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Over the last 6 million years, the arid Australian Eremaean Zone (EZ) has remained as dry as it is today. A widely accepted hypothesis suggests that the flora and fauna of arid regions were more broadly distributed before aridification began. In Australia, this process started around 20 million years ago (Ma), leading to gradual speciation as the climate became increasingly arid. Here, we use genomic data to investigate the biogeography and timing of divergence of native allotetraploid tobaccos, Nicotiana section Suaveolentes (Solanaceae). The original allotetraploid migrants from South America were adapted to mesic areas of Australia and recently radiated in the EZ, including in sandy dune fields (only 1.2 Ma old), after developing drought adaptations. Coalescent and maximum likelihood analyses suggest that Nicotiana section Suaveolentes arrived on the continent around 6 Ma, with the ancestors of the Pilbara (Western Australian) lineages radiating there at the onset of extreme aridity 5 Ma by locally adapting to these various ancient, highly stable habitats. The Pilbara thus served as both a mesic refugium and cradle for adaptations to harsher conditions, due to its high topographical diversity, providing microhabitats with varying moisture levels and its proximity to the ocean, which buffers against extreme aridity. This enabled species like Nicotiana to survive in mesic refugia and subsequently adapt to more arid conditions. These results demonstrate that initially poorly adapted plant groups can develop novel adaptations in situ, permitting extensive and rapid dispersal despite the highly variable and unpredictable extreme conditions of the EZ. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The B3 gene family, one of the largest plant-specific transcription factors, plays important roles in plant growth, seed development, and hormones. However, the B3 gene family, especially the REM subfamily, has not been systematically and functionally studied. Results In this study, we performed genome-wide re-annotation of B3 genes in five Solanaceae plants, Arabidopsis thaliana, and Oryza sativa, and finally predicted 1,039 B3 genes, including 231 (22.2%) newly annotated genes. We found a striking abundance of REM genes in pepper species (Capsicum annuum, Capsicum baccatum, and Capsicum chinense). Comparative motif analysis revealed that REM and other subfamilies (ABI3/VP1, ARF, RAV, and HSI) consist of different amino acids. We verified that the large number of REM genes in pepper were included in the specific subgroup (G8) through the phylogenetic analysis. Chromosome location and evolutionary analyses suggested that the G8 subgroup genes evolved mainly via a pepper-specific recent tandem duplication on chromosomes 1 and 3 after speciation between pepper and other Solanaceae. RNA-seq analyses suggested the potential functions of REM genes under salt, heat, cold, and mannitol stress conditions in pepper (C. annuum). Conclusions Our study provides evolutionary and functional insights into the REM gene family in pepper.

Background: Plant species used for reforestation purposes are idoneous if native, the use of species that are present in regeneration sources. High germination percentages under different light conditions and a broad phenological pattern enhance adaptability to environmental heterogeneity. Preference for species responsive to mycorrhizal inoculation is recommended. Questions: Is Solanum pubigerum a widespread species in temperate forests of central Mexico?, under which light conditions germination will be the highest?, how abundant is it in natural regeneration sources?, does inoculation with mycorrhizal fungi benefit its germination and growth? Studied species / data description / Mathematical model: Solanum pubigerum/distribution in central Mexico forests, germination and viability percentages, reproductive phenology, growth dependence on AM fungi/ Kruskal-Wallis test, synchrony, Spearman correlations, ANOVA. Study site and dates: Abies religiosa forest, Mexico City. August 2019 – July 2020. Methods: Seeds of S. pubigerum were exposed to different light qualities, their viability was monitored for two years. Its presence in natural regeneration sources was registered. Reproductive phenology was recorded, and seedlings were inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi to assess their growth. Results: Highest seed germination occurred under white light conditions, with sustained viability after two years. The species was found in the seed bank across seasons, less abundantly in seed rain during the dry season. It exhibited extensive flowering and fruiting patterns. Mycorrhiza inoculation significantly boosted seed germination and growth. Conclusions: Solanum pubigerum is suitable for reforestation in central Mexico forests due to its high germination percentages and mycorrhizal responsiveness.

Abstract Background During a field survey of urban flora in Alexandria city in 2019–2022, an interesting species belonging to the Solanaceae was collected from a newly archaeological excavation site and identified as Nicotiana glutinosa L. Many visits were made to the herbaria of Egypt to confirm the species records, but no single record was found. Reviewing the available literature revealed that this tropical American taxon was never recorded in the flora of Egypt. Aims The present study was focused on N. glutinosa growth structure and plant macro- and micromorphology. Methods Ten sampling sites were covered for N. glutinosa size structure. Plant samples were examined for stem anatomy, leaf, seed, and pollen morphology. Results The species size structure reveals that the individual size index ranges from 1.33 to 150 cm, while its density ranges from 4 to 273 individuals /100 m−2. N. glutinosa has successfully established itself in one of the archaeological sites in Egypt, showing a “healthy” population with a high degree of size inequality, characterized by a relative majority of the juvenile individuals. Voucher specimens were deposited in the Herbarium of Alexandria University (ALEX) Faculty of Science, another specimen is processed to make herbarium specimens at the Herbarium of the Botanic Garden (Heneidy et al. collection, deposition number. 5502). Conclusions From our observations, N. glutinosa seems to have invasive potential, as it shows characteristics shared by most invasive species that are thought to help in their successful establishment in new habitats. This article emphasizes the importance of monitoring and regularly reporting the threats of alien invasive species to avoid any possible negative impacts on indigenous biodiversity in the future.

