Search

SUMMARY Extreme dryness is lethal for nearly all plants, excluding the so‐called resurrection plants, which evolved vegetative desiccation tolerance (VDT) by recruiting genes common in most plants. To better understand the evolution of VDT, we generated chromosome‐level assemblies and improved genome annotations of two Selaginella species with contrasting abilities to survive desiccation. We identified genomic features and critical mechanisms associated with VDT through sister‐group comparative genomics integrating multi‐omics data. Our findings indicate that Selaginella evolved VDT through the expansion of some stress protection‐related gene families and the contraction of senescence‐related genes. Comparative analyses revealed that desiccation‐tolerant Selaginella species employ a combination of constitutive and inducible protection mechanisms to survive desiccation. We show that transcriptional priming of stress tolerance‐related genes and accumulation of flavonoids in unstressed plants are hallmarks of VDT in Selaginella. During water loss, the resurrection Selaginella induces phospholipids and glutathione metabolism, responses that are missing in the desiccation‐sensitive species. Additionally, gene regulatory network analyses indicate the suppression of growth processes as a major component of VDT. This study presents novel perspectives on how gene dosage impacts crucial protective mechanisms and the regulation of central processes to survive extreme dehydration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new larval host plant, Selaginella engleri (Selaginellaceae), is recorded for both Ragadia luzonia negrosensis Yamaguchi & Aoki, 1982 and Acrophtalmia yamashitai yamashitai Uémura & Yamaguchi, 1982 from Negros Island, Philippines. The egg and first larval instar are described and illustrated. Other butterflies using Selaginella spike mosses as larval host plants are also listed and discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Central China Normal University is the property of Huazhong Normal University and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Background and aims: Our research on neotropical Selaginella led us to examine a collection from the Atlantic Forest of Serra do Peito-de-Moça, Bahia, Brazil, initially determined as S. muscosa but with unusual features, indicating it represented an undescribed species. We also reexamined the taxonomic and nomenclatural status of three Selaginella taxa previously described from Brazil and gathered information on introduced and naturalized species in the country. M&M: Morphological analysis used stereomicroscopes and scanning electron microscopy to distinguish the suspected new species from its morphologically nearest ally. Results: We confirmed that the plant material from the Atlantic Forest of Serra do Peitode-Moça, Bahia, Brazil, is a new species that we named Selaginella pectopuellensis (Selaginellaceae). Additionally, we clarified the taxonomic and nomenclatural status of three Selaginella species previously described from Brazil and provided more information on naturalized taxa. Overall, we expanded the confirmed number of native Brazilian Selaginella species to 91 and confirmed six introduced and naturalized taxa in the country. Conclusions: The description of S. pectopuellensis adds to our knowledge of Brazil's pteridophyte flora. We synonymized S. kriegeriana under S. magnafornensis and clarified that S. bahiensis subsp. bahiensis and S. bahiensis subsp. manausensis should not be recognized as separate taxa. We also confirmed six naturalized Selaginella taxa in Brazil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selaginella convoluta is a desiccation-tolerant lycophyte capable of enduring water deprivation by arresting its metabolism when dry and reactivating it upon rehydration. Mechanisms to mitigate the harmful effects of desiccation have been investigated in an evolutionary context; however, plants have additional species-specific strategies refined by environmental conditions. Previous metabolome analysis pointed out S. convoluta as a source of chemodiversity. Shotgun proteomic analysis, conducted using an Orbitrap Elite and analyzed with PatternLab for proteomics, compared shoots and roots under two hydration conditions. Our approach identified 1,176 proteins. Proteins associated with photosynthesis, stress, and defense (primarily Reactive Oxygen Species scavengers and chaperones) were enriched in the shoots' proteome in both hydrated and desiccated states. Post-hydration, roots exhibited exclusive proteins involved in defense, metabolism, and protein trafficking (notably 14-3-3-like proteins, and a putative Bet_v_1 domain-containing protein, which was 15.6 times more abundant in dehydrated roots). These results demonstrate that S. convoluta, when harvested in its dried state from its natural habitat, serves as a valuable source of molecular data, reflecting a realistic multifactorial environmental scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Selaginella holds a key phylogenetic position as a sister species to vascular plants, encompassing desiccation-tolerant members. Some Selaginella species thrive in extremely arid conditions, enduring significant water loss and recovering upon rehydration. Consequently, Selaginella has emerged as a model system for studying desiccation tolerance in plant science. However, the absence of an efficient genetic transformation system has limited the utility of Selaginella species as a model. To address this constraint, we developed a nanoparticle-mediated transformation tool utilizing arginine-functionalized nanohydroxyapatites. This biocompatible system enabled the transient expression of the GFP, GUS, and eYGFPuv reporter genes in Selaginella moellendorffii. Establishing a stable genetic transformation technique for S. moellendorffii holds promise for application to other Selaginella species. This tool could be instrumental in identifying genetic resources for crop improvement and understanding genome-level regulatory mechanisms governing desiccation tolerance in Selaginella species. Furthermore, this tool might aid in identifying key regulatory genes associated with desiccation tolerance, offering potential applications in enhancing drought-sensitive crops and ensuring sustainable food production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT The present paper describes the immature stages of the Neotropical satyrine butterfly Euptychia boulleti (Le Cerf, 1919) from the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Eggs were laid singly on the under surface of the fronds of its host plant, Selaginella muscosa Spring (Lycopodiopsida: Selaginellaceae). Larvae are solitary in all instars, with a color pattern and shape that make them cryptic on their host plants. The pupa is short and smooth, green with black and white markings. Although the adults are very divergent in wing pattern, the immature stages are very similar to those of other species in the genus Euptychia Hübner, 1818. The present study added over 20 more records of E. boulleti, adding two additional sites for this species. Based on all available records, the EOO (extent of occurrence) has an increase of 13% and AOO (area of occupancy) an increase of 20% compared to previous estimates. Identifying additional E. boulleti populations could be important for conservation efforts of this species, especially if these are in fully protected areas.

