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Silicon (Si) is an omnipresent and second most abundant element in the soil lithosphere after oxygen. Silicon being a beneficial element imparts several benefits to the plants and animals. In many plant species, including the cereals the uptake of Si from the soil even exceeds the uptake of essential nutrients. Cereals are the monocots which are known to accumulate a high amount of Si, and reaping maximum benefits associated with it. Cereals contribute a high amount of Si to the human diet compared to other food crops. In the present review, we have summarized distribution of the dietary Si in cereals and its role in the animal and human health. The Si derived benefits in cereals, specifically with respect to biotic and abiotic stress tolerance has been described. We have also discussed the molecular mechanism involved in the Si uptake in cereals, evolution of the Si transport mechanism and genetic variation in the Si concentration among different cultivars of the same species. Various genetic mutants deficient in the Si uptake have been developed and many QTLs governing the Si accumulation have been identified in cereals. The existing knowledge about the Si biology and available resources needs to be explored to understand and improve the Si accumulation in crop plants to achieve sustainability in agriculture.

Many people in different African countries are suffering from different diseases many of which result in serious life threat and public health problems with high risk of infection and mortality. Due to less accessibility and high cost of modern drugs, people of this continent often depend on traditional medicine using medicinal plants to manage the diseases. Africa has large tropical rain forests, which are very rich in medicinal plants. Many of them have been scientifically proven for their medicinal values. These medicinal plants which constitute a large repertoire of endophytes have not been significantly explored for the isolation of these microorganisms and their bioactive secondary metabolites. This review summarizes the research on endophytes isolated from medicinal plants of Africa, their pharmacological potential and some of their biotechnological aspects. Novel compounds reported from endophytes from Africa with their biological activities have also been reviewed. Information documented in this review might serve as starting point for future researches on endophytes in different African countries.

Background Protein tyrosine phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) inhibitors are potential candidates for the treatment of peripheral insulin resistance and diabetes mellitus. Similar to peripheral action within the brain also, PTP1B activation impairs insulin signaling pathways. Activation of PTP1B in brain also accentuates neuroinflammation, oxidative stress and decreases neurotrophic factors in various brain dysfunctions including cognitive decline. Objectives The main objective of our study was to elucidate the role of alendronate, a potent PTP1B inhibitor (blood brain barrier crossing bisphosphonate) in central insulin resistance and associated memory deficits. Methodology To induce central insulin resistance, streptozotocin (3 mg/kg) intracerebroventricular (ICV) was administered in two alternate days (1st and 3rd). After 21 days, memory was assessed via using the passive avoidance and Morris water maze paradigm. At the end of behavioral studies, animals were sacrificed to assess a variety of biochemical and molecular parameters in the hippocampus and cerebral cortex region of the brain. Treatment drug alendronate (3 mg/kg/day, p.o) and standard drug donepezil (3 mg/kg/i.p.) were administered from the 3rd day of STZ administration till the end of the study. Inhibition of PTP1B activates phosphoinsotide-3 kinase (PI3 K) (down-stream regulator of insulin signaling pathway).Thus, to illuminate the mechanism of action of alendronate, PI3 K inhibitor, wortmannin was administered in presence of alendronate in one group. Results Administration of alendronate to ICV streprozotocin treated rats resulted in modulation of the insulin signaling pathway and associated behavioral, biochemical and molecular changes in central insulin resistance. However, the protective effect of alendronate was entirely vanished when it was administered in the presence of wortmannin. Conclusion Alendronate can be an important treatment strategy in central insulin signaling pathway dysfunction and associated cognitive deficits. Protective effect of alendronate is via modulation of PI3-K/Akt signaling pathway.

A steatotic liver is increasingly vulnerable to ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI), and the underlying mechanisms are incompletely defined. Caspases are endo-proteases, which provide critical regulatory connections between cell death and inflammation. Caspase 1 is driven by inflammasomes which are key signaling platforms, that detect sterile stressors (DAMPs), releasing the highly pro-inflammatory cytokine interleukin IL-8 and IL-1β. To delineate the involvement of Caspase 1 and 11 in hepatocellular injury in steatotic liver undergoing IRI. Male C57BL6/Wild Type and Caspase 1Null, Caspase 11−/− and Caspase 1−/−/11−/− mice were fed a high fat diet (HFD) for 12 weeks. These mice were subjected to 40 min of ischemia followed by 2–24 h of reperfusion. Hepatocellular injury was assessed by histopathologic injury scoring, serum ALT and propidium iodide (PI) uptake, mRNA levels of Caspase 1, IL-1β by RT PCR, Caspase 1 activity assay and Caspase 1. Specific Caspase 1, inhibitor experiments were carried out. All groups gained similar body weight after a 12-week HFD. Cleaved Caspase 1 protein levels, Caspase 1 mRNA levels were significantly higher in steatotic liver undergoing IRI. Executor of pyroptosis cleaved GSDMD levels were higher in HFD fed mouse compared to lean. In addition, genetic deletion of Caspase 1, Casp1Null mouse expressing Caspase-11 and Caspase 1/11 double knock out demonstrated significant reduction in serum ALT (p

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a breakthrough in therapy for many solid malignancies. ICIs suppress the inhibitory signaling of several immune cell subtypes by the blocking the ligation of...

Background and aims Tolerance is transplantation's holy grail, as it denotes allograft health without immunosuppression and its toxicities. Our aim was to determine, among stable long-term pediatric liver transplant recipients, the efficacy and safety of immunosuppression withdrawal to identify operational tolerance. Approach and results We conducted a multicenter, single-arm trial of immunosuppression withdrawal over 36-48 weeks. Liver tests were monitored biweekly (year 1), monthly (year 2), and bimonthly (years 3-4). For-cause biopsies were done at investigators' discretion but mandated when alanine aminotransferase or gamma glutamyltransferase exceeded 100 U/L. All subjects underwent final liver biopsy at trial end. The primary efficacy endpoint was operational tolerance, defined by strict biochemical and histological criteria 1 year after stopping immunosuppression. Among 88 subjects (median age 11 years; 39 boys; 57 deceased donor grafts), 33 (37.5%; 95% confidence interval [CI] 27.4%, 48.5%) were operationally tolerant, 16 were nontolerant by histology (met biochemical but failed histological criteria), and 39 were nontolerant by rejection. Rejection, predicted by subtle liver inflammation in trial entry biopsies, typically (n = 32) occurred at ≤32% of the trial-entry immunosuppression dose and was treated with corticosteroids (n = 32) and/or tacrolimus (n = 38) with resolution (liver tests within 1.5 times the baseline) for all but 1 subject. No death, graft loss, or chronic, severe, or refractory rejection occurred. Neither fibrosis stage nor the expression level of a rejection gene set increased over 4 years for either tolerant or nontolerant subjects. Conclusions Immunosuppression withdrawal showed that 37.5% of selected pediatric liver-transplant recipients were operationally tolerant. Allograft histology did not deteriorate for either tolerant or nontolerant subjects. The timing and reversibility of failed withdrawal justifies future trials exploring the efficacy, safety, and potential benefits of immunosuppression minimization.