This article discusses the importance of improving photosynthetic efficiency in the Solanaceae family to ensure food security in the face of climate change. It emphasizes the potential of Solanaceae biodiversity in enhancing crop photosynthesis and highlights specific genes and subunits that can be targeted for genetic improvement. The document also explores the relevance of photosynthesis to the cosmetic and personal care industry, focusing on specific enzymes involved in carbon assimilation and the production of secondary metabolites. [Extracted from the article]

Cotoneaster densiflorus, a new species of Rosaceae from western Sichuan, China, is described and illustrated. Morphologically, we inferred that the new species belongs to Cotoneaster Ser. Salicifolii sensu Yü et al. (1974) in the Flora of China and Fryer and Hylmö (2009). This species is most similar to C. salicifolius, but differs in its leaf blade of ovate-lanceolate to obovate shape (vs. elliptic-oblong to ovate-lanceolate), smaller lengthwidth ratio of 2.37 ± 0.31 (vs. 3.17 ± 0.32), slightly conduplicate (vs. not conduplicate), less lateral veins of 6–8 pairs (vs. 12–16 pairs), upper surface slightly rugose (vs. rugose), leaf margin plane (vs. revolute), lower surface densely grey tomentose (vs. grey tomentose, with bloom), greater corolla diameter of 7–9 mm (vs. 5–6 mm), styles 2 (vs. 2–3), pyrenes 2 (vs. 2–3), larger pollen grains P/E values of 2.05 ± 0.12 (vs. 1.19 ± 0.05) and leaf epidermis type W (vs. type I). Based on phylogenetic analysis of the whole chloroplast genome, C. densiflorus is sister to C. rhytidophyllus, but distantly related to C. salicifolius. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on morphological observations and comparisons, a new species of Primulina (Gesneriaceae), P. arcuata G.L.Xu & L.Ding, is described and illustrated. This new species resembles P. jiulianshanensis in leaf blade shape, but differs from the latter by corolla tube curved-tubular (vs. funnelform); calyx lobes oblong (vs. lanceolate); peduncle, pedicel, both surfaces of bracts, both surfaces of bracteoles and abaxial surface of calyx lobes covered with glandular-puberulent hairs (vs. with eglandularpuberulent hairs). A detailed description, photographs, distribution information and a provisional conservation status assessment are provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solanum is the largest genus within the Solanaceae family and has garnered considerable attention in chemical and biological investigations over the past 30 years. In this context, lobeira or “fruta-do-lobo” (Solanum lycocarpum St. Hill), a species predominantly found in the Brazilian Cerrado, stands out. Beyond the interesting nutritional composition of the fruits, various parts of the lobeira plant have been used in folk medicine as hypoglycemic, sedative, diuretic, antiepileptic, and antispasmodic agents. These health-beneficial effects have been correlated with various bioactive compounds found in the plant, particularly alkaloids. In this review, we summarize the alkaloid composition of the lobeira plant and its biological activities that have been reported in the scientific literature in the last decades. The compiled data showed that lobeira plants and fruits contain a wide range of alkaloids, with steroidal glycoalkaloid solamargine and solasonine being the major ones. These alkaloids, but not limited to them, contribute to different biological activities verified in alkaloid-rich extracts/fractions from the lobeira, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antigenotoxic, antidiabetic, antinociceptive, and antiparasitic effects. Despite the encouraging results, additional research, especially toxicological, pre-clinical, and clinical trials, is essential to validate these human health benefits and ensure consumers’ safety and well-being.

Plants that possess a diverse range of bioactive compounds are essential for maintaining human health and survival. The diversity of bioactive compounds with distinct therapeutic potential contributes to their role in health systems, in addition to their function as a source of nutrients. Studies on the genetic makeup and composition of bioactive compounds have revealed them to be rich in steroidal alkaloids, saponins, terpenes, flavonoids, and phenolics. The Solanaceae family, having a rich abundance of bioactive compounds with varying degrees of pharmacological activities, holds significant promise in the management of different diseases. Investigation into Solanum species has revealed them to exhibit a wide range of pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, hepatoprotective, cardioprotective, nephroprotective, anti-inflammatory, and anti-ulcerogenic effects. Phytochemical analysis of isolated compounds such as diosgenin, solamargine, solanine, apigenin, and lupeol has shown them to be cytotoxic in different cancer cell lines, including liver cancer (HepG2, Hep3B, SMMC-772), lung cancer (A549, H441, H520), human breast cancer (HBL-100), and prostate cancer (PC3). Since analysis of their phytochemical constituents has shown them to have a notable effect on several signaling pathways, a great deal of attention has been paid to identifying the biological targets and cellular mechanisms involved therein. Considering the promising aspects of bioactive constituents of different Solanum members, the main emphasis was on finding and reporting notable cultivars, their phytochemical contents, and their pharmacological properties. This review offers mechanistic insights into the bioactive ingredients intended to treat different ailments with the least harmful effects for potential applications in the advancement of medical research.

