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The study was conducted in the postgraduate laboratory department of biology, college of education for pure sciences, Karbala University, The study aimed to find the effect of plant growth regulators Gibberellic acid (GA3), Indole acetic acid (IAA) with concentration (2.5,5,10,15,20) ppm on the growth of fungi accompanying medicinal plants and producing toxin. As it isolated four fungi producing toxins from three medicinal plants are Thymus vulgaris, Chamaemelum nobile, and Pimpinella anisum, the study showed decreased significantly in (0. 05

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Irrigation interruption owing to time of incidence is affecting the seed quality. The aim of this research was to determine whether the brassinolide and spraying time of this hormone in two stages of applying irrigation interruption could be improved the quality of produced grain wheat during 2014-2016. Irrigation regimes were carried out at irrigation interruption from the flowering and grain-filling stage and full irrigation as a control. The second factor was including factorial of zero, 0.05, and 0.1 mg 1−1 of brassinolide and spraying time before the flowering and grain-filling stages. The maximum grain weight had no significant difference between the both irrigation interruptions. The lowest period and the highest rate of grain filling were observed after irrigation interruption in the flowering stage. The seed germination and vigor index of seedlings were increased in irrigation interruption at the flowering stage and without the spraying of hormones. The foliar application of 0.1 mg 1−1 brassinolide caused the highest seedling vigor index and the lowest electrolyte leakage from grain. Overall, the application of 0.1 mg 1−1 brassinolide improved the quality of wheat seed affected by the irrigation interruption at the flowering and grain-filling stages in water restriction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: MicroRNAs (miRNAs) play crucial roles in the regulation of plant development and growth, but little information is available concerning their roles during grain development under different nitrogen (N) application levels. Our objective was to identify miRNAs related to the regulation of grain characteristics and the response to different N fertilizer conditions. Results: A total of 79 miRNAs (46 known and 33 novel miRNAs) were identified that showed significant differential expression during grain development under both high nitrogen (HN) and low nitrogen (LN) treatments. The miRNAs that were significantly upregulated early in grain development target genes involved mainly in cell differentiation, auxin-activated signaling, and transcription, which may be associated with grain size; miRNAs abundant in the middle and later stages target genes mainly involved in carbohydrate and nitrogen metabolism, transport, and kinase activity and may be associated with grain filling. Additionally, we identified 50 miRNAs (22 known and 28 novel miRNAs), of which 11, 9, and 39 were differentially expressed between the HN and LN libraries at 7, 17, and 27 days after anthesis (DAA). The miRNAs that were differentially expressed in response to nitrogen conditions target genes involved mainly in carbohydrate and nitrogen metabolism, the defense response, and transport as well as genes that encode ubiquitin ligase. Only one novel miRNA (PC-5p-2614_215) was significantly upregulated in response to LN treatment at all three stages, and 21 miRNAs showed significant differential expression between HN and LN conditions only at 27 DAA. We therefore propose a model for target gene regulation by miRNAs during grain development with N-responsive patterns. Conclusions: The potential targets of the identified miRNAs are related to various biological processes, such as carbohydrate/nitrogen metabolism, transcription, cellular differentiation, transport, and defense. Our results indicate that miRNA-mediated networks, via posttranscriptional regulation, play crucial roles in grain development and the N response, which determine wheat grain weight and quality. Our study provides useful information for future research of regulatory mechanisms that focus on improving grain yield and quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: MYB transcription factors (TFs) have been demonstrated to play diverse roles in plant growth and development through interaction with basic helix‐loop‐helix (bHLH) TFs. MdbHLH33, an apple bHLH TF, has been identified as a positive regulator in cold tolerance and anthocyanin accumulation by activating the expressions of MdCBF2 and MdDFR. In the present study, a MYB TF MdMYB308L was found to also positively regulate cold tolerance and anthocyanin accumulation in apple. We found that MdMYB308L interacted with MdbHLH33 and enhanced its binding to the promoters of MdCBF2 and MdDFR. In addition, an apple RING E3 ubiquitin ligase MYB30‐INTERACTING E3 LIGASE 1 (MdMIEL1) was identified to be an MdMYB308L‐interacting protein and promoted the ubiquitination degradation of MdMYB308L, thus negatively regulated cold tolerance and anthocyanin accumulation in apple. These results suggest that MdMYB308L acts as a positive regulator in cold tolerance and anthocyanin accumulation in apple by interacting with MdbHLH33 and undergoes MdMIEL1‐mediated protein degradation. The dynamic change in MYB‐bHLH protein complex seems to play a key role in the regulation of plant growth and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite active research, antiherbivore activity of specific plant phenolics remains largely unresolved. We constructed silver birch (Betula pendula) lines with modified phenolic metabolism to study the effects of foliar flavonoids and condensed tannins on consumption and growth of larvae of a generalist herbivore, the autumnal moth (Epirrita autumnata). We conducted a feeding experiment using birch lines in which expression of dihydroflavonol reductase (DFR), anthocyanidin synthase (ANS) or anthocyanidin reductase (ANR) had been decreased by RNA interference. Modification-specific effects on plant phenolics, nutrients and phenotype, and on larval consumption and growth were analyzed using uni- and multivariate methods. Inhibiting DFR expression increased the concentration of flavonoids at the expense of condensed tannins, and silencing DFR and ANR decreased leaf and plant size. E. autumnata larvae consumed on average 82% less of DFRi plants than of unmodified controls, suggesting that flavonoids or glandular trichomes deter larval feeding. However, larval growth efficiency was highest on low-tannin DFRi plants, indicating that condensed tannins (or their monomers) are physiologically more harmful than non-tannin flavonoids for E. autumnata larvae. Our results show that genetic manipulation of the flavonoid pathway in plants can effectively be used to produce altered phenolic profiles required for elucidating the roles of low-molecular weight phenolics and condensed tannins in plant–herbivore relationships, and suggest that phenolic secondary metabolites participate in regulation of plant growth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs) play vital roles in the regulation of plant growth, development, and tolerance to various abiotic stresses. However, little information