplasm with sufficient genetic variability to utilize in hybridization programmes. In this regard ~200 F2 plants each from four different crosses were evaluated in Kharif-2019 at University of Agricultural Sciences Bengaluru. They were assessed for genetic variability, heritability, genetic advance as per cent of mean and trait association. High phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation was noticed for pods plant-1, clusters plant-1 and seed yield plant-1. High heritability coupled with higher genetic advance as per cent mean was noticed for secondary branches plant-1, clusters plant-1 and pods plant-1. Seed yield plant-1 showed highest significant positive correlation with pods plant-1 and clusters plant-1, indicating these traits were the primary yield determinants in pigeonpea. Path coefficient analysis revealed that secondary branches plant-1 showed highest positive direct effect on seed yield plant-1 followed by pods plant-1 and clusters plant-1, thus selection based on these traits would be rewarding. Among the four crosses evaluated, highest numbers of transgressive segregants were identified from the cross BRG-1 × BDN-2 followed by HY3C × BDN-2 for yield and its related traits. The identified transgressive segregants could be evaluated for further exploitation.

Martaban camphor [Cinnamomum parthenoxylon (Jack) Meisn] is a woody tree in India, China, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam and has been widely utilized for commercial purposes. It is threatened due to fragmented habitats, over-deforestation, and oil extraction. To conserve this species, the investigation of genetic diversity and population structure of this species is essential. Herein, we analyzed 192 adult trees from eight populations covering its natural distribution range in Vietnam using ten polymorphic EST-SSR markers. Medium levels of genetic diversity (R = 2.7, Ho = 0.399, He = 0.426) and genetic differences between populations (Fst = 0.223) were determined. Two populations, Cuc Phuong and Xuan Nha have undergone recent bottlenecks. These results indicated that anthropogenic activities may be the major factor for the low heterozygosity and influenced the number of alleles in all C. parthenoxylon populations. Clustering analyses revealed three genetic clusters that related to gene flow between different areas. We proposed in situ conservation for some populations with high levels of allelic richness, genetic diversity, or private alleles. The collecting of the seeds of the remaining populations for ex-situ conservation could be performed.

The history of turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) domestication can be traced back to the period between 700 and 200 BC in Mexico. This process involved multiple contributors and resulted in the development of modern local turkey breeds. This research investigates the complete mitochondrial diversity across a diverse range of local turkeys. Seventy-three turkeys were sampled from various populations, including autochthonous Italian breeds, an American breed (Narragansett), as well as wild turkeys from the USA and Mexico. The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) was employed as a powerful tool for biodiversity and breed phylogeny investigation. An analysis of the entire mtDNA was conducted to identify breed-specific unique traits, mitochondrial-specific characteristics, and the phylogenetic relationship among turkey populations. A total of 44 polymorphic sites were identified. Brianzolo and Narragansett birds were characterized as genetically homogeneous populations. Thirty-two different haplotypes were identified when our samples were compared with mtDNA D-loop of 96 online available turkeys from various geographical countries. H1 and H2, differing for one mutation, were the most abundant, comprising 132 of the 185 sequences. H1 included samples coming from every region, while H2 was predominantly characterized by Italian samples. USA and Mexican samples appear to be more variable in their mtDNA than the other populations.

Abstract The genus Eutreptiella (Euglenophyceae/Euglenozoa) comprises unicellular organisms known for their photosynthetic capacity and significant role in marine ecosystems. This review highlights the taxonomic, ecological, and biotechnological characteristics of Eutreptiella species, emphasizing their morphological and genomic adaptations. Eutreptiella species exhibit high phenotypic plasticity, enabling adaptation to various environmental conditions, from nutrient‐rich waters to high‐salinity conditions. They play a crucial role in primary production and nutrient cycling in marine ecosystems. Genetic and transcriptomic studies have revealed their complex regulatory mechanisms and potential for biofuel and nutraceutical production. Eutreptiella blooms significantly impact local ecosystems, influencing nutrient availability and community dynamics. Additionally, interactions with associated bacteria enhance their growth and metabolic capabilities. The genus shows substantial genetic variability, suggesting potential misidentifications or a polyphyletic nature. Further comprehensive studies are needed to clarify their taxonomy and evolutionary relationships. Understanding and managing Eutreptiella populations is essential to leverage their biotechnological potential and ensure the health of marine ecosystems.

Assessing the degree of genetic diversity and differentiation of rare or endangered endemic species is essential to evaluate the conservation status of populations and successively implement appropriate conservation strategies. We investigated the population structure of Salvia ceratophylloides Ard., a scapose hemicryptophyte endemic to Calabria (southern Italy), both to answer questions about its genetic structure and to determine whether the actual population size has undergone significant demographic changes in the near past. The data obtained from the census showed that the populations are characterised by a greater number of adult individuals than juveniles and are on declining. The genetic analysis carried out on 99 individuals from four populations of the species under study, shows a mean expected heterozygosity value of 0.50 and an overall differentiation value of 0.083. The population structure shows that the four studied populations are distinct genetic units, genetically linked to four different ancestral gene pools. Bayesian analysis based on ABC models indicates that the present populations underwent a significant reduction in size in the past. This corresponds to the demographic decline at the end of the 19th century, which according to the literature, was due to the strong anthropic pressure (agriculture, grazing, fire and plantations) of Reggio Calabria suburbs. We can therefore conclude that populations are not affected by inbreeding and low genetic diversity and that there is no immediate danger of genetic erosion, and that the problems associated with population decline, past and present, are exclusively due to anthropogenic causes.

Genetic variability and characters association studies play a pivotal role in enhancing selection efficiency under stress condition in plants. Therefore, the study was aimed at assessing the impact of terminal heat stress on various morpho-physiological traits and their association in wheat under control and terminal heat stress condition. The experiment was conducted using thirty-five wheat genotypes in a Randomized Complete Block design (RCBD) plots on three different sowing dates to induce terminal heat stress. A range of 11 morpho-physiological parameters were assessed. All of the traits showed significant variations under studied conditions. Estimates of the genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation (GCV and PCV) showed that PCV was higher than GCV indicating large environmental influence on the expression of the traits under study. High GCV and PCV were observed in grain per plant and yield per plant in both normal and heat stress conditions. Chlorophyll content, grain per plant and yield per plant showed highest heritability with high genetic advance (GA) under both normal and terminal heat stress condition. According to the results of the path co-efficient analysis, grain per plant had a strong positive connection with grain yield and plant height and days to 50% flowering had a negative correlation with grain yield per plant under both normal and stress condition. Canopy temperature has direct negative effect on yield in stress condition. The identified traits can be used as effective selection criteria under terminal heat stress condition to develop high yielding heat tolerant wheat variety. [Fundam Appl Agric 2024; 9(2.000): 65-71]