The genus Legousia (Campanulaceae) has been represented so far by two species in the Bulgarian flora: L. speculum-veneris, a relatively widespread taxon in the lowlands across the country, and L. pentagonia, reported only from the Eastern Rhodopi Mts floristic region. During the recent field surveys in the coastal area of NE Bulgaria, a third species from the genus has been found: L. hybrida. The latter is reported here for the first time for the Bulgarian flora. Herbaceous annual, it is well distinguished from the other two congeneric species by its smaller flowers and a corolla about half as long as the calyx lobes. Legousia hybrida has been recorded in the Black Sea Coast (Northern) floristic region. It grows in relatively open grassland communities and can be abundant locally. A genome size of 1C = 1.47–1.49 pg has been estimated for the species. The distribution, phenology and habitat preferences of the species are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lepidaploa estevesiana (Asteraceae) is a new species from the northern Mantiqueira range in the Atlantic Forest domain, in Minas Gerais and Espírito Santo states, Brazil. This new species grows in tropical highland grasslands and rock outcrops, from 1.700–2.200 m a.s.l. Lepidaploa estevesiana is described based on morphological evidence, and differs by its leaves, inflorescences, involucral bracts, and corolla. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The AP2/ERF gene family is a superfamily of transcription factors that are important in the response of plants to abiotic stress and development. However, comprehensive research of the AP2/ERF genes in the Solanaceae family is lacking. Results Here, we updated the annotation of AP2/ERF genes in the genomes of eight Solanaceae species, as well as Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa. We identified 2,195 AP2/ERF genes, of which 368 (17%) were newly identified. Based on phylogenetic analyses, we observed expansion of the copy number of these genes, especially those belonging to specific Ethylene-Responsive Factor (ERF) subgroups of the Solanaceae. From the results of chromosomal location and synteny analyses, we identified that the AP2/ERF genes of the pepper (Capsicum annuum), the tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), and the potato (Solanum tuberosum) belonging to ERF subgroups form a tandem array and most of them are species-specific without orthologs in other species, which has led to differentiation of AP2/ERF gene repertory among Solanaceae. We suggest that these genes mainly emerged through recent gene duplication after the divergence of these species. Transcriptome analyses showed that the genes have a putative function in the response of the pepper and tomato to abiotic stress, especially those in ERF subgroups. Conclusions Our findings will provide comprehensive information on AP2/ERF genes and insights into the structural, evolutionary, and functional understanding of the role of these genes in the Solanaceae.

Petunia hybrida is a plant model system used by many researchers to investigate a broad range of biological questions. One of the reasons for the success of this organism as a lab model is the existence of numerous mutants, involved in a wide range of processes, and the ever-increasing size of this collection owing to a highly active and efficient transposon system. We report here on the origin of petunia-based research and describe the collection of petunia lines housed in the University of Amsterdam, where many of the existing genotypes are maintained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Steroidal alkaloids possess the basic steroidal skeleton with a nitrogen atom in rings or side chains incorporated as an integral part of the molecule. They have demonstrated a wide range of biological activities, and some of them have even been developed as therapeutic drugs, such as abiraterone acetate (Zytiga®), a blockbuster drug, which has been used for the treatment of prostate cancer. Structurally diverse natural steroidal alkaloids present a wide spectrum of biological activities, which are attractive for natural product chemistry and medicinal chemistry communities. This review comprehensively covers the structural classification, isolation and various biological activities of 697 natural steroidal alkaloids discovered from 1926 to October 2021, with 363 references being cited.

Oreocharis polyneura, a new species from southern Yunnan, China, is described and illustrated. It is morphologically similar to O. rhytidophylla by having more obvious lateral veins forming a crosslinked network on the adaxial surface of leaf blades, but can be distinguished by having more lateral veins (12-15 pairs vs. 7-9 pairs) of leaf blades, shorter corolla tubes (the length ratio of corolla tube to corolla lobes = 1.2-2.9 vs. 3.4-6) and shorter pistils (6-8 mm long vs. 27-30 mm long). In addition, a detailed morphological description, a photographic illustration, the distribution and phenology of the new species are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Asteraceae is one of the largest plant families, with thousands of species. Asterideae has a significant productivity as angiosperm phylogeny. There are 24,000 recognized species in the Asteraceae plant family. It also has roughly 1,600 to 1,700 genera that are found all throughout the planet, with the exception of Antarctica. This family is also known as a cosmopolitan family since it has a large number of species from several climate zones, including temperate, cold-temperate, and subtropical (Flora of China, 2022). For the genus Struchium, the Plant List comprises 17 scientific plant names of species rank. These are the only three species names such as Struchium africanum (Steud.) P.Beauv. Struchium americanum Poir., and Struchium sparganophorum (L.) Kuntze that have been accepted (The Plant List, 2013). Struchium sparganophorum (L.) Kuntze, an annual, semi-aquatic herb was collected from Amki, Sonaimuri, Noakhali, Bangladesh in the month of March, 2022 by the first author. After critical studies, it has been identified as Struchium sparganophorum (L.) Kuntze with the help of floristic literatures and databases viz. Bunwong et al. (2014), GBIF (2022), India Biodiversity (2022), WFO (2022), Flowers of India (2022), POWO (2022a). Struchium sparganophorum (L.) Kuntze belong to the Asteraceae. The sessile capitula in the axillary head, achenes with coroniform pappus, and florets with 3-4 corolla lobes are the distinct characters of S. sparganophorum (Bunwong et al., 2014). As this genus and any of its species have never been reported in any of the pertinent floristic literature covering Bangladesh region viz. Roxburgh (1832), Hooker (1872-1897), Prain (1903), Heinig (1925), Cowan (1928), Raizada (1941), Datta and Mitra (1953), Sinclair (1956), Khan and Banu (1972), Khan and Hassan (1984), Khan et al. (1994), Mia and Khan (1995), Rahman and Hassan (1995), Rahman and Uddin (1997), Uddin et al. (1998), Uddin and Rahman (1999), Rashid et al. (2000), Khan and Huq (2001), Rahman et al. (2002), Uddin et al. (2003), Rahman (2004a, b), Ahmed et al. (2008), Rahman and Uddin (2011), Rahman and Uddin (2012), Pasha and Uddin (2013), Uddin et al. (2013), Rahman et al. (2016), Rashid et al. (2016), Rahman (2017), Uddin and Hassan (2018), Rahman et al. (2019) therefore, it is being reported as a new generic and species record for Bangladesh. Specimens (n=2) of species were collected and photographs of species in their natural habitat were taken during a field trip. The collected specimens were deposited in Chittagong University's Herbarium (HCU). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gaultheria leucocarpa var. cumingiana (S.Vidal) T.Z.Hsu was long been treated as a variety but recent evidences on its matK analysis and pollen structure showed a distinct species. To verify this, we revisited its taxonomic treatment using field data on its morpho-anatomical and ecological characters. The taxon is distinct from G. leucocarpa and its varieties with its smaller leaves, larger calyx and corolla, red to purple or blackish fruit at maturity, distinct pollen structures and distinct in matK analysis; hence, we are proposing the alteration as Gaultheria cumingiana Vidal to be recognized as a distinct species and not just a variety of G. leucocarpa. Additionally, we presented its detailed anatomical features that shows a typical dicot shade leaf with well-defined air spaces and unusually high abaxial stomatal density, eustele stem and protostele root anatomy. The ecological characters of the plant are also presented in terms of edaphic factors, biodiversity indices and surrounding floral species. Elevation and shading emerged as the major factors contributing to the distribution of the taxon showing a narrow elevation range at high altitude and preference for shading particularly at lower elevation populations but higher elevated populations can tolerate full sunlight. These information are important baseline for conservation and better understanding of the unique but understudied flora of the Cordillera Central Range. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solanum section Leptostemonum is an ideal lineage to test the theoretical framework regarding proposed evolutionary benefits of outcrossing sexual systems in comparison to cosexuality. Theoretically, non-cosexual taxa should support more genetic diversity within populations, experience less inbreeding, and have less genetic structure due to a restricted ability to self-fertilize. However, many confounding factors present challenges for a confident inference that inherent differences in sexual systems influence observed genetic patterns among populations. This study provides a foundational baseline of the population genetics of several species of different sexual systems with the aim of generating hypotheses of any factor—including sexual system—that influences genetic patterns. Importantly, results indicate that dioecious S. asymmetriphyllum maintains less genetic structure and greater admixture among populations than cosexual S. raphiotes at the same three locations where they co-occur. This suggests that when certain conditions are met, the evolution of dioecy may have proceeded as a means to avoid genetic consequences of self-compatibility and may support hypotheses of benefits gained through differential resource allocation partitioned across sexes. Arguably, the most significant finding of this study is that all taxa are strongly inbred, possibly reflective of a shared response to recent climate shifts, such as the increased frequency and intensity of the region’s fire regime.