is available for this gene family in banana. In this study, 44 CDPKs were identified in banana and were classified into four groups based on phylogenetic, gene structure, and conserved motif analyses. The majority of MaCDPKs generally exhibited similar expression patterns in the different tissues. Transcriptome analyses revealed that many CDPKs showed strong transcript accumulation at the early stages of fruit development and postharvest ripening in both varieties. Interaction network and co-expression analysis further identified some CDPKs-mediated network that was potentially active at the early stages of fruit development. Comparative expression analysis suggested that the high levels of CDPK expression in FJ might be related to its fast ripening characteristic. CDPK expression following the abiotic stress treatments indicated a significant transcriptional response to osmotic, cold, and salt treatment, as well as differential expression profiles, between BX and FJ. The findings of this study elucidate the transcriptional control of CDPKs in development, ripening, and the abiotic stress response in banana. Some tissue-specific, development/ripening-dependent, and abiotic stress-responsive candidate MaCDPK genes were identified for further genetic improvement of banana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Phytohormones are crucial in the regulation of plant growth and development, and in responses to adverse environments. Multiple cytochrome P450 monooxygenases (CYP450s) are involved in the biosynthesis and catabolism of phytohormones. Here, we report that a CYP450 member of the CYP71 clan in rice, OsCYP71D8L, participates in the control of multiple agronomic traits and abiotic stress responses by affecting gibberellin (GA) and cytokinin (CK) homeostasis. The gain-of-function mutant cyp71d8l and transgenic plants overexpressing CYP71D8L (CYP71D8L -OE) display similar phenotypes compared to the wild-type (WT), including dwarfed plants, reduced panicle length, reduced grain number per panicle, and decreased levels of endogenous GAs. Moreover, the dwarfed plant trait and the less-developed roots of CYP71D8L -OE and cyp71d8l seedlings could be rescued by application of GA3 or the CK biosynthetic inhibitor lovastatin, and exacerbated by application of the synthetic CK 6-BA. Importantly, CYP71D8L -OE and cyp71d8l seedlings maintained high chlorophyll contents and low levels of reactive oxygen species, and showed enhanced tolerance to drought and salt stress compared with the WT. Thus, our results suggest that OsCYP71D8L plays important roles in regulating rice growth and stress responses by coordinating the homeostasis of GAs and CKs, and it may therefore be a useful target for engineering stress-tolerant rice varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: NAD kinases (NADKs) are the only known enzymes that directly phosphorylate NAD(H) to generate NADP(H) in different subcellular compartments. They participate in multiple life activities, such as modulating the NADP/NAD ratio, maintaining the intracellular redox balance and responding to environmental stresses. However, the functions of individual NADK in plants are still under investigation. Here, a rice NADK, namely, OsNADK1, was identified, and its functions in plant growth regulation and stress tolerance were analysed by employing a series of transgenic plant lines. Results: OsNADK1 is a cytosol-localized NADK in rice. It was expressed in all rice tissues examined, and its transcriptional expression could be stimulated by a number of environmental stress treatments. Compared with wild-type (WT) rice, the mutant plant osnadk1 in which OsNADK1 was knocked out was a dwarf at the heading stage and had decreased NADP(H)/NAD(H), ascorbic acid (ASA)/dehydroascorbate (DHA) and reduced glutathione (GSH)/oxidized glutathione (GSSG) ratios, which led to increased oxidation states in the rice cells and sensitivity to drought. Moreover, certain stress-related genes showed differential expression patterns in osnadk1 under both normal growth and drought-stress conditions compared with WT. Among these genes, OsDREB1B and several WRKY family transcription factors, e.g., OsWRKY21 and OsWRKY42, showed correlated co-expression patterns with OsNADK1 in osnadk1 and the plants overexpressing or underexpressing OsNADK1, implying roles for these transcription factors in OsNADK1-mediated processes. In addition, overexpression of OsNADK1 enhanced the drought tolerance of rice plants, whereas loss of function of the gene reduced the tolerance. Furthermore, the proline content was dramatically increased in the leaves of the OsNADK1-overexpressing lines under drought conditions. Conclusions: Altogether, the results suggest that an OsNADK1-mediated intracellular redox balance is involved in the tolerance of rice plants to drought. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biotic stress causes immense damage to agricultural products worldwide and raises the risk of hunger in many areas. Plants themselves tolerate biotic stresses via several pathways, including pathogen-associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), which trigger immunity and plant resistance (R) proteins. On the other hand, humans use several non-ecofriendly methods to control biotic stresses, such as chemical applications. Compared with chemical control, melatonin is an ecofriendly compound that is an economical alternative strategy which can be used to protect animals and plants from attacks via pathogens. In plants, the bactericidal capacity of melatonin was verified against Mycobacterium tuberculosis, as well as multidrug-resistant Gram-negative and -positive bacteria under in vitro conditions. Regarding plant-bacteria interaction, melatonin has presented e ective antibacterial activities against phytobacterial pathogens. In plant-fungi interaction models, melatonin was found to play a key role in plant resistance to Botrytis cinerea, to increase fungicide susceptibility, and to reduce the stress tolerance of Phytophthora infestans. In plant-virus interaction models, melatonin not only e°Ciently eradicated apple stem grooving virus (ASGV) from apple shoots in vitro (making it useful for the production of virus-free plants) but also reduced tobacco mosaic virus (TMV) viral RNA and virus concentration in infected Nicotiana glutinosa and Solanum lycopersicum seedlings. Indeed, melatonin has unique advantages in plant growth regulation and increasing plant resistance e ectiveness against di erent forms of biotic and abiotic stress. Although considerable work has been done regarding the role of melatonin in plant tolerance to abiotic stresses, its role in biotic stress remains unclear and requires clarification. In our review, we summarize the work that has been accomplished so far; highlight melatonin's function in plant tolerance to pathogens such as bacteria, viruses, and fungi; and determine the direction required for future studies on this topic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The miR399 is a conserved microRNA (miRNA) family, and it has been characterized as an essential regulator of phosphorus transport in plants. However, the biological function of miR399 in Cunninghamia lanceolata is still largely unclear. In this study, the comparison of mature miR399 sequence revealed a high similarity