Genus Aconitum (Ranunculaceae) is represented by 6–8 species from Kashmir Himalaya. Traditionally Aconitum species are used to treat a wide array of diseases, but their ethnopharmacological validation and phytochemistry are hitherto unreported from Kashmir Himalaya. The present study was undertaken to bring insights into the traditional use and distribution pattern of three Aconitum species from the region. An ethnobotany-directed approach was employed to study the conservation status of three Aconitum species. Their phytochemical profiles and biological properties were screened under in vitro conditions. Folin–ciocalteu and Aluminium chloride assays were employed to measure their total phenolic and total flavonoid contents, respectively. Plant extracts were evaluated for antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities. Three Aconitum species, viz. Aconitum heterophyllum Wall. ex Royle, Aconitum violaceum Jacquem. ex Stapf and Aconitum chasmanthum Stapf. ex Holmes showed dwindling conservation status in Kashmir Himalaya. Aconitum extracts showed significant variations in total phenolic and flavonoid contents. Antioxidant activity of Aconitum chasmanthum methanolic extract was studied to be comparatively higher (80.115%). Aconitum chasmanthum DCM & methanolic extracts showed a good MIC value of 0.125 mg/ml against Candida albicans and Streptococus pyogenes, respectively. The percent inhibition of NLRP inflammasome was found significant in Aconitum violaceum ethyl acetate extract (74.61%). The present study revealed that Aconitum species are constantly declining at least in investigated habitats of Kashmir Himalaya and hence need strategic conservation planning. The results also emphasized the utility of Aconitum species as an antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agent that could be used to manage various health problems.

Plants contain a wide range of phytochemical constituents and therefore, are used in the pharmaceutical industry either indirectly or directly. Citrus pseudolimon is an important medicinal plant of the family Rutaceae and, had not been previously explored for any beneficial effect. The main objective of the study was to perform the phytochemical quantitative analysis and demonstrate the antimicrobial activity of Citrus pseudolimon peel and juice. The results thus, obtained with respect to the quantitative phytochemical analysis was recorded with higher total carbohydrates, proteins, phenolics, flavonoids, and tannin contents in the peel of Citrus pseudolimon when compared to its juice content. The quantitative phytochemical screening demonstrates that flavonoid content was higher in peel (5.47 mg/100 mg) than in juice (2.67 mg/100 ml), followed by the phenolic content which was little higher in peel (5.58 mg/100 mg) compared to that reported (0.34 mg/100 ml) in juice content respectively. Similarly, the tannin content was found to be higher in peel (35.70 mg/100 mg) than in juice (14.15 mg/100 ml). Furthermore, the tannin content in Citrus pseudolimon was found higher than phenolic and flavonoid content. However, in antimicrobial analysis, juice revealed stronger activity against gram-negative bacteria Escherichia coli zone (24 mm) than gram-positive bacteria Staphylococcus aureus (18 mm) while no activity was shown by peel against both these bacterial strains. It can be concluded that the peels revealed high phytochemical content, while juice fraction was recorded with strong antibacterial activity.

The genome-wide architecture of chromatin-associated proteins that maintains chromosome integrity and gene regulation is not well defined. Here we use chromatin immunoprecipitation, exonuclease digestion and DNA sequencing (ChIP–exo/seq)1,2 to define this architecture in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. We identify 21 meta-assemblages consisting of roughly 400 different proteins that are related to DNA replication, centromeres, subtelomeres, transposons and transcription by RNA polymerase (Pol) I, II and III. Replication proteins engulf a nucleosome, centromeres lack a nucleosome, and repressive proteins encompass three nucleosomes at subtelomeric X-elements. We find that most promoters associated with Pol II evolved to lack a regulatory region, having only a core promoter. These constitutive promoters comprise a short nucleosome-free region (NFR) adjacent to a +1 nucleosome, which together bind the transcription-initiation factor TFIID to form a preinitiation complex. Positioned insulators protect core promoters from upstream events. A small fraction of promoters evolved an architecture for inducibility, whereby sequence-specific transcription factors (ssTFs) create a nucleosome-depleted region (NDR) that is distinct from an NFR. We describe structural interactions among ssTFs, their cognate cofactors and the genome. These interactions include the nucleosomal and transcriptional regulators RPD3-L, SAGA, NuA4, Tup1, Mediator and SWI–SNF. Surprisingly, we do not detect interactions between ssTFs and TFIID, suggesting that such interactions do not stably occur. Our model for gene induction involves ssTFs, cofactors and general factors such as TBP and TFIIB, but not TFIID. By contrast, constitutive transcription involves TFIID but not ssTFs engaged with their cofactors. From this, we define a highly integrated network of gene regulation by ssTFs. A ChIP–exo method is used to define the genome-wide positional organization of proteins associated with gene transcription, DNA replication, centromeres, subtelomeres and transposons, revealing distinct protein assemblies for constitutive and inducible gene expression.

The kinetic patterns of CpG methylation of the cis-regulatory region of heat stress-related genes on exposed to heat stress (at 42 °C) between the Sahiwal and Frieswal cattle was compared in the present study. Using an in vitro whole blood culture model, cells were continuously exposed to heat stress (at 42 °C) for 6 h. Methylation levels of five genes, viz., GPX1, HSP70, HSP90, c-FOS, and JUN were estimated by SyberGreen-based quantitative methylation-specific PCR (qMSP) assay. CpG methylation kinetics at different time points of heat stress (0.5, 1, 2, 4, 6 h) were analyzed using mixed ANOVA. The initial methylation level, estimated at 37 °C, of HSP70 was significantly high in the Sahiwal breed. A significant (p

Bacterial sporulation is a conserved process utilized by members of Bacillus genus and Clostridium in response to stress such as nutrient or temperature. Sporulation initiation is triggered by stress signals perceived by bacterial cell that leads to shutdown of metabolic pathways of bacterial cells. The mechanism of sporulation involves a complex network that is regulated at various checkpoints to form the viable bacterial spore. Engulfment is one such check point that drives the required cellular rearrangement necessary for the spore assembly and is mediated by bacterial proteolytic machinery that involves association of various Clp ATPases and ClpP protease. The present study highlights the importance of degradation of an anti-sigma factor F, SpoIIAB by ClpCP proteolytic machinery playing a crucial role in culmination of engulfment process during the sporulation in Bacillus anthracis.