The cosmopolitan family Solanaceae, which originated and first diversified in South America, is economically important. The tribe Hyoscyameae is one of the three clades in Solanaceae that occurs outside of the New World; Hyoscyameae genera are distributed mainly in Europe and Asia, and have centers of species diversity in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and adjacent regions. Although many phylogenetic studies have focused on Solanaceae, the phylogenetic relationships within the tribe Hyoscyameae and its biogeographic history remain obscure. In this study, we reconstructed the phylogeny of Hyoscyameae based on whole chloroplast genome data, and estimated lineage divergence times according to the newly reported fruit fossil from the Eocene Patagonia, Physalis infinemundi, the earliest known fossil of Solanaceae. We reconstructed a robust phylogeny of Hyoscyameae that reveals the berry fruit-type Atropa is sister to the six capsule-bearing genera (Hyoscyameae sensu stricto), Atropanthe is sister to the clade (Scopolia, Physochlaina, Przewalskia), and together they are sister to the robustly supported Anisodus–Hyoscyamus clade. The stem age of Hyoscyameae was inferred to be in the Eocene (47.11 Ma, 95% HPD: 36.75–57.86 Ma), and the crown ages of Hyoscyameae sensu stricto were estimated as the early Miocene (22.52 Ma, 95% HPD: 15.19–30.53 Ma), which shows a close correlation with the rapid uplift of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau at the Paleogene/Neogene boundary. Our results provide insights into the phylogenetic relationships and the history of the biogeographic diversification of the tribe Hyoscyameae, as well as plant diversification on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

Chromosome numbers (2n) in 10 invasive and potentially invasive plant species from the families Asteraceae, Brassicaceae, Caryophyllaceae, Fabaceae, Malvaceae, Oxalidaceae, Poaceae and Solanaceae are reported on the samples collected in the Republic of Altai. To determine the ploidy levels, we used methods of direct chromosome counting and flow cytometry in some cases. Among them, chromosome complements were first examined in Russia for Eruca vesicaria subsp. sativa (2n = 22). Psammophiliella muralis (2n = 34), Medicago sativa subsp. varia (2n ≈ 32; 2C = 4.8 pg) and Solanum nigrum (2n = 48) were first studied from Siberia. Malva verticillata (2n = 42), Oxalis dillenii (2n = 24), Lolium perenne (2n = 14) and Setaria faberi (2n = 36) were first studied from the Republic of Altai. Tetraploid cytotype and genome size of Picris hieracioides (2n = 4x = 20; 2C = 8.89 pg) were discovered for the first time. Common distribution and the history of floristic findings of these species in the Republic of Altai are given. Previously published data on chromosome numbers from Russia are cited.