Summary: Norspermine (Nspm), one of the uncommon polyamines (PAs), was detected in bryophytes and lycophytes; therefore, the aminopropyltransferases involved in the synthesis of Nspm were investigated.The enzymatic activity was evaluated by the transient high expression of various aminopropyltransferase genes in Nicotiana benthamiana, followed by quantification of PA distribution in the leaves using gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry.The bryophyte orthologues of ACL5, which is known to synthesise thermospermine (Tspm) in flowering plants, were found to have strong Nspm synthesis activity. In addition, two ACL5 orthologous with different substrate specificities were conserved in Selaginella moellendorffii, one of which was involved in Tspm synthesis and the other in Nspm synthesis. Therefore, further detailed analysis using these two factors revealed that the β‐hairpin structural region consisting of β‐strands 1 and 2 at the N‐terminus of ACL5 is involved in substrate specificity.Through functional analysis of a total of 40 ACL5 genes in 33 organisms, including algae, it was shown that ACL5 has changed its substrate specificity several times during plant evolution and diversification. Furthermore, it was strongly suggested that ACL5 acquired strict Tspm synthesis activity during the emergence of vascular plants, especially through major changes around the β‐hairpin structural region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The exploration of the diversity of Lycophytes and Ferns of Valparai Range of Anamalai Tiger Reserve, Western Ghats, Tamil Nadu, Southern India resulted in the record for 10 Lycophytes and 93 Ferns of 18 Pteridophyte families. Based on the habitat-forms, there are 51 terrestrial, 15 epiphytes, 16 sciophytes 11 rheophytes and the rest mero- and xerophytes. Eleven out of 103 Pteridophytes showed a very narrow distribution. Among them, Alsophila nilgiriensis (Holttum) R.M.Tryon, Bolbitis semicordata (Baker) Ching, Diplazium travancoricum Bedd., Selaginella tenera (Hook. & Grev.) Spring and S. wightii Hieron. are endemics. Araiostegia hymenophylloides (Blume) Copel. is listed as endangered whereas Athyrium cumingianum (C.Presl) Milde, Bolbitis semicordata, Diplazium travancoricum and Huperzia phyllantha are considered globally threatened. Besides, Athyrium cumingianum (Athyriaceae) is an addition to the Pteridophyte flora of Tamil Nadu state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The proposal by Wan & al. intended to maintain maximal nomenclatural stability by proposing to conserve Selaginella (Selaginellaceae) with a conserved type, regardless of how and when Selaginella is to be split into several or more genera, as has already been done in some recent studies. Valdespino & al. do not seem to have understood the nomenclatural benefit of the Wan & al. proposal and mix up this proposal with the classification by Zhou & Zhang. In addition, their rebuttal paper appears to contain a number of issues. We respectably urge the Nomenclature Committee and the botanical community to reject their rebuttal and make a decision that will benefit long‐term nomenclatural stability in Selaginellaceae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Luminal A is the most widely diagnosed breast cancer subtype worldwide. The existing luminal A therapy faces some challenges, such as drug resistance and toxicity. Therefore, new therapeutic approaches are urgently required. The application of medicinal plants, particularly aerial parts of Selaginella doederleinii Hieron, becomes an attempting strategy due to its abundant bioactive compounds that can target numerous signaling pathways. Therefore, this research aimed to investigate the anticancer potential and mechanism of S. doederleinii extract and fractions on luminal A breast cancer (T47D) cells. WST-1 assay was used to examine the cytotoxicity of the ethanolic extract and several fractions of S. doederleinii. Apoptosis assay, cell cycle assay, aerobic glycolysis inhibition assays, and analysis of oncogenic protein expression were conducted to investigate the anticancer effect of the most selective fraction. This study demonstrated that the ethyl acetate (EA) fraction exhibited the strongest cytotoxicity and selectivity against the T47D cells (IC50= 19.31 µg/mL; Selectivity Index (SI) = 18.94). EA fraction significantly induced apoptosis, impeded the cell cycle, and diminished glucose consumption and lactate secretion, mostly starting at the concentration 2xIC50 in 48 h. The EA fraction also significantly downregulated the expression of p-mTOR, c-Myc, and Hexokinase 2 (HK2) proteins in modulating apoptosis, cell cycle, and aerobic glycolysis. However, HIF-1α inhibition might also contribute to the anticancer activity of the EA fraction. In conclusion, the ethyl acetate fraction of S. doederleinii exerted considerable anticancer effects against T47D cells. The fraction can be further developed to cure luminal A patients through more intensive studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brazil has one of the greatest diversity of ferns and lycophytes in the world, especially in its humid forests. The knowledge about these plants in the 27 federative units is uneven and can potentially hamper conservation actions aimed at them. In the state of Sergipe, collections of these groups have been sporadic and about 50 species have been cataloged so far, a low number when compared to other states. This study aimed to compile the species of ferns and lycophytes occurring in Sergipe based on herbaria materials and recent samples collected. Therefore, specimens from herbaria were accessed, together with online databases, as well as 13 botanical expeditions were carried out in three areas. Our study recorded of 20 families, 44 genera and 86 species (75 ferns and 11 lycophytes), with eight new records for the state. The most representative families were Pteridaceae (21 spp.), Polypodiaceae (12), Anemiaceae (nine) and Selaginellaceae (eight). The genera Adiantum L. (eight spp.), Anemia Sw. (nine spp.) and Selaginella P.Beauv. (eight spp.) had the highest number of species. The study shows that efforts like these are extremely necessary and may eventually indicate the extent to which the richness of ferns and lycophytes in Sergipe is underestimated, also promoting researches in this area of Botany. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A rebuttal to the proposal to conserve Selaginella, nom. cons., with a conserved type is submitted. We further discuss why this proposal is unwarranted and disruptive to nomenclatural stability as is the intention to split Selaginella since potentially segregated genera fail to reconcile monophyly and taxonomic diagnosability. Accordingly, we recommend the rejection of the Proposal (2943) and not to follow the dismembering of Selaginella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ten compounds, including three new bioflavonoids (1–3) and seven known compounds (4–10), were identified in the ethyl acetate fraction of the 85 % ethanol extract of Selaginella delicatula. The structures of the new compounds were determined through spectroscopic data analysis, and their absolute configurations were established using circular dichroism (CD). All the isolated compounds were tested for their antiproliferative effects on MCF‐7, HepG2, and HEK 293T cells. Compounds 1 and 5 exhibited significant cytotoxicity against MCF‐7 cells, effectively inhibiting their proliferation. Meanwhile, compounds 1, 2, 5, and 7 respectively exhibited strong inhibitory effects on HepG2 cells. Furthermore, when we combined the IC50 values of compounds 3, 5, and 7 on HEK 293T cells, we discovered that they selectively inhibited cell growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new neolignan, (–)-(7R,8S,7′R,8′S,8′′S)-4′-hydroxy-3′,3′′,5′′-trimethoxy-4′′-O-β-D-glucopyranosyl-7,9,7′,9′-diepoxy-3,4,8′′,9′′-bisoxy-8,8′-sesquineolignan (1), and five known neolignan derivatives were isolated from an ethanolic extract of Selaginella trichoclada Alston. The chemical structure of these compounds was identified by extensive spectroscopic analyses (UV-vis, 1D/2D NMR, CD, and MS). Furthermore, the molecular docking results indicate that compound 1 may act as an anti-inflammatory inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Within the ancient vascular plant lineage known as lycophytes, many Selaginella species contain only one giant chloroplast in the upper epidermal cells of the leaf. In deep-shade species, such as S. martensii, the chloroplast is cup-shaped and the thylakoid system differentiates into an upper lamellar region and a lower granal region (bizonoplast). In this report, we describe the ultrastructural changes occurring in the giant chloroplast hosted in the epidermal cells of S. martensii during the daily relocation of the organelle. The process occurs in up to ca. 40% of the microphylls without the plants being exposed to high-light flecks. The relocated chloroplast loses its cup shape: first, it flattens laterally toward the radial cell wall and then assumes a more globular shape. The loss of the conical cell shape, the side-by-side lateral positioning of vacuole and chloroplast, and the extensive rearrangement of the thylakoid system to only granal cooperate in limiting light absorption. While the cup-shaped chloroplast emphasizes the light-harvesting capacity in the morning, the relocated chloroplast is suggested to support the renewal of the thylakoid system during the afternoon, including the recovery of photosystem II (PSII) from photoinhibition. The giant chloroplast repositioning is part of a complex reversible reshaping of the whole epidermal cell. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anatomically preserved lycophytes of the Lycopodiales and Selaginellales have been discovered among a diverse assemblage of plants and fungi in carbonate marine concretions at the Apple Bay locality along the shore of Holbert Inlet near the northern end of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Lycopodialean stems are plectostelic and actinostelic, branch dichotomously, and are similar to both Lycopodicaulis oellgaardii and Lycoxylon spp. The Selaginella specimens represent the first anatomically preserved Selaginellales with excellent internal cellular preservation in the fossil record, and are described as Selaginella quatsinoense Rothwell et Stockey sp. nov. Stems have three and five exarch, monarch stelar segments, each of which is surrounded by an aerenchymatous endodermis with trabeculae. The leaf base is indented on the adaxial surface, suggesting the position of a ligule. These fossils document that species with diagnostic internal anatomy of modern Lycopodiales and Selaginellales evolved no later than the Valanginian of the early Cretaceous.

Selaginella mayeri is widely distributed in Southeast Asia and has not been reported in Thailand. We found two collections of it from Pattalung and Yala Provinces of Thailand, representing new records for this country. Selaginella mayeri could be distinguished from other long-creeping Southeast Asian species distributed in Thailand by the exauriculate axillary and ventral leaves and short flabellate lateral branchlets.

Selaginella commutata Alderw., a spikemoss recorded for the first time in India, has been collected from the West Siang district (in Bene Village) and Kra Daadi district (in Radang village), both in the state of Arunachal Pradesh. A short description of the species is supplemented with photographic plates. Spore morphology has been studied using scanning electron microscopy and morphological features are compared to three similar species. Ethnobotanical use of the species among the people of Nyishi community in Radang Village is reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Anatomically preserved lycophytes of the Lycopodiales and Selaginellales have been discovered among a diverse assemblage of plants and fungi in carbonate marine concretions at the Apple Bay locality along the shore of Holbert Inlet near the northern end of Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Lycopodialean stems are plectostelic and actinostelic, branch dichotomously, and are similar to both Lycopodicaulis oellgaardii and Lycoxylon spp. The Selaginella specimens represent the first anatomically preserved Selaginellales with excellent internal cellular preservation in the fossil record, and are described as Selaginella quatsinoense Rothwell et Stockey sp. nov. Stems have three and five exarch, monarch stelar segments, each of which is surrounded by an aerenchymatous endodermis with trabeculae. The leaf base is indented on the adaxial surface, suggesting the position of a ligule. These fossils document that species with diagnostic internal anatomy of modern Lycopodiales and Selaginellales evolved no later than the Valanginian of the early Cretaceous. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selaginella sanguinolenta group is widely distributed from the Himalayas to Siberia and the Russian Far East, including four to nine taxa. Despite progress in recent phylogenetic studies of the S. sanguinolenta group, the problem of species delimitation in this group remains. We revise the taxonomy of the S. sanguinolenta group based on an integrative approach considering morphological, molecular, and geographical evidence. The sampling for molecular analysis based on rbcL, psbA, and 26S nrDNA sequence data involved 71 individuals, covering the geographical range of this group. A total of 21 morphological traits from 103 specimens were explored using principal component analysis and linear discriminant analysis (LDA). The LDA results indicate that the combination of ventral leaf cilium length and ventral/dorsal leaf carinate characteristics enable a success rate of more than 90% in distinguishing between S. aitchisonii (western Himalayas to northern China), S. jacquemontii (western Himalayas to southwest China), and S. sanguinolenta (Russian Far East regions to northeast China). The phylogenetic analysis results of nuclear and plastid DNA markers further disclose the clear molecular differentiation. Selaginella nummularifolia, S. rossii, and S. sajanensis are well‐defined species