In cattle production systems, an intense selection pressure for production traits has resulted in the decline of fertility traits. To optimize an efficient reproduction system, the inclusion of both male and female fertility traits in the selection process is very much essential. RAPD (Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA) was developed as a molecular biology tool and has been extensively used, to study intra- and interspecific genetic diversity. The present study was undertaken to utilize RAPD primers to investigate the association between DNA markers and semen quality traits viz. Sperm concentration, total sperm count ejaculate and initial sperm motility and thereby to identify good/poor semen producers. DNA isolated from the blood samples of healthy bulls was subjected to RAPD-PCR. The multiple regression analysis followed by independent t test was carried out to identify suitable markers. Based on the results, only 12 bands were identified as marker suitable for any of the quality trait. This includes, OPA2 ~ 760, OPA2 ~ 700, OPA6 ~ 1,200, OPA9 ~ 400, OPA9 ~ 380, OPA12 ~ 970, OPA14 ~ 715, OPA14 ~ 605, OPA16 ~ 485, OPA17 ~ 860 and OPA18 ~ 480. Multiple regression analysis selected, OPA2 ~ 760 and OPA2 ~ 1,750 for sperm concentration and OPA2 ~ 760, OPA2 ~ 700, OPA9 ~ 620, OPA4 ~ 670 and OPA18 ~ 1,015 for total sperm count/ejaculate. But the t test revealed a significant association between OPA2 ~ 760 and total sperm count. Further, discriminant function analysis also identified this marker in the first step itself. The results of the present study can be exploited as a low-cost alternative strategy for identification of good /poor semen producers in crossbred bulls at an early age.

Despite tremendous efforts over the past century, malaria remains the major health burdenin the state Odisha, India. In view of designing a situation specific malaria control strategy,baseline data on bionomics of major Anopheles vectors were collected from three malariogenicalstratified districts of Odisha. A comparative study of vector abundance, seasonal prevalence,habit/habitats, resting sites preference, parity rate, proportion of human blood fedvectors and Anopheline species composition was established in a high (Kalahandi), moderate(Bargarh) and a low endemic (Cuttack) districts, when malaria transmission was at itspeak level. The mosquito collection showed a wide range of Anopheline fauna diversificationwith collection of two efficient malaria vectors i.e. An. culicifacies, the primary vectorwith a high peak value during monsoon and An. annularis, the secondary vector in threestudy districts. Both vectors was significantly more in indoor than outdoor in the three districtsand among indoor collections, the density was higher in CS than HD whereas the densitywas more in HD than CS in Cuttack district for annularis. Similarly, their feeding, bitingpattern as well as parity rate varies among these districts. The molecular identification of An.culicifacies revealed the presence of all five sibling species viz. A, B, C, D & E whereas onlyspecies A was detected out of two sibling species A & B of An. annularis. These entomologicalindicators such as vector density, distribution, biology and bionomics as well as theirvectorial attributes are important parameters to measure the pattern and intensity of malariatransmission. Proper monitoring and evaluation of these indices during the peak transmissionperiod can reduce the increasing trend of malaria.

Phytoglobins (Pgbs) are multifaceted stress-responsive proteins implicated in regulating various physiological and stress-responsive pathways in plants. Previous work has demonstrated NO dioxygenase and peroxidase-like activity of Arabidopsis phytoglobin 3 (AHb3) and its potential role in defense against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum. The work reported here highlights the significance of the other two classes of Arabidopsis phytoglobins (AHb1 and AHb2) in response to S. sclerotiorum. Constitutive expression of AHb1 (OEAHb1) and AHb2 (OEAHb2) conferred marginal tolerance towards S. sclerotiorum whereas respective knockdown (RNAi) lines displayed enhanced susceptibility, with AHb1 RNAi (RNAi-1) lines being more susceptible in comparison to AHb2 RNAi (RNAi-2) lines. Interestingly, transgenic lines with a simultaneous reduction in the transcripts of AHb1 and AHb2 (RNAi-F) displayed greater disease spread in comparison to individual knockdown lines indicative of their additive effect. The enhanced susceptibility upon pathogen challenge correlated with the elevated NO and H2O2 levels in these lines. Furthermore, detailed structural analysis hints towards an alternate mechanism of NO dioxyegnation by AHbs. Taken together, the current investigation illustrates the NO dioxygenase and peroxidase-like activity of AHbs and highlights their role in defense against stem rot pathogen S. sclerotiorum.

Chikungunya has re-emerged as an epidemic with global distribution and high morbidity, necessitating the need for effective therapeutics. We utilized already approved drugs with a good safety profile used in other diseases for their new property of anti-chikungunya activity. It provides a base for a fast and efficient approach to bring a novel therapy from bench to bedside by the process of drug-repositioning. We utilized an in-silico drug screening with FDA approved molecule library to identify inhibitors of the chikungunya nsP2 protease, a multifunctional and essential non-structural protein required for virus replication. Telmisartan, an anti-hypertension drug, and the antibiotic novobiocin emerged among top hits on the screen. Further, SPR experiments revealed strong in-vitro binding of telmisartan and novobiocin to nsP2 protein. Additionally, small angle x-ray scattering suggested binding of molecules to nsP2 and post-binding compaction and retention of monomeric state in the protein-inhibitor complex. Protease activity measurement revealed that both compounds inhibited nsP2 protease activity with IC50 values in the low micromolar range. More importantly, plaque formation assays could show the effectiveness of these drugs in suppressing virus propagation in host cells. We propose novobiocin and telmisartan as potential inhibitors of chikungunya replication. Further research is required to establish the molecules as antivirals of clinical relevance against chikungunya.