between Arabidopsis thaliana and C. lanceolate, and the pre-miR399 was capable of forming a typical stem-loop hairpin structure. A gene PHOSPHATE 2 (PHO2) was identified as a target of cln-miR399 using 5' rapid amplification of cDNA ends. Furthermore, the relationship between cln-miR399 and PHO2 was further confirmed through a transient co-expression of both genes in Nicotiana benthamiana. To examine the function of miR399 in Arabidopsis, miR399-overexpressing transgenic Arabidopsis thaliana was acquired using Agrobacterium-mediated approach. Real-time PCR showed that the amount of cln-MIR399 transcripts was higher in miR399-overexpressing plants than in wild-type plants, which was accompanied with down-regulation of expression of its target gene AtPHO2. The P content was 1.40 to 1.56-fold higher in the leaves of three transgenic lines than in wild type plants. However, the P content in the roots of the three transgenic lines was 24.5 - 37.2 % less than that in wild type plants. Moreover, the transcriptions of three phosphate transporter genes (PHT1, PHT2, and PHT3) were up-regulated in roots of miR399-overexpressing Arabidopsis plants. Interestingly, the transgenic lines exhibited retarded growth under normal P conditions compared with the wild type. Our findings demonstrate that cln-miR399 may play crucial roles in P transport and plant growth via regulation of its target gene PHO2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background. AP2/ERF transcription factors are involved in the regulation of plant growth, development, and stress responses. Our research objective was to characterize novel apple (Malus domestica Borkh.) genes encoding AP2/ERF transcription factors involved in regulation of plant growth, development, and stress response. The transcriptional level of apple AP2/ERF genes in different tissues and under various biotic and abiotic stress was determined to provide valuable insights into the function of AP2/ERF transcription factors in apple. Methods. Thirty full-length cDNA sequences of apple AP2/ERF genes were isolated from 'Zihong Fuji' apple (Malus × domestica cv. Zihong Fuji) via homologous comparison and RT-PCR confirmation, and the obtained cDNA sequences and the deduced amino acid sequences were analyzed with bioinformatics methods. Expression levels of apple AP2/ERF genes were detected in 16 different tissues using a known array. Expression patterns of apple AP2/ERF genes were detected in response to Alternaria alternata apple pathotype (AAAP) infection using RNA-seq with existing data, and the expression of apple AP2/ERF genes was analyzed under NaCl and mannitol treatments using qRT-PCR. Results. The sequencing results produced 30 cDNAs (designated as MdERF3- 8, MdERF11, MdERF16-19, MdERF22-28, MdERF31-35, MdERF39, MdAP2D60, MdAP2D62-65, and MdRAV2). Phylogenetic analysis revealed that MdERF11/16, MdERF33/35, MdERF34/39, and MdERF18/23 belonged to groups A-2, A-4, A-5, and A-6 of the DREB subfamily, respectively; MdERF31, MdERF19, MdERF4/25/28/32, MdERF24, MdERF5/6/27, and MdERF3/7/8/17/22/26 belonged to groups B-1, B- 2, B-3, B-4, B-5, and B-6 of the ERF subfamily, respectively; MdAP2D60 and MdAP2D62/63/64/65 belonged to the AP2 subfamily; and MdRAV2 belonged to the RAV subfamily. Array results indicated that 30 apple AP2/ERF genes were expressed in all examined tissues to different degrees. RNA-seq results using previously reported data showed that many members of the apple ERF and DREB subfamilies were induced by Alternaria alternate apple pathotype (AAAP) infection. Under salt treatment, many members in the apple ERF and DREB subfamilies were transcriptionally up or downregulated. Under mannitol treatment, many members of the apple ERF, DREB, and AP2 subfamilies were induced at the transcriptional level. Taken together, the results indicated that the cloned apple AP2/ERF genes were expressed in all examined tissues. These genes were up-regulated or down-regulated in response to AAAP infection and to salt or mannitol treatment, which suggested they may be involved in regulating growth, development, and stress response in apple. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Fungal Elicitor-Mediated Induction of Innate Immunity in Catharanthus roseus Against Leaf Blight Disease Caused by Alternaria alternata" published in the Journal of Plant Growth Regulation. The correction addresses an error in the variety name of Catharanthus roseus, which should be 'C. roseus var. roseus' instead of 'C. roseus var. rosea'. The correction also clarifies that 'rosea' should be replaced with 'roseus' in the text. The correction notice is provided by Anamika Paul, Anik Sarkar, Krishnendu Acharya, and Nilanjan Chakraborty. [Extracted from the article]

This document is a correction notice for an article titled "Root Exudates Modulate Rhizosphere Microbial Communities during the Interaction of Pseudomonas chlororaphis, β-Aminobutyric Acid, and Botrytis Cinerea in Tomato Plants" published in the Journal of Plant Growth Regulation. The correction addresses an error in the affiliation details for one of the authors, Zhaoxia Jin. The correct affiliation should be "School of Biological Engineering, Dalian Polytechnic University, #1 Qinggongyuan, Ganjingzi District, Dalian, Liaoning 116034, People's Republic of China." The publisher, Springer Nature, emphasizes its neutrality regarding jurisdictional claims and institutional affiliations. The authors of the article are Yu Zhao, Zhaoxia Jin, Ye Hong, Yahui Zhang, Zijie Lu, and Yang Li. [Extracted from the article]

Fatty acid desaturases (FADs) play a crucial role in plant growth as well as in the regulation of biotic and abiotic stresses. However, their function has not been well understood in the ripening of fruit. In this study, we identified 73 FADs in the octoploid strawberry genome and analyzed their physicochemical characteristics, chromosomal localization, phylogeny, gene structures, covariance, cis -acting elements, and transcript levels during fruit ripening stages. According to the predicted subcellular localization, FADs are mostly located in the plasma membrane, with a lower abundance in the cell wall, cytoplasm, and nucleus. Numerous cis -elements in the FADs promoter are responsive to light, hormones, and stress. Here, combining comparative transcriptomics, we identified a Δ9 stearoyl-acyl carrier protein (ACP) desaturase gene (FxaC_8 g24100, namely FaSAD3) that is negatively regulated by both key glycolysis genes, cytoplasmic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (FaGAPC2) and pyruvate kinase (FaPKc2.2). The spatiotemporal expression analysis revealed that FaSAD3 is expressed in both vegetative and reproductive organs. Subcellular localization analysis confirmed that FaSAD3 is expressed in both the cytoplasm and nucleus. Meanwhile, the transient overexpression of FaSAD3 reduced anthocyanin, sugar, organic acid, total phenol, and flavonoid contents, while increased fruit firmness. Furthermore, the yeast one hybridization and dual-luciferase assay revealed that the ripening regulator FaGAMYB negatively regulates the transcriptional activity of FaSAD3 promoter, promoting strawberry fruit ripening. These findings indicated that FaSAD3 acts as a negative regulator in strawberry fruits ripening, providing a novel model for comprehending the mechanisms involved in strawberry fruit ripening. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