Objectives: Alveolar echinococcosis is caused by Echinococcus multilocularis, a parasite of zoo¬notic significance with a wide range of intermediate and final hosts, and the parasite survives suc¬cessfully in diversified conditions. Plentiful studies have been done to study the genetic structure of the population of the parasite and the level of intimate kinship using mitochondrial (mt) DNA. The present study was conducted to investigate the population structure, genetic variation, and phylogenetic relationship of various isolates of E. multiocularis submitted to GenBank worldwide. Sequences of mt genes (mt-cytochrome c oxidase (cox1), mt-NADH dehydrogenase (nad1)) of E. multilocularis were analyzed to achieve the set goals. Materials and Methods: A total of 275 and 124 gene sequences of mt-cox1 and mt-nad1 belong¬ing to E. multilocularis, respectively, were retrieved from the National Center for Biotechnology Information GenBank. The retrieved sequences were subjected to alignment with respective reference sequences using MEGA software. The PopArt software was used to establish medi¬an-joining networks, while DnaSp was used to calculate neutrality and diversity indices. MrBayes software was used to investigate the phylogenetic association between haplotypes based on Bayesian phylogeny. Results: Approximately 13 and 20 distinctive haplotypes of nad1 and cox1 genes, respectively, were observed in the present study. In both of the mt genes, diversity indices indicated low haplo¬type (mt-cox1 = 0.140; mt-nad1 = 0.374) and nucleotide (mt-cox1 = 0.00111; mt-nad1 = 0.00287) diversities. The values of Tajima's D and Fu Fs for a population of both of the genes under study were found to be negative. Conclusion: This study is a maiden attempt to provide insights into the population structure and genetic variation of E. multilocularis on a global scale. However, it is suggested that to better understand the population structure and genetic diversity of E. multilocularis, more geographical locations and amplifications of full-length gene sequences should be considered, which could be helpful in widening the insights into the genetic diversity of E. multilocularis. [J Adv Vet Anim Res 2024; 11(2.000): 264-274]

Salinity is a significant factor restricting plant growth and production. The effect of salinity stress on different growth parameters of 111 fenugreek genotypes was examined in an experiment with three salinity levels (0, 3000, 6000 mgL−1). A completely randomized block design with two replicated pots per treatment was used. Non-significant treatment effects were observed on fresh weight (FW); however, all traits showed significant genotype-by-treatment (GxT) interactions. This GxT was reflected in substantial SNP x environment interactions. Of 492 significant SNPs associated with the measured traits, 212 SNPs were linked to the correlated traits using an arbitrary threshold of three. Several SNPs were associated with FW and dry weight, measured under the same salinity treatment. The correlation between both traits was 0.98 under the three salinity treatments. In addition, 280 SNPs with conditional neutrality effects were mapped. The identified SNPs can be used in future marker-assisted breeding programs to select salt-tolerant genotypes. The results of this research shed light on the salt-tolerant properties of fenugreek.

The analysis of existing information about invasion of COVID-19 in Russia shows that that one of leading reason of existing of new rises of covid-19 morbidity is distribution of new genovariants of SARS-CoV-2 virus. The omicron genovariant of SARS-CoV-2 virus was a dominant agent of fifth and subsequent rises of COVID-19 morbidity in Russia. The aim of this work – the estimation of sublines of omicron genovariant of SARS-CoV-2 virus as potential dominant agents of new rises of COVID-19 morbidity in Russia. The source base of the study. Data published in Russian and English-language scientific publications available via the Internet (RSCI, PubMed, Google Scholar). The research method is analytical. Results. The basic properties of omicron genovariant of SARS-CoV-2 virus, epidemical characteristics of the rises of COVID-19 morbidity in Russia, caused by new sublines of omicron variant, estimation ofsublines of omicron genovariant as potential dominant agent of new rises of COVID-19 morbidity in Russia are viewed. It is shown that basic direction of SARS-CoV-2 virus evolution is existing of sublines of omicron genovariant, which are characterized by increased transmissivity but with less severity of the disease caused compared to previously circulated variants of COVID-19agent. The main distinguishing feature of the new subvariants («Kraken», «Czerber», «Centaur», «Arktur», «Pirola») are multiple amino acid exchanges in structural glycoprotein S. The maximum level of variability of this structural protein compared to the original variant of SARS-CoV-2 virus is marked for Pirola subvariant. Onle Kraken subvariant was dominant agent of rise of COVID-19 morbidity in Russia. Conclusion. New rises of COVID-19 morbidity in Russia will not be connected with existing of new subvariants of omicron genovariant, but only with season factor.

Abstract Background The phylogenetic relationships and phylogeny of twenty-six Trichoderma species collected from various Egyptian locations were investigated. The genetic diversity among the examined isolates was tested using the rep-PCR marker. Trichoderma species were screened for their cellulase activities. Results Three isolates demonstrated highly significant FPase activities, namely MNF-MAS-Tricho 1, MNF-MAS-Tricho 2, and MNF-MAS-Tricho 3 (0.50, 0.39, and 0.49 IU ml−1, respectively). MNF-MAS-Tricho1 showed the highest significant CMCase activity (0.80 IU ml−1). Concerning β-glucosidase, MNF-MAS-Tricho 1 was the highest (0.78 IU ml−1), while MNF-MSH-Trich 11 and MNF-MAS-Tricho 15 were the lowest (0.36 IU mL−1). The percentage of polymorphism ranged from 46.15 to 83.33%. (GTG)5 marker produced the greatest number of polymorphic loci (13 loci out of 18 loci) with about 83.33% polymorphism, followed by rep-10 with 69.2% polymorphism. Furthermore, the polymorphism information content (PIC) estimates ranged between 0.285 for Rep-10 and 0.340 for (GTG) 5 with an average of 0.306. The tested primers exhibited high discriminating and resolving powers. Conclusion The findings of this investigation were used to classify Trichoderma species, evaluate their genetic variability using ITS sequencing, rep-PCR, and measure their cellulase activities. These markers can facilitate more rapid and less complicated studies of Trichoderma population dynamics and evaluate their establishment after release into agricultural environments. The results will help to evaluate the genetic diversity of Trichoderma in future research.