based on morphological and molecular evidence with narrow distribution ranges respectively. Based on molecular and morphological evidence, in combination with distribution information, we finally recognize seven species in the S. sanguinolenta group, including a new species, S. baodongii sp. nov. from the bordering regions of Russia and China in northeast Asia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant structures exhibit complex behaviors through unique shape changes and movements closely related to moisture factors. When the plants absorb moisture, their inside has a higher tension than their outside, so the entire structure is folded to closure or opened. The principle and property could be applied to bio-inspired technology, which is the process of fusion mimicking the structure, function, metabolism, mechanism, and ecological system of those creatures adapted to their environments. In this study, we analyzed the functions and physical characteristics of environment-sensing plants to demonstrate the principles of plants with opening-and-closing and curling-and-uncurling mechanisms and to better understand these behavior principles. From a biological and ecological viewpoint, the target sensory and cognitive plants that respond to external humidity and vibration were found to undergo structural changes in the size of the xylem and the degree of adhesion of the leaf and stem, as well as the opening, closing, and curling of the external shapes of the plants. The phenomenon of external form changes based on the microstructural characteristics of plants showed a promising direction for addressing issues in existing technology, such as non-powered operation. Therefore, in this study, we presented a biomimetic humidification model that was biocompatible and reversible. Pinecone samples with the applied opening-and-closing mechanism were to apply these biological properties to biomimetics. The results provide biomimetic knowledge for understanding the functions of biological and ecological features underlying the morphological changes in humidity-sensing plants and plant bioacoustics. These bio-inspired plant resources could provide sustainable new-growth power and valuable scientific information for advancing the research and technological development of biomimetics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to assess the toxicity profile of Selaginella bryopteris extract and evaluate its wound healing activity. In vitro wound healing activity of S. bryopteris extract (5% and 10%) was performed using Clonogenic and Scratch assays. The toxicity profile of S. bryopteris extract ointment was evaluated on animals using acute toxicity and dermal toxicity tests. In vivo wound healing activity of S. bryopteris extract ointment (5% and 10%) was used to determine tensile strength in the incision wound healing model. Results exhibited that the extract was safe up to 2000 mg/kg per oral dose and non-reactive while applied topically. In vitro results showed that S. bryopteris extract closed the wound gap created by 97.13% in 48 h. The clonogenic assay revealed that the surviving factor for HaCaT cells and MEF cells was 0.78 and 0.85 after treated with 10% concentrations of S. bryopteris. The tensile strength exhibited by S. bryopteris 5% and 10% groups was 395.4 g and 558.5 g in comparison to the control group. Thus, S. bryopteris extract can be used as an alternative safe drug therapy against topical wounds. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Thirteen robustaflavones (1–13) were isolated from the 70% EtOH extract of Selaginella trichoclada Alston herbs for the first time. The structures of these compounds were identified on the basis of extensive spectroscopic data including UV-vis, 1D and 2D NMR, and mass spectra. The molecular docking results indicate that the robustaflavone derivates may play a role as a NEDD4 protein inhibitor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work is a floristic study of Selaginella in Maranhão. The species survey is based on collections from fieldwork conducted between April 2006 and February 2023 and specimens from Maranhão deposited at the CCAA, HBRA, MG, and SLUI herbaria. Ten species were identified: Selaginella conduplicata, S. convoluta, S. erythropus, S. flagellata, S. gynostachya S. marginata, S. minima, S. radiata, S. simplex, and S. sulcata. We report the first record of S. gynostachya for Maranhão and the Cerrado domain in Brazil. Until now, this species was only known from areas of Amazonia. We provide a map with records, an identification key, and comments about the identification and geographic distribution of Selaginella species in Maranhão state. For the new record, we also provide photos. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six compounds including three new benzophenones, selagibenzophenones D-F (1–3), two known selaginellins (4–5) and one known flavonoid (6), were isolated from Selaginella tamariscina. The structures of new compounds were established by 1D-, 2D-NMR and HR-ESI-MS spectral analyses. Compound 1 represents the second example of diarylbenzophenone from natural sources. Compound 2 possesses an unusual biphenyl-bisbenzophenone structure. Their cytotoxicity against human hepatocellular carcinoma HepG2 and SMCC-7721 cells and inhibitory activities on lipopolysaccharide-induced nitric oxide (NO) production in RAW264.7 cells were evaluated. Compound 2 showed moderate inhibitory activity against HepG2 and SMCC-7721 cells, and compounds 4 and 5 showed moderate inhibitory activity to HepG2 cells. Compounds 2 and 5 also exhibited inhibitory activities on lipopolysaccharide-induced nitric oxide (NO) production. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An update to the Flora of Antioquia, Colombia, is presented for Selaginella. Herein 46 species are recognized, 12 of which are new records for the department, including two recently described species (S. gioiae and S. rachipterygia), one undescribed species, and a new record for the country (S. meridensis). Five species previously cited as occurring in the department are excluded. A dichotomous key and distribution notes are presented for the 46 recognized species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of spikemoss, Selaginella densiciliata in S. subg. Heterostachys sect. Tetragonostachyae, China, is described from southeastern Xizang, based on morphological and molecular phylogenetic data. Morphologically, S. densiciliata is similar to S. repanda, S. subvaginata and S. vaginata, but the new species can be easily distinguished from them by having sterile leaves margins densely ciliate, symmetrical axillary leaves oblong ovate to ovate-triangular, and ovate dorsal leaves obviously carinate. Molecular phylogenetic analysis resolves S. densiciliata as sister to the clade comprised with S. vaginata and S. xipholepis, which confirms the recognition of the new species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microspores morphology of 18 species of Selaginellaceae found in Arunachal Pradesh, North East India, is studied using light microscopy and electron microscopy. Of