4Effect of foliar application of salicylic acid (SA) and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) on the generation of hydrogen peroxide and free radical superoxide anion in the leaves of two potato varieties under salt stress (100 mM NaCl) and unstressed conditions. A Histochemical detection of H 2 O 2 and B histochemical detection of superoxide anion in the leaves of KS and KB, C Free radical superoxide anion accumulation and D H 2 O 2 accumulation in the leaves of KS and KB shows significant reduction as compared to T2. [Extracted from the article]

Symbiotic plant-fungi interaction is a promising approach to alleviate salt stress in plants. Moreover, endophytic fungi are well known to promote the growth of various crop plants. Herein, seven fungal endophytes were screened for salt tolerance; the results revealed that Aspergillus ochraceus showed a great potentiality in terms of salt tolerance, up to 200 g L−1. The indole acetic acid (IAA) production antioxidant capacity and antifungal activity of A. ochraceus were evaluated, in vitro, under two levels of seawater stress, 15 and 30% (v/v; seawater/distilled water). The results illustrated that A. ochraceus could produce about 146 and 176 µg mL−1 IAA in 15 and 30% seawater, respectively. The yield of IAA by A. ochraceus at 30% seawater was significantly higher at all tryptophan concentrations, as compared with that at 15% seawater. Moreover, the antioxidant activity of ethyl acetate extract of A. ochraceus (1000 µg mL−1) at 15 and 30% seawater was 95.83 ± 1.25 and 98.33 ± 0.57%, respectively. Crude extracts of A. ochraceus obtained at 15 and 30% seawater exhibited significant antifungal activity against F. oxysporum, compared to distilled water. The irrigation of barley plants with seawater (15 and 30%) caused notable declines in most morphological indices, pigments, sugars, proteins, and yield characteristics, while increasing the contents of proline, malondialdehyde, and hydrogen peroxide and the activities of antioxidant enzymes. On the other hand, the application of A. ochraceus mitigated the harmful effects of seawater on the growth and physiology of barley plants. Therefore, this study suggests that the endophytic fungus A. ochraceus MT089958 could be applied as a strategy for mitigating the stress imposed by seawater irrigation in barley plants and, therefore, improving crop growth and productivity.

BZR1, you have an invite: EPFL-ERECTA wants to join your female germline specification network To link ERfs and EPFLs to MMC formation, the authors immunostained the ovules of the triple ERf mutant, I er erl1 erl2 i , and quadruple EPFL mutant, I epfl1,2,4,6 i . These results suggest that the EPFL-ERf ligand-receptor complex restricts MMC identity to a single cell, but other factors are required to restrict meiosis to a single MMC cell. [Extracted from the article]

Celery (Apium graveolens L.) is one of the most important vegetables in the Apiaceae family, rich in nutrients and widely grown around the world. bZIP transcription factors family plays an important role in the transcription regulation of plant growth and development, as well as adaptation to the external environment. In this paper, 62 bZIP family transcription factors were screened and identified based on the whole genome sequence of celery. The bZIP proteins of celery and Arabidopsis thaliana were divided into 10 subfamilies according to the phylogenetic tree. Phylogenetic and evolutionary analysis showed that the number of bZIP family members gradually expanded from lower plants to higher plants during the long evolution process. Based on the homology of celery and A. thaliana bZIP genes, the interaction network between celery bZIP transcription factors and other proteins in the genome was constructed, and the correlation data of protein interaction were also obtained. The expression profiles of 12 selected AgbZIP genes were detected and analyzed under abiotic stress treatments and different tissues using RT-qPCR. The results showed that AgbZIP can respond to high temperature, low temperature, drought, and high salt stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Selenium (Se) results in primary root shortening and the concomitant induction of lateral roots (LRs) (stress-induced morphogenic response, SIMR). Both ethylene (ET) and nitric oxide (NO) are gasotransmitters interacting with each other during plant growth regulation; however, their involvement and interplay in LR growth have not been examined so far. This study investigates the effect of Se on ET and NO levels and interaction in wild-type (WT) and ET insensitive etr1-1 Arabidopsis. In WT, Se at 15 µM concentration triggered LR emergence (LRem) and slight ET level elevation but in etr1-1 Se-induced LR inhibition was accompanied by four-fold ET level increase which can be associated with the increased expression of ACS2 and ACS8. Treatment with ACC + Se decreased LRem and NO level in WT, whereas AVG + Se in the etr1-1 plants resulted in enhanced LRem and increased NO level indicating that ET may inhibit both NO formation and LR emergence in Se-stressed Arabidopsis. The expression of NO-associated genes (NR1, NR2, GSNOR1, GLB1, GLB2), however, did not correlate with NO levels. Application of GSNO together with Se resulted in enhanced LR outgrowth both in WT and in etr1-1, whereas this effect could be reversed by a NO scavenger which indicates the positive regulatory role of NO during LR emergence. Moreover, GSNO has a clear inhibitory and cPTIO has an inducing effect on ET levels. These data indicate for the first time that the antagonistic interplay between ET and NO regulates the emergence of lateral roots in Arabidopsis under Se stress. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alpha-tocopherol (α-Toc) is a member of the vitamin E family and is lipid soluble. Its biosynthesis is by the reaction of isopentyl diphosphate and homogentisic acid in plastid membranes. The putative biochemical activities of tocopherols are linked with the formation of tocopherol quinone species, which subsequently undergo degradation and recycling within cells/tissues. α-Toc plays a key role in a variety of plant metabolic processes throughout the ontogeny of plants. It can maintain the integrity and fluidity of photosynthesizing membranes. It can also neutralize lipid peroxy radicals, consequently blocking lipid peroxidation by quenching oxidative cations. It preserves membrane integrity by retaining membranous structural components under environmental constraints such as water deficiency, high salt content, toxic metals, high/low temperatures, and radiations. α-Toc also induces cellular signalling pathways within biological membranes. Its biosynthesis varies during growth and developmental stages as well as under different environmental conditions. The current review primarily focuses on how α-Toc can regulate various metabolic processes involved in promoting plant growth and development under stress and non-stress and how it can effectively counteract the stress-induced high accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Currently, exogenous application of α-Toc has been widely reported as a potential means of promoting resistance in plants to a variety of stressful environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nitric oxide (NO) is an essential redox-signaling molecule free radical, contributes a significant role in a diverse range of physiological processes. Photo-triggered NO donors have significant potential compared to other NO donors because it releases NO in the presence of light. Hence, an efficient visible light-triggered NO donor is designed and synthesized by coupling 2,6-dimethyl nitrobenzene moiety at the peri -position of 1, 8-naphthalimide. The NO-releasing ability is validated using various spectroscopic techniques, the photoproduct is characterized, and finally, the NO generation quantum yield is also determined. Furthermore, the photo-generated NO has been employed to Arabidopsis thaliana as a model plant to examine the effect of photoreceptor-mediated NO uptake on plant root growth regulation molecule. Image 1 • Designed and synthesized a 1,8-naphthalimide-based probe (Ni–NO 2) for the visible-light-induced NO generation. • The NO release from Ni–NO 2 is fully characterized by various analytical techniques. • Photo-generated NO has been utilized for the plant root growth regulation under white and blue light irradiation. • Results confirm an effective regulation of photoreceptor-mediated root growth in a dose-dependent manner. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plants have evolved different strategies to utilize various forms of nitrogen (N) from the environment. While regulation of plant growth and development in response to application of inorganic N forms has been characterized, our knowledge about the effect on cell wall structure and composition is quite limited. In this study, we analysed cell walls of Brachypodium distachyon supplied with three types of inorganic N (NH4NO3, NO3−, or NH4+). Cell wall profiles showed distinct alterations in both the quantity and structures of individual polymers. Nitrate stimulated cellulose, but inhibited lignin deposition at the heading growth stage. On the other hand, ammonium supply resulted in higher concentration of mixed linkage glucans. In addition, the chemical structure of pectins and hemicelluloses was strongly influenced by the form of N. Supply of only NO3− led to alteration in xylan substitution and to lower esterification of homogalacturonan. We conclude that the physiological response to absorption of different inorganic N forms includes pleotropic remodelling of type II cell walls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cytokinins are involved in the regulation of many plant growth and development processes, and function in response to abiotic stress. Cytokinin signaling is similar to the prokaryotic two-component signaling systems and includes the transcriptional upregulation of type-A response regulators (RRs), which in turn act to inhibit cytokinin signal response via negative feedback. Cytokinin signaling consists of several gene families and only a handful full of genes is studied. In this study, we demonstrated the function of two highly identical type-A RR genes from rice, OsRR9 and OsRR10 , which are induced by cytokinin and only OsRR10 repressed by salinity stress in rice. Loss-of-function mutations give rise to mutant genes, osrr9/osrr10 , which have higher salinity tolerance than wild type rice seedlings. The transcriptomic analysis uncovered several ion transporter genes, which were upregulated in response to salt stress in the osrr9/osrr10 mutants relative to the wild type seedlings. These include high-affinity potassium transporters, such as OsHKT1;1 , OsHKT1;3 and OsHKT2;1 , which play an important role in sodium and potassium homeostasis. In addition, disruption of the genes OsRR9 and OsRR10 also affects the expression of multiple genes related to photosynthesis, transcription and phytohormone signaling. Taken together, these results suggest that the genes OsRR9 and OsRR10 function as negative regulators in response to salinity in rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Transcriptional regulation and protein–protein interactions regulate meristem and stem cell activity. • Plant hormone signalling regulates meristem activity by converging on stem cell regulatory networks. • An increasing number of molecular links are being discovered between environmental stimuli and regulatory circuits in meristems. Plants adapt their morphology in response to variable environmental conditions such as nitrate availability, drought, and temperature shifts. Three crucial aspects to this developmental plasticity are the control of initiation, identity and activity of meristems. At the cellular level, the activity of meristems is controlled by balancing self-renewal in stem cells, amplifying divisions in their daughter cells, and cell differentiation. Recent studies in plants have uncovered transcription factors regulating meristem activity at cellular resolution, and regulatory networks that couple these factors with phytohormone signalling for global plant growth regulation. Here, we highlight selected recent advances in our understanding of the multidimensional transcriptional networks that regulate meristem activity and discuss emerging insights on how a selection of environmental cues impinges on these networks. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brassinosteroids (BRs), a group of plant steroid hormones, participate in the regulation of plant growth and developmental processes. BR functions through the BES1/BZR1 family of transcription factors, however, the regulation of the BES1 activity by post-translational modifications remains largely unknown. Here, we present evidence that the SUMO E3 ligase SIZ1 negatively regulates BR signaling pathway. T-DNA insertion mutant siz1-2 shows BL (Brassinolide, the most active BR) hypersensitivity and BRZ (Brassinazole, a BR biosynthesis inhibitor) insensitivity during hypocotyl elongation. In addition, expression of BES1-dependent BR-response genes is hyper-regulated in siz1-2 seedlings. The siz1-2bes1-D double mutant exhibits longer hypocotyl than bes1-D. Moreover, SIZ1 physically interacts with BES1 in vivo and in vitro and mediates the sumoylation of BES1. A K302R substitution in BES1 blocks its sumoylation mediated by SIZ1 in plants, indicating that K302 is the principal site for SUMO conjugation. Consistently, we find that sumoylation inhibits BES1 protein stability and activity. Taken together, our data show that the sumoylation of BES1 via SIZ1 negatively regulates the BR signaling pathway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abiotic stresses hamper plant growth and productivity. Climate change and agricultural malpractices like excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides have aggravated the effects of abiotic stresses on crop productivity and degraded the ecosystem. There is an urgent need for environment-friendly management techniques such as the use of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) for enhancing crop productivity. AMF are commonly known as bio-fertilizers. Moreover, it is widely believed that the inoculation of AMF provides tolerance to host plants against various stressful situations like heat, salinity, drought, metals, and extreme temperatures. AMF may both assist host plants in the up-regulation of tolerance mechanisms and prevent the down-regulation of key