Unlike most current rice cultivars, rice produced in the deepwater habitat may live for at least a month in water depths exceeding 50 cm. In this experiment, 30 M6 populations developed by irradiation of Laksmidigha rice seeds utilizing 200 Gy dose of gamma rays were assessed based on morpho-physiological and agronomic traits. Six mutant populations exhibited noticeably longer leaves, with LD-200-1-1-2-6 being the only mutant population to have noticeably more grain weight/hill than the parent. But none of the mutant populations had significantly wider leaf breadth at any of the three points of the flag leaf and average as well. Six mutant populations LD-200-1-3-3-3, LD-200-1-3-3-4, LD-200-1-3-3-5, LD-200-1-3-2-1, LD-200-1-1-2-1 and LD-200-1-1-2-6 produced significantly higher grain yield/hill which also had significantly longer panicle lengths, internode lengths and heavier 1000-grain weight than the parent. It was discovered through a correlation analysis that grain weight/hill was positively and significantly connected with panicle length and 1000-grain weight, whereas its association with internode distance was positively but not significantly correlated. But the correlation of internode distance with 1000-grain weight was significantly positive. The six mutant populations that significantly increased grain yield/hill compared to the parent also had higher levels of total chlorophyll and chlorophyll "a" in their flag leaves. In anatomical studies of roots, it was found that all the 21 cross sections showed damaged cortex with different degrees except LD-200-1-3-3-7 and LD-200-1-1-2-5. Even the parent grown in Chamber-1 showed minimum cortex damage. Also, the grain yield of these two mutant populations did not differ significantly from the parent although chlorophyll "a" and total chlorophyll contents were much higher. [Fundam Appl Agric 2024; 9(1.000): 29-38]

A field experiment was conducted in the field laboratory of the Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Agricultural University (BSMRAU), Gazipur during the period from October 2018 to April 2019. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) with three replications. The objective of the study was to determine the genetic variability and correlation for yield and yield related traits of the chilli genotypes. Seeds of 28 chilli genotypes were collected from different sources and were raised in polybags and then transplanted to raised bed. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design with three replications. Data on yield and yield related traits were recorded at the respective stage of the crop. Among the studied genotypes, the fruit length (FRLN) varied 1 cm to 16.3 cm with an average length of 6.5 cm. The lowest fruit diameter (FRDM) was 3.3 mm and the highest was 15.1 mm. The fruit yield ranged between 0.018 kg/plant and 1.044 kg/plant. The lowest fruit weight was recorded 0.3 g, while the largest fruit weight was 6.3 g. The highest significant genotypic and phenotypic variance was found in number of fruits/plant and GCV and PCV were found highest in fruit yield/plant. A fair amount of heritability with high genetic advance was found in number of fruits/plant which indicates that the heritability is due to additive gene effects and the selection might be very effective in chilli breeding. Among the agronomic parameters, fruit yield/plant was significantly correlated with individual fruit weight and the amount of seeds/plant. It was also found that the height of chilli plant positively influenced the amount of fruits/plant. However, plant height negatively affected fruit diameter and number of fruits per plant. The results of the present study suggests that there is a great genetic potential in the studied genotypes. [Fundam Appl Agric 2024; 9(1.000): 44-50]

The present investigation comprising 36 diverse cauliflower genotypes along with three checks were raised during winter season of 2021-22 to study genetic variability, association between different characters, and direct and indirect effects of component traits to formulate selection criteria for utilization in crop improvement programme. The analysis of variance indicated exitance of sufficient genetic variability for all morphological and yield traits taken for the study. High PCV and GCV were reported for marketable curd weight, net curd weight and stalk length. Similarly, high heritability coupled with high genetic advance was observed for gross plant weight, marketable curd weight and curd solidity which indicates that these traits can be easily improved through simple selection. Correlation and path coefficient analysis revealed that gross plant weight, net curd weight, curd size index, curd solidity, plant frame and stalk length could be considered as the best selection parameters for evolving high yielding cauliflower genotypes.

An experiment was carried out to determine the genetic variability parameters and character associations in thirty-two chilli genotypes. Based on mean performance, 11 genotypes were observed to be superior for marketable green fruit yield than the standard check varieties ‘Him Palam Mirch-2’ and DPCH-40-2. High to moderate estimates of PCV and GCV with high heritability coupled with high genetic advance were observed for marketable green fruits/plant, marketable green fruit yield/plant, total green fruits/plant and average green fruit weight. Marketable green fruit yield/plant had positive and significant association with average green fruit weight, marketable green fruits/plant, total green fruits/plant, percent marketable green fruits/plant, ascorbic acid and capsaicin content. In view of direct and indirect contribution of component traits, selection on the basis of total fruits/plant and average green fruit weight would be a paying preposition for evolving high yielding genotypes for marketable green fruit yield. The present findings could be useful in selecting superior genotypes to achieve genetic gain and yield advantage in chilli breeding programmes

Browntop millet (Brachiaria ramose (L.) Stapf.), is an important small millet crop. It can thrive in variety of climates, uses limited amount of water for growth and development and has high minerals and fibre. As the genetic diversity in any crop species is crucial for crop improvement, present study was aimed at evaluating the diversity present in the germplasm accessions by measuring 13 morphological traits across 27 accessions of browntop millet. The data revealed significant variations between the accessions for each of the traits that were examined. GCV and PCV were observed to be more for the trait panicle width and it was found less in case of days to maturity. The difference in GCV and PCV was very narrow for panicle width indicating least influence of surrounding environment which was further supported by high value of broad sense heritability. While grain yield per plant recorded highest heritability with GAM. Grain yield per plant showed significant positive correlation with plant height, number of panicles per plant, panicle length, peduncle length, flag leaf width and flag leaf length. Principal component analysis revealed 88.73 per cent of total variation was from grain yield per plant, total panicle weight per plant, panicle width and flag leaf length comprising the accessions viz., namely IC617956, IC613546, VBT 002, TNBr 016 and IIMR BTL. The study identified best accessions for different traits based on correlation and multivariate analysis that could be of further use in the browntop millet breeding programmes.

A set of thirty genotypes of little millet were studied using thirteen morphological traits to assess genetic variability, character association and their effects on grain yield during Kharif 2022 at Centurion University, Paralakhemundi, Odisha in a randomized block design with three replications. Analysis of variation revealed significant (p≤0.01) variation in the studied genotypes for all the traits recorded. The characters viz., number of productive tillers, test weight and grain yield had high genotypic (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) whereas characters viz., number of productive tillers, number of braches per panicle, culm length, culm diameter, test weight and grain yield had high genetic advance coupled with high heritability. Most of the traits except days to 50% flowering, days to maturity and flag leaf length showed strong significant (p≤0.01) positive associations with grain yield at genotypic and phenotypic levels. The traits such as plant height, number of productive tillers, culm length, test weight, flag leaf length and breadth recorded positive direct effect on grain yield that indicates direct improvement of these traits could be beneficial for the improvement of little millet cultivars with higher grain yield.

