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Orchids are one of the largest and globally distributed plant families. Indonesia has the most types of orchids, estimated around 20% from the total species across the world. Mainly orchids used as an ornamental plant. This research aimed to elucidate another potential of orchids as possibly for herbal medicine plant. The potential of orchids as herbal medicine has been known for a long time, but there is lack of well-documented research. The research method used in this research is exploration on predetermined research sites that were conducted in Mount Tilu, West Java on 2022. Observation data of orchids were collected on the sites and the analysis was carried out in a qualitative descriptive approach by describing the data from the research results and comparisons were made through a literature review. Based on the research results, we found about 31 species from 28 genera consisting of 24 epiphytic orchids and 7 terrestrial orchids in the Mount Tilu Kuningan area, West Java. There are 4 endemic species categorised in Java; Chilochista javanica, Crepidium koordesii, Crepidium junghuhnii, and Taeniophyllum biocellatum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Malaxis acuminata D. Don (Common name- Jeevak) is a well-known medicinal herb with considerable therapeutic and medicinal potential. The species is used to cure ailments like seminal debility, fever, tuberculosis, vitality strengthening, and immune modulation. However, the phenology of this species has not been investigated systematically. In this study, eight major developmental stages for bud development (PGS-0), leaf development (PGS-1), shoot development (PGS-3), inflorescence emergence (PGS-5), flowering (PGS-6), fruit development (PGS-7), fruit maturation (PGS-8), and senescence (PGS-9) of M. acuminata have been identified using the extended Biologische Bundesantalt, Bundessortenamt und Chemische Industrie (BBCH) scale along with secondary growth stages. The climatic settings required for these phenophases of the species were also investigated. Malaxis acuminata exhibited a long juvenile vegetative phase compared to the short reproductive phase. For a better understanding of these growth stages, explanatory photographs with descriptions and codification are provided. It was observed that M. acuminata completes its various vegetative and reproductive phases in a very short period under favourable conditions, after which the pseudobulbs serve as propagation propagules for the production of plantlets in the following year. The correct identification of the phenophases of M. acuminata is vital for characterization, conservation and management because of their importance in cultivation and maintenance. Therefore, this approach can be recommended as an efficient tool for elite identification for growers and researchers for pharmaceutical and drug discovery, along with gene expression research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The orchid business in West Java can not be separated from the active role of the Indonesian Orchid Association (IOA). Currently, orchid business actors in this province have faced production problems due to their inability to meet market needs, both in quantity and quality. This study aims to identify orchid value chain management in IOA of West Java. The data collection utilized purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The respondents in this study consisted of six breeders, six growers (two seedlers and four juveniles-adults growers), six traders, and two employees of the Department of Food Crops and Horticulture of West Java. The data obtained were mapped using Porter’s value chain model. The research findings disclosed that the orchid value chain began with the procurement of inputs such as planting media, seeds, fertilizer, and pesticides. The production involved the in vitro production of plantlets using seeds obtained from crossbreeding and continued with plant enlargement. Adult and flowering plants were sold directly to consumers or through agents and traders. Two forms of governance existed within the orchid value chain. Market governance occurred between breeders and growers, growers and consumers, agents and traders, and traders and consumers. Whereas modular governance took place between breeders (imports) and industry, as well as the industry and agents. In conclusion, the value chain management of the IOA of West Java was not optimal due to the unimplemented application of tissue culture technology. Consequently, orchid production remained suboptimal and low level of orchid uniformity.

Summary Recent studies on co-transformation of the growth regulator, TaGRF4-GIF1 chimera (Growth Regulating Factor 4-GRF Interacting Factor 1), in cultivated wheat varieties (Triticum aestivum), showed improved regeneration efficiency, marking a significant breakthrough. Here, a simple and reproducible protocol using the GRF4-GIF1 chimera was established and tested in the medicinal orchid Dendrobium catenatum, a monocot orchid species. TaGRF4-GIF1 from T. aestivum and DcGRF4-GIF1 from D. catenatum were reconstructed, with the chimeras significantly enhancing the regeneration efficiency of D. catenatum through in planta transformation. Further, mutating the microRNA396 (miR396) target sites in TaGRF4 and DcGRF4 improved regeneration efficiency. The target mimicry version of miR396 (MIM396) not only boosted shoot regeneration but also enhanced plant growth. Our methods revealed a powerful tool for the enhanced regeneration and genetic transformation of D. catenatum.