metabolic pathways. AMF, being natural root symbionts, provide essential plant inorganic nutrients to host plants, thereby improving growth and yield under unstressed and stressed regimes. The role of AMF as a bio-fertilizer can potentially strengthen plants' adaptability to changing environment. Thus, further research focusing on the AMF-mediated promotion of crop quality and productivity is needed. The present review provides a comprehensive up-to-date knowledge on AMF and their influence on host plants at various growth stages, their advantages and applications, and consequently the importance of the relationships of different plant nutrients with AMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Trehalose is a non-reducing disaccharide composed of glucose molecules connected by α-glycosidic bond. this soluble substance plays an important role of protecting green algie and other lower plants from stress. It can help plants cope with extreme environments such as severe cold, drought and high salinity, regulate the stomalal conductance and water utilization rate of plants, and participate in the growth and metabolism regulation of plants as a signal molecule. As an impermeable eryoproteetant, trehalose is widely used in the refrigeration protection of various animal cells and tissues due to its non-toxicity and high efficiency. According to the research results at home and abroad in recent years, the protection, regulation and mechanism of trehalose on plant tissues and animal cells were summarized, so as to provide a theoretical basis for the further development and utilization of trehalose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brassinosteroid (BR) is a family of bioactive steroid hormones that plays vital roles in plant growth and development. The BR-mediated regulation of plant growth and architecture has been well studied. However, relatively few studies have investigated the BR-related regulation of reproductive development because of the difficulties in excluding non-specific regulation and secondary responses from severe vegetative phenotypes and poor nutritional status. Furthermore, differentially regulating the BR signal in vegetative and reproductive organs is problematic. Thus, establishing a method for modulating the BR signal only in reproductive organs or during reproductive developmental stages will be beneficial. Additionally, the utility of BR applications for crop production is limited because of deleterious side-effects, including the associated decrease in the planting density and lodging resistance. Moreover, enhancing the BR signal may lead to feedback inhibition. In this study, we developed a transformation system for modulating the BR signal differentially during reproductive and vegetative developmental stages. This system involves transformations with different combinations of a reproductive tissue-specific promoter, coding sequences that increase or decrease the BR signal, and various genotypic backgrounds with enhanced or decreased BR signals. The enhanced BR signal generated in transformants was targeted to reproductive organs without affecting vegetative organs. This system may be useful for studying the BR-specific regulation of plant reproductive development and shows promise for optimizing seed yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Main conclusion: Isoprenoid and aromatic cytokinins occur in poplar as free compounds and constituents of tRNA, poplar isopentenyltransferases are involved in the production of isoprenoid cytokinins, while biosynthesis of their aromatic counterparts remains unsolved. Cytokinins are phytohormones with a fundamental role in the regulation of plant growth and development. They occur naturally either as isoprenoid or aromatic derivatives, but the latter are quite rare and less studied. Here, the spatial expression of all nine isopentenyl transferase genes of Populus × canadensis cv. Robusta (PcIPTs) as analyzed by RT-qPCR revealed a tissue preference and strong differences in expression levels for the different adenylate and tRNA PcIPTs. Together with their phylogeny, this result suggests a functional diversification for the different PcIPT proteins. Additionally, the majority of PcIPT genes were cloned and expressed in Arabidopsis thaliana under an inducible promoter. The cytokinin levels measured in the Arabidopsis-overexpressing lines as well as their phenotype indicate that the studied adenylate and tRNA PcIPT proteins are functional in vivo and thus will contribute to the cytokinin pool in poplar. We screened the cytokinin content in leaves of 12 Populus species by ultra-high performance-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) and discovered that the capacity to produce not only isoprenoid, but also aromatic cytokinins is widespread amongst the Populus accessions studied. Important for future studies is that the levels of aromatic cytokinins transiently increase after daybreak and are much higher in older plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A field experiment was conducted to know the influence of boron and plant growth regulators on hybrid seed yield in sponge gourd hybrid (Haritha) under protected cultivation. The experiment consisted of six treatments viz., Boron (1g/l), Boron (1 g/l) + GA3(50 ppm), Boron (1 g/l) + NAA (0.3 ml/l), Boron (1 g/l) + Triacontanol (1.5 ml/l), Boron (1g/l) + Homobrassinolide (0.5 ml/l), Boron (1 g/l) + Humic acid (2 ml/l). The treatments were imposed thrice at 2-3 leaf, peak flowering and fruit initiation stages. The results revealed that, spraying of Boron (1 g/l) + NAA (0.3 ml/l) significantly recorded higher vine length (376.6 cm), fruit length (36.2 cm), fruit diameter (17.9 cm), fruit weight (29.8 g), number of fruits per plant (6.83), number of seeds per fruit (148), 100 seed weight (8.91 g), seed weight per fruit (13.1 g), hybrid seed yield per plant (90 g), hybrid seed yield per ha (844.3 kg), seed germination (97.0%), shoot length (17.6 cm), root length (21.7 cm), total seedling length (39.3 cm), seedling dry weight (904.5 mg), seedling vigour index I (3812), seedling vigour index II (87737) and dehydrogenase enzyme activity (1.319 OD value) compared to control (354.3 cm, 32.3 cm, 16.1 cm, 27.0 g, 5.91,133, 8.41 g, 11.1 g, 66.1 g, 619.7 kg, 84.0%, 14.2 cm,20.3 cm, 34.5 cm, 826.3 mg, 2898, 69409 and 0.960 OD value, respectively). The results of the experiment clearly indicated that, among the treatments, Boron (1 g/l) + NAA (0.3 ml/l) was the best treatment for getting higher seed yield and quality in spongegourd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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