To understand the utility of genotypes in the breeding program in mid-hill environments of the north-western Himalayas of India, apple cultivars were studied during 2019 and 2020 to discover inter-relationships of variables as well as to study genetic variation across yield attribution traits. For fruit set, fruit drop and fruit volume, high heritability and moderate genetic gain was observed. Substantial correlation between fruit yield per plant and pruning weight, tree volume, tree spread and TSS was observed. However, the increments in tree height and trunk girth were strongly and adversely linked with fruit yield per plant. Thus the traits tree spread, tree volume and flowering length may be used as selection indicators for increased production with high-quality apple cultivars.

Oil palm germplasm collected from Angola, Africa in 1991 were subjected to genetic variability potential studies. The collection was planted in the form of open-pollinated families as trials at the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) Kluang Research Station, Johor, Malaysia, in 1994. Dura palms from 52 families and tenera palms from 44 families of MPOB-Angola were evaluated for their bunch yield and bunch quality components. The objectives of this study were to determine the genetic variability among the families and performance of MPOB-Angola germplasm for yield improvement. The analysis of variance (ANOVA) revealed highly significant differences between the dura and tenera families for most of the traits, suggesting the presence of high genetic variability, which is essential for breeding programmes. Among the duras, family AGO 02.02 displayed the best yield performance, with a high fresh fruit bunch, oil yield and total economic product at 240.40, 29.46 and 37.93 ​kg palm−1 year−1, respectively. As for the teneras, family AGO 03.04 recorded the highest FFB yield and oil yield at 249.25 and 45.22 ​kg palm−1 year−1, respectively. Besides that, several families with big fruit sizes or producing a mean fruit weight of 14–17 ​g were also identified. Both dura and tenera from AGO 01.01 recorded the highest oil to bunch (O/B) of 17.76% and 28.65%, respectively. These findings will facilitate the selection of palms from the MPOB-Angola germplasm for future breeding programmes.

This study examined genetic diversity and growth performance of thirty Terminalia chebula genotypes from various regions of India. Seedlings were evaluated for growth attributes over 180 days after transplanting (DAT). Significant variations were observed across accessions for traits like shoot length, root length, collar diameter and volume. MHTC 04 showed superior performance, with maximum shoot length (36.23 cm) and root length (38.47 cm) at 180 DAT. KETC 05 exhibited the highest collar diameter (1.08 cm) and volume index (39.35) at 180 DAT. The genetic analysis revealed low to moderate PCV and GCV for most traits. Volume index showed the highest PCV (47.31 %) and GCV (47.23 %). High heritability (>95 %) was observed for several traits viz., root length, collar diameter and volume index. Path coefficient analysis identified collar diameter and shoot fresh weight as having the strongest positive direct effects on quality index. Cluster analysis grouped 30 genotypes into 10 clusters with cluster II being the largest (8 progenies). Quality index contributed the maximum (59.30 %) towards divergence followed by shoot dry weight (13.94 %) and volume index (8.28 %). This study identified promising genotypes and important traits for T. chebula improvement programmes, highlighting the potential for selective breeding to enhance the seedling quality and growth performance.

Flax is a versatile crop grown for its fiber and seed oil. Despite extensive conservation efforts in Ethiopia, the genetic potential of flax accessions conserved in the gene bank remains largely underexplored for fiber and seed yield. Here, we aimed to assess the genetic variability and association of morpho-agronomic traits and identify potential accessions for fiber and seed yield among 150 flax accessions. The study was conducted at Holeta Agricultural Research Center during 2022/23 growing season using an augmented design. Data were collected on flowering and maturity dates, plant and technical height, basal and secondary branch, boll and seed numbers, 1000-seed weight, and yield. Results revealed significant variation both between blocks and within treatments, with flowering time, maturity, plant height, boll number, seed weight, and yield contributing for the highest variability (58.7%). Cluster analysis revealed nine distinct genetic groups, each exhibiting specific trait patterns. Seed yield had strong associations with maturity, plant height, and boll number. High broad-sense heritability for days to flowering, plant height, and yield traits suggests selection could be effective based on phenotypic expressions. The study highlights the potential of Ethiopian flax genetic diversity for enhancing fiber and seed yield, suggesting effective selection based on key traits.

Two methods have been compared for determining the value of natural selection in the natural populations. The first method, based on the FST-statistics, employs the dependence of genetic diversity of a species on the value of gene flow between subpopulations of the species, derived from the assumption that all the mutations are close to selective neutrality, and subpopulations effect each other equally. Susceptibility to selection is estimated by the degree of deviation from this relationship between genetic diversity and gene flow in certain species. The second method is based on the probability theory and involves comparison between stabilities of the forms, competing in the population, which is computed using the data about fluctuations in their occurrence in several generations. As applied to the problems of genetic monitoring of rare and valuable species, the first method can be employed for express-assessment of susceptibility of a species to rapid intraspecific changes. The second method is suitable for a long-term and in-depth genetic monitoring of the species subjected to extremely intense natural selection of a disruptive or stabilizing form, which were revealed using the first method. There is a lack of long-term observations of intraspecific genetic variation of rare and protected species. The need for funds that finance long-term genetic research is substantiated.

AbstractEthiopia is rich in durum wheat diversity; however, national average productivity of durum wheat is low due to lack of strong national research program, and these calls for development of improved new varieties. Knowledge on extent of genetic variability and identification of important characters are a prerequisite for the development yielder and quality variety. Therefore, the present study was carried out to assess the extent of genetic variability and character association among yield and yield related traits in selected Ethiopian durum wheat landraces. Forty nine durum wheat accessions were studied for 20 traits at Sinana and Selka locations by using 7 × 7 simple lattice design in 2018/19. Combined analysis of variance revealed significant differences among accessions for all traits, indicating the presence of considerable variability among genotypes. A significant accession by locations interaction effect was observed which indicates differential performance of genotypes over environments. Protein content varied from 10.7%–16.7% with the overall mean of 13.5%. Also phenotypic coefficients of variation (PCV) ranged from 2.93 for hectoliter weight (HLW) to 27.08 for productive tillers (PTL) while, genotypic coefficients of variation (GCV) ranged from 0 for wet gluten (WGL) to 16.43 for vitreous (VTR). Low to high heritability was observed for the studied traits. Similarly, genetic advance as percent of mean varied from −0.20–31.24. High broad sense heritability and high genetic advance were obtained for grain yield (GY) (86.57 and 31.24) and vitreous (VTR) (75.76 and 29.39), respectively, indicating traits could be improved easily through selection. Overall, the present study revealed that there is sufficient variability existed in Ethiopian durum wheat landraces.