Objectives Human exposure to heavy metals and pesticides is a worldwide major health problem. These environmental pollutants have been considered as the most neurotoxic agents and responsible to causing neurological toxicity. Plant-based therapeutic supplement may be used in the event of toxicity. Citrus limon contains several useful bioactive ingredients including flavonoids, dietary fiber, carotenoids, vitamins, pectin, minerals, and essential oils, which are responsible for its therapeutic potential. In the present investigation, we have studied the toxicity of heavy metals such as lead (Pb) and a carbamate pesticide such as cartap (Cp) on rat brain acetylcholinesterase (AChE). Methods The chemical characterization of C. limon involved determination of total antioxidants and 2,2-diphenyl-1-picryl-hydrazyl-hydrate free radical scavenging activity using known methods. The AChE activity and its kinetic characterization were performed by assaying the enzyme activity at varying substrate concentrations, pH, temperature, and time of reaction. Its different kinetic parameters such as K i , V max, K m , K cat, and K cat/K m were determined by using standard procedures. The amelioration potential of the extract was evaluated on the neurotransmission system of rat brain AChE treated with Pb, Cp, and their combination (Pb–Cp), considering their 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) values. Results The optimal activity of rat brain AChE was recorded at 25 µg of protein, pH of 7.4, substrate concentration [S] of 0.5 mM, and temperature of 37.4–40°C. The enzyme was stable for 10 min when incubated at 37.4 °C in vitro. The enzyme displayed 70% of its activity remaining even after 160 min of incubation in this condition. It may be stable up to 1 month when stored at −20°C. The IC50 values for Pb, Cp, and Pb–Cp were found to be 75, 2.9, and 5 mM, respectively. Pb, Cp, and Pb–Cp inhibited the activity of rat brain AChE in the noncompetitive, mixed, and uncompetitive manners, respectively, with their respective K i values to be 675, 2.37, and 22.72 mM. Conclusions The results indicated that the Pb and Cp were able to cause significant alterations in the level and properties of AChE. However, the introduction of lemon juice on Pb- and Cp-treated AChE indicated protection of its activity from their adverse effects. The results may be useful in prospective therapeutic applications of lemon juice or as a food supplement to protect mammalian systems from adverse effects of these toxicants.

Summary Rice is a staple food for half of the world's population. Changing climatic conditions, water and labour scarcity are the major challenges that shall limit future rice production. Dry direct‐seeded rice (DDSR) is emerging as an efficient, resources conserving, mechanized, climate smart and economically viable strategy to be adopted as an alternative to puddled transplanted rice (TPR) with the potential to address the problem of labour‐water shortages and ensure sustainable rice cultivation. Despite these benefits, several constraints obstruct the adoption of DDSR. In principle, the plant type for DDSR should be different from one for TPR, which could be achieved by developing rice varieties that combine the traits of upland and lowland varieties. In this context, recent advances in precise phenotyping and NGS‐based trait mapping led to identification of promising donors and QTLs/genes for DDSR favourable traits to be employed in genomic breeding. This review discusses the important traits influencing DDSR, research studies to clarify the need for breeding DDSR‐specific varieties to achieve enhanced grain yield, climate resilience and nutrition demand. We anticipate that in the coming years, genomic breeding for developing DDSR‐specific varieties would be a regular practice and might be further strengthened by combining superior haplotypes regulating important DDSR traits by haplotype‐based breeding.

Plant diseases caused by pathogens and pests are a constant threat to global food security. Direct crop losses and the measures used to control disease (e.g. application of pesticides) have significant agricultural, economic, and societal impacts. Therefore, it is essential that we understand the molecular mechanisms of the plant immune system, a system that allows plants to resist attack from a wide variety of organisms ranging from viruses to insects. Here, we provide a roadmap to plant immunity, with a focus on cell-surface and intracellular immune receptors. We describe how these receptors perceive signatures of pathogens and pests and initiate immune pathways. We merge existing concepts with new insights gained from recent breakthroughs on the structure and function of plant immune receptors, which have generated a shift in our understanding of cell-surface and intracellular immunity and the interplay between the two. Finally, we use our current understanding of plant immunity as context to discuss the potential of engineering the plant immune system with the aim of bolstering plant defenses against disease.

Pumpkin (Cucurbita moschata) is an important tropical vegetable found all around the world. In the present study, herbal enriched pumpkin wines were prepared using 1% pectinase, 0.50% acidulant and honey as sugar source along with the different concentration of dried herbs such as ginger (Zingiber officinale), basil leaves (Ocimum sanctum), licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) and their combinations. The herbal enriched pumpkin musts were fermented at a temperature of 28 °C. Further, on the basis of physicochemical and sensory characteristics, the treatment with Ocimum sanctum (basil leaves) 1% (T1) was adjudged as best. The wine had many desirable quality attributes such as a higher concentration of esters, phenols and low level of volatile acidity. The sensory scores also revealed that the herbal wine with basil leaves had high acceptability, with a moderate level of DPPH radical’s scavenging activity value. The wine prepared using Zingiber officinale and G. glabra (GM4) had the highest DPPH radical’s scavenging activity value (84%) and hence will scavenge more free radicals and is beneficial for health. It can be concluded that pumpkin as a base wine holds promise for the preparation of quality herbal enriched pumpkin table wine.

Introduction. Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disease with hyperproliferation, abnormal differentiation and inflammatory infiltration in epidermis and dermis. Sometimes it is clinically and histopathologically challenging to distinguish psoriasis from other non-psoriatic psoriasiform dermatoses (NPPD) like eczema, pityriasis rosea, pityriasis rubra pilaris, and lichen simplex chronicus. Ki-67 is a non-histone nuclear protein complex that regulates the cell cycle and is the most widely used proliferation immunohistochemistry (IHC) marker. Its levels have been shown to be raised in psoriasis compared to normal skin. Aim. To elucidate and compare expression of IHC Ki-67 in psoriasis and NPPD, correlate these levels with clinical variants and disease severity in psoriasis and to observe change in levels with demographic and psoriasis-related variables. Material and Methods. Thirty patients, each with clinically diagnosed psoriasis (cases), and NPPD (controls) were enrolled. Biopsy was taken for histopathology and IHC Ki-67 immunohistochemistry. Statistical analysis was performed. Results. We found a significantly higher expression of IHC Ki-67 in psoriasis as compared to all types of NPPD. The higher level of Ki-67 in pustular and erythrodermic psoriasis compared to plaque-type emphasizes the greater severity and activity of these forms. The Ki-67 expression was found to increase with increasing body surface area involvement and disease severity (PASI) in chronic plaque type. Pityriasis rubra pilaris had the highest Ki67 expression among NPPD group. Conclusion. Ki-67 is a promising tool with diagnostic and prognostic utility in psoriasis, particularly when it comes to its differentiation from nonpsoriasis psoriasiform disorders.

A maize-infecting polerovirus variously named maize yellow dwarf virus RMV2 (MYDV-RMV2) and maize yellow mosaic virus (MaYMV) has been discovered and previously described in East Africa, Asia, and South America. It was identified in virus surveys in these locations instigated by outbreaks of maize lethal necrosis (MLN), known to be caused by coinfections of unrelated maize chlorotic mottle virus (MCMV) and any of several maize-infecting potyviruses, and was often found in coinfections with MLN viruses. Although sequenced in many locations globally and named for symptoms of related or coinfecting viruses, and with an infectious clone reported that experimentally infects Nicotiana benthamiana, rudimentary biological characterization of MaYMV in maize, including insect vector(s) and symptoms in single infections, has not been reported until now. We report isolation from other viruses and leaf tip reddening symptoms in several maize genotypes, along with transmission by two aphids, Rhopalosiphum padi and Rhopalosiphum maidis. This is important information distinguishing this virus and demonstrating that in single infections it causes symptoms distinct from those of potyviruses or MCMV in maize, and identification of vectors provides an important framework for determination of potential disease impact and management.