the 18 taxa examined here, the study of five taxa is attempted for the first time using an electron microscope. The species studied exhibit variation in size, shape, color and ornamentation of the microscpores. The equatorial diameter ranges from 11 to 57 µm. The tetrad form of the microscpores is recorded in four species. The variations in the microscpores ornamentation within the species of the family are useful in identification, classification and taxonomic distinction of the species. An identification key is provided for the species under study. This research is beneficial for the enumeration of basic information of microspores of the family and for the precise identification of Selaginella species. Statistical analysis of the distal and proximal surface ornamentation of the microspores is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite the many strategies employed to slow the spread of cancer, the development of new anti-tumor drugs and the minimization of side effects have been major research hotspots in the anti-tumor field. Natural drugs are a huge treasure trove of drug development, and they have been widely used in the clinic as anti-tumor drugs. Selaginella species in the family Selaginellaceae are widely distributed worldwide, and they have been well-documented in clinical practice for the prevention and treatment of cancer. Biflavonoids are the main active ingredients in Selaginella, and they have good biological and anti-tumor activities, which warrant extensive research. The promise of biflavonoids from Selaginella (SFB) in the field of cancer therapy is being realized thanks to new research that offers insights into the multi-targeting therapeutic mechanisms and key signaling pathways. The pharmacological effects of SFB against various cancers in vitro and in vivo are reviewed in this review. In addition, the types and characteristics of biflavonoid structures are described in detail; we also provide a brief summary of the efforts to develop drug delivery systems or combinations to enhance the bioavailability of SFB monomers. In conclusion, SFB species have great potential to be developed as adjuvant or even primary therapeutic agents for cancer, with promising applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total flavones of Selaginella uncinata (Desv.) spring has inhibitory effects on cancer progression. The study aims to analyze the effects of total flavones of Selaginella uncinata on breast cancer cell tumor properties and the possible mechanism. MDA-MB-231 cells were treated with total flavones of Selaginella uncinata or transfected with anti-microRNA-negative control or anti-microRNA-1269. In addition, microRNA-negative control or microRNA-1269 mimics-transfected MDA-MB-231 cells were exposed to total flavones of Selaginella uncinata. Cell proliferation and apoptosis were investigated via cell counting kit-8, cell colony formation or flow cytometry analysis. MicroRNA-1269, cleaved caspase-3 or cleaved caspase-9 expression was determined through quantitative polymerase chain reaction or Western blotting. After total flavones of Selaginella uncinata treatment, the cell proliferation inhibition rate, cell apoptosis rate, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-9 protein levels were increased, the number of cell colonies was decreased, and microRNA-1269 was downregulated in a dose-dependent way. Relative to MCF-10A cells, microRNA-1269 expression was upregulated in MDA-MB-231 cells. After transfection of anti-microRNA-1269, cell apoptosis rate, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-9 protein levels and the cell proliferation inhibition rate were increased, but cell colony-forming ability was decreased. After treatment of microRNA-1269 mimics and total flavones of Selaginella uncinata, the cell proliferation inhibition rate, cell apoptosis rate, cleaved caspase-3 and cleaved caspase-9 protein levels were reduced and cell colony-forming ability was promoted. Total flavones of Selaginella uncinata can inhibit the proliferation and cell colony-forming ability and induce apoptosis of breast cancer cells via negatively modulating microRNA-1269. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Apical hooks are functional innovations only observed in angiosperms, which effectively protect the apical meristems out of damage during plant seedlings penetrating soil covers. Acetyltransferase like protein HOOKLESS1 (HLS1) in Arabidopsis thaliana is required for hook formation. However, the origin and evolution of HLS1 in plants are still not solved. Here, we traced the evolution of HLS1 and found that HLS1 originated in embryophytes. Moreover, we found that Arabidopsis HLS1 delayed plant flowering time, in addition to their well-known functions in apical hook development and newly reported roles in thermomorphogenesis. We further revealed that HLS1 interacted with transcription factor CO and repressed the expression of FT to delay flowering. Lastly, we compared the functional divergence of HLS1 among eudicot (A. thaliana), bryophytes (Physcomitrium patens and Marchantia polymorpha) and lycophyte (Selaginella moellendorffii). Although HLS1 from these bryophytes and lycophyte partially rescued the thermomorphogenesis defects in hls1-1 mutants, the apical hook defects and early flowering phenotypes could not be reversed by either P. patens, M. polymorpha or S. moellendorffii orthologs. These results illustrate that HLS1 proteins from bryophytes or lycophyte are able to modulate thermomorphogenesis phenotypes in A. thaliana likely through a conserved gene regulatory network. Our findings shed new light on the understanding of the functional diversity and origin of HLS1, which controls the most attractive innovations in angiosperms. HOOKLESS1, a positive regulator of seedling hook establishment, originated in embryophytes and evolved to gain hook development function in angiosperms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We reported nine fern species: Amblovenatum opulentum, Athyrium erythropodum, Haplopteris angustifolia, Hymenophyllum acanthoides, Hymenophyllum pachydermicum, Huperzia liangshanica, Microlepia smithii, Selaginella bisulcata, and Selaginella reticulata as indigenous to Vietnam based on our new collections and study of type materials and relevant references. We also described one new species, Dryopteris huongii, to accommodate its morphological distinctiveness from its congeneric species. We further investigated the phylogenetic relationships of the new species using three plastid DNA markers, and the result shows it belongs to Acrorumohra clade, sister of D. gymnophylla. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on examination of herbarium specimen that was previously misidentified as Selaginella helvetica (L.) Spring, we report the first voucher-based record of S. kraussiana (Kunze) A. Braun from the eastern Carpathian Mountains in West Ukraine. A morphological comparison of S. kraussiana with S. helvetica and S. selaginoides occurring in this region is given. Selaginella kraussiana differs from them in habit, vegetative leaves and strobili structure.

