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Watermelon and melon are members of the Cucurbitaceae family including economically significant crops in the world. The expansin protein family, which is one of the members of the cell wall, breaks down the non-covalent bonds between cell wall polysaccharides, causing pressure-dependent cell expansion. Comparative bioinformatics and molecular characterization analysis of the expansin protein family were carried out in the watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) and melon (Cucumis melo) plants in the study. Gene expression levels of expansin family members were analyzed in leaf and root tissues of watermelon and melon under ABA, drought, heat, cold, and salt stress conditions by quantitative real-time PCR analysis. After comprehensive searches, 40 expansin proteins (22 ClaEXPA, 14 ClaEXPLA, and 4 ClaEXPB) in watermelon and 43 expansin proteins (19 CmEXPA, 15 CmEXPLA, 3 CmEXPB, and 6 CmEXPLB) in melon were identified. The greatest orthologous genes were identified with soybean expansin genes for watermelon and melon. However, the latest divergence time between orthologous genes was determined with poplar expansin genes for watermelon and melon expansin genes. ClaEXPA-04, ClaEXPA-09, ClaEXPB-01, ClaEXPB-03, and ClaEXPLA-13 genes in watermelon and CmEXPA-12, CmEXPA-10, and CmEXPLA-01 genes in melon can be involved in tissue development and abiotic stress response of the plant. The current study combining bioinformatics and experimental analysis can provide a detailed characterization of the expansin superfamily which has roles in growth and reaction to the stress of the plant. The study ensures detailed data for future studies examining gene functions including the roles in plant growth and stress conditions.

Although members of the SDR gene family (short chain dehydrogenase) are distributed in kingdom of life, they have diverse roles in stress tolerance mechanism or secondary metabolite biosynthesis. Nevertheless, their precise roles in gene expression or regulation under stress are yet to be understood.As a case study, we isolated, sequenced and functionally characterized the 3β-HSD promoter from Digitalis ferruginea subsp. ferruginea in Arabidopsis thaliana.The promoter fragment contained light and stress response elements such as Box-4, G-Box, TCT-motif, LAMP element, ABRE, ARE, WUN-motif, MYB, MYC, W box, STRE and Box S. The functional analysis of the 3β-HSD promoter in transgenic Arabidopsis seedlings showed that the promoter was expressed in cotyledon and root elongation zone in 2 days' seedlings. However, this expression was extended to hypocotyl and complete root in 6 days' seedlings. In 20 days-old seedlings, promoter expression was distributed to the whole seedling including hydathodes aperture, vascular bundle, shoot apical meristem, trichomes, midrib, leaf primordia, hypocotyl and xylem tissues. Further, expression of the promoter was enhanced or remained stable under the different abiotic stress conditions like osmotic, heat, cold, cadmium or low pH. In addition, the promoter also showed response to methyl jasmonate (MeJA) application. The expression could not be induced in wounded cotyledon most likely due to lack of interacting elements in the promoter fragment.Taken together, the 3β-HSD promoter could be a candidate for the development of transgenic plants especially under changing environmental conditions.

Pharmacological studies have indicated that flavonoids are crucial compounds to eliminate drug resistance. In this report, the activity of ethyl acetate (EAE), methanol (ME) and water (WE) extracts of Coronilla varia L. on antioxidant and enzyme inhibitory activities, DNA protective effects, antiproliferative activities, apoptotic; autophagic and telomerase gene activity analysis in breast cancer cells and inhibitory effects on cell migration ability of malignant breast cancer cells were examined. In addition, HPLC-MS-MS was used for detection of chemical profiles of all extracts. Results showed that the highest concentration of the bioactive components was detected in EAE (50.86 mg GAE/g for phenolics and 25.66 mg RE/g for flavonoid). Also, EAE displayed significant antioxidant properties in radical scavenging and reducing power assays. Regarding enzyme inhibitory effects, EAE and ME were more active than WE. Some significant compounds such as, vitamin B5, riboflavin, citric acid, and isoflavonoid derivate – medicarpin, noscapine were detected only in WE. Apigenin was determined in all extracts. WE indicated the most shield effect on pDNA against oxidative damage. Half-maximal inhibitory concentrations of extracts on breast cancer cells were calculated with MTT cell viability test. Bax gene was up-regulated and anti-apoptotic gene known as Bcl-2 was down-regulated on MDA-MB-231 cells after treated with WE. TERT-1 gene was down-regulated after treated with EAE and ME for MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells, respectively. Cell migration ability of both MDA-MB-231 and MCF-7 cells was prevented with EAE and ME. A more effective treatment strategy can be applied by combining these extracts with commercial chemotherapy drugs which cause apoptosis and cell migration inhibition in vitro.