The use of model organisms for recombinant protein production results in the addition of model-specific post-translational modifications (PTMs) that can affect the structure, charge, and function of the protein. The 70-kDa heat shock proteins (Hsp70) were originally described as intracellular chaperones, with ATPase and foldase activity. More recently, new extracellular activities of Hsp70 proteins (e.g., as immunomodulators) have been identified. While some studies indicate an inflammatory potential for extracellular Hsp70 proteins, others suggest an immunosuppressive activity. We hypothesized that the production of recombinant Hsp70 in different expression systems would result in the addition of different PTMs, perhaps explaining at least some of these opposing immunological outcomes. We produced and purified Mycobacterium tuberculosis DnaK from two different systems, Escherichia coli and Pichia pastoris, and analyzed by mass spectrometry of the protein preparations, investigating the impact of PTMs in an in silico and in vitro perspective. The comparisons of DnaK structures in silico highlighted that electrostatic and topographical differences exist that are dependent upon the expression system. Production of DnaK in the eukaryotic system dramatically affected its ATPase activity and significantly altered its ability to downregulate MHC II and CD86 expression on murine dendritic cells (DCs). Phosphatase treatment of DnaK indicated that some of these differences related specifically to phosphorylation. Altogether, our data indicate that PTMs are an important characteristic of the expression system, with differences that impact interactions of Hsps with their ligands and subsequent functional activities. DATABASE: Mass spectrometry proteomic data are available in the PRIDE database under the accession number PXD011583.

The purpose of current investigation was to explore the role of brassinosteroids (BRs) in Zea mays L. var. DKC 9106 seedlings subjected to salt stress. The seedlings were raised under controlled laboratory conditions and subjected to different concentrations of NaCl (0, 40, 60, 80, 100 mM) for 10 days. The impact of pre-sowing treatment of both 28-homobrassionolide (HBL) and 24-epibrassinolide (EBL) on defense system of Z. mays L. under salt stress was studied by analyzing Na+ and K+ ions, malondialdehyde content (MDA), antioxidative enzymes activities (peroxidase, POD; catalase, CAT; dehydroascorbate reductase, DHAR; monodehydroascorbate reductase, MDHAR), osmoprotectants (proline, glycine betaine, mannitol, and total osmolytes content), total phenolic content, total flavonoid content, and 1,1-diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (DPPH) free radical scavenging activity. The results of our finding showed that treatment of both HBL and EBL under high salt stress balanced the ionic status by decreasing the Na+ ions content by 21.23% and 38.94%, respectively, and enhancing the K+ ions content by 51.94% and 26.66%, respectively. Treatment of both BRs also overcome the oxidative damage induced due to salinity stress by reducing the MDA accumulation 19.50% and 45.0%, respectively, and enhancing the activities of antioxidative enzymes. The osmoprotectants: proline (50.08% and 17.03%), glycine betaine (35.57% and 28.16%), and mannitol content (2.80% and 20.98%) were markedly increased by the treatment of both HBL and EBL, respectively. Further, treatment of both HBL and EBL also increased the total phenolic content by 11.68% and 5.80%, total flavonoid content by 31.56 and 31.09% and DPPH free radical scavenging activity by 37.99% and 77.41%, respectively. Overall the treatment of BRs before seed sowing considerably conquer the salinity-induced damage by stimulating functional components of antioxidative defense system and ultimately reduced oxidative damage.

Diabetes and other lifestyle disorders have been recognized as the leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally. Nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) is a major factor involved in the early pathobiology of diabetes and studies reveal that hyperglycemic conditions in body leads to NF-κB mediated activation of several cytokines, chemokines and inflammatory molecules. NF-κB family comprises of certain DNA-binding protein factors that elicit the transcription of pro-inflammatory molecules. Various studies have identified NF-κB as a promising target for diabetic management. Probiotics have been proposed as bio-therapeutic agents for treatment of inflammatory disorders and many other chronic clinical stages. The precise mechanisms by which probiotics acts is yet to be fully understood, however research findings have indicated their role in NF-κB modulation. The current review highlights NF-κB as a bio-therapeutic target for probable management of type 2 diabetes through probiotic intervention.

Background Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), an autosomal codominant disorder characterized by very high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, is strongly associated with premature coronary artery disease. Objectives Molecular landscape of FH in Asian Indians is not well studied, although this ethnic group comprises a large proportion of the world population. Knowledge of mutations in these groups is useful for identifying persons affected with FH, saving their lives, and cascade screening in their relatives. Methods Potential cases of FH (n = 100) were identified by criteria adapted for the Indian population from Dutch Lipid Clinic Network criteria. Pathogenic variants were analyzed in LDLR, APOB 100 (exons 26 and 29), PCSK9, and APOE genes using Sanger sequencing and multiplex ligation-dependent probe amplification technique. Cases in whom there were no pathogenic variants were tested by next-generation sequencing using a targeted panel of genes. Results Thirty-eight pathogenic variants were identified in 47 of 100 unrelated probands. Of these variants, 33 were identified in LDLR, 3 in APOB, and 2 in PCSK9 genes. Ten pathogenic variants were novel. Mutations were detected in 91.4% of those subjects classified as definite, 40% as probable, and in 18.8% as possible FH cases based on modified Dutch Lipid Clinic Network criteria. A likely founder mutation in intron 10 (c.1587-1G>A) of LDLR gene was observed in 6 North Indian families. The conventional pathogenic variants in APOB and PCSK9 genes and those previously reported in LDLR gene among Asian Indians were not detected in this cohort. Conclusion This study demonstrates genetic heterogeneity of FH in India. The variants observed were different from those described in Western populations. Next-generation sequencing technology helped identify new mutations in APOB gene, suggesting that in less-studied populations, it is better to sequence the whole gene rather than test for specific mutations.