Cutleaf groundcherry (Physalis angulata L.), an annual plant containing a variety of active ingredients, has great medicinal value. However, studies on the genetic diversity and population structure of P. angulata are limited. In this study, we developed chloroplast microsatellite (cpSSR) markers and applied them to evaluate the genetic diversity and population structure of P. angulata. A total of 57 cpSSRs were identified from the chloroplast genome of P. angulata. Among all cpSSR loci, mononucleotide markers were the most abundant (68.24%), followed by tetranucleotide (12.28%), dinucleotide (10.53%), and trinucleotide (8.77%) markers. In total, 30 newly developed cpSSR markers with rich polymorphism and good stability were selected for further genetic diversity and population structure analyses. These cpSSRs amplified a total of 156 alleles, 132 (84.62%) of which were polymorphic. The percentage of polymorphic alleles and the average polymorphic information content (PIC) value of the cpSSRs were 81.29% and 0.830, respectively. Population genetic diversity analysis indicated that the average observed number of alleles (Na), number of effective alleles (He), Nei’s gene diversity (h), and Shannon information indices (I) of 16 P. angulata populations were 1.3161, 1.1754, 0.1023, and 0.1538, respectively. Moreover, unweighted group arithmetic mean, neighbor-joining, principal coordinate, and STRUCTURE analyses indicated that 203 P. angulata individuals from 16 populations were grouped into four clusters. A molecular variance analysis (AMOVA) illustrated the considerable genetic variation among populations, while the gene flow (Nm) value (0.2324) indicated a low level of gene flow among populations. Our study not only provided a batch of efficient genetic markers for research on P. angulata but also laid an important foundation for the protection and genetic breeding of P. angulata resources.

Slender nightshade (Solanum nigrescens Mart. and Gal.) is a perennial, herbaceous plant from the Solanaceae family, which is distributed in various environments. The aim of this study was to review the scientific literature and to establish slender nightshade plants under greenhouse conditions in order to record their phenological development. The specialized literature regarding the distribution, botanical characteristics, and uses of such species was analyzed. The phenological development was recorded based on the BBCH (Biologische Bundesanstalt, Bundessortenamt, Chemische Industrie) guide. Slender nightshade seeds were germinated under greenhouse conditions, then transferred to red porous volcano gravel locally known as tezontle in black polyethylene bags and watered with a Steiner nutrient solution. Changes in phenology were monitored and recorded from germination to the ripening of fruit and seeds. Slender nightshade has a wide distribution in Mexico and is used for medicinal and gastronomical purposes, as well as to control pathogens. The phenological development of slender nightshade has seven stages from germination to the ripening of fruit and seeds. Slender nightshade is a poorly studied plant with potential for human consumption. The phenological recording provides a tool for its management and further research as a crop.

Nicotiana knightiana is recorded for the first time for the flora of Chile. A new species of Nicotiana, endemic to the coast of the Coquimbo region is described and illustrated. Molecular analysis placed the new species within the N. sect. Paniculatae, as sister to N. cordifolia, an endemic to Juan Fernandez islands. The new species can be considered critically endangered (CR) according to the IUCN categories due to its restricted and fragmented distribution, small population number, and the threat that urbanization and mining activities represent for the conservation of the biodiversity of the area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Although knowledge about halophytic Solanaceae is scarce, it is known that several species within genus Lycium tolerate salinity. Lycium humile grows in highly saline soils in mudflats near saline Andean lakes. This study evaluated the germination responses of L. humile under different scarification methods, photoperiods, temperatures and saline conditions and, simultaneously, tested seedling survival under different iso-osmotic conditions. Dormancy and germination were found to be regulated by interactions with different factors, with the highest germination percentages being obtained by immersion in sulfuric acid, with a temperature of 25 °C and a temperature regime of 5/25 °C, under which seeds were neutrally photoblastic. As osmotic potential of saline solutions decreased, germination also decreased drastically but the seedling survival percentage was higher than 30 % at 600 mM NaCl. No seeds germinated in any of the polyethylene glycol (PEG) solutions and no seedling survival was observed from -1.2 MPa PEG solutions. More than 90 % of seeds incubated in NaCl were able to recover germination after being transferred to distilled water, independently of NaCl treatments. We concluded that the effects of extreme environmental conditions on germination responses and seed tolerance to salinity may determine the occurrence and restricted distribution of L. humile.

The author studies the Argentine representatives of the genus Lycium (Solanaceae). He publishes the following new taxa: L. cuneatum Dammer var. rojasii, L. gilliesianum Miers var. Ruiz-Lealii, L. Miersii, L. hieronymi, L. o?donellii, E. hunzikeri. L. schreiteri, E. schickendantzii, L. ovalilobum Hitchc. var. sleumeri, L. comberi Hitchc. var. donatii, E. hitchcockii, L. sparrei, L. chilense Miers ex Bertero var. L. chilense Miers ex Bertero var. descolei, and L. chilense Miers ex Bertero var. meyeri, and the new combinations: L. morongii Britton var. parvifolium (Hitchc.) (= L. morongii Britton f. parvifolium Hache.), L. gilliesianuni Miers var. fuscum (= L. fuscum Miers), E. chilense Miers ex Bertero var. confertifolium (Miers) (= L. scoparium Miers var. confertifolium Miers) and L. chilense Miers ex Bertero var. minutifolium Miers) (= L. filifolium Miers var. minutifolium Miers). The work contains keys for the identification of the different taxa treated and an index of the reviewed specimens.