Diverse branching forms have evolved multiple times across the tree of life to facilitate resource acquisition and exchange with the environment. In the vascular plant group, the ancestral pattern of branching involves dichotomy of a parent shoot apex to form two new daughter apices. The molecular basis of axillary branching in Arabidopsis is well understood, but few regulators of dichotomous branching are known. Through analyses of dichotomous branching in the lycophyte, Selaginella kraussiana, we identify PIN-mediated auxin transport as an ancestral branch regulator of vascular plants. We show that short-range auxin transport out of the apices promotes dichotomy and that branch dominance is globally coordinated by long-range auxin transport. Uniquely in Selaginella, angle meristems initiate at each dichotomy, and these can develop into rhizophores or branching angle shoots. We show that long-range auxin transport and a transitory drop in PIN expression are involved in angle shoot development. We conclude that PIN-mediated auxin transport is an ancestral mechanism for vascular plant branching that was independently recruited into Selaginella angle shoot development and seed plant axillary branching during evolution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diabetes and its complications, such as delayed wound healing, are increasing at an alarming rate in India, putting an enormous strain on the country's limited healthcare resources. Hence, the present study proposes to screen/identify the possible mechanisms and to study the effect of the flavonoid-enriched fraction of Selaginella bryopteris extract against human keratinocyte cell lines (HaCaT) and streptozocin (STZ)-induced diabetic wounds in a male Wistar rat model. Chemical profiling was performed by an MTT assay. The obtained GC–MS analysis results showed the presence of amentoflavone, gallic acid, imidazole, palmitic acid, catechine, L-fucitol, lupeol, and myo-inositol as the major bioactive phytoconstituents. S. bryopteris induces the generation of ROS, the condensation of chromatin in the nucleus, and changes in the membrane potential of mitochondria in HaCaT cell lines. An S. bryopteris-dependent induction of apoptosis-mediated cell death in HaCaT cell lines was confirmed by an AO/PI analysis. Mitochondrial depolarization was reflected in JC-1 staining of cells. The wound size was reduced and epithelialization was enhanced. Keratinocyte migration decreased interleukins, TNF-α, IL-2, and IL-6 and the expression of pro-apoptotic (p53, caspase-3, caspase-9, and Bax) and anti-apoptotic (Bcl-2) genes in a dose-dependent manner. Keratinocyte migration increased antioxidant enzyme levels (CAT, SOD, MDA, and GSH). Wound healing is facilitated through the mitochondria-mediated apoptosis pathway, revealing a new area of diabetic wound therapy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study compiles and updates the checklist of ferns and lycophytes from the Sierra Madre Occidental (SMOc). For this, we revised information on these taxa from regional floristic studies, databases, and herbaria. Our updated list includes 312 species, of which 276 are ferns and 36 are lycophytes integrated into 27 families and 75 genera. The richest families are Pteridaceae (118), Polypodiaceae (31), Selaginellaceae (30), Aspleniaceae (25), and Dryopteridaceae (25). The three most diverse genera were Selaginella (30), Asplenium (25), and Myriopteris (22). The species-rich Mexican states that include the SMOc are Durango (166 species), Chihuahua (149), and Jalisco (146). As in other tropical mountains, species richness in the SMOc is concentrated at the elevation interval of 1500 to 2000 m (236 species). The mid-mountain vegetation forests (Quercus and Pinus-Quercus forests) harbor the most pteridoflora richness (52% of the species). Four species of ferns are listed as threatened in the Mexican Official Norm NOM-059-SEMARNAT-2010, 17 species are listed in the IUCN, and only one tree ferns are in CITES. The SMOc has a Nearctic affinity, and its fern and lycophyte diversity are lower than in other Mexican Transition Zone mountain chains, such as the Sierra Madre del Sur, the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, and the Sierra Madre Oriental. Notwithstanding, its biological composition is unique and distinctive. The species number reported in the SMOc represents 31% of the pteridoflora diversity recorded in Mexico. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants of the Selaginella tamariscina group are common rosette‐forming species showing great morphological variability across their distribution range. Integrating chloroplast genome data and morphological evidence, we studied the species delimitation within this group. We newly sequenced the complete chloroplast genomes of 53 individuals representing almost the entire geographical distribution of this group. Our phylogenetic analyses yielded a consistent topology dividing the S. tamariscina group into five major clades, which is further supported by principal component analysis of 18 morphological characters taken from 80 herbarium specimens. Based on the results of molecular analyses and morphological studies combined with the distribution information, we finally recognize five species in the S. tamariscina group, including two new species (S. algida sp. nov., S. graniticola sp. nov.), and one new subspecies (S. pulvinata subsp. qinbashanica subsp. nov.). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise of research. We examined select members of the Lycopodiaceae (Lycopodioideae and Huperzioideae) and Selaginellaceae to determine whether there were some unique anatomical and histochemical traits that might contribute to our understanding of their stems and roots. Methodology. Living plants and herbarium/dried specimens were examined using hand or hand microtome sections, processed in different stains, and viewed using different microscopic methods. Pivotal results. Among the Lycopodiaceae, Lycopodioideae, the innermost region of the cortex in stems and roots often has variously modified cell walls that we term an endodermoid without Casparian bands. In the Huperzioideae, the cell walls of the innermost cortex usually have a layer of cells better defined as an endodermis because cells with Casparian bands are usually evident in a ring around the stele of stems and vascular cylinder of roots. Lycopodioideae adventitious roots have an epidermal emergence from the stems, while Huperzioideae roots have a cortical emergence. Stems of Selaginellaceae do not have a well-defined endodermis or endodermoid around their steles; instead, most species studied have an extracellular wall layer lining outer stele and inner cortical trabecular cells, interpreted as a stele-cortex wall that is readily apparent only under 488-nm laser microscopy. While most Selaginella species have an endodermis in their rhizophores, roots of all species studied have an endodermis with Casparian bands and often with suberin lamellae. Conclusions. Our results revealed the occurrence of distinct innermost cortex layers not adequately and previously demonstrated in these plants. In Lycopodiaceae, these are endodermoid or endodermis. In Selaginellaceae, these are extracellular stele-cortex walls in most stems and endodermis in rhizophores and roots. There is clearly a need to examine in much greater detail cell wall chemistry and cell/tissue development as they relate to the genetics and molecular development of these extant lycopods and their phylogenetic history. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Selaginellins are specialized metabolites and chemotaxonomic markers for Selaginella species. Despite the growing interest in these compounds as a result of their bioactivities, they are accumulated at low levels in the plant. Hence, their isolation and chemical characterization are often difficult, time consuming, and limiting for biological tests. Elicitation with the phytohormone methyl jasmonate (MeJA) could be a strategy to increase the content of selaginellins addressing their low availability problem, that also impairs pharmacological investigations. Matherials and methods: In this study, we examined MeJA elicitation in Selaginella convoluta plants, a medicinal plant found in northeastern Brazil, by treating them with two different concentrations (MeJA: 50 and 100 µM), followed by chemical profiling after 12, 24 and 48 h after application. Samples were harvested and analyzed by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Results and discusscion: MeJA treatment significantly impacted the chemical phenotype. Regarding shoots differences in the time-dependent increased accumulation of all metabolites when plants were subjected to 100 µM MeJA were observed while in roots, most metabolites had their concentrations decreased in a time-dependent fashion at the same conditions. Results support organ, MeJA concentration and time post-treatment dependence of specialized metabolite accumulation, mainly the flavonoids and selaginellins. The amount of Selaginellin G in shoots of MeJA-treated specimens increased in 5.63-fold relative to control. The molecular networking approach allowed for the putative annotation of 64 metabolites, among them, the MeJA treatment followed by targeted metabolome analysis also allowed to annotate seven unprecedented selaginellins. Additionally, the in silico bioactive potential of the annotated selaginellins highlighted targets related to neurodegenerative disorders, antiproliferative, and antiparasitic issues. Taken together, data point out MeJA exposure as a strategy to induce potentially bioactive selaginellins accumulation in S. convoluta, this approach could enable a deep investigation about the metabolic function of these metabolites in the genus as well as regarding pharmacological exploration of the undervalued potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review involves the medicinal as well as therapeutic applications of Sanjeevni (Selaginella bryopteris L.) in curtailing different types of acute and chronic maladies. The magical herb (Selaginella bryopteris) is utilized for its resurrecting and medicinal properties in various regions of the world. S. bryopteris based formulations have been widely used in folk medicine to treat spermatorrhoea, colitis, epilepsy, leucorrhoea, urinary tract infections, fever, venereal illnesses, constipation, beri-beri, cancer, and many other ailments. The medicinal and pharmacological effects of S. bryopteris have been extensively studied in recent years, employing a variety of in vivo and in vitro models and clinical studies. Many biochemical and pharmacological studies on Selaginella bryopteris have been conducted, and many of its traditional applications have been validated scientifically. Different biological activities are concerned with it, like anti-bacterial, growth-promoting, anti-protozoan, relief from heat stroke and the burning sensation during urination, anti-stress cell death, memory improvement, relief from stomach-aches, anti-hyperglycemic activity, and anti-depressant activity. S. bryopteris is undeniably one of the most significant plants owing to its enormous pharmacological and therapeutic potential. On the other hand, several information gaps found in this article might spur fresh academic and R&D efforts to produce S. bryopteris-based herbal medications and nutraceuticals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vegetative desiccation tolerance (VDT) is a biological process that allows resurrection plants to complete desiccation-rehydration cycles and survive without permanent damage. Physiological and biochemical changes related to the VDT were evaluated in the lycophyte Selaginella convoluta from the Caatinga biome, a seasonally dry tropical forest of northeastern Brazil. As representative of the oldest division of extant vascular plants, the investigation of VDT mechanisms in this species serves as an opportunity to provide information for research communities interested in functional traits related to water-limited conditions. The experiments were performed with plants in their natural habitat, in dry and rainy seasons, and in pots under shade house conditions. Relative water content, chlorophyll a fluorescence, gas exchange, activity of antioxidant enzymes, concentration of chlorophylls, proteins, total amino acids, proline, and soluble carbohydrates in leaf tissues were evaluated throughout the process of complete dehydration and subsequent re-watering of intact plants. The overall results reveal the capacity of S. convoluta to tolerate extreme dehydration and rapidly recover upon rehydration. This species minimizes potential damages during the desiccation-rehydration cycle due to the presence of inductive mechanisms (photochemical preventing, sucrose accumulation) and constitutive mechanisms (antioxidant activity of catalase and ascorbate peroxidase), which share similarities with the VDT of both angiosperms and bryophytes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Metallic nanoparticles from different natural sources exhibit superior therapeutic options as compared to the conventional methods. Selaginella species have attracted special attention of researchers worldwide due to the presence of bioactive molecules such as flavonoids, biflavonoids, triterpenes, steroids, saponins, tannins and other secondary metabolites that exhibit antimicrobial, antiplasmodial, anticancer and anti-inflammatory activities. Environment friendly green synthesised silver nanoparticles from Selaginella species provide viable, safe and efficient treatment against different fungal pathogens. Objective: This systematic review aims to summarise the literature pertaining to superior antifungal ability of green synthesised silver nanoparticles using plant extracts of Selaginella spp. in comparison to both aqueous and ethanolic raw plant extracts by electronically collecting articles from databases. Methods: The recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis were taken into consideration while preparing this review. The titles and abstracts of the collected