The plastid-targeted transcription factor Whirly1 (WHY1) has been implicated in chloroplast biogenesis, plastid genome stability, and fungal defense response, which together represent characteristics of interest for the study of autotrophic losses across the angiosperms. While gene loss in the plastid and nuclear genomes has been well studied in mycoheterotrophic plants, the evolution of the molecular mechanisms impacting genome stability is completely unknown. Here, we characterize the evolution of WHY1 in four early transitional mycoheterotrophic orchid species in the genus Corallorhiza by synthesizing the results of phylogenetic, transcriptomic, and comparative genomic analyses with WHY1 genomic sequences sampled from 21 orders of angiosperms. We found an increased number of non-canonical WHY1 isoforms assembled from all but the greenest Corallorhiza species, including intron retention in some isoforms. Within Corallorhiza, phylotranscriptomic analyses revealed the presence of tissue-specific differential expression of WHY1 in only the most photosynthetically capable species and a coincident increase in the number of non-canonical WHY1 isoforms assembled from fully mycoheterotrophic species. Gene- and codon-level tests of WHY1 selective regimes did not infer significant signal of either relaxed selection or episodic diversifying selection in Corallorhiza but did so for relaxed selection in the late-stage full mycoheterotrophic orchids Epipogium aphyllum and Gastrodia elata. Additionally, nucleotide substitutions that most likely impact the function of WHY1, such as nonsense mutations, were only observed in late-stage mycoheterotrophs. We propose that our findings suggest that splicing and expression changes may precede the selective shifts we inferred for late-stage mycoheterotrophic species, which therefore does not support a primary role for WHY1 in the transition to mycoheterotrophy in the Orchidaceae. Taken together, this study provides the most comprehensive view of WHY1 evolution across the angiosperms to date. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fluorinated cytokinins have emerged as promising alternatives to traditional cytokinins in Phalaenopsis plant tissue culture, offering enhanced stability and bioactivity. However, their metabolic fate and impact on endogenous cytokinin profiles remain largely unexplored. This study builds upon previous research to investigate the comparative metabolism of the traditional cytokinin 6-Benzylaminopurine (BA) with the successful alternatives 6-(3-fluorobenzylamino)purine (FmT) and 6-(3-fluorobenzylamino)purine 9-riboside (FmTR). Additionally, this study examines the impact of another crucial factor, the use of ventilated versus closed containers, on metabolic processes. The results revealed the distinct metabolic profiles associated with each treatment, highlighting the complex interplay between exogenous and endogenous cytokinin levels. This study is the first to investigate the effects of these stable, synthetic, and exogenous cytokinins on the naturally occurring cytokinin levels and their metabolites in micropropagated Phalaenopsis. Additionally, we proposed an alternative inactivation pathway involving the conversion of FmTR and BA to pT and pTR. These findings provide valuable insights into the intricate relationship between cytokinin metabolism and plant growth under in vitro conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Determination of D. crumenatum mutant obtained from in vitro mutation breeding needs a long time due to its long-life cycle. SSR molecular markers can be used for early mutant detection. Specific SSR markers developed in D. crumenatum are not yet available. Alternative published SSR markers were developed from D. catenatum. The aims of this study are to screen the most informative SSR markers generated from D. catenatum tested in irradiated D. crumenatum population and to determine the gamma irradiation dose resulting the most mutants. Ten SSR markers were randomly selected and tested in 25 individuals of D. crumenatum plantlets irradiated with several doses (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 Gy; 5 plantlets each dose). The result showed 7 of 10 primers were polymorphic and the other three were monomorphic. All seven polymorphic primers can be used to identified intraspecific variation in the D. crumenatum mutant population. Markers dnsr28 and dnsr98 were the most informative, with the highest polymorphic information content (PIC) value of 0.5. Irradiation D. crumenatum protocorms using 10-15 gray doses were detected as the highest mutant percentage obtained up to 100% in the sample tested. This resulting marker information can be used to screen wider mutant population to decrease the non-mutant individuals in the population for maintenance and cost efficiency. The 10-15 Gy can be used as reference doses for gamma irradiation in 3 months old D. crumenatum protocorm materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orchids of the genus Paphiopedilum, also called slippers, are among the most valued representatives of the Orchidaceae family due to their aesthetic qualities. Due to overexploitation, deforestation, and illegal trade in these plants, especially in the vegetative phase, Paphiopedilum requires special protection. This genus is listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Their precise identification is of great importance for the preservation of genetic resources and biodiversity of the orchid family (Orchidaceae). Therefore, the main objective of the study was to investigate the usefulness of the DNA barcoding technique for the identification of endangered orchids of the genus Paphiopedilum and to determine the effectiveness of five loci: matK, rbcL, ITS2, atpF-atpH and trnH-psbA as potential molecular markers for species of this genus. Among single locus barcodes, matK was the most effective at identifying species (64%). Furthermore, matK, ITS2, matK + rbcL, and matK + trnH-psbA barcodes can be successfully used as a complementary tool to identify Paphiopedilum orchids while supporting morphological data provided by taxonomists. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollination by sexual deception specifically attracts male insects, through the floral scent and particular morphological features of the flower that serve as visual and tactile stimuli. The unique bond between the Ophrys speculum orchid and the male Dasyscolia ciliata wasp primarily stems from a few distinctive semiochemicals that mimic the female wasp's sex pheromone, although the floral scent comprises a variety of compounds. An osmophore producing highly volatile compounds has been documented in four close relatives of O. speculum and is now being also investigated in this species. Given the existing debates regarding the structure of the labellum and stigmatic cavity in O. speculum, this study details their micromorphology. Additionally, comparisons of O. speculum flowers and female D. ciliata wasps under stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy are conducted to seek new evidence of visual and tactile mimicry. The findings confirm that (i) an osmophore is present at the apical margin of the labellum in O. speculum flowers; (ii) the labellum features a distinct basal field homologous to those found in other Ophrys species; and (iii) the basal labellum region closely mimics the female wasp's thorax and wings. The implications of these novel floral features are discussed within an evolutionary context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The upgrade of natural products for cancer treatment is essential since current anticancer drugs still pose severe side effects. Cymensifin A (Cym A) isolated from an orchid Cymbidium ensifolium has shown its potential to induce the death of several cancer cells; however, its underlying molecular mechanisms are hitherto unknown. Methods: Here, we conducted a set of in vitro preliminary tests to assess the cytotoxic effects of Cym A on non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) cells (A549, H23, H292, and H460). A flow cytometry system and Western blot analyses were employed to unveil molecular mechanisms underlying cancer cell apoptosis caused by Cym A. Results: Cym A at 25-50 µM caused the death of all NSCLC cells tested, and its cytotoxicity was comparable to cisplatin, a currently used anticancer drug. The compound induced apoptosis of all NSCLC cells in a dose-dependent manner (5-50 µM), proven by flow cytometry, but H460 cells showed more resistance compared to other cells tested. Cym A-treated H460 cells demonstrated increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) and downregulated antioxidants (catalase, superoxide dismutase, and thioredoxin). The compound also upregulated the tumor suppressor P53 and the pro-apoptotic protein BAX but downregulated pro-survival proteins (BCL-2 and MCL-1) and deactivated survival signals (AKT and ERK) in H460 cells. Cym A was proven to trigger cellular ROS formation, but P53 and BAX were 2-fold more activated by Cym A compared to those treated with hydrogen peroxide. Our findings also supported that Cym A exerted its roles in the downregulation of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (a regulator of cellular antioxidant activity) and the increased levels of cleaved poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and cleaved caspase 3/7 during apoptosis. Conclusion: We propose that Cym A induces lung cancer cell death via ROSmediated apoptosis, while the modulation of cellular ROS/antioxidant activity, the upregulation of P53 and BAX, the downregulation or deactivation of BCL-2, MCL-1, AKT, and ERK, and the increased cleavage of PARP and caspase 3/7, were the elucidated underlying molecular mechanisms of this phytochemical. The compound can be a promising candidate for future anticancer drug development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cymbidium mosaic virus (CymMV) and Odontoglossum ringspot virus (ORSV) are among the world's most serious and widespread orchid viruses; they often infect orchids, causing devastating losses to the orchid industry. Therefore, it is critical to establish a method that can rapidly and accurately detect viruses in the field using simple instruments, which will largely reduce the further spread of viruses and improve the quality of the orchid industry and is suitable for mass promotion and application at grassroots agrotechnical service points. In this investigation, we established a rapid amplification method for virus detection at 39 °C for 35 min to detect the presence of CymMV and ORSV simultaneously, sensitively, and specifically in orchids. Primers for the capsid protein (CP)-encoding genes of both viruses were designed and screened, and the reaction conditions were optimized. The experimental amplification process was completed in just 35 min at 39 °C. There were no instances of nonspecific amplification observed when nine other viruses were present. The RPA approach had detection limits of 104 and 103 copies for pMD19T-CymMV and pMD19T-ORSV, respectively. Moreover, the duplex RT-RPA investigation confirmed sensitivity and accuracy via a comparison of detection results from 20 field samples with those of a gene chip. This study presents a precise and reliable detection method for CymMV and ORSV using RT-RPA. The results demonstrate the potential of this method for rapid virus detection. It is evident that this method could have practical applications in virus detection processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