Solanum bulbocastanum is a wild potato species, intensively used in potato breeding programs due to its resistance to environmental factors. Thus, its biochemical profile and putative human health-related traits might be transferred into potato cultivars aimed for consumption. This study aims to assess the phytochemical profile and the selective cytotoxicity of an S. bulbocastanum extract against breast cancer cells. Dry leaves were subjected to ultrasonication-assisted extraction in methanol [70%]. The phenolic and glycoalkaloid profiles were determined by HPLC-PDA/-ESI+-MS. The volatile profile was investigated by nontargeted ITEX/GC-MS. The extract was tested against three breast cancer cell lines (MCF7, MDA-MB-231, HS578T) and a healthy cell line (HUVEC) by the MTT assay, to assess its selective cytotoxicity. The phenolic profile of the extract revealed high levels of phenolic acids (5959.615 µg/mL extract), and the presence of flavanols (818.919 µg/mL extract). The diversity of the volatile compounds was rather low (nine compounds), whereas no glycoalkaloids were identified, only two alkaloid precursors (813.524 µg/mL extract). The extract proved to be cytotoxic towards all breast cancer cell lines (IC50 values between 139.1 and 356,1 µg/mL), with selectivity coefficients between 1.96 and 4.96 when compared with its toxicity on HUVECs. Based on these results we conclude that the exerted cytotoxic activity of the extract is due to its high polyphenolic content, whereas the lack of Solanaceae-specific glycoalkaloids might be responsible for its high selectivity against breast cancer cells in comparison with other extract obtained from wild Solanum species. However, further research is needed in order to assess the cytotoxicity of the individual compounds found in the extract, as well as the anti-tumor potential of the S. bulbocastanum tubers.

Abstract Over the past 30 years, the genus Solanum has received considerable attention in chemical and biological studies. Solanum is the largest genus in the family Solanaceae, comprising of about 2000 species distributed in the subtropical and tropical regions of Africa, Australia, and parts of Asia, e.g., China, India and Japan. Many of them are economically significant species. Previous phytochemical investigations on Solanum species led to the identification of steroidal saponins, steroidal alkaloids, terpenes, flavonoids, lignans, sterols, phenolic comopunds, coumarins, amongst other compounds. Many species belonging to this genus present huge range of pharmacological activities such as cytotoxicity to different tumors as breast cancer (4T1 and EMT), colorectal cancer (HCT116, HT29, and SW480), and prostate cancer (DU145) cell lines. The biological activities have been attributed to a number of steroidal saponins, steroidal alkaloids and phenols. This review features 65 phytochemically studied species of Solanum between 1990 and 2018, fetched from SciFinder, Pubmed, ScienceDirect, Wikipedia and Baidu, using “Solanum” and the species’ names as search terms (“all fields”).

MLO proteins are a family of transmembrane proteins in land plants that play an important role in plant immunity and host–pathogen interactions, as well as a wide range of development processes. Understanding the evolutionary history of MLO proteins is important for understanding plant physiology and health. In the present work, we conducted a phylogenetic analysis on a large set of MLO protein sequences from publicly available databases, specifically emphasising MLOs from the tomato plant and related species. As a result, 4886 protein sequences were identified and used to construct a phylogenetic tree. In comparison to previous findings, we identified nine phylogenetic clades, revealed the internal structure of clades I and II as additional clades and showed the presence of monocotyledon species in all MLO clades. We identified a set of 19 protein motifs that allowed for the identification of particular clades. Sixteen SlMLO proteins from tomato were located in the phylogenetic tree and identified in relation to homologous sequences from other Solanaceae species. The obtained results could be useful for further work on the use of MLO proteins in the study of mildew resistance in Solanaceae and other plant families.

Se describe e ilustra Jaborosa rotacea (Lillo) Hunz. et Barboza var tucumanensis Figueroa Romero, Muruaga y Bulacio. Difiere de la variedad típica en la forma de las hojas, características de los tricomas y lóbulos de la corola. Es endémica de Tucumán y crece en la formación Prepuneña entre los 2.700 y 2.900 m snm.

Zapata County is located in the western part Of the Rio Grande Plains in southern Texas (US.A.). Most of the vegetation consists of Tamaulipan thornscrub with small areas that support plants characteristic of the South Texas Sand Sheet. The most significant threat facing the native vegetation is the spread of introduced nonnative grasses. No previous effurts to conduct a Boris tic survey of the county have been made. A total of 561 taxa of vascular plants in 330 genera and 91 families were identified as occurring in the county. The largest families are Asteraceae (74 species), Poaceae (74 species), Fabaceae (53 species), Euphorbiaceae (28 species), Malvaceae (22 species), Verbenaceae (20 species), Amaranthaceae (18 species), Onagraceae (17 species), Cactaceae (16 species), Solanaceae (16 species), and Brassicaceae (15 species). One species, Houstonia correllii,'s endemic to Zapata County. Two federally listed endangered species, Pbysaria tbamnopbylla and Tbymopbylla tepbroleuca, occur in the county. There are 18 additional taxa that are of conservation concern. Non-native taxa make up 7 percent of the flora. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the preliminary results of the biocultural recognition of the area of Cerro Andaraga located in the old territory of the farm and work of Uningambal in the divortium aquarum of the basins of the Virú and Chao rivers, within an ecological floor of Jalca. The archaeological information is related to other sites in the area such as Huasochugho, as well as its interrelations with the middle and lower part of the Chao valley, following a very ancient route, in the same way its ethno-knowledge and relationship with the various species of flora, fauna and its geographical environment, emphasizing the richness of the water element, the favorable habitat for camelids and the record of the new endemic species Jaltomata andagarae S. Leiva & Mione "sogorome" (Solanaceae) and the species Puya raimondii Harms (Bromeliaceae) "cahua", whose stands are threatened by anthropogenic action. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Solanum × edinense Berthault is a spontaneously occurring hybrid between S. demissum Lindl. and the cultivated potato, S. tuberosum L., found near potato fields in Mexico. Although not described until 1911, this hybrid was in cultivation at the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE) shortly after the Irish Potato Famine of 1845–1849 and proved to be highly resistant to late blight, Phytophthora infestans. In the mid-19th century late blight caused widespread failure of the potato crop across Europe and played a central role in the Irish Potato Famine. Using the parent species in controlled crosses we have recreated the hybrid that was named by Berthault in recognition of RBGE as the source of his plant material. We have also researched the early history of this hybrid potato in Edinburgh and demonstrated disease resistance through field exposure during the outbreak of late blight in Edinburgh in 2019. This work underlines the important role of this hybrid in the breeding of disease-resistant potato cultivars.