data were stored in Endnote20 based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The search strategy included literature from established sources like PubMed, Google Scholar and Retrieval System Online using subject descriptors. Results: The search yielded 60 articles with unique hits. After removal of duplications, 46 articles were identified, 40 were assessed and only seven articles were chosen and included in this review based on our eligibility criteria. Conclusion: The physicochemical and preliminary phytochemical investigations of Selaginella suggest higher drug potency of nanoparticles synthesised from plant extract against different diseases as compared to aqueous and ethanolic plant extracts. The study holds great promise as the synthesis of nanoparticles involves low energy consumption, minimal technology and least toxic effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant structures exhibit complex behaviors through unique shape changes and movements closely related to moisture factors. When the plants absorb moisture, their inside has a higher tension than their outside, so the entire structure is folded to closure or opened. The principle and property could be applied to bio-inspired technology, which is the process of fusion mimicking the structure, function, metabolism, mechanism, and ecological system of those creatures adapted to their environments. In this study, we analyzed the functions and physical characteristics of environment-sensing plants to demonstrate the principles of plants with opening-and-closing and curling-and-uncurling mechanisms and to better understand these behavior principles. From a biological and ecological viewpoint, the target sensory and cognitive plants that respond to external humidity and vibration were found to undergo structural changes in the size of the xylem and the degree of adhesion of the leaf and stem, as well as the opening, closing, and curling of the external shapes of the plants. The phenomenon of external form changes based on the microstructural characteristics of plants showed a promising direction for addressing issues in existing technology, such as non-powered operation. Therefore, in this study, we presented a biomimetic humidification model that was biocompatible and reversible. Pinecone samples with the applied opening-and-closing mechanism were to apply these biological properties to biomimetics. The results provide biomimetic knowledge for understanding the functions of biological and ecological features underlying the morphological changes in humidity-sensing plants and plant bioacoustics. These bio-inspired plant resources could provide sustainable new-growth power and valuable scientific information for advancing the research and technological development of biomimetics.

Abstract—Data on the dynamics of the ontogenetic structure of two coenopopulations (CPs) of Dracocephalum fruticulosum located in various ecological and cenotic conditions of Tuva are presented. The changes in the type of ontogenetic spectrum and the density index of individuals were analyzed. A sharp decrease in density was revealed in both CPs over 18 years. The monomodality of the ontogenetic spectrum was established during all the years of our study. There was a change in the type of the cenopopulations, namely, from transient to aging in CP 1 and from transient to mature in CP 2. The calculated demographic indicators and the rate of development reflect the unidirectional dynamics of the CP structure, namely, a successive type in CP 1 and a wave-fluctuation type in CP 2. CP analysis showed significant vulnerability of demographic indicators. Changes in the coenopopulations are due to different causes: overgrowth of communities with Selaginella sanguinolenta in CP 1, anthropogenic impact (grazing) in CP 2, and weak seed setting and germination. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three water soluble polysaccharides named SUSP-1, SUSP-2 and SUSP-3 from Selaginella uncinata (Desv.) Spring were purified, which contained different contents of galactose, arabinose, mannose, glucose and xylose, and SUSP-3 had large amount of galacturonic acid. Structural identification showed that the backbone structure of SUSP-1 was composed of (1 → 2)-α-D-Manp, (1 → 4)-α-D-Manp and (1 → 4)-β-D-Xylp. The main chains of SUSP-2 were (1 → 3)-α-D-Galp and (1 → 4)-α-D-Glcp, and SUSP-3 had two fragments and the main chains were (1 → 4)-α-D-GalpA and (1 → 4)-β-D-Xylp. Furthermore, their anti-inflammatory activities were evaluated. THP-1 monocytes were induced into macrophages by phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetat (PMA) and then stimulated by lipopolysaccharides (LPS). The data showed that compared with model groups, SUSP-1, SUSP-2 and SUSP-3 significantly inhibited ROS levels, promoted IL-10 expression, suppressed the mRNA levels of IL-6, TNF-α and IL-1β, and effectively blocked LPS binding to CD14 receptor to reduce inflammation. This study provided new data for the development of natural polysaccharides from S. uncinata with anti-inflammatory activities. • Three water soluble polysaccharides were obtained from S. uncinate. • The main chain of SUSP-1 was (1 → 2)-α-D-Manp, (1 → 4)-α-D-Manp and (1 → 4)-β- D-Xylp. • The backbone structure of SUSP-2 contained (1 → 3)-α-D-Galp and (1 → 4)-α-D-Glcp. • SUSP-3 had two fragments and were composed of (1 → 4)-α-D-GalpA and (1 → 4)-β-D-Xylp. • SUSP-1, SUSP-2 and SUSP-3 improved inflammatory response in THP-1 macrophages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selaginellaceae plants are used in cosmetics to limit skin aging. This study is the first to investigate the anti-aging effects of Selaginella rossii (SR) on ultraviolet B (UVB)- and oxidative stress-induced skin cells. The 95% ethanol extract of Selaginella rossii (SR95E) contained much higher amounts of amentoflavone (AMF), an active compound, than other Selaginellaceae plants and was more effective in inhibiting matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1 expression in CCD-986sk fibroblasts. SR95E significantly decreased UVB-induced MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3 and MMP-9 expression and enhanced procollagen type I C-peptide content and mRNA expression of collagen type I alpha (COL1A)1 and COL1A2 in CCD-986sk fibroblasts. In HaCaT keratinocytes, SR95E treatment also dose-dependently decreased UVB-induced MMP-1 concentration and MMP-1, MMP-2, MMP-3 and MMP-9 mRNA expression. Moreover, SR95E treatment markedly inhibited UVB-induced c-Jun N-terminal kinase and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase signaling and nuclear factor kappa-B signaling in HaCaT cells. Furthermore, SR95E and AMF markedly regulated the 2,2′-azobis(2-amidinopropane) dihydrochloride (AAPH)-induced expression of cellular senescence-related markers, including p16, p21 and LMNB1, in HaCaT cells. Overall, this study indicates that SR may have potential as a functional material on preventing UVB- and AAPH-induced skin aging and wrinkles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]