AREB/ABF (ABA response element binding) proteins in plants are essential for stress responses, while our understanding of AREB/ABFs from orchid species, important traditional medicinal and ornamental plants, is limited. Here, twelve AREB/ABF genes were identified within three orchids' complete genomes and classified into three groups through phylogenetic analysis, which was further supported with a combined analysis of their conserved motifs and gene structures. The cis-element analysis revealed that hormone response elements as well as light and stress response elements were widely rich in the AREB/ABFs. A prediction analysis of the orchid ABRE/ABF-mediated regulatory network was further constructed through cis-regulatory element (CRE) analysis of their promoter regions. And it revealed that several dominant transcriptional factor (TF) gene families were abundant as potential regulators of these orchid AREB/ABFs. Expression profile analysis using public transcriptomic data suggested that most AREB/ABF genes have distinct tissue-specific expression patterns in orchid plants. Additionally, DcaABI5 as a homolog of ABA INSENSITIVE 5 (ABI5) from Arabidopsis was selected for further analysis. The results showed that transgenic Arabidopsis overexpressing DcaABI5 could rescue the ABA-insensitive phenotype in the mutant abi5. Collectively, these findings will provide valuable information on AREB/ABF genes in orchids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Some medical conditions, including polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOs), may lead to infertility. In PCOs, hormonal imbalance is significant. Antioxidants such as natural antioxidants have many health benefits, including positive effects on hormone production. Objective: Since herbal medicines are more acceptable to people, the present study was designed to evaluate the effect of an aqueous extract of orchid (SA), with antioxidative effects, on the structure of the ovary and the hypothalamic-pituitarygonadal axis hormones and free testosterone in PCOs rats. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 64 healthy female Wistar rats (180-200 gr) were randomly divided into 60 and 89 day control groups, PCOs, and 4 PCOs + SA groups that received 40, 80, 160, and 320 mg/kg of SA. Serum levels of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and luteinizing hormone were measured. In addition, the ovaries were extracted and examined histologically. Results: The amount of primordial, primary, secondary, and Graafian follicles and serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and progesterone hormones decreased in PCOs groups, while atretic follicles and the serum levels of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone, estrogen, and free testosterone were increased. SA at different doses regulated hormonal and histological imbalances caused by PCOs, and 320 mg/kg was the most effective. Conclusion: The aqueous extract of orchids root can have a positive effect on the improvement of polycystic ovary syndrome. This effect can be achieved by regulating the level of sex hormones and correcting follicular abnormalities in the ovarian tissue. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oncidesa Gower Ramsey 'Honey Angel' is a cut flower crop of high economic value worldwide. The regulation of flowering is important for cut flower production scheduling. However, its flowering transition mechanism is still unclear. Oncidesa usually flowers at the end of the growth cycle for each pseudobulb; this timing is probably related to carbohydrate accumulation. During this study, we investigated the carbohydrates in the pseudobulbs from juvenile plants to adult plants and compared the carbohydrates in flowering and nonflowering adult plants. The current pseudobulb and back pseudobulbs of the plants at 0, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 years after having been moved out of the tissue culture flask were collected. The first pseudobulb formed at 0.5 years, and plants had fulfilled four growth cycles and flowered at 2.0 years. Each successive current shoot grew larger and the back shoot number progressively increased after each new growth cycle. The concentration of total soluble sugars in the current shoot increased from 5.5% of dry weight at 0.5 years to 20.2% of dry weight at 1.5 years. Conversely, the starch concentration decreased in the current pseudobulb as the plants matured. The starch concentration in the back pseudobulbs did not change when the plant grew a new shoot. The starch concentrations in the back pseudobulbs ranged from 33.2% to 57.5% of dry weight, but the combined content of starch in all of the back pseudobulbs increased significantly from 168 mg at 0.5 years to 4608 mg at 2.0 years because of the increasing number of back shoots. The starch in the first back pseudobulb of the nonflowering adult plants accounted for 18.0% of dry weight, which was lower than that of the flowering plants (48.3%). There was no significant difference in total soluble sugars in the current pseudobulb of the nonflowering and flowering plants. Overall, we revealed that the increase in the back shoot number increased the total amount of reserve carbohydrates as the plant reached reproductive maturity. A low starch level was observed in nonflowering adult plants. In both cases, flowering plants had higher starch storage in the back pseudobulbs, suggesting that carbohydrates might regulate the flowering of Oncidesa Gower Ramsey 'Honey Angel'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Cypripedium forrestii is an orchid species with extremely small populations (PSESP) in Yunnan, China. C. forrestii is range-restricted and less-studied than many orchid species, and it is exposed to various threats to its survival. We investigated its potential habitats and collected 52 samples from eight locations, as well as two outgroup species for reference. We developed genetic markers (SNPs) for C. forrestii based on transcriptome sequencing (RNA-seq) data, and analyzed the genetic diversity, population structure, gene flow and demographic history of C. forrestii in detail. C. forrestii is a taxonomically independent species to protect. We found that the genetic diversity of C. forrestii was very low (1.7e-4) compared with other endangered species. We identified three genetic clusters, and several populations with distinct genetic backgrounds. Most genetic diversity was found within sampling sites (87.87%) and genetic clusters (91.39%). Gene flow has been greatly limited over the most recent generations, probably due to geographical distance, historical climate change and habitat fragmentation. We also detected a severe bottleneck event brought about by the recent population constraints. These factors, together with its reproductive characteristics, contribute to the population fragmentation and low genetic diversity of C. forrestii. Based on our findings, we suggest an integrative conservation strategy to protect and recover the genetic diversity of C. forrestii and a further comprehensive study of its ecological traits in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The plastid-targeted transcription factor Whirly1 (WHY1) has been implicated in chloroplast biogenesis, plastid genome stability, and fungal defense response, which together represent characteristics of interest for the study of autotrophic losses across the angiosperms. While gene loss in the plastid and nuclear genomes has been well studied in mycoheterotrophic plants, the evolution of the molecular mechanisms impacting genome stability is completely unknown. Here, we characterize the evolution of WHY1 in four early transitional mycoheterotrophic orchid species in the genus Corallorhiza by synthesizing the results of phylogenetic, transcriptomic, and comparative genomic analyses with WHY1 genomic sequences sampled from 21 orders of angiosperms. We found an increased number of non-canonical WHY1 isoforms assembled from all but the greenest Corallorhiza species, including intron retention in some isoforms. Within Corallorhiza, phylotranscriptomic analyses revealed the presence of tissue-specific differential expression of WHY1 in only the most photosynthetically capable species and a coincident increase in the number of non-canonical WHY1 isoforms assembled from fully mycoheterotrophic species. Gene- and codon-level tests of WHY1 selective regimes did not infer significant signal of either relaxed selection or episodic diversifying selection in Corallorhiza but did so for relaxed selection in the late-stage full mycoheterotrophic orchids Epipogium aphyllum and Gastrodia elata. Additionally, nucleotide substitutions that most likely impact the function of WHY1, such as nonsense mutations, were only observed in late-stage mycoheterotrophs. We propose that our findings suggest that splicing and expression changes may precede the selective shifts we inferred for late-stage mycoheterotrophic species, which therefore does not support a primary role for WHY1 in the transition to mycoheterotrophy in the Orchidaceae. Taken together, this study provides the most comprehensive view of WHY1 evolution across the angiosperms to date.

Determination of D. crumenatum mutant obtained from in vitro mutation breeding needs a long time due to its long-life cycle. SSR molecular markers can be used for early mutant detection. Specific SSR markers developed in D. crumenatum are not yet available. Alternative published SSR markers were developed from D. catenatum. The aims of this study are to screen the most informative SSR markers generated from D. catenatum tested in irradiated D. crumenatum population and to determine the gamma irradiation dose resulting the most mutants. Ten SSR markers were randomly selected and tested in 25 individuals of D. crumenatum plantlets irradiated with several doses (0, 5, 10, 15, and 20 Gy; 5 plantlets each dose). The result showed 7 of 10 primers were polymorphic and the other three were monomorphic. All seven polymorphic primers can be used to identified intraspecific variation in the D. crumenatum mutant population. Markers dnsr28 and dnsr98 were the most informative, with the highest polymorphic information content (PIC) value of 0.5. Irradiation D. crumenatum protocorms using 10-15 gray doses were detected as the highest mutant percentage obtained up to 100% in the sample tested. This resulting marker information can be used to screen wider mutant population to decrease the non-mutant individuals in the population for maintenance and cost efficiency. The 10-15 Gy can be used as reference doses for gamma irradiation in 3 months old D. crumenatum protocorm materials.

In order to protect and develop wild Orchidaceae (orchids) plant resources in Beipan River basin of Guizhou, scientifically screen high ornamental value orchids and explore their environmental adaptation characteristics, we took orchids distributing in Beipan River basin of Guizhou as the research project, selected species with high ornamental value based on analytic hierarchy process, and used clustering and redundancy analysis to identify the species composition of plant functional groups under different environmental conditions. The results were as follows: (1) There were 74 genera and 249 species (including varieties) of orchids, the horizontal spatial distribution was concentrated in two areas, namely the border area of Wangmo County and Ziyun County, and the western area of Panzhou City, repectively. The vertical spatial distribution showed an “intermediate expansion” with the change of altitude, the orchids were mainly distributed in the range of 800 -1 600 m. (2) Orchids in the study area could be divided into three ornamental grades, the first was the excellent grade for development, with 51 species, the second was the reserve grade for development, with 170 species, and the third had 28 species with low ornamental values, which were not necessary to be developed as ornamental plants. (3) Development optimal levels of ornamental orchids in the study area could be divided into four ecological function groups, which were low-altitude shade-requiring non-limestone mountain functional group, low-altitude heliophile limestone mountain functional group, intermediate-altitude shade-requiring limestone mountain functional group and high-altitude heliophile non-limestone mountain functional group, respectively. The types of adaptation of orchids to the environment varied greatly among different functional groups. All the above results indicate that screening high ornamental value orchids and dividing their ecological function groups is conducive to landscape application, scientific protection, introduction, domestication and development, and field regression of orchids in the future.

There are nearly 30,000 species of orchids globally, of which over 1,700 species are found in China. Orchids share a profound and intimate connection with Chinese society. With the rapid development of science and technology, China's orchid industry has flourished with many scientific and technological achievements. Here, we summarize the developmental history, current situation, latest research achievements, and industrialization technology of the orchid industry in China, and present a discussion and outlook on the future development direction of orchid research in China. This review unveils new prospects for the high-quality advancement of China's orchid industry.