Sorghum is a versatile crop with great potential as a sustainable food, feed, and bioenergy source. To mitigate the severely negative impact of climate change and population growth on food and energy security, further elevation of the crops stress tolerance is urgently needed. Genome editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas have great potential to accelerate functional genomics and crop improvement by supporting targeted modification of almost any crop gene sequence. We describe the recent progress in genome editing of sorghum. In addition, we review remaining challenges and prospects of emerging gene editing technologies for rapid precision breeding of this crop.

Aim of study: Five Abies taxa naturally distributed in Turkey. Abies nordmanniana has three subspecies and A. cilica has two subspecies. In this study, we aimed to show phylogenetic relationships both in Turkish taxa and in other Abies taxa from around the world based on cpDNA regions, trnR-trnN and rps18-rpl20 regions. Material and methods: Following CTAB-based DNA isolation method, the relevant fir DNA regions were amplified and sequenced. Phylogenetic trees were constructed using maximum likelihood method with 1000 bootstrap replicates. Main results: It was difficult to make distinctions among the Turkish Abies taxa based on the sequenced DNA regions. Based on rps18-rpl20 phylogenetic tree, some members of Abies cilicica subsp. isaurica, A. nordmanniana subsp. equi-trojani and A. cilicica subsp. cilicica were in the same clade with A. spectabilis and A. densa; However, some members of A. nordmanniana subsp. bornmuelleriana, A. cilicica subsp. isaurica and A. nordmanniana subsp. equi-trojani were placed in a clade with A. alba placed near Turkey and A. amabilis known from North America. Highlights: This study provides new insights into the distribution of cpDNA variation in Abies species in Turkey and the genetic variation between firs in Turkey and the rest of the world.

As the safety and effectiveness of synthetic drugs remain in doubt, researchers are trying to develop natural medicines from medicinal plants. Herein, ethyl acetate, methanol and water extracts from the Heracleum humile plant were obtained by an ultrasonic-assisted extraction process and the aim was to evaluate some biological effects of the extracts due to the limited data on the pharmacological properties of Heracleum humile in the literature. Weak antibacterial activity was observed on tested bacterial species. The minimum inhibitory concentration and the minimum bactericidal concentration values ranged from 250 to 500 μg/mL. In addition, cytotoxic activity was determined using the MTT test. The strongest findings were determined for ethyl acetate extract on the MDA-MB-231 cell lines at the 48

The genus Daphne presents great interest as a valuable source of natural agents in traditional medicine of various countries, including Turkey. In the current work, we investigated the phytochemica...

Amaç: Günümüzde giderek artan antibiyotik direnci, bilim dünyasını yeni antimikrobiyal moleküllerin keşfine veya alternatif mücadele yöntemlerinin geliştirilmesi üzerine odaklamıştır. Bu alternatif mücadele yöntemlerinden bir tanesinin bakterilerde quorum sensing (QS; çoğunluğu algılama) inhibisyonu olacağı öngörülmektedir. Çünkü QS sistemi bakterilerde virülans faktörlerinin sentezinde önemli bir rol oynar. Medikal öneme sahip birçok bitkinin umut verici antimikrobiyal ve anti-QS aktivitelere sahip olduğu bilinmektedir. Bu bitkilerden birisinin de Anadolu'da yıllardır yaygın olarak kullanılan çakşır otu (Ferula elaeochytris Korovin) olabileceğini düşünmekteyiz. Bu nedenle, bu çalışmada F. elaeochytris Korovin’in kök özütünün antimikrobiyal ve anti-QS aktivitelerinin araştırılması amaçlanmıştır. Gereç ve Yöntem: Özütün antimikrobiyal aktivitesi, çeşitli mikroorganizmalara karşı disk difüzyon yöntemi ile taranmıştır. Özütün etkili suş veya suşlara karşı minimum inhibitör konsantrasyonu (MİK) ve minimum bakterisidal konsantrasyonu (MBK) değerleri sıvı mikrodilüsyon yöntemi ile belirlenmiştir. Anti-QS aktivite, Pseudomonas aeruginosa ve Chromobacterium violaceum biyoraportör suşlarında sırasıyla piyosiyanin ve viyolasin pigmentleri üretiminin inhibisyonu üzerine araştırılmıştır. Bulgular: Özütün sadece Staphylococcus aureus suşuna karşı antimikrobiyal aktivitesi (zon çapı = 9.3±0.6 mm) tespit edilmiştir. MİK ve MBK değerleri sırasıyla 4.4±1.9 mg/mL ve >105 mg/mL olarak saptanmıştır. Viyolasin üretimi inhibisyonu belirlenmemiştir. Özütün MİK altı konsantrasyon değerleri (1.64 µg/mL ve 3.28 µg/mL) bakteri üremesini baskılamadan piyosiyanin üretimini sırasıyla %60 ve %82 oranında inhibe etmiştir. Öneri: Bu çalışmanın sonuçları F. elaeochytris Korovin'in kök özütünün antistafilokokal ve anti-QS ajanların geliştirilmesi için iyi bir aday olabileceğini göstermektedir., Aim: Today, increasing antibiotic resistance has focused the science world on the discovery of new antimicrobial molecules or the development of alternative methods of struggle. One of the alternative methods is thought to be inhibition of bacterial quorum sensing (QS). Because the QS system performs a crucial part in the synthesis of virulence factors in bacteria. Numerous medicinal plants are known to have promising antimicrobial and anti-QS activities. One of these plants may be giant fennel (Ferula elaeochytris Korovin), which has been extensively used in Anatolia for years. Therefore, it was aimed to investigate the antimicrobial and anti-QS activities of the root extract of F. elaeochytris Korovin in this study. . Materials and Methods: The antimicrobial activity of the extract was screened by disc diffusion assay against various microorganisms. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) of the extract against sensitive strain(s) were determined using broth microdilution assay. Anti-QS activity investigated on inhibition of violacein and pyocyanin production in Chromobacterium violaceum and Pseudomonas aeruginosa bioreporter strains, respectively. Results: The extract exhibited the antimicrobial activity against only Staphylococcus aureus (zone of inhibition (ZOI) = 9.3±0.6 mm). The MIC and the MBC values were determined as 4.4±1.9 mg/mL and >105 mg/mL, respectively. No inhibition of violacein production was detected. Pyocyanin production was reduced by 60% and 82% at sub-MIC concentrations (at 1.64 mg/mL and 3.28 mg/mL, respectively) as against the control (p