Tomato, a widely consumed vegetable crop, offers a real potential to combat human nutritional deficiencies. Tomatoes are rich in micronutrients and other bioactive compounds (including vitamins, carotenoids, and minerals) that are known to be essential or beneficial for human health. This review highlights the current state of the art in the molecular understanding of the nutritional aspects, conventional and molecular breeding efforts, and biofortification studies undertaken to improve the nutritional content and quality of tomato. Transcriptomics and metabolomics studies, which offer a deeper understanding of the molecular regulation of the tomato's nutrients, are discussed. The potential uses of the wastes from the tomato processing industry (i.e., the peels and seed extracts) that are particularly rich in oils and proteins are also discussed. Recent advancements with CRISPR/Cas mediated gene-editing technology provide enormous opportunities to enhance the nutritional content of agricultural produces, including tomatoes. In this regard, genome editing efforts with respect to biofortification in the tomato plant are also discussed. The recent technological advancements and knowledge gaps described herein aim to help explore the unexplored nutritional potential of the tomato.

Aegilops tauschii, the diploid wild progenitor of the D subgenome of bread wheat, is a reservoir of genetic diversity for improving bread wheat performance and environmental resilience. Here we sequenced 242 Ae. tauschii accessions and compared them to the wheat D subgenome to characterize genomic diversity. We found that a rare lineage of Ae. tauschii geographically restricted to present-day Georgia contributed to the wheat D subgenome in the independent hybridizations that gave rise to modern bread wheat. Through k-mer-based association mapping, we identified discrete genomic regions with candidate genes for disease and pest resistance and demonstrated their functional transfer into wheat by transgenesis and wide crossing, including the generation of a library of hexaploids incorporating diverse Ae. tauschii genomes. Exploiting the genomic diversity of the Ae. tauschii ancestral diploid genome permits rapid trait discovery and functional genetic validation in a hexaploid background amenable to breeding.

The severe acute respiratory coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2) is the cause of the global outbreak of COVID-19. Evidence suggests that the virus is evolving to allow efficient spread through the human population, including vaccinated individuals. Here we report a study of viral variants from surveillance of the Delaware Valley, including the city of Philadelphia, and variants infecting vaccinated subjects. We sequenced and analyzed complete viral genomes from 2621 surveillance samples from March 2020 to September 2021 and compared them to genome sequences from 159 vaccine breakthroughs. In the early spring of 2020, all detected variants were of the B.1 and closely related lineages. A mixture of lineages followed, notably including B.1.243 followed by B.1.1.7 (alpha), with other lineages present at lower levels. Later isolations were dominated by B.1.617.2 (delta) and other delta lineages; delta was the exclusive variant present by the last time sampled. To investigate whether any variants appeared preferentially in vaccine breakthroughs, we devised a model based on Bayesian autoregressive moving average logistic multinomial regression to allow rigorous comparison. This revealed that B.1.617.2 (delta) showed three-fold enrichment in vaccine breakthrough cases (odds ratio of 3; 95% credible interval 0.89-11). Viral point substitutions could also be associated with vaccine breakthroughs, notably the N501Y substitution found in the alpha, beta and gamma variants (odds ratio 2.04; 95% credible interval of 1.25-3.18). This study thus provides a detailed picture of viral evolution in the Delaware Valley and a geographically matched analysis of vaccine breakthroughs; it also introduces a rigorous statistical approach to interrogating enrichment of viral variants.ImportanceSARS-CoV-2 vaccination is highly effective at reducing viral infection, hospitalization and death. However, vaccine breakthrough infections have been widely observed, raising the question of whether particular viral variants or viral mutations are associated with breakthrough. Here we report analysis of 2621 surveillance isolates from people diagnosed with COVID-19 in the Delaware Valley in South Eastern Pennsylvania, allowing rigorous comparison to 159 vaccine breakthrough case specimens. Our best estimate is a three-fold enrichment for some lineages of delta among breakthroughs, and enrichment of a notable spike substitution, N501Y. We introduce statistical methods that should be widely useful for evaluating vaccine breakthroughs and other viral phenotypes.

Nitrogen is one of the most important macronutrients for crop growth and metabolism. To identify marker-trait associations for complex nitrogen use efficiency (NUE)-related agronomic traits, field experiments were conducted on nested synthetic wheat introgression libraries at three nitrogen input levels across two seasons. The introgression libraries were genotyped using the 35K Axiom® Wheat Breeder's Array and genetic diversity and population structure were examined. Significant phenotypic variation was observed across genotypes, treatments, and their interactions across seasons for all the 22 traits measured. Significant positive correlations were observed among grain yield and yield-attributing traits and root traits. Across seasons, a total of 233 marker-trait associations (MTAs) associated with fifteen traits of interest at different levels of nitrogen (N0, N60, and N120) were detected using 9,474 genome-wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. Of these, 45 MTAs for 10 traits in the N0 treatment, 100 MTAs for 11 traits in the N60 treatment, and 88 MTAs for 11 traits in the N120 treatment were detected. We identified putative candidate genes underlying the significant MTAs which were associated directly or indirectly with various biological processes, cellular component organization, and molecular functions involving improved plant growth and grain yield. In addition, the top 10 lines based on N response and grain yield across seasons and treatments were identified. The identification and introgression of superior alleles/donors improving the NUE while maintaining grain yield may open new avenues in designing next generation nitrogen-efficient high-yielding wheat varieties.

Nitrogen transport is one of the most important processes in plants mediated by specialized transmembrane proteins. Plants have two main systems for nitrogen uptake from soil and its transport within the system - a low-affinity transport system and a high-affinity transport system. Nitrate transporters are of special interest in cereal crops because large amount of money is spent on N fertilizers every year to enhance the crop productivity. Till date four gene families of nitrate transporter proteins; NPF (nitrate transporter 1/peptide transporter family), NRT2 (nitrate transporter 2 family), the CLC (chloride channel family), and the SLAC/SLAH (slow anion channel-associated homologues) have been reported in plants. In our study, in silico mining of nitrate transporter genes along with their detailed structure, phylogenetic and expression analysis was carried out. A total of 412 nitrate transporter genes were identified in hexaploid wheat genome using HMMER based homology searches in IWGSC Refseq v2.0. Out of those twenty genes were root specific, 11 leaf/shoot specific and 17 genes were grain/spike specific. The identification of nitrate transporter genes in the close proximity to the previously identified 67 marker-traits associations associated with the nitrogen use efficiency related traits in nested synthetic hexaploid wheat introgression library indicated the robustness of the reported transporter genes. The detailed crosstalk between the genome and proteome and the validation of identified putative candidate genes through expression and gene editing studies may lay down the foundation to improve nitrogen use efficiency of cereal crops.