Pre-harvest sprouting (PHS) is one of the important abiotic stresses in mungbean which significantly reduces yield and quality of the produce. This study was conducted to evaluate the genetic variability for tolerance to pre-harvest sprouting in diverse mungbean genotypes while simultaneously deciphering the association of yield contributing traits with PHS. Eighty-three diverse mungbean genotypes (23 released varieties, 23 advanced breeding lines and 37 exotic germplasm lines) were investigated for tolerance to PHS, water imbibition capacities by pods, pod and seed physical traits. Wide variation in PHS was recorded which ranged between 17.8% to 81% (mean value 54.34%). Germplasm lines exhibited higher tolerance to PHS than the high-yielding released varieties. Correlation analysis revealed PHS to be positively associated with water imbibition capacity by pods (r = 0.21) and germinated pod % (r = 0.78). Pod length (r = −0.13) and seeds per pod (r = −0.13) were negatively influencing PHS. Positive associations between PHS and water imbibition capacity by pods, germinated pod % and 100-seed weight was further confirmed by multivariate analysis. Small-seeded genotypes having 100-seed weight

ABSTRACT: Native to the tropical Americas, guava (Psidium guajava L.) is an important crop in Brazil. However, the emergence of so-called guava decline, a complex disease resulting from root parasitism by the root-knot nematode (Meloidogyne enterolobii Yang & Eisenback) in association with opportunistic fungi, has decimated guava orchards across Brazil and in other countries. In the present study, seminiferous guava accessions were vegetatively propagated by minigrafting and their genotypes preserved for resistance reassessment in clones to confirm or not host plant reactions. The results indicated a highly virulent parasite, high host suitability of the P. guajava species, and widely varying reactions among plants of the same genotype and between different genotypes, demonstrating that the strategy of preserving the germplasm and reassessing reactions in clones may be important in identifying and selecting germplasms with a degree of resistance to M. enterolobii. The progeny of cv. Paluma P02R5R2 obtained the lowest average parasite reproduction factor (RF = 22.11) among the genotypes evaluated and was; therefore; classified as moderately resistant and preserved for future research.

Oat is a dual-purpose crop used for both food and feed for animals. The objective of this work is to characterize oat varieties for their genetic diversity in yield, physical traits, and nutritional composition, aiming to identify potential parent varieties for breeding programs to develop new oat varieties for improved livestock feed and diverse industrial applications. To conduct, chemical analysis for protein and carbohydare fractions, energy and digestible nutrient estimated, stastical analyses performed to assess genetic variations for traits among vaieties. Significant genetic variation (p

Abstract The objective of this work was to characterize chilling tolerance in rice mutant families of the M4 generation, at the seedling stage. Two experiments were carried out: chilling tolerance was evaluated in 43 mutant families, in the 'BRS Querência' original genotype, and in 19 commercial genotypes. In Experiment II, 8 mutant families from Experiment I, 'BRS Querência', and a mutant of the M5 generation were tested. In both experiments, seedlings were evaluated under two conditions: 10°C for seven days and 25°C for seven days. In Experiment I, the induced mutations in rice led to varied responses in chilling tolerance traits, with some M4 mutant families outperforming the original genotype. Experiment II highlighted the impact of mutations on chilling-tolerance, particularly in terms of leaf discoloration and plant recovery. Mutant families of the M4 generation differ from the original genotype 'BRS Querência' in chilling tolerance at the seedling stage. The mutant families M36, M54, and M56 and 'BRS Querência' show genetic similarity, indicating a lack of chilling tolerance during the seedling stage. The mutant families M17, M21, M22, and M26 are promising for rice breeding programs because they present chilling tolerance. The M30 mutant family exhibits the best performance for all analyzed traits, indicating chilling tolerance at the seedling stage.

Abstract Lentil is an important pulse that contributes to global food security and the sustainability of farming systems. Hence, it is important to increase the production of this crop, especially in the context of climate changes through plant breeding aiming at the development of high-yielding and climate-smart cultivars. However, conventional plant breeding approaches are time and resources consuming. Thus, speed breeding techniques enabling rapid generation turnover could help to accelerate the development of new varieties. The application of extended photoperiod prolonging the duration of the plant’s exposure to light and shortening the duration of the dark phase is among the simplest speed breeding techniques. In this study, genetic variability response under extended photoperiod (22 h of light/2 h of dark at 25 °C) of a lentil collection of 80 landraces from diverse latitudinal origins low (0°–20°), medium (21°–40°) and high (41°–60°), was investigated. Significant genetic variations were observed between accessions, for time to flowering [40 → 120 days], time of pods set [45 → 130 days], time to maturity [64 → 150 days], harvest index [0 → 0.24], green canopy cover [0.39 → 5.62], seedling vigor [2 → 5], vegetative stage length [40 → 120 days], reproduction stage length [3 → 13 days], and seed filing stage length [6 → 25 days]. Overall, the accessions from Low latitudinal origin demonstrated a favorable response to the extended photoperiod application with almost all accessions flowered, while 18% and 57% of accessions originating from medium and high latitudinal areas, respectively, did not successfully reach the flowering stage. These results enhanced our understanding lentil responses to photoperiodism under controlled conditions and are expected to play important roles in speed breeding based on the application of the described protocol for lentil breeding programs in terms of choosing appropriate initial treatments such as vernalization depending on the origin of accession.

Thirty genotypes of fenugreek were grown during two consecutive winter seasons in sub-humid sub-tropical red lateritic belt of eastern India. Genetic variability, correlation and path coefficients were studied on eight agronomic characters, viz., plant height, days to flowering, branches per plant, pods per plant, pod length, seeds per pod, test weight and seed yield per plant. Analysis of variance pooled over the seasons revealed that the mean squares due to genotypes for all the characters studied were highly significant indicating presence of genetic variation in the test population. The estimates of genotypic and phenotypic coefficient of variation were high for branches per plant, moderate for plant height and test weight, and low for days to flowering and pod length. Heritability estimates were high for plant height, days to flowering, branches per plant and test weight and low for pod number, pod length, seeds per pod and seed yield The results of phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variability, heritability and genetic advance revealed that improvement through selection for branches per plant, pods per plant and test weight would be effective in this population. Seed yield was positively and significantly correlated with plant height, branch number, pods per plant and seeds per pod at both genotypic and phenotypic levels indicating the importance of these characters for seed yield. The results of path analysis indicated that selection for tall plant height, late flowering with reasonable branch number, high number of seeds per pod and pods per plant are important which will help improve seed yield in this population.