Sri Lanka has become one of the hot spots for quality floricultural products in South Asia. As floricultural products, Sri Lanka exports ornamental foliage plants, cut decorative foliage, cut flowers, aquarium plants, landscaping plants, flowers seeds and tissue culture plants. In the current floricultural market in Sri Lanka Orchid has been established well as a cut flower and potted plant. Dendrobium, Phalanopsis, Cattlya and Vanda are the most popular orchid genera in family Orchidaceae. Vanilla belongs to Orchid genera and is well-known ingredient in the food industry. Orchids have been used in Chinese and Japanese medicinal treatments since ancient times. Medicinal properties of orchids include antiinflammatory, antiviral, neuroprotective, wound healing and other valuable properties. Secondary metabolites which are known as phytochemicals leads to create these properties in orchids. Orchid cultivation in Sri Lanka can be developed by introducing new technologies such as gene transformation, biotechnology etc. methods. Developments in infrastructural facilities also contribute to uplift the industry in the future. This article focused on the status of orchid cultivation in the current floricultural industry in Sri Lanka.

Heat shock factors (HSFs) are the key regulators of heat stress responses and play pivotal roles in tissue development and the temperature-induced regulation of secondary metabolites. In order to elucidate the roles of HSFs in Cymbidium ensifolium, we conducted a genome-wide identification of CeHSF genes and predicted their functions based on their structural features and splicing patterns. Our results revealed 22 HSF family members, with each gene containing more than one intron. According to phylogenetic analysis, 59.1% of HSFs were grouped into the A subfamily, while subfamily HSFC contained only two HSFs. And the HSF gene families were differentiated evolutionarily between plant species. Two tandem repeats were found on Chr02, and two segmental duplication pairs were observed on Chr12, Chr17, and Chr19; this provided evidence for whole-genome duplication (WGD) events in C. ensifolium. The core region of the promoter in most CeHSF genes contained cis-acting elements such as AP2/ERF and bHLH, which were associated with plant growth, development, and stress responses. Except for CeHSF11, 14, and 19, each of the remaining CeHSFs contained at least one miRNA binding site. This included binding sites for miR156, miR393, and miR319, which were responsive to temperature and other stresses. The HSF gene family exhibited significant tissue specificity in both vegetative and floral organs of C. ensifolium. CeHSF13 and CeHSF15 showed relatively significant expression in flowers compared to other genes. During flower development, CeHSF15 exhibited markedly elevated expression in the early stages of flower opening, implicating critical regulatory functions in organ development and floral scent-related regulations. During the poikilothermic treatment, CeHSF14 was upregulated over 200-fold after 6 h of heat treatment. CeHSF13 and CeHSF14 showed the highest expression at 6 h of low temperature, while the expression of CeHSF15 and CeHSF21 continuously decreased at a low temperature. The expression patterns of CeHSFs further confirmed their role in responding to temperature stress. Our study may help reveal the important roles of HSFs in plant development and metabolic regulation and show insight for the further molecular design breeding of C. ensifolium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study focuses on two Indonesia Dendrobium varieties, D. Dian Agrihorti (DDA) and D. Syifa Agrihorti (DSA), which have potential to be commercialized, but face limitations on the availability of qualified seedlings sustainably. The research aimed to establish an in vitro propagation protocol using a Temporary Immersion System (TIS) to produce high-quality seedlings efficiently. Various factors, including varieties, media, plant growth regulators, anti-phenol compounds, organic additives, and TIS settings, were investigated using the basal part of the plantlet as the explant source. Key findings revealed that DDA outperformed DSA across all observed variables. In the initiation phase, basal plantlets cultured in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 1.0 mg L-1 thidiazuron and 0.5 mg L-1 N-6 benzylaminopurine enhanced embryogenic callus (EC) formation, with a 13.5-day initiation period, 72% potential explant growth, 0.41 cm callus size, and a 3.45 rate of multiplication. During the proliferation stage, the addition of 150 mg L-1 ascorbic acid (AC) and the application of a TIS with a 30-minute dry period and a 15-minute wet period resulted in a 515.5% increase in EC fresh weight for DDA accompanied by a 6.16 multiplication rate. Regeneration of shoots was achieved using a Vacin and Went medium with 150 g L-1 banana extract, yielding 29.2 shoots per clump. Subsequent rooting of the shoots in 2 g L-1 Hyponex® medium with 20 g L-1 sugar and 2% AC proved successful. Acclimatization of plantlets with Cycas rumpii bulk demonstrated a 100% survivability rate. The established propagation protocol for DDA holds significant potential for application to other Dendrobium varieties, offering a sustainable and efficient method for meeting commercial demands in the Indonesian market. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orchid tubers are getting value day by day in agricultural production and also have medicinal drug importance. Since there is no hormonal research on these tubers, which are of economic value, in this study, Ophrys mammosa subsp. mammosa, it was aimed to investigate the activities of some hormones (Jasmonic acid = JA, Salicylic acid = SA, Abscisic acid = ABA) in tuber development. Tubers were taken from plants at different developmental stages (stolon emergence, stolon elongation, transformation of stolon tip to tuber and tuber maturation) and their hormone activities were examined using the LC-MS/MS method and statistical analyzes were made from three repetitive experiments. It was determined that SA, which is one of the examined hormones, increased considerably in the stages of stolon emergence, elongation, and tuber maturation, while ABA increased significantly in the stage of stolon elongation. It has been noted that ABA is more active in tuber expansion, especially with sugar movement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neuwiedia singapureana is a rare and endangered plant of the Apostasioideae subfamily. The Apostasioideae subfamily has a unique evolutionary status, as it is considered to be the most primitive group forming the base of the Orchidaceae evolutionary tree. Therefore, N. singapureana has high scientific research and conservation value. The endophytic fungal communities associated with orchids are rich and diverse, but few studies have investigated the endophytic fungi of Neuwiedia orchid plants. In the present study, the aim was to examine the endophytic fungal community structures associated with wild N. singapureana rhizomes and normal roots in the ground and with bare prop roots in the air at two sampling sites in China. High-throughput sequencing of nuclear ribosomal DNA fragments of the internal transcribed spacer regions was conducted, and cultivable methods were adopted. A total of 2161 endophytic fungal operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were obtained at a 97% sequence similarity threshold. The endophytic fungal diversity differed among the samples but not significantly. There were many more non-mycorrhizal endophytic fungal than orchid mycorrhizal (OM) fungal species detected in the N. singapureana orchid, about 98.33% OTUs of non-mycorrhizal fungi contrasting with 1.67% OTUs of potential orchid mycorrhizal fungi, among which Ceratobasidiaceae, Russulaceae, and Thelephoraceae were the dominant orchid mycorrhizal fungi. One culturable OM fungal Epulorhiza sp. isolated from the rhizome was capable of significantly promoting the seed germination and seedling growth of Dendrobium officinale and Epidendrum secundum orchids, respectively, with different efficiencies. These endophytic fungal strains with growth-promoting functions will provide materials for orchid conservation and for the study of the mechanisms underlying orchid symbiotic associations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to protect and develop wild Orchidaceae(orchids)plant resources in Beipan River basin of Guizhou, scientifically screen high ornamental value orchids and explore their environmental adaptation characteristics, we took orchids distributing in Beipan River basin of Guizhou as the research project, selected species with high ornamental value based on analytic hierarchy process, and used clustering and redundancy analysis to identify the species composition of plant functional groups under different environmental conditions. The results were as follows:(1)There were 74 genera and 249 species(including varieties)of orchids, the horizontal spatial distribution was concentrated in two areas, namely the border area of Wangmo County and Ziyun County, and the western area of Panzhou City, repectively. The vertical spatial distribution showed an “intermediate expansion” with the change of altitude, the orchids were mainly distributed in the range of 800 -1 600 m.(2)Orchids in the study area could be divided into three ornamental grades, the first was the excellent grade for development, with 51 species, the second was the reserve grade for development, with 170 species, and the third had 28 species with low ornamental values, which were not necessary to be developed as ornamental plants.