SummaryHsp70 interactions are critical for cellular viability and the response to stress. Previous attempts to characterize Hsp70 interactions have been limited by their transient nature and inability of current technologies to distinguish direct vs bridged interactions. We report the novel use of cross-linking mass spectrometry (XL-MS) to comprehensively characterize the budding yeast Hsp70 protein interactome. Using this approach, we have gained fundamental new insights into Hsp70 function, including definitive evidence of Hsp70 self-association as well as multi-point interaction with its client proteins. In addition to identifying a novel set of direct Hsp70 interactors which can be used to probe chaperone function in cells, we have also identified a suite of PTM-associated Hsp70 interactions. The majority of these PTMs have not been previously reported and appear to be critical in the regulation of client protein function. These data indicate that one of the mechanisms by which PTMs contribute to protein function is by facilitating interaction with chaperones. Taken together, we propose that XL-MS analysis of chaperone complexes may be used as a unique way to identify biologically-important PTMs on client proteins.In vivo confirmation of Hsp70 dimerizationComprehensive direct interactome of Hsp70Multi-domain interactions between Hsp70 and client proteinsIdentification of novel biologically-important client protein PTMs

BACKGROUND The Sugar Will Eventually Be Exported Transporters (SWEET), consisting of the MtN3 and salvia domain, are sugar transporters having an active role in diverse activities in plants such as pollen nutrition, phloem loading, nectar secretion, reproductive tissue development, and plant-pathogen interaction. The SWEET genes have been characterized only in a few fruit crop species. METHODS AND RESULTS In this study, a total of 15 SWEET genes were identified in the pomegranate (Punica granatum) genome. The gene structure, transmembrane (TM) helices, domain architecture, and phylogenetic relationships of these genes were evaluated using computational approaches. Genes were further classified as Semi-SWEETs or SWEETs based on the TM domains. Similarly, pomegranate, Arabidopsis, rice, and soybean SWEETs were studied together to classify into major groups. In addition, analysis of RNAseq transcriptome data was performed to study SWEEET gene expression dynamics in different tissue. The expression suggests that SWEETs are mostly expressed in pomegranate peel. In addition, PgSWEET13 was found to be differentially expressed under high salinity stress in pomegranate. Further, quantitative PCR analysis confirmed the expression of four candidate genes in leaf and stem tissues. CONCLUSION The information provided here will help to understand the role of SWEET genes in fruit development and under abiotic stress conditions in pomegranate.

Since their discovery, R-loops have been associated with both physiological and pathological functions that are conserved across species. R-loops are a source of replication stress and genome instability, as seen in neurodegenerative disorders and cancer. In response, cells have evolved pathways to prevent R-loop accumulation as well as to resolve them. A growing body of evidence correlates R-loop accumulation with changes in the epigenetic landscape. However, the role of chromatin modification and remodeling in R-loops homeostasis remains unclear. This review covers various mechanisms precluding R-loop accumulation and highlights the role of chromatin modifiers and remodelers in facilitating timely R-loop resolution. We also discuss the enigmatic role of RNA:DNA hybrids in facilitating DNA repair, epigenetic landscape and the potential role of replication fork preservation pathways, active fork stability and stalled fork protection pathways, in avoiding replication-transcription conflicts. Finally, we discuss the potential role of several Chro-Mates (chromatin modifiers and remodelers) in the likely differentiation between persistent/detrimental R-loops and transient/benign R-loops that assist in various physiological processes relevant for therapeutic interventions.

Plants use intracellular immune receptors (NLRs) to detect pathogen-derived effector proteins. The Arabidopsis NLR pair RRS1-R/RPS4 confers disease resistance to different bacterial pathogens by perceiving structurally distinct effectors AvrRps4 from Pseudomonas syringae pv. pisi and PopP2 from Ralstonia solanacearum via an integrated WRKY domain in RRS1-R. How the WRKY domain of RRS1 (RRS1WRKY) perceives distinct classes of effector to initiate an immune response is unknown. We report here the crystal structure of the in planta processed C-terminal domain of AvrRps4 (AvrRps4C) in complex with RRS1WRKY. Perception of AvrRps4C by RRS1WRKY is mediated by the β2-β3 segment of RRS1WRKY that binds an electronegative patch on the surface of AvrRps4C. Structure-based mutations that disrupt AvrRps4C/RRS1WRKY interactions in vitro compromise RRS1/RPS4-dependent immune responses. We also show that AvrRps4C can associate with the WRKY domain of the related but distinct RRS1B/RPS4B NLR pair, and the DNA binding domain of AtWRKY41, with similar binding affinities. This work demonstrates how integrated domains in plant NLRs can directly bind structurally distinct effectors to initiate immunity.SignificanceThis study reveals a mechanism of effector recognition by a plant NLR immune receptor that carries an integrated domain (ID) which mimics an authentic pathogen effector target. An Arabidopsis immune receptor carrying RRS1 and RPS4 NLR proteins detects the Pseudomonas syringae pv. pisi secreted effector AvrRps4 via a WRKY ID in RRS1. We used structural biology to reveal the mechanisms of AvrRps4/WRKY interaction and demonstrated that this binding is essential for effector recognition in planta. Our analysis revealed distinctive features of the WRKY ID that mediate the recognition of structurally distinct effectors from different bacterial pathogens. These insights could enable engineering NLRs with novel recognition specificities, and enhances our understanding of how effectors interact with host proteins.

The ectoparasitic mite Tropilaelaps clareae is an important honey bee pest in Asia. No survey on its presence on Apis cerana colonies have been performed in Himachal Pradesh state of India. In the ...

Coxiella burnetii is a Gram-negative bacterium which causes Q fever, a complex and life-threatening infection with both acute and chronic presentations. C. burnetii invades a variety of host cell types and replicates within a unique vacuole derived from the host cell lysosome. In order to understand how C. burnetii survives within this intracellular niche, we have investigated the carbon metabolism of both intracellular and axenically cultivated bacteria. Both bacterial populations were shown to assimilate exogenous [13C]glucose or [13C]glutamate, with concomitant labeling of intermediates in glycolysis and gluconeogenesis, and in the TCA cycle. Significantly, the two populations displayed metabolic pathway profiles reflective of the nutrient availabilities within their propagated environments. Disruption of the C. burnetii glucose transporter, CBU0265, by transposon mutagenesis led to a significant decrease in [13C]glucose utilization but did not abolish glucose usage, suggesting that C. burnetii express additional hexose transporters which may be able to compensate for the loss of CBU0265. This was supported by intracellular infection of human cells and in vivo studies in the insect model showing loss of CBU0265 had no impact on intracellular replication or virulence. Using this mutagenesis and [13C]glucose labeling approach, we identified a second glucose transporter, CBU0347, the disruption of which also showed significant decreases in 13C-label incorporation but did not impact intracellular replication or virulence. Together, these analyses indicate that C. burnetii may use multiple carbon sources in vivo and exhibits greater metabolic flexibility than expected.