Maize, a vital cereal crop, serves as a staple food, animal feed, and industrial ingredient. An experiment was conducted during Rabi 2018 and Spring 2019, to assess genetic variability in RIL population of the cross GLY 6 (low iron content, strong agronomic traits) and CML 296 (high iron content). Variability was observed in kernel iron content and 11 agronomic traits, indicating differences among RILs. Moderate genotypic coefficient of variation (GCV) and phenotypic coefficient of variation (PCV) for kernel iron content were observed across seasons. High heritability and moderate genetic advance as percentage of mean (GAM) were recorded. Traits related to yield had narrow GCV and PCV, suggesting potential for improvement through selection. Moderate to high heritability and GAM were noted for many traits, indicating less environmental influence and potential scope for direct selection to enhance micronutrient content and yield. Yield per plot showed negative correlation with kernel iron content in both seasons. Pooled analysis showed no significant seasonal impact on grain iron concentration among 120 RILs. Transgressive segregants indicates scope for nutrient enrichment and higher grain yielding potential.

Studies on genetic variability amongst native and introduced species contribute to a better understanding of the genetic diversity of species along their autochthonous distribution and identify possible routes of introduction. Gonatodes caudiscutatus is a gecko native to western Ecuador and introduced to the Galapagos Islands. Despite being a successful species in human-modified habitats along its native and non-native ranges, neither the colonisation process nor the genetic diversity of this gecko is known. In this study, we analysed 55 individuals from 14 localities in western Ecuador and six localities in San Cristobal Island, Galapagos — the only island with a large, self-sustaining population. We amplified and analysed the genetic variability of two nuclear genes (Cmos and Rag2) and one mitochondrial gene (16S). Cmos and Rag2 sequences presented little to none genetic variability, while 16S allowed us to build a haplotype network. We identified nine haplotypes across mainland Ecuador, two of which are also present in Galapagos. Low genetic diversity between insular and continental populations suggests that the introduction of G. caudiscutatus on the Islands is relatively recent. Due to the widespread geographical distribution of mainland haplotypes, it was not possible to determine the source population of the introduction. This study represents the first exploration of the genetic diversity of Gonatodes caudiscutatus, utilising genetic tools to gain insights into its invasion history in the Galapagos.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the genetic diversity among traditional common bean accessions through morphological descriptors and molecular markers. Sixty-seven common bean accessions from the Germplasm bank of the Instituto Federal of Espírito Santo—Campus de Alegre were evaluated. For this, 25 specific morphological descriptors were used, namely 12 quantitative and 13 qualitative ones. A diversity analysis based on morphological descriptors was carried out using the Gower algorithm. For molecular characterization, 23 ISSR primers were used to estimate dissimilarity using the Jaccard Index. Based on the dendrograms obtained by the UPGMA method, for morphological and molecular characterization, high genetic variability was observed between the common bean genotypes studied, evidenced by cophenetic correlation values in the order of 0.99, indicating an accurate representation of the dissimilarity matrix by the UPGMA clustering. In the morphological characterization, high phenotypic diversity was observed between the accessions, with grains of different shapes, colors, and sizes, and the accessions were grouped into nine distinct groups. Molecular characterization was efficient in separating the genotypes in the Andean and Mesoamerican groups, with the 23 ISSR primers studied generating an average of 6.35 polymorphic bands. The work identified divergent accessions that can serve different market niches, which can be indicated as parents to form breeding programs in order to obtain progenies with high genetic variability.

Yam (Dioscorea spp.) is a main staple tuber crop in Nigeria and the West African region. Its performance is determined by genotypes and also the environment of growth. This study assessed the agronomic performance and yield stability of elite white yam (Dioscorea rotundata) genotypes across diverse Nigerian environments. A total of 25 genotypes were evaluated at three locations in two consecutive growing seasons, 2022 and 2023, for fresh tuber yield, disease resistance, and tuber quality traits. The genotype’s performance and stability for the measured traits were assessed using various analytical tools such as additive main effects and multiplicative interaction (AMMI) and multi-trait stability index (MTSI). The AMMI analysis revealed significant differences among the genotypes and across the environments for all traits (p < 0.001, p < 0.01). The PCA revealed that the first two principal components (PC1 and PC2) explained a substantial portion of the total variation (49.84%). The MTSI identified four clones: G18, G19, G24, and G16 as promising candidates for improved yam production in Nigeria with high and stable performance for the multiple traits.

Personalized nutrition (PN) represents a transformative approach in dietary science, where individual genetic profiles guide tailored dietary recommendations, thereby optimizing health outcomes and managing chronic diseases more effectively. This review synthesizes key aspects of PN, emphasizing the genetic basis of dietary responses, contemporary research, and practical applications. We explore how individual genetic differences influence dietary metabolisms, thus underscoring the importance of nutrigenomics in developing personalized dietary guidelines. Current research in PN highlights significant gene–diet interactions that affect various conditions, including obesity and diabetes, suggesting that dietary interventions could be more precise and beneficial if they are customized to genetic profiles. Moreover, we discuss practical implementations of PN, including technological advancements in genetic testing that enable real-time dietary customization. Looking forward, this review identifies the robust integration of bioinformatics and genomics as critical for advancing PN. We advocate for multidisciplinary research to overcome current challenges, such as data privacy and ethical concerns associated with genetic testing. The future of PN lies in broader adoption across health and wellness sectors, promising significant advancements in public health and personalized medicine.

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) is a new emerging coronavirus that caused coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Whole-genome tracking of SARS-CoV-2 enhanced our understanding of the mechanism of the disease, control, and prevention of COVID-19. Methods: we analyzed 3368 SARS-CoV-2 protein sequences from Iran and compared them with 15.6 million global sequences in the GISAID database, using the Wuhan-Hu-1 strain as a reference. Results: Our investigation revealed that NSP12-P323L, ORF9c-G50N, NSP14-I42V, membrane-A63T, Q19E, and NSP3-G489S were found to be the most frequent mutations among Iranian SARS-CoV-2 sequences. Furthermore, it was observed that more than 94% of the SARS-CoV-2 genome, including NSP7, NSP8, NSP9, NSP10, NSP11, and ORF8, had no mutations when compared to the Wuhan-Hu-1 strain. Finally, our data indicated that the ORF3a-T24I, NSP3-G489S, NSP5-P132H, NSP14-I42V, envelope-T9I, nucleocapsid-D3L, membrane-Q19E, and membrane-A63T mutations might be responsible factors for the surge in the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant wave in Iran. Conclusions: real-time genomic surveillance is crucial for detecting new SARS-CoV-2 variants, updating diagnostic tools, designing vaccines, and understanding adaptation to new environments.

BackgroundRespiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common cause of upper and lower respiratory tract infections. This study aimed to explore the prevalence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and other respiratory viruses in Bulgaria, characterize the genetic diversity of RSV strains, and perform amino acid sequence analyses of RSV surface and internal proteins.MethodsClinical and epidemiological data and nasopharyngeal swabs were prospectively collected from patients with acute respiratory infections between October 2020 and May 2023. Real-time PCR for 13 respiratory viruses, whole-genome sequencing, phylogenetic, and amino acid analyses were performed.ResultsThis study included three epidemic seasons (2020–2021, 2021–2022, and 2022–2023) from week 40 of the previous year to week 20 of the following year. Of the 3,047 patients examined, 1,813 (59.5%) tested positive for at least one viral respiratory pathogen. RSV was the second most detected virus (10.9%) after SARS-CoV-2 (22%). Coinfections between RSV and other respiratory viruses were detected in 68 cases, including 14 with SARS-CoV-2. After two seasons of low circulation, RSV activity increased significantly during the 2022–2023 season. The detection rates of RSV were 3.2, 6.6, and 13.7% in the first, second, and third seasons, respectively. RSV was the most common virus found in children under 5 years old with bronchiolitis (40%) and pneumonia (24.5%). RSV-B drove the 2022–2023 epidemic. Phylogenetic analysis indicated that the sequenced RSV-B strains belonged to the GB5.0.5a and GB5.0.6a genotypes. Amino acid substitutions in the surface and internal proteins, including the F protein antigenic sites were identified compared to the BA prototype strain.ConclusionThis study revealed a strong resurgence of RSV in the autumn of 2022 after the lifting of anti-COVID-19 measures, the leading role of RSV as a causative agent of serious respiratory illnesses in early childhood, and relatively low genetic diversity in circulating RSV strains.

Chronic periodontitis (CP), an inflammatory disease of periodontal tissues driven by a dysbiotic subgingival bacterial biofilm, is also associated with several systemic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Porphyromonas gingivalis, one of the bacterial species implicated in CP as a keystone pathogen produces peptidyl arginine deiminase (PPAD) that citrullinates C-terminal arginine residues in proteins and peptides. Autoimmunity to citrullinated epitopes is crucial in RA, hence PPAD activity is considered a possible mechanistic link between CP and RA. Here we determined the PPAD enzymatic activity produced by clinical isolates of P. gingivalis, sequenced the ppad gene, and correlated the results with clinical determinants of CP in patients from whom the bacteria were isolated. The analysis revealed variations in PPAD activity and genetic diversity of the ppad gene in clinical P. gingivalis isolates. Interestingly, the severity of CP was correlated with a higher level of PPAD activity that was associated with the presence of a triple mutation (G231N, E232T, N235D) in PPAD in comparison to W83 and ATCC 33277 type strains. The relation between mutations and enhanced activity was verified by directed mutagenesis which showed that all three amino acid residue substitutions must be introduced into PPAD expressed by the type strains to obtain the super-active enzyme. Cumulatively, these results may lead to the development of novel prognostic tools to assess the progress of CP in the context of associated RA by analyzing the ppad genotype in CP patients infected with P. gingivalis.

Ultraviolet (UV)-B radiation is considered one of the major detrimental rays coming from the Sun. UV-B radiation has a harmful impact on plant growth and development. The effect of UV-B radiation was studied on 64 rice (Oryza sativa L.) genotypes during the vegetative season. An equal number of genotypes from the japonica (50%) and indica (50%) subspecies were phenotyped using the Soil-Plant-Atmosphere-Research (SPAR) units. The 10 kJ UV-B was imposed 12 days after planting (DAP) and continued for three weeks (21 d). Based on the combined ultraviolet-B radiation response index (CUVBRI) for each genotype, the 64 rice genotypes were classified into sensitive, moderately sensitive, moderately tolerant, and tolerant. Various shoot traits, such as plant height, tiller, and leaf numbers, were measured. We also studied critical root phenological traits like root volume, diameter, tips, and forks. Out of all the studied shoot traits, leaf area showed maximum reduction for both indica (54%) and japonica (48%). Among the root traits, root length decreased by negligible (1%) for indica as compared to japonica (5%), while root crossing and forks showed a maximum decline for japonica (37 and 42%), respectively. This study is timely, meaningful, and required because it will help breeders select a tolerant or sensitive rice line for better yield and production under abiotic stresses.

The quality of wine largely depends on aroma perception, but the genetic basis explaining the variations of aroma compound concentrations in wines is still fragmentary. To unravel links between genetic variations and aroma compound variations in hundreds of genotypes, we developed a small-scale, high-throughput test-tube vinification (TTV) method capable of producing white wines that reveal the genetic potential at the scale of a single vine stock. We evaluated this method on commercial grapevine varieties (Riesling, Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay, Chasselas, Floreal, Muscat à petits grains blancs) and genotypes resulting from a bi-parental cross, covering a wide aromatic palette. The wines produced were described by usual oenological parameters and GC-MS profiling of volatile compounds. We compared the wines obtained with the TTV method to commercial wines and to wines obtained from larger fermentation volumes (5–10 L). Our results show that the TTV method is suitable to produce white wines on a very small scale, i.e., less than 100 mL and that these small-scale wines faithfully reflect the aromatic potential of the different varieties, as would larger volume methods. The proposed method is a high-throughput approach to assess the oenological potential of hundreds of grapevine genotypes from grape material harvested on a single vine. This wine-focused direct phenotyping method will pave the way for a better understanding of the genetic determinism of wine aromas, especially for molecules that are not directly present in grapes, such as volatile thiols and 1,1,6-trimethyl-1,2-dihydronaphthalene (TDN).