Premise Pollen dispersal plays a critical role in gene flow of seed plants. Most often, pollen dispersal is measured using paternity assignment. However, this approach can be time‐consuming because it typically entails genotyping all pollen donors, receptors, and offspring at several molecular markers. Methods We developed a faster, simpler protocol to track paternity, using pollen receptors and grouped pollen donors that possess rare alleles. We tested this approach using wind‐pollinated Amaranthus tuberculatus and insect‐pollinated Solanum lycopersicum. After screening potential markers for rare alleles, we grew both species in experimental arrays under field conditions. Results All tested A. tuberculatus seeds and 97% of S. lycopersicum fruits could be assigned to the grouped pollen donors using each of two markers. From these results, we could infer paternity of untested offspring and assess pollen dispersal patterns in each array. Discussion By combining rare alleles and grouped pollen donors, we could assess pollen dispersal for both species and across all arrays after genotyping a small number of pollen donors and a representative subset of offspring. While directly applicable to A. tuberculatus and S. lycopersicum, this approach could be used in other species to assess pollen dispersal under field conditions.

The present article sought to evaluate the efficiency of various folk preparation methods commonly used in Europe for employing anticholinergic Solanaceae plants. The study aimed to uncover which folk methods were effective for the extraction of the anticholinergic tropane alkaloids of these plants, atropine and scopolamine. The folk extractions that were tested sought to simulate the preparation of teas, cold-water infusions, unguents, tinctures, fortified wines, and smoking. All preparation types and a control were then put through an extraction process to see what amount of the alkaloids had been maintained. These extractions were then analysed using high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Cold- and hot-water preparations, tinctures, and fortified wines all proved to be effective means of extracting atropine and scopolamine from plant material under conditions seen in folk usage. Smoking and the oil-based unguent, however, yielded no alkaloids, suggesting a lack of efficiency for these preparations, a problem with our methodology, or possible chemical changes and losses associated with the preparation procedure.

The French National Research Institute for Agriculture, Food and the Environment (INRAE) conserves and distributes five vegetable collections as seeds: the aubergine* (in this article the word aubergine refers to eggplant), pepper, tomato, melon and lettuce collections, together with their wild or cultivated relatives, are conserved in Avignon, France. Accessions from the collections have geographically diverse origins, are generally well-described and fixed for traits of agronomic or scientific interest and have available passport data. In addition to currently conserving over 10,000 accessions (between 900 and 3000 accessions per crop), the centre maintains scientific collections such as core collections and bi- or multi-parental populations, which have also been genotyped with SNP markers. Each collection has its own merits and highlights, which are discussed in this review: the aubergine collection is a rich source of crop wild relatives of Solanum; the pepper, melon and lettuce collections have been screened for resistance to plant pathogens, including viruses, fungi, oomycetes and insects; and the tomato collection has been at the heart of genome-wide association studies for fruit quality traits and environmental stress tolerance.

Since the publication of the Solanaceae treatment in "Flora Argentina" in 2013 exploration in the country and resolution of outstanding nomenclatural and circumscription issues has resulted in a number of changes to the species of the Morelloid clade of Solanum L. (Solanaceae) for Argentina. Here we describe three new species: Solanum hunzikeri Chiarini & Cantero, sp. nov., from wet high elevation areas in Argentina (Catamarca, Salta and Tucumán) and Bolivia (Chuquisaca and Tarija), S. marmoratum Barboza & S.Knapp, sp. nov., from central Argentina in Catamarca, La Pampa, La Rioja, San Juan and San Luis, and S. tiinae Barboza & S.Knapp, sp. nov., from the mountains of Jujuy, La Rioja, Salta and Tucumán. We provide descriptions, illustrations and distribution maps for all new taxa. A table of nomenclatural changes and additional taxa now known to occur in Argentina summarizes additions and changes since the "Flora Argentina". We also provide an updated key, including all new taxa for the country, to facilitate identification and further exploration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The coastal lomas are ecosystems included in the Pacific desert ecoregion, are seasonal and depend on thermal inversion in the winter of the southern hemisphere. The study on the vascular flora of the Mangomarca lomas, San Juan de Lurigancho is presented, in order to record and explain this formation that is located in the Mangomarca hills, from 80 to 800 m altitude and coordinates 11°59'51"-12°00'S; 76°58'30"-76°58'02"W, near the center of Metropolitan Lima. The evaluations were carried out during the winters of 2011-2019. 25 vascular plant families with 44 genera and 51 species were registered; families with the largest number of species; Asteraceae with nine species followed by Solanaceae with eigth species and Amaranthaceae with four species; Magnoliopsidae is the dominant group with 47 species, 40 genus and 22 families. The registered forms of growth are: herbs 33 species, shrubs 13 species, trees and, succulent two species each and climbing one species. 9 endemic species were recorded: Atriplex rotundifolia (Amaranthaceae), Ismene amancaes, (Amaryllidaceae), Ophryosporus pubescens (Asteraceae), Haageocereus limensis (Cactaceae), Cistanthe paniculata (Montiaceae), Oxalis lomana (Oxalidaceae), Nolana humifusa, Nicotiana paniculata y Exodecomus prostratus (Solanaceae). The Lomas de Mangomarca are threatened by the anthropic pressure of human settlements of Campoy and Los Jardines in San Juan de Lurigancho that have reached the top on both flanks, which are affected by solid waste and accompanying fauna. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The uses of indigenous plants in medicines are as old as the existence of humans on earth. Globally, the reliance on herbal medicines is in practice by local people. Due to diverse climatic conditions, a wide range of medicinally important flora is produced in Pakistan. Solanaceae is a broadly good flora used in traditional and commercial medications. The current review presents the first-ever ethnobotanical study of Solanaceae flora in Pakistan by tracking and compiling the details from authentic data sources. In total, 39 medicinal plant species belonging to 13 genera from the Solanaceae family were recorded to treat different diseases. Solanum (nine species), Lycium (seven species) and Datura (five species) were the most significantly used plant families in Pakistan. Most plant parts used in the preparation of medicines are leaves (40%), fruits (25%), and roots (10%). The Solanum genus reports the highest number of pharmacological uses in asthma, cholera, bronchitis, fever, neuralgia, ulcer, analgesic, and inflammation. The results were compiled in a table summarising the reports with genera, species, and their uses. These plant species were highly active against specific ailments such as skin disorders, liver dysfunction, allergic and microbial infections. In most of the reported studies, it is mentioned that the allopathic and homoeopathic pharmacopoeia use leaves, roots, seeds, flowers and sometimes fruits of these plants in formulating medicines due to the presence of alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, and polyphenols. The present study can significantly help the baseline study for Solanaceae flora identify ethnobotanical properties, especially in Pakistan. [Display omitted] • Investigation of various genera from the Solanaceae family in Pakistan with ethnobotanical and medicinal uses. • Geographical description, distribution, secondary metabolites and pharmacological properties. • Species from Solanum , Lycium and Datura genera showed significant therapeutic potential. • The most used part of medicinal plants was the leaves (40%). • A preliminary compiled review of available data on the Solanaceae family in Pakistan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nicandra physaloides, finds its extended phyto-geographical range from Deccan peninsula to part of Eastern Ghats in Odisha, India. The detailed description, correct nomenclature, ecological notes and distribution along with photographs of the taxon has been provided.