(3)Development optimal levels of ornamental orchids in the study area could be divided into four ecological function groups, which were low-altitude shade-requiring non-limestone mountain functional group, low-altitude heliophile limestone mountain functional group, intermediate-altitude shade-requiring limestone mountain functional group and high-altitude heliophile non-limestone mountain functional group, respectively. The types of adaptation of orchids to the environment varied greatly among different functional groups. All the above results indicate that screening high ornamental value orchids and dividing their ecological function groups is conducive to landscape application, scientific protection, introduction, domestication and development, and field regression of orchids in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orchids are a diverse and widespread family of flowering plants, with over 25,000 known species and more than 100,000 hybrids and cultivars. Orchids are characterised by their often showy and highly specialised flowers and have unique and intricate floral. Orchids are known to be highly dependent on their mycorrhizal fungi for nutrient uptake, especially during the early stages of their development. Orchid seeds lack the endosperm present in most other seeds, which means they cannot germinate without a source of nutrition. The relationship between orchids and mycorrhiza is known as orchid mycorrhizae or orchid mycorrhiza. In orchid mycorrhiza, the orchid plant forms a mutualistic relationship with certain species of fungi that are able to penetrate the orchid's roots and colonise its tissues to provides the orchid with essential nutrients. Orchid mycorrhizal fungi are often highly specific, meaning that they can only form partnerships with certain orchid species, and vice versa. The importance of mycorrhizal fungi in the orchid life cycle is crucial from both evolutionary and ecological standpoints. Therefore, it is essential to acquire a thorough comprehension of this relationship and develop methodologies for isolating, identifying, and preserving significant fungal strains that are associated with different orchid species. In recent years, there has been a considerable increase in research concentration on mycorrhizal interactions in orchids. However, certain inquiries remain unresolved pertaining to the fungal communities associated with orchids as well as the divergences notices across different species and geographical locales. The present paper provides a through, and extensive analysis of the fungal life associated with orchids. This article presents a succinct overview of the molecular techniques utilised by researchers globally to isolate and identify pelotonforming fungi in both temperateterrestrial and tropical orchids. The review begins by proving a concise introduction to the background material regarding the wide range of fungal species that are linked with orchids. It then proceeds to explores the topic of orchid mycorrhizal fungi (OMF) and orchid nonmycorrhizal fungi (ONF). The subsequent analysis explores the crucial function that orchid mycorrhizal fungi play in the processes of seed germination and development. Moreover, the study elaborates on the methodologies utilised for isolating fungi, extracting fungal DNA, selecting primers, amplifying DNA and subsequent analysis sequence data. This article considers several molecular identification approaches that are used in studying orchid endophytic mycorrhizal. Using molecular approaches, orchid mycorrhizal can be further explored and identified. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Male orchid bees are known pollinators of some vanilla species (Orchidaceae), but there is little direct evidence for the pollination of v. planifolia L., the most important source of commercial vanilla. This study was undertaken to determine if the naturalized orchid bee, Euglossa dilemma Bembé & Eltz (Hymenoptera: Apidae), is a pollinator of V. planifolia in Florida, where the orchid is currently being considered as a potential crop. The flowers of V. planifolia were determined to have no nectar. Fragrance from in situ flowers was analyzed and found to contain principally 1-8 cineole and β-ocimene, compounds known to attract some male orchid bees. Timed watches documented pollen removal by a single female orchid bee, but no male orchid bees visited the flowers. Separate applications of 1-8 cineole, that we found in the flowers, and eugenol, which does not occur in the flowers, were made to flowers and baits, but the male orchid bees came only to flowers and baits with eugenol. Eugenol is a known attractant and principal component of many of the perfumes of the orchid mutualists of male E. dilemma. The rapid and intensive visitation and pollination that male E. dilemma bees exhibit towards their mutualist orchids did not occur, indicating V. planifolia is not an orchid mutualist of E. dilemma. During a timed watch, a female worker honey bee, Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae), pollinated a flower by entering it, backing out with pollen on its thorax, then re-entering the flower and exiting without the pollen. Dissection of the flower found pollen on the stigma and the anther cap disarticulated. A female E. dilemma removed pollen from a flower, indicating that she was also a probable pollinator. Morphometric measurements determined there was a good match between the interior dimensions of the tubular lip of the flowers and the thickness of the bodies of both the female orchid bee and honey bee, enabling good contact between the bees and the flowers sexual organs. Season-long fruit set was 0.655%, similar to the 1% or less reported for V. planifolia in its native Mexico range. Although the visitation rates were low, the potential of both the female honey bee and E. dilemma as pollinators of V. planifolia cultivated in screen houses is considered. Managed honey bees for pollination of vanilla appears to have more potential and it could reduce the need for expensive hand pollination, if sufficient pollination rates could be achieved. Las abejas macho de las orquídeas son polinizadores conocidos de algunas especies de vanilla (Orchidaceae), pero hay poca evidencia directa de la polinización de V. planifolia L., la fuente más importante de vainilla comercial. Se realizó este estudio para determinar si la abeja de las orquídeas naturalizada, Euglossa dilemma Bembé & Eltz (Hymenoptera: Apidae), es un polinizador de V. planifolia en la Florida, donde actualmente se considera a la orquídea como un cultivo potencial. Se determinó que las flores de V. planifolia no tenían néctar. Se analizó la fragancia de las flores in situ y se encontró que contenía principalmente de 1 a 8 cineol y β-ocimeno, compuestos que se sabe atraen a algunas abejas orquídeas macho. Relojes cronometrados documentaron la eliminación de polen por parte de una sola abeja orquídea hembra, pero ningún abeja orquídea macho visitó las flores. Se hicieron aplicaciones separadas a las flores y los cebos de 1-8 cineol, que encontramos en las flores, y eugenol, que no se encuentra en las flores, pero las abejas orquídeas macho solo llegaron a flores y cebos con eugenol. El eugenol es un conocido atrayente y componente principal de muchos de los perfumes de las orquídeas mutualistas del macho E. dilemma. La ausencia de visita y polinización rápida e intensiva que las abejas macho de E. dilemma exhiben hacia sus orquídeas mutualistas no ocurrió, lo que indica que V. planifolia no es una orquídea mutualista de E. dilemma. Durante una vigilancia cronometrada, una abeja melífera, Apis mellifera L. (Hymenoptera: Apidae), polinizó una flor entrando en ella, saliendo con polen en su tórax, luego volvió a entrar en la flor y salió sin polen. La disección de la flor encontró polen en el estigma y el casquete de las anteras desarticulado. Una hembra de E. dilemma eliminó el polen de una flor, lo que indica que ella también era una probable polinizadora. Las mediciones morfométricas determinaron que había una buena coincidencia entre las dimensiones interiores del labio tubular de las flores y el grosor de los cuerpos tanto de la abeja orquídea hembra como de la abeja melífera, lo que permitió un buen contacto entre las abejas y los órganos sexuales de las flores. El cuajado de frutos durante toda la temporada fue del 0,655 %, similar al 1 % o menos reportado para V. planifolia en su área de distribución nativa de México. Aunque las tasas de visitas fueron bajas, se considera el potencial de la abeja melífera y de la hembra de E. dilemma como polinizadores de V. planifolia cultivada en invernaderos. Las abejas melíferas manejadas para la polinización de la vainilla parecen tener más potencial y podrían reducir la necesidad de una costosa polinización manual, si se pudieran lograr tasas de polinización suficientes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information on genetic diversity and its relationship is fundamental for the preservation and improvement of orchid germplasm. For Dendrobium, such information, particularly by a meta-analysis, was limited. The study aimed to assess the genetic diversity and relationships of Dendrobium germplasm based on bioactive compounds, their biological activities, and plant organs by a metaanalysis approach. A total of 51 species of Dendrobium have been collected and identified as producing bioactive compounds, including their biological activities and plant organs (parts). In this case, the highest genetic diversity was shown by polyphenols (H' index = 0.90) as substances, neuroprotective (H' = 0.80) for activity, and the leaf organ with an H' index of 0.89. The UPGMA analysis showed that Dendrobium grouped into seven clusters, where the furthest relationship was presented by D. moschatum and D. catenatum. However, the closest relation was by D. scabrilingue with D. delacourii, including D. snowflake and D. ovatum. Following these parameters, Dendrobium shows unique genetic diversity and relationships. Thus, it is valuable for future preservation and improvement programs of Dendrobium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orchids are a diverse and widespread family of flowering plants, with over 25,000 known species and more than 100,000 hybrids and cultivars. Orchids are characterised by their often showy and highly specialised flowers and have unique and intricate floral. Orchids are known to be highly dependent on their mycorrhizal fungi for nutrient uptake, especially during the early stages of their development. Orchid seeds lack the endosperm present in most other seeds, which means they cannot germinate without a source of nutrition. The relationship between orchids and mycorrhiza is known as orchid mycorrhizae or orchid mycorrhiza. In orchid mycorrhiza, the orchid plant forms a mutualistic relationship with certain species of fungi that are able to penetrate the orchid’s roots and colonise its tissues to provides the orchid with essential nutrients. Orchid mycorrhizal fungi are often highly specific, meaning that they can only form partnerships with certain orchid species, and vice versa. The importance of mycorrhizal fungi in the orchid life cycle is crucial from both evolutionary and ecological standpoints. Therefore, it is essential to acquire a thorough comprehension of this relationship and develop methodologies for isolating, identifying, and preserving significant fungal strains that are associated with different orchid species. In recent years, there has been a considerable increase in research concentration on mycorrhizal interactions in orchids. However, certain inquiries remain unresolved pertaining to the fungal communities associated with orchids as well as the divergences notices across different species and geographical locales. The present paper provides a through, and extensive analysis of the fungal life associated with orchids. This article presents a succinct overview of the molecular techniques utilised by researchers globally to isolate and identify peloton-forming fungi in both temperate terrestrial and tropical orchids. The review begins by proving a concise introduction to the background material regarding the wide range of fungal species that are linked with orchids. It then proceeds to explores the topic of orchid mycorrhizal fungi (OMF) and orchid non-mycorrhizal fungi (ONF). The subsequent analysis explores the crucial function that orchid mycorrhizal fungi play in the processes of seed germination and development. Moreover, the study elaborates on the methodologies utilised for isolating fungi, extracting fungal DNA, selecting primers, amplifying DNA and subsequent analysis sequence data. This article considers several molecular identification approaches that are used in studying orchid endophytic mycorrhizal. Using molecular approaches, orchid mycorrhizal can be further explored and identified.