Abstract Delimiting species is challenging in recently diverged species, and adaptive radiation is fundamental to understanding the evolutionary processes because it requires multiple ecological opportunities associated with adaptation to biotic and abiotic environments. The young Petunia genus (Solanaceae) is an excellent opportunity to study speciation because of its association with pollinators and unique microenvironments. This study evaluated the phylogenetic relationships among a Petunia clade species with different floral syndromes that inhabit several environments. We based our work on multiple individuals per lineage and employed nuclear and plastid phylogenetic markers and nuclear microsatellites. The phylogenetic tree revealed two main groups regarding the elevation of the distribution range, whereas microsatellites showed high polymorphism-sharing splitting lineages into three clusters. Isolation by distance, migration followed by new environment colonization, and shifts in floral syndrome were the motors for lineage differentiation, including infraspecific structuring, which suggests the need for taxonomic revision in the genus.

A study was conducted on 16 growth, yield and quality characteristics in the F3 population derived from the Mundu Chilli cross PKM CA 32 x PKM CA 20, encompassing genetic variability, heritability and genetic advancement. The progenies in the population were assessed using 16 parameters, encompassing on aspects such as growth, yield, and quality. The success of varietal improvement relies on the genetic variability in existing material. Assessing the nature and extent of variability in the germplasm stock is a crucial step for effective breeding methods. The study found significant levels of genetic diversity in every trait examined in each progenies in the cross. High GCV and PCV were observed for yield of fruits per plant (both dry and ripe), oleoresin and capsaicin, suggesting greater variability and high heritability estimates with considerable genetic advancement as percentage of mean indicating these traits could increase the fruit yield and quality.

Cicerbita alpina (L.) Wallr. (syn. Lactuca alpina (L.) A.Gray, Alpen-Milchlattich) gehört zur Familie der Korbblütler (Asteraceae) und ist eine alpine, mehrjährige Pflanze, die auf einer Höhe ab 1500 m in den italienischen Alpen zu finden ist. Bislang werden junge Sprosse und Blätter nur als lokale Delikatesse verwendet. Neuere Untersuchungen mit verschiedenen Extrakten des blühenden Krautes haben eine starke antiparasitäre Wirkung in in-vitro Modellsystemen gezeigt. Da heutzutage viele chemische Wirkstoffe zur Behandlung von parasitären Würmern (Helminthen), die das Verdauungssystem von Nutztieren befallen, in Europa aufgrund ihrer schlechten Umweltvertäglichkeit und der Gefahr der Resistenzbildung verboten sind, ist der Bedarf an neuen, alternativen anthelminthischen Wirkstoffen in der landwirtschaftlichen Praxis stark angestiegen. Pflanzliche Inhaltsstoffe, die unter anderem in Extrakten von ethnoveterinär-gelisteten Pflanzen wie z.B. C. alpina vorkommen, bieten eine hervorragende Möglichkeit, nachhaltige und biologische Wirkstoffformulierungen gegen Helminthen zu entwickeln, und damit den Einsatz von chemischen Medikamenten zu reduzieren oder gänzlich darauf zu verzichten. In der vorliegenden Studie wurde eine Sammlung von C. alpina, die aus acht verschiedenen natürlichen, geografisch getrennten Populationen in den italienischen Alpen stammt, zum ersten Mal durch hochmoderne LC-MS/MS-Spektrometrie, einschließlich MRM-basierter Quantifizierung, auf ihre chemische Diversität aber auch hinsichtlich ihrer genetische Variabilität unter Verwendung von Mikrosatellitenmarkern (SSRs) untersucht. Die phytochemischen Daten wurden in zwei aufeinanderfolgenden Jahren erhoben und mit der ursprünglichen ökologischen Umgebung (Höhe) und den lokalen Klimabedingungen korreliert. Die Ergebnisse werden nun als Grundlage für die Initiierung einer In-Kulturnahme der Art verwendet, aber dienen auch als als Basis für ein neues Zuchtprogramm, mit dem Ziel der Steigerung der Qualität und des Ertrages.

The aim of the present study was to assess the degree of genetic variation, heritability, and character relationship among yield, yield attributing and grain quality parameters in BC3 F2 of CO 52 x APD19002 population. In the current study, number of total tillers per plant, number of productive tillers per plant, flag leaf length, number of filled grains per panicle and single plant yield showed high PCV and GCV. It became evident that there exists a highly significant and positive association between single plant yield and number of productive tillers per plant followed by number of tillers, flag leaf length, plant height, spikelet fertility and test weight. The path coefficient analysis showed that number of productive tillers per plant had high positive direct effect on single plant yield followed by flag leaf length, kernel length, KBAC and LER. The results indicate the number of productive tillers per plant and flag leaf length were identified as the key contributing traits as they are highly heritable and simultaneous consideration of these traits is important for crop improvement. It implies that flag leaf provides more photosynthates to grains along with number of productive tillers per plant which in turn increases the grain yield.

Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. ssp. durum) landraces, traditional local varieties representing an intermediate stage in domestication, are gaining attention due to their high genetic variability and performance in challenging environments. While major kernel metabolites have been examined, limited research has been conducted on minor bioactive components like lipids, despite their nutritional benefits. To address this, we analyzed twenty-two tetraploid accessions, comprising modern elite cultivars and landraces, to (i) verify if the selection process for yield-related traits carried out during the Green Revolution has influenced lipid amount and composition; (ii) uncover the extent of lipid compositional variability, giving evidence that lipid fingerprinting effectively identifies evolutionary signatures; and (iii) identify genotypes interesting for breeding programs to improve yield and nutrition. Interestingly, total fat did not correlate with kernel weight, indicating lipid composition as a promising trait for selection. Tri- and di-acylglycerol were the major lipid components along with free fatty acids, and their relative content varied significantly among genotypes. In particular, landraces belonging to T. turanicum and carthlicum ecotypes differed significantly in total lipid and fatty acid profiles. Our findings provide evidence that landraces can be a genetically relevant source of lipid variability, with potential to be exploited for improving wheat nutritional quality.

Sunflower seeds are key agricultural commodities due to their nutritional and industrial value. This study aimed to analyze the distribution of targeted bioactive compounds and assess the physical properties across 27 sunflower seed genotypes, including parental lines and F1 and F2 hybrids, cultivated in Serbia. Various analytical techniques were employed to determine the chemical composition and physical characteristics of the seeds. This research revealed significant genetic variability in fatty acid profiles, with differences in polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acid levels among the genotypes. Hybrid seeds displayed variations in 1000-seed weight and bulk density compared to parental lines, which exhibited higher essential fatty acid contents and mechanical properties advantageous for industrial processing. These insights highlight the potential for refining breeding strategies to improve seed quality for specific industrial purposes. Overall, this study emphasizes the critical role of genetic selection in enhancing the nutritional and processing qualities of sunflower seeds, offering valuable perspectives for advancing agricultural and breeding practices.