In recent years, high throughput sequencing (HTS) has brought new possibilities to the study of the diversity and complexity of plant viromes. Mixed infection of a single plant with several viruses is frequently observed in such studies. We analyzed the virome of 10 tomato and sweet pepper samples from Slovakia, all showing the presence of potato virus Y (PVY) infection. Most datasets allow the determination of the nearly complete sequence of a single-variant PVY genome, belonging to one of the PVY recombinant strains (N-Wi, NTNa, or NTNb). However, in three to-mato samples (T1, T40, and T62) the presence of N-type and O-type sequences spanning the same genome region was documented, indicative of mixed infections involving different PVY strains variants, hampering the automated assembly of PVY genomes present in the sample. The N- and O-type in silico data were further confirmed by specific RT-PCR assays targeting UTR-P1 and NIa genomic parts. Although full genomes could not be de novo assembled directly in this situation, their deep coverage by relatively long paired reads allowed their manual re-assembly using very stringent mapping parameters. These results highlight the complexity of PVY infection of some host plants and the challenges that can be met when trying to precisely identify the PVY isolates involved in mixed infection.

Physalis angulata has been discovered and recorded for the first time in the flora of Libya. This species was collected from the Bilash′har region belonging to the city of Tajura, about 20 km east of Tripoli. P. angulata is easily identified by its small yellow flowers without central dark spots in the center, and by pedulus globose berry enclosed within an inflated bladdery fruiting calyx. Detailed descriptions, photographs, habitat and ecology are provided for easy identification, and to facilitate further identification of this species and to warrant its future detection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Duboisia R.Br. (Solanaceae) is the main source of the tropane alkaloid scopolamine, which is an important precursor of various active pharmaceutical ingredients due to its anticholinergic properties. As only little is known about the metabolite composition among the different species, NMRbased metabolic profiling was done in order to elucidate primary and secondary metabolism in Duboisia especially focusing on the tropane alkaloid pathway. For this purpose, plants of five different genotypes (Duboisia myoporoides, D. leichardtii and hybrids of D. myoporoides and D. leichhardtii) were cultivated under strictly controlled conditions in climate chambers, leaf and root extracts were prepared and measured via 1H NMR. 14 different metabolites could be identified using 1D- and 2D-NMR techniques. Principal component analysis of the NMR data allowed a clear distinction between Duboisia hybrids and the wild types, which could be again subgrouped in D. myoporoides and D. leichhardtii, based on the metabolites identified.

Trophic interactions impose important costs to their host plants, affecting patterns of resource allocation. The relationship between host and consumers is also influenced by the availability of resources, e. g., soil nutrients. In this study, we explored the relationship among mycorrhiza-plant-herbivore in natural populations of Datura stramonium and their correlation with the content of phosphorus, nitrogen and carbon in the soil. We estimated the vegetative and reproductive biomass of plants, the arbuscular mycorrhizal colonization and the level of herbivory in populations of D. stramonium. The local abundance of D. stramonium was negatively related to the content of phosphorus in the soil. In contrast, soil carbon concentration affected positively the vegetative and reproductive mass of D. stramonium, although it was negatively correlated with the specific leaf area (SLA). Of the trophic interactions only herbivory was significantly correlated with the SLA and no relationship was detected between the two interaction types. The lack of significant response of mycorrhizae to the soil nutrients concentration, plant performance, and herbivory may result from the stochasticity in the availability of mycorrhizal inoculum (identity and abundance) in the populations studied.