Coelogyne suaveolens has been used as a traditional medicine for many years, and its potential as a natural source of antibacterial agents is of great interest. This investigation aimed to identify the bioactive compounds in the plant extract and assess their antibacterial properties. To achieve this, we identified the bioactive compounds using Gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS) analysis on the extract's ethyl acetate fraction and used the disc diffusion method to determine the antibacterial effect. Additionally, molecular docking were performed to predict the binding affinities of selected phytochemicals against specific proteins in order to identify the root cause of bacterial inhibition. Our results revealed that the extract exhibited significant antibacterial activity against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Klebsiella pneumoniae, which are common and problematic pathogens. Furthermore, molecular docking studies identified eight best-selected compounds, of which {androstan-17-one, oxime, (5.alpha.)-}, diethofencarb, tetraconazole, {3,6-dimethyl-2,3,3a,4,5,7a-hexahydrobenzofuran}, and geranyl acetate showed a significant binding affinity with best binding interaction with the target enzymes. This suggests that binding to these specific proteins might lead to the mechanism of action of the evaluated antibacterial action. In conclusion, the present study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on natural antimicrobial agents and could have significant implications for the development of new and effective antibacterial agents.

The study focuses on two Indonesia Dendrobium varieties, D. Dian Agrihorti (DDA) and D. Syifa Agrihorti (DSA), which have potential to be commercialized, but face limitations on the availability of qualified seedlings sustainably. The research aimed to establish an in vitro propagation protocol using a Temporary Immersion System (TIS) to produce high-quality seedlings efficiently. Various factors, including varieties, media, plant growth regulators, anti-phenol compounds, organic additives, and TIS settings, were investigated using the basal part of the plantlet as the explant source. Key findings revealed that DDA outperformed DSA across all observed variables. In the initiation phase, basal plantlets cultured in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with 1.0 mg L-1 thidiazuron and 0.5 mg L-1 N-6 benzylaminopurine enhanced embryogenic callus (EC) formation, with a 13.5-day initiation period, 72% potential explant growth, 0.41 cm callus size, and a 3.45 rate of multiplication. During the proliferation stage, the addition of 150 mg L-1 ascorbic acid (AC) and the application of a TIS with a 30-minute dry period and a 15-minute wet period resulted in a 515.5% increase in EC fresh weight for DDA accompanied by a 6.16 multiplication rate. Regeneration of shoots was achieved using a Vacin and Went medium with 150 g L-1 banana extract, yielding 29.2 shoots per clump. Subsequent rooting of the shoots in 2 g L-1 Hyponex® medium with 20 g L-1 sugar and 2% AC proved successful. Acclimatization of plantlets with Cycas rumpii bulk demonstrated a 100% survivability rate. The established propagation protocol for DDA holds significant potential for application to other Dendrobium varieties, offering a sustainable and efficient method for meeting commercial demands in the Indonesian market.

Fluorinated cytokinins have emerged as promising alternatives to traditional cytokinins in Phalaenopsis plant tissue culture, offering enhanced stability and bioactivity. However, their metabolic fate and impact on endogenous cytokinin profiles remain largely unexplored. This study builds upon previous research to investigate the comparative metabolism of the traditional cytokinin 6-Benzylaminopurine (BA) with the successful alternatives 6-(3-fluorobenzylamino)purine (FmT) and 6-(3-fluorobenzylamino)purine 9-riboside (FmTR). Additionally, this study examines the impact of another crucial factor, the use of ventilated versus closed containers, on metabolic processes. The results revealed the distinct metabolic profiles associated with each treatment, highlighting the complex interplay between exogenous and endogenous cytokinin levels. This study is the first to investigate the effects of these stable, synthetic, and exogenous cytokinins on the naturally occurring cytokinin levels and their metabolites in micropropagated Phalaenopsis. Additionally, we proposed an alternative inactivation pathway involving the conversion of FmTR and BA to pT and pTR. These findings provide valuable insights into the intricate relationship between cytokinin metabolism and plant growth under in vitro conditions.

Orchids of the genus Paphiopedilum, also called slippers, are among the most valued representatives of the Orchidaceae family due to their aesthetic qualities. Due to overexploitation, deforestation, and illegal trade in these plants, especially in the vegetative phase, Paphiopedilum requires special protection. This genus is listed in Appendix I of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora. Their precise identification is of great importance for the preservation of genetic resources and biodiversity of the orchid family (Orchidaceae). Therefore, the main objective of the study was to investigate the usefulness of the DNA barcoding technique for the identification of endangered orchids of the genus Paphiopedilum and to determine the effectiveness of five loci: matK, rbcL, ITS2, atpF-atpH and trnH-psbA as potential molecular markers for species of this genus. Among single locus barcodes, matK was the most effective at identifying species (64%). Furthermore, matK, ITS2, matK + rbcL, and matK + trnH-psbA barcodes can be successfully used as a complementary tool to identify Paphiopedilum orchids while supporting morphological data provided by taxonomists.

Pollination by sexual deception specifically attracts male insects, through the floral scent and particular morphological features of the flower that serve as visual and tactile stimuli. The unique bond between the Ophrys speculum orchid and the male Dasyscolia ciliata wasp primarily stems from a few distinctive semiochemicals that mimic the female wasp’s sex pheromone, although the floral scent comprises a variety of compounds. An osmophore producing highly volatile compounds has been documented in four close relatives of O. speculum and is now being also investigated in this species. Given the existing debates regarding the structure of the labellum and stigmatic cavity in O. speculum, this study details their micromorphology. Additionally, comparisons of O. speculum flowers and female D. ciliata wasps under stereomicroscopy and scanning electron microscopy are conducted to seek new evidence of visual and tactile mimicry. The findings confirm that (i) an osmophore is present at the apical margin of the labellum in O. speculum flowers; (ii) the labellum features a distinct basal field homologous to those found in other Ophrys species; and (iii) the basal labellum region closely mimics the female wasp’s thorax and wings. The implications of these novel floral features are discussed within an evolutionary context.