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) is an organized cluster of tightly linked genes, present in all vertebrates, playing an important role in the immune system, except the jawless fish [1]. MHC was first identified during tissue transplantation studies in mice [2] and was first known for its role in histocompatibility. Consequently, the role of MHC was discovered in immune regulation [3] and several other functions [4,5]. The important function of the MHC is to code for specialized antigen-presenting receptor glycoproteins, also called as MHC molecules. The products of these genes are involved in the induction and regulation of immune response. These molecules bind processed peptide antigens and present them to T-lymphocytes, thereby triggering immune response.

Induced mutagenesis has been proven to be a successful strategy for the improvement of several crops including rice. In the present review, different induced mutagenesis approaches have been discussed concerning the efficient exploration for rice improvement. Significant efforts and the popular rice varieties developed through the mutagenesis approaches was also well focused. Apart from the use for direct trait improvement, mutagenesis is also important to perform forward and reverse genetics for the characterization of novel genes and biochemical pathways. In this regard, precise mapping of casual mutation has great importance. Recent development in next generation sequencing (NGS) technology has provided a great opportunity to pinpoint the causal mutation with great precision and affordable manner. Here, NGS based approaches like MutMap, MutMap+ and MutGap have been discussed. Similarly, advanced bioinformatics methods like Simultaneous Identification of Multiple Mutations (SIMM) are also highlighted. In addition, we have provided a catalogue of online database of rice mutant lines concerning efficient utilization of available resources. The information provided here will be helpful to better understand recent advances in mutagenesis research and its efficient utilization for the rice improvement program.

Maintenance of genomic integrity is critical for the perpetuation of all forms of life including humans. Living organisms are constantly exposed to stress from internal metabolic processes and external environmental sources causing damage to the DNA, thereby promoting genomic instability. To counter the deleterious effects of genomic instability, organisms have evolved general and specific DNA damage repair (DDR) pathways that act either independently or mutually to repair the DNA damage. The mechanisms by which various DNA repair pathways are activated have been fairly investigated in model organisms including bacteria, fungi, and mammals; however, very little is known regarding how plants sense and repair DNA damage. Plants being sessile are innately exposed to a wide range of DNA-damaging agents both from biotic and abiotic sources such as ultraviolet rays or metabolic by-products. To escape their harmful effects, plants also harbor highly conserved DDR pathways that share several components with the DDR machinery of other organisms. Maintenance of genomic integrity is key for plant survival due to lack of reserve germline as the derivation of the new plant occurs from the meristem. Untowardly, the accumulation of mutations in the meristem will result in a wide range of genetic abnormalities in new plants affecting plant growth development and crop yield. In this review, we will discuss various DNA repair pathways in plants and describe how the deficiency of each repair pathway affects plant growth and development.

Paddy production through conventional puddled system of rice cultivation (PTR) is becoming more and more unsustainable—economically and environmentally—as this method is highly resource intensive and these resources are increasingly becoming scarce, and consequently, expensive. The ongoing large-scale shift from puddled system of rice cultivation PTR to direct seeded rice (DSR) necessitates a convergence of breeding, agronomic and other approaches for its sustenance and harnessing natural resources and environmental benefits. Current DSR technology is largely based on agronomic interventions applied to the selected varieties of PTR. In DSR, poor crop establishment due to low germination, lack of DSR-adapted varieties, high weed-nematode incidences and micronutrient deficiency are primary constraints. The approach of this review paper is to discuss the existing evidences related to the DSR technologies. The review highlights a large number of conventionally/molecularly characterized strains amenable to rapid transfer and consolidation along with agronomic refinements, mechanization and water-nutrient-weed management strategies to develop a complete, ready to use DSR package. The review provides information on the traits, donors, genes/QTL needed for DSR and the available DSR-adapted breeding lines. Furthermore, the information is supplemented with a discussion on constrains and needed policies in scaling up the DSR adoption.

The impact of qDTY12.1 in maintaining yield under drought has not been consistent across genetic backgrounds. We hypothesized that synergism or antagonism with additive-effect peripheral genes across the background genome either enhances or undermines its full potential. By modeling the transcriptional networks across sibling qDTY12.1-introgression lines with contrasting yield under drought (LPB = low-yield penalty; HPB = high-yield penalty), the qDTY12.1-encoded DECUSSATE gene (OsDEC) was revealed as the core of a synergy with other genes in the genetic background. OsDEC is expressed in flag leaves and induced by progressive drought at booting stage in LPB but not in HPB. The unique OsDEC signature in LPB is coordinated with 35 upstream and downstream peripheral genes involved in floral development through the cytokinin signaling pathway. Results support the differential network rewiring effects through genetic coupling-uncoupling between qDTY12.1 and other upstream and downstream peripheral genes across the distinct genetic backgrounds of LPB and HPB. The functional DEC-network in LPB defines a mechanism for early flowering as a means for avoiding the drought-induced depletion of photosynthate needed for reproductive growth. Its impact is likely through the timely establishment of stronger source-sink dynamics that sustains a robust reproductive transition under drought.

Anthrax is a zoonotic disease caused by Bacillus anthracis, a spore-forming pathogen that displays a chaining phenotype. It has been reported that the chaining phenotype acts as a virulence factor in B. anthracis. In this study, we identify a serine/threonine protein kinase of B. anthracis, PrkC, the only kinase localized at the bacterium-host interface, as a determinant of B. anthracis chain length. In vitro, a prkC disruption strain (BAS ΔprkC) grew as shorter chains throughout the bacterial growth cycle. A comparative analysis between the parent strain and the BAS ΔprkC strain indicated that the levels of proteins BslO and Sap, associated with the regulation of bacterial chain length, were upregulated in the BAS ΔprkC strain. BslO is a septal murein hydrolase that catalyzes daughter cell separation, and Sap is an S-layer structural protein required for the septal localization of BslO. PrkC disruption also had a significant effect on bacterial growth, cell wall thickness, and septum formation. Upregulation of ftsZ in the BAS ΔprkC strain was also observed. Altogether, our results indicate that PrkC is required for maintaining optimum growth, cell wall homeostasis, and, most importantly, the chaining phenotype. IMPORTANCE Chaining phenotype acts as a virulence factor in Bacillus anthracis. This is the first study that identifies a signal transduction protein with an ability to regulate the chaining phenotype in Bacillus anthracis. We show that the disruption of the lone surface-localized serine/threonine protein kinase, PrkC, leads to the shortening of the bacterial chains. We report upregulation of the dechaining proteins in the PrkC disruption strain. Apart from this, we also report, for the first time, that PrkC disruption results in attenuated cell growth, a decrease in cell wall thickness, and aberrant cell septum formation during the logarithmic phase of growth, a growth phase where PrkC is expressed maximally.