Abstract Besides their protective role, polyamines also serve as signalling molecules. However, further studies are needed to elucidate the polyamine signalling pathways, especially to identify polyamine-regulated mechanisms and their connections with other regulatory molecules. Reduced height (Rht) genes in wheat are often used in breeding programs to increase harvest index. Some of these genes are encoding DELLA proteins playing role in gibberellic acid signalling. The aim of the present paper was to reveal how the mutations in Rht gene modify the polyamine-regulated processes in wheat. Wild type and two Rht mutant genotypes (Rht 1: semi-dwarf; Rht 3: dwarf mutants) were treated with polyamines. Polyamine treatments differently influenced the polyamine metabolism, the plant growth parameters and certain hormone levels (salicylic acid and abscisic acid) in these genotypes. The observed distinct metabolism of Rht 3 may more likely reflect more intensive polyamine exodus from putrescine to spermidine and spermine, and the catabolism of the higher polyamines. The lower root to shoot translocation of putrescine can contribute to the regulation of polyamine pool, which in turn may be responsible for the observed lack of growth inhibition in Rht 3 after spermidine and spermine treatments. Lower accumulation of salicylic acid and abscisic acid, plant hormones usually linked with growth inhibition, in leaves may also be responsible for the diminished negative effect of higher polyamines on the shoot growth parameters observed in Rht 3. These results provide an insight into the role of polyamines in plant growth regulation based on the investigation of gibberellin-insensitive Rht mutants. Highlights • Polyamine treatments differently influenced the polyamine metabolism in Rht lines. • More intensive polyamine exodus observed in dwarf mutant. • Lower salicylic acid and abscisic acid levels in the leaves of spermine-treated dwarf mutant. • The above mentioned are responsible for the lack of growth inhibition in dwarf mutant. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth flexibly adapts to environmental conditions. Growth initiation itself may be conditional to a suitable environment, while the most common response of plants to adverse conditions is growth inhibition. Most of our understanding about environmental growth inhibition comes from studies on various plant hormones, while less is known about the signaling mechanisms involved. The mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades are central signal transduction pathways in all eukaryotes and their roles in plant stress responses is well-established, while increasing evidence points to their involvement in hormonal and developmental processes. Here we show that the MKK7-MPK6 module is a suppressor of meristem activity using genetic approaches. Shoot apical meristem activation during light-induced de-etiolation is accelerated in mpk6 and mkk7 seedlings, whereas constitutive or induced overexpression of MKK7 results in meristem defects or collapse, both in the shoot and the root apical meristems. These results underscore the role of stress-activated MAPK signaling in regulating growth responses at the whole plant level, which may be an important regulatory mechanism underlying the environmental plasticity of plant development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The shortage of water in many parts of the world has led to the development of new irrigation strategies such as regulated deficit irrigation and sustained deficit irrigation. Water deficit induces different morphological and physiological responses in ornamental plants, but the application of irrigation strategies can obtain quality plants well adapted to the environment. Deficit irrigation controls plant growth, and can be considered a sustainable technique which avoids the use of plant growth regulators. In addition, root system morphology can be modified by water stress to improve the ability to extract water from the soil and strengthen a plant's physical support. In addition, the application of deficit irrigation during nursery period is a technique frequently used to harden plants before transplanting. Water deficit affects morphological and physiological aspects that might provide a capacity to adapt to adverse conditions. All these features contribute to increasing water use efficiency and the root to shoot ratio and root density, promoting the more rapid establishment of ornamental plants in garden or landscape settings. In view of the results obtained, it is possible to apply and validate the most appropriate irrigation strategy for each species and to obtain the full benefits of applying deficit irrigation. Abbreviations: DI, Deficit irrigation; ETc, Crop evapotranspiration; gs, stomatal conductance; Pn, Net photosynthesis; RDI, Regulated deficit irrigation; SLA, Specific leaf area; WUE, Water use efficiency [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant growth regulators (PGRs) and irrigation affect seed yield of red clover (Trifolium pretense L.). However, the effects of these factors on physiological maturity (PM), harvest maturity (HM), and seed quality are unknown. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to determine the effects of trinexapac-ethyl (TE) PGR and irrigation on PM, HM, and seed viability and vigor on the most common red clover variety in Oregon over 2 yr. Five TE rates, ranging from 0 to 700 g a.i. ha-1, were applied at stem elongation and bud emergence stages. Irrigation was applied at the first flowering stage. Physiological and visual indicators were recorded to determine PM and HM. Standard germination (SG), tetrazolium (TZ) and cold (CT) tests were conducted to evaluate seed quality at weekly intervals starting from seed formation until HM. Irrigation resulted in a 4-d delay in PM compared to the non-irrigated treatment, but TE applications did not affect timing of seed maturation. At PM, flower heads contained light brown petals and brownish-green sepals, whereas seeds were pale green to pale yellow. At HM, heads contained dark brown petals and sepals, whereas seeds ranged from yellow to yellow-dark grayish purple. Seed dry weight did not change from PM to HM. Seed moisture content at PM ranged from 340 to 540 g kg-1 and decreased to below 140 g kg-1 at HM. At HM, seeds reached maximum quality as viability ranged from 92 to 98% by TZ and SG, and vigor ranged from 90 to 94% by CT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: A lots of poultry litter (PL) is being generated every day from poultry industries and improper management leads to different environmental problems. Production of biochar from PL is a new management strategy of PL which is a nutrient-rich organic amendment for improving soil nutritional status. The experiment was aimed for the production of poultry litter biochar (PLB) from fresh PL to assess the important properties of both PL and PLB, and to observe the effects on plant growth. It also appraised the change of soil properties after PL and PLB application.Methods: Poultry litter biochar was produced from fresh PL heated at 300 °C temperature for 10 min in muffle furnace. Poultry litter was applied into the soil at 2.5, 5.0, 7.5 and 10 t ha−1 and PLB was applied at 1, 2, 3 and 4 t ha−1 along with control. Gima kalmi (Ipomoea aquatica) was grown as test plant. To assess the potentiality and residual effect, the same plant was grown consecutively after harvesting first crop. Post-harvest soil analysis was also carried out after harvesting the first crop.Results: After pyrolysis pH, EC, organic carbon, available nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, total phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, and iron were increased in PLB. A significant (p < 0.001) increase in plant growth and biomass production was observed and it was higher in PLB-treated soil than that of the PL-treated soil for both first and second crop.Conclusion: Poultry litter biochar might be a