Abstract Background Cymbidium aloifolium is a popular ornamental flower in Thailand with both economic and medical values. Polyploid induction techniques are used to improve plant quality. This study identified polyploidy levels of C. aloifolium induction by colchicine. Protocorms of C. aloifolium were treated on solid New Dogashima Medium (NDM) with various concentrations of colchicine (0, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04 and 0.05% w/v) for 2, 4 and 8 weeks. Results Colchicine effectively induced plant polyploidy. Tetraploid plants were found after treatment with 0.03% and 0.04% colchicine for 8 weeks, while at increased concentration and duration, survival, response and growth performance decreased. Tetraploid plants showed the lowest growth performance but highest size of stomatal and epidermal cells. Growth performance and leaf surface anatomy data were analyzed by Pearson’s correlation and PCA. Results showed that stomatal and epidermal cell sizes had strongly negative correlations with other variables, while HCA revealed that stomatal and epidermal cell sizes of tetraploid plantlets were larger but stomatal and epidermal cell densities decreased when compared with the diploids. Conclusion Colchicine at suitable concentrations and duration produced polyploid plants with alteration of morphological and anatomical traits. This study provides potential information to support orchid quality production as ornamental plants and a source of pharmaceutical raw materials.

Agricultural businesses are often faced with uncertainty about the future, which can be both an opportunity and a threat to business development. This study aims to formulate a strategic foresight for business development at the Indonesian Orchid Association (IOA) West Java, Indonesia. Data collection was carried out using interview techniques and a literature study. Respondents were selected using a purposive sampling consisting of 18 business actors in IOA West Java, 2 employees of the Department of Food Crops and Horticulture West Java, and 1 BRIN researcher. The business development is planned with strategic foresight. The result showed that the driving factors that most influence businesses are the role of IOA West Java and the application of tissue culture technology. Strategic foresight for the next 5 years is focused on increasing farmer competence, applying tissue culture technology, and building market certainty, for the next 10 years, it is focused on meeting domestic demand for orchids by at least 50%, and for the next 15 years, it is focused on business continuity and increasing competitiveness.

Abstract The objective of this work was to evaluate the chemical and sensory profile, as well as the acceptability, of Brazilian vanilla species. The evaluated vanilla species were Vanilla planifolia, Vanilla chamissonis, Vanilla bahiana, and Vanilla pompona. For this, the optimized descriptive profile methodology, consumer acceptance tests with extracts applied to teas and creams, and the analysis of mass spectrometry by gas chromatography were used. Volatile compounds, such as vanillin, anisyl acetate, 4-methyl guaiacol, p-cresol, benzyl alcohol, and 2,3-butanediol, were identified. The species V. planifolia and V. pompona exhibited a more intense vanilla aroma, floral aroma, fruity aroma, vanilla flavor, brown color, and sweet taste. In addition, V. bahiana showed a more intense woody attribute, while V. chamissonis showed less intense attributes. Vanilla tea from V. pompona had a better consumer acceptance. However, when the vanillas were applied to creams, there was an acceptance rate of over 80% of all samples. Brazilian native vanillas have different sensory and volatile profiles, besides potential for a high acceptance by consumers.

Selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs) are worthy of attention and development for nutritional supplementation due to their health benefits in both animals and humans with low toxicity, improved bioavailability, and controlled release, being greater than the Se inorganic and organic forms. Our previous study reported that Anoectochilus burmannicus extract (ABE)-synthesized SeNPs (ABE-SeNPs) exerted antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Furthermore, ABE could stabilize and preserve the biological activities of SeNPs. To promote the ABE-SeNPs as supplementary and functional foods, it was necessary to carry out a safety assessment. Cytotoxicity testing showed that SeNPs and ABE-SeNPs were harmless with no killing effect on Caco2 (intestinal epithelial cells), MRC-5 (lung fibroblasts), HEK293 (kidney cells), LX-2 (hepatic stellate cells), and 3T3-L1 (adipocytes), and were not toxic to isolated human PBMCs and RBCs. Genotoxicity assessments found that SeNPs and ABE-SeNPs did not induce mutations in Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100 (Ames test) as well as in Drosophila melanogaster (somatic mutation and recombination test). Noticeably, ABE-SeNPs inhibited mutation in TA98 and TA100 induced by AF-2, and in Drosophila induced by urethane, ethyl methanesulfonate, and mitomycin c, suggesting their anti-mutagenicity ability. This study provides data that support the safety and anti-genotoxicity properties of ABE-SeNPs for the further development of SeNPs-based food supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soft rot disease in orchid plants is a factor in decreasing orchid production. One way of biological control that has the potential to spur growth is to utilize endophytic bacteria. This study aims to describe the diversity of orchid endophytic bacteria that have the potential as growth promoters and biocontrol agents. Observation parameters include indole acetic acid (IAA) production, inorganic phosphate dissolution, ammonia production of orchid endophytic bacteria, and antagonism of endophytic bacteria to pathogenic bacteria that cause soft rot in vitro. The diversity of orchid endophytic bacteria was analyzed using rep-PCR with BOX-A1R primer. The results showed that 10 isolates of orchid endophytic bacteria were able to produce IAA with a concentration of 79–321 μg/mL, able to dissolve phosphate, and produce ammonia. In antagonism testing against soft rot-causing bacteria, all isolates were able to form an inhibitory zone with a diameter of 3–7.2 cm. Furthermore, diversity analysis using rep-PCR showed that isolates of endophytic bacteria DnPh5, BgCt2, BgVt10, DnLp7, DnBl1, and DnAr4 had a uniform DNA band pattern so that they were grouped together. Meanwhile, isolates of TbPh7, IbtPhm1, DnDr2, and AkOc1 showed different DNA band patterns, indicating that the four isolates were different species or subspecies of bacteria. In dendrogram analysis, DnPh5, BgCt2, BgVt10, DnLp7, DnBl1, and DnAr4 isolates have a similarity of 100%. The similarity of isolates IbtPhm1, DnDr2, and AkOc1 was 90%, 79%, and 68%, respectively, against the other six isolates. TbPh7 isolate is an isolate with a low level of similarity to other isolates, which is about 51%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Orchid plants develop protocorms upon germination and produce protocorm‐like structures called protocorm‐like bodies (PLBs) from protocorms and somatic cells via tissue culture. Protocorm‐like bodies have broad technical application potential in the orchid industry and their regeneration is a distinct developmental process in the plant kingdom. However, little is known about this unparalleled developmental program. In this study, we identified a PLB‐abundant gene, ethylene response factor (ERF), and a transcription factor named DoERF5, and determined its important role in PLB regeneration in Dendrobium orchid. Overexpression of DoERF5 in Dendrobium greatly enhanced the PLB regeneration from PLB and stem explants, and upregulated the expression of WOUND‐INDUCED DEDIFFERENTIATION (DoWIND) homologs and SHOOT MERISTEMLESS (DoSTM), as well as the genes involved in cytokinin biosynthesis (DoIPT) and the cytokinin response factors (DoARRs). However, silencing DoERF5 reduced the regeneration rate of PLBs, and downregulated the expression of DoWIND homologs, DoSTM and DoARRs. We demonstrated that DoERF5 is directly bound to the DoSTM promoter and regulates its expression. In addition, overexpression of DoSTM in Dendrobium orchid resulted in favorable regeneration of PLBs. Our results clarify that DoERF5 regulates the regeneration of PLB by enhancing DoSTM expression. Our findings provide new insights into how DoERF5 mediates PLB regeneration and offers technical potential in improving clonal propagation, preservation, and the bioengineering of orchids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intergeneric and interspecific hybridization has been employed for the breeding of Phalaenopsis to transfer desirable traits between species, producing novel phenotypes with improved size, color, form, and flower-bearing ability. These characteristics are often enhanced; however, many of these hybrids are triploids and have reduced or complete sterility, for example, Phalaenopsis Queen Beer 'Mantefon', an important novelty-type cultivar in Asia, particularly in China, Japan, and Republic of Korea. Despite the increasing demand for the crop for ornamental purposes, little is known about its cytogenetics, which is essential for breeding and, consequently, crop improvement. In this study, karyotyping using fluorescence in situ hybridization, meiotic chromosome behavior analysis, pollen staining, and in vitro viability germination tests were performed to understand the cause of hybrid sterility and pollen abnormality in Phalaenopsis Queen Beer 'Mantefon' from a cytogenetic perspective. Viability tests revealed pollen infertility at all flower developmental stages, confirmed by the absence of pollen tube growth. Aberrant chromosomal behavior was observed in pollen mother cells (PMCs), frequently forming univalents, chromosomal bridges, and laggards during the entire meiotic process. PMCs were also divided irregularly into sporads with varying numbers of micronuclei, which may be responsible for pollen sterility in this cultivar. Altogether, the cytogenetic analyses provided insights into the pollen development of Phalaenopsis Queen Beer 'Mantefon' and the conceivable causes of its infertility. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Vanilla planifolia is the most widely cultivated species of vanilla with high economic importance. However, seed germination under artificial conditions is difficult and yields low germination percentages. The seeds are adapted to endozoochorous dispersal, and we therefore tried to simulate the conditions in the digestive tract by acid scarification of seeds. Results Immature seeds lacking dormancy, used as a control, showed the highest germination percentage. Among the treatments tested for mature seeds, the hydrochloric acid treatments were significantly the best in breaking dormancy and inducing germination, irrespective of the acid concentration and the presence of pepsin. Conventional treatment with a hypochlorite solution induced much lower germination percentage. Sulphuric acid at concentration 50% was too strong and caused damage to the seeds. Important factor is also high cultivation temperature 30 °C as there was nearly no germination at 25 °C. Conclusions Our protocol significantly improves the efficiency of generative propagation of vanilla and allows for significantly higher germination percentages than previously described. The strongly positive effect of hydrochloric acid may be related to the adaptation of seeds to endozoochorous dispersal.