promising organic fertilizer with high nutrient composition than fresh PL. This also could be an ecofriendly management strategy for sustainable agriculture and long-term productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Uniconazole (S3307) and diethyl aminoethyl hexanoate (DA‐6) are known plant growth regulators (PGRs). However, it is unknown if their regulation of sucrose and starch content can affect pod setting and yield in soybean. Herein, S3307 and DA‐6 were foliar sprayed on soybean Hefeng50 and Kangxian6 at the beginning of the bloom cycle in field tests conducted over two years. RESULTS: PGRs promoted the accumulation and distribution of plant biomass and significantly improved leaf photosynthetic rates. Sucrose and starch content increased after PGR treatment across organs and varieties. Accumulation and allocation of sucrose and starch content in soybean source organs are enhanced by PGRs, which supply high levels of assimilate to sink organs. Moreover, sucrose and starch contents in source and sink organs are positively correlated. S3307 and DA‐6 also significantly increased pod setting rates and reduced flower and pod abscission rates, leading to increased yield. CONCLUSION: S3307 and DA‐6 promoted the accumulation and availability of sucrose and starch content in source organs and increased sucrose and starch content in flowers and pods or seeds, thereby maintaining the balance between source and sink organs and contributing to increased pod setting rates and soybean yield. © 2018 Society of Chemical Industry [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Temperature stress is a major environmental factor affecting not only plant growth and development, but also fruit postharvest life and quality. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a class of non-coding small RNAs that play important roles in various biological processes. Harvested banana fruit can exhibit distinct symptoms in response to different temperature stresses, but the underlying miRNA-mediated regulatory mechanisms remained unknown. Results: Here, we profiled temperature-responsive miRNAs in banana, using deep sequencing and computational and molecular analyses. In total 113 known miRNAs and 26 novel banana-specific miRNAs were identified. Of these miRNAs, 42 miRNAs were expressed differentially under cold and heat stresses. Degradome sequencing identified 60 target genes regulated by known miRNAs and half of these targets were regulated by 15 temperature-responsive miRNAs. The correlative expression patterns between several miRNAs and their target genes were further validated via qRT-PCR. Our data showed that miR535 and miR156 families may derive from a common ancestor during evolution and jointly play a role in fine-tuning SPL gene expression in banana. We also identified the miRNA-triggered phased secondary siRNAs in banana and found miR393-TIR1/AFB phasiRNA production displaying cold stress-specific enrichment. Conclusions: Our results provide a foundation for understanding the miRNA-dependent temperature stress response in banana. The characterized correlations between miRNAs and their response to temperature stress could serve as markers in the breeding programs or tools for improving temperature tolerance of banana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: B-box (BBX) proteins play important roles in plant growth regulation and development including photomorphogenesis, photoperiodic regulation of flowering, and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. Results: In the present study we retrieved total 131 BBX members from five Poaceae species including 36 from maize, 30 from rice, 24 from sorghum, 22 from stiff brome, and 19 from Millet. All the BBX genes were grouped into five subfamilies on the basis of their phylogenetic relationships and structural features. The expression profiles of 12 OsBBX genes in different tissues were evaluated through qRT-PCR, and we found that most rice BBX members showed high expression level in the heading stage compared to seedling and booting stages. The expression of OsBBX1, OsBBX2, OsBBX8, OsBBX19, and OsBBX24 was strongly induced by abiotic stresses such as drought, cold and salt stresses. Furthermore, the expression of OsBBX2, OsBBX7, OsBBX17, OsBBX19, and OsBBX24 genes was up-regulated under GA, SA and MeJA hormones at different time points. Similarly, the transcripts level of OsBBX1, OsBBX7, OsBBX8, OsBBX17, and OsBBX19 genes were significantly affected by heavy metals such as Fe, Ni, Cr and Cd. Conclusion: Change in the expression pattern of BBX members in response to abiotic, hormone and heavy metal stresses signifies their potential roles in plant growth and development and in response to multivariate stresses. The findings suggest that BBX genes could be used as potential genetic markers for the plants, particularly in functional analysis and determining their roles under multivariate stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Previous research demonstrated that Pseudomonas chlororaphis subsp. aureofaciens strain M71, a plant growth promoting bacterium (PGPB), exerts beneficial effects on plant metabolism and primes tolerance mechanisms against biotic stresses in tomatoes. We designed an experiment to assess whether root colonization with P. chlororaphis is also able to improve tolerance to water stress in tomatoes. Our results show that inoculation with P. chlororaphis stimulates the antioxidant activity of well-watered tomatoes while maintaining a steady-state level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), increases the expression of genes encoding for the biosynthesis of leaf terpenes, stimulates the production of both the phytohormones ABA and IAA, in turn affecting plant shape (number of leaves) and height (length of internodes), without altering photosynthesis. Upon exposure to mild water stress conditions, an improved antioxidant activity in tomatoes 'primed' by P. chlororaphis inoculation limited the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in leaves and thus enhanced tolerance, also through increase of the (osmolyte) proline content. Moreover, P. chlororaphis inoculation further enhanced the ABA level in leaves of water-stressed tomatoes allowing a more efficient modulation of stomatal closure that resulted in an improved water use efficiency (WUE) and biomass accumulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted to study the agronomic practices for growth and yield maximization of direct sown rice under water constraint situation. The main plot treatments comprised of three levels of irrigation viz., Conventional irrigation (M1), tensiometer based irrigation (M2) and deficit irrigation (M3) respectively and were tested with different water conservation practices viz., soil application of water saving crystals (WSC) @ 5 kg ha-1 (S1), foliar application of drought shield @ 3 liters ha-1(S2), soil application of humic granules @ 2.5 kg ha-1 (S3) and soil application of FYM @ 12.5 t ha-1 (S4). Interaction between different levels of irrigation and water conservation practices were significantly influenced. Tensiometer based irrigation along with soil application of humic granules @ 2.5 kg ha-1 (M2S3) recorded the higher growth and yield parameters in direct sown rice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]