Cymbidium mosaic virus (CymMV) and Odontoglossum ringspot virus (ORSV) are among the world’s most serious and widespread orchid viruses; they often infect orchids, causing devastating losses to the orchid industry. Therefore, it is critical to establish a method that can rapidly and accurately detect viruses in the field using simple instruments, which will largely reduce the further spread of viruses and improve the quality of the orchid industry and is suitable for mass promotion and application at grassroots agrotechnical service points. In this investigation, we established a rapid amplification method for virus detection at 39 °C for 35 min to detect the presence of CymMV and ORSV simultaneously, sensitively, and specifically in orchids. Primers for the capsid protein (CP)-encoding genes of both viruses were designed and screened, and the reaction conditions were optimized. The experimental amplification process was completed in just 35 min at 39 °C. There were no instances of nonspecific amplification observed when nine other viruses were present. The RPA approach had detection limits of 104 and 103 copies for pMD19T-CymMV and pMD19T-ORSV, respectively. Moreover, the duplex RT-RPA investigation confirmed sensitivity and accuracy via a comparison of detection results from 20 field samples with those of a gene chip. This study presents a precise and reliable detection method for CymMV and ORSV using RT-RPA. The results demonstrate the potential of this method for rapid virus detection. It is evident that this method could have practical applications in virus detection processes.

AREB/ABF (ABA response element binding) proteins in plants are essential for stress responses, while our understanding of AREB/ABFs from orchid species, important traditional medicinal and ornamental plants, is limited. Here, twelve AREB/ABF genes were identified within three orchids’ complete genomes and classified into three groups through phylogenetic analysis, which was further supported with a combined analysis of their conserved motifs and gene structures. The cis-element analysis revealed that hormone response elements as well as light and stress response elements were widely rich in the AREB/ABFs. A prediction analysis of the orchid ABRE/ABF-mediated regulatory network was further constructed through cis-regulatory element (CRE) analysis of their promoter regions. And it revealed that several dominant transcriptional factor (TF) gene families were abundant as potential regulators of these orchid AREB/ABFs. Expression profile analysis using public transcriptomic data suggested that most AREB/ABF genes have distinct tissue-specific expression patterns in orchid plants. Additionally, DcaABI5 as a homolog of ABA INSENSITIVE 5 (ABI5) from Arabidopsis was selected for further analysis. The results showed that transgenic Arabidopsis overexpressing DcaABI5 could rescue the ABA-insensitive phenotype in the mutant abi5. Collectively, these findings will provide valuable information on AREB/ABF genes in orchids.

Flowering time is central to plant reproductive success and is significantly influenced by the time of floral bud differentiation and development. Pleione species flower in either spring or autumn; however, the mechanisms underlying floral bud differentiation and development are yet to be fully elucidated. In the present study, we investigated the floral bud development of three spring-flowering species and three autumn-flowering species using continuous anatomical observations. The renewed shoots grew on the side of the old pseudobulb after the fade of a previous flower, after which a new pseudobulb with 1–3 buds slowly formed at the base of the renewed shoot. For both spring-flowering and autumn-flowering species, the transition from vegetative to reproductive growth occurred in June, and flower differentiation was completed in August. The autumn-flowering species bloomed immediately after the completion of flower bud development, while the spring-flowering species went through six months of dormancy; thus, the time requirement from floral bud initiation to flowering was longer in the spring-flowering species than in the autumn-flowering species (∼ 270 days vs. ∼ 90 days, respectively). The dormancy time of the spring-flowering species, rather than the initiation or duration of floral bud development, was the reason for their differing flowering times. Shift of flowering from autumn to spring probably related to the evolution of Pleione from subtropical areas to higher elevations. These findings will be helpful in breeding new varieties and for the regulation of flowering time in horticultural production, and will enhance our understanding of the evolution of flowering time for closely related species.

Orchidaceae are diverse plants whose bioactive compounds have various biological activities. New hybrids of Dendrobium have been generated to gain characteristics shared with their ancestors. Dendrobium Pearl Vera (designated as DH) is derived from parents used for dermatological treatments and cosmetics. However, the phytoconstituents and biological properties of DH have not been reported. The current study investigated extracts from DH plants using four solvents (water, methanol, ethanol, or 2-propanol). The propanolic extract (DH-P) contained the highest phenolic and flavonoid contents, along with a high scavenging performance for free radicals. In total, 25 tentative constituents in the DH-P matrix were identified, consisting of amino acids, nucleotides, and three types of secondary metabolites: furan, phenolics, and alkaloids. The DH-P inhibited human tyrosinase in vitro in a concentration-dependent manner of the phenolic content. Furthermore, there was no significant difference between DH-P with 10 μg/ml phenolic content and 0.75 mM kojic acid (a commercial whitening agent) on the inhibition of human tyrosinase. Incubation with DH-P containing at least 15 μg/ml phenolic content greatly inhibited the proliferation of human melanoma; however, the cell viability was not affected by the phenolic content at 5 μg/ml or less. The half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) of the phenolic content in DH-P on melanoma viability was 12.90 ± 1.04 μg/ml. Melanin production in vivo by human melanoma incubated with 5 μg/ml phenolic content in DH-P was reduced significantly, compared to 2.5 μg/ml phenolic content in DH-P, 100 μg/ml arbutin, and in control. The identified components, including 5-hydroxymethyl-2-furaldehyde, salicylic acid, nicotinamide, acetophenone, cytidine, adenosine, proline, or valine, have been reported to be associated with depigmentation, antioxidant, and anticancer. This research revealed, for the first time, the tentative phytoconstituents of Dendrobium Pearl Vera and their biological activities, thus demonstrating the potential use of DH-P in dermal applications.

Trichopilia suavis is one of the important representatives of the genus Trichopilia, which can be used as a potted plant for the interior design. also, its beautiful inflorescences are added unusual element to bouquet compositions and actively used in the production of perfumes. This study was carried out in order to develop and improve micropropagation method for mass clonal production of T. suavis through protocorm culture. Half-strength Murashige and Skoog culture medium (½) has been modified by adding different organic components and growth regulators. The protocorms obtained from seeds germinated by asymbiotic method were used as explants. The results showed that the optimal treatment for formation of new protocorms (7.50 ± 0.7 units per protocorm) was obtained by culture on ½ MS medium with 0.5 mg L-1 of 6-Benzylaminopurine (6-BAP) and 100 mL L-1 of coconut water. At the stage of rooting, the highest number and length of roots (7.0 ± 0.45 units per plantlet, 2.64 ± 0.18 cm) were obtained through subsequent cultivation of plantlets on ½ MS medium with 0.5 mg L-1 indolyl-3-butyric acid (IBA), 1.0 g L-1 charcoal with the addition of 50 g L-1 of banana puree. The obtained seedlings were successfully adapted in a substrate consisting of bark, perlite and peat in a ratio of 1:1:1.