Zucchini and cucumber belong to the Cucurbitaceae family, a group of economical and nutritious food plants that is consumed worldwide. Expansin superfamily proteins are generally localized in the cell wall of plants and are known to possess an effect on cell wall modification by causing the expansion of this region. Although the whole genome sequences of cucumber and zucchini plants have been resolved, the determination and characterization of expansin superfamily members in these plants using whole genomic data have not been implemented yet. In the current study, a genome-wide analysis of zucchini (Cucurbita pepo) and cucumber (Cucumis sativus) genomes was performed to determine the expansin superfamily genes. In total, 49 and 41 expansin genes were identified in zucchini and cucumber genomes, respectively. All expansin superfamily members were subjected to further bioinformatics analysis including gene and protein structure, ontology of the proteins, phylogenetic relations and conserved motifs, orthologous relations with other plants, targeting miRNAs of those genes and in silico gene expression profiles. In addition, various abiotic stress responses of zucchini and cucumber expansin genes were examined to determine their roles in stress tolerance. CsEXPB-04 and CsEXPA-11 from cucumber and CpEXPA-20 and CpEXPLA-14 from zucchini can be candidate genes for abiotic stress response and tolerance in addition to their roles in the normal developmental processes, which are supported by the gene expression analysis. This work can provide new perspectives for the roles of expansin superfamily genes and offers comprehensive knowledge for future studies investigating the modes of action of expansin proteins. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s12298-021-01108-w.

This research was funded by the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK), grant number KBAG-115Z470 to E.G. The short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase (SDR) gene family is widely distributed in all kingdoms of life. The SDR genes, 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta-HSD) and progesterone 5-beta-reductases (P5 beta R1, P5 beta R2) play a crucial role in cardenolide biosynthesis pathway in the Digitalis species. However, their role in plant stress, especially in salinity stress management, remains unexplored. In the present study, transplastomic tobacco plants were developed by inserting the 3 beta-HSD, P5 beta R1 and P5 beta R2 genes. The integration of transgenes in plastomes, copy number and transgene expression at transcript and protein level in transplastomic plants were confirmed by PCR, end-to-end PCR, qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis, respectively. Subcellular localization analysis showed that 3 beta-HSD and P5 beta R1 are cytoplasmic, and P5 beta R2 is tonoplast-localized. Transplastomic lines showed enhanced growth in terms of biomass and chlorophyll content compared to wild type (WT) under 300 mM salt stress. Under salt stress, transplastomic lines remained greener without negative impact on shoot or root growth compared to the WT. The salt-tolerant transplastomic lines exhibited enhanced levels of a series of metabolites (sucrose, glutamate, glutamine and proline) under control and NaCl stress. Furthermore, a lower Na+/K+ ratio in transplastomic lines was also observed. The salt tolerance, mediated by plastidial expression of the 3 beta-HSD, P5 beta R1 and P5 beta R2 genes, could be due to the involvement in the upregulation of nitrogen assimilation, osmolytes as well as lower Na+/K+ ratio. Taken together, the plastid-based expression of the SDR genes leading to enhanced salt tolerance, which opens a window for developing saline-tolerant plants via plastid genetic engineering. Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (TUBITAK)

© 2021 Elsevier LtdThe chemical components, in vitro antioxidant capacities and enzyme inhibitory effects of dichloromethane (DCM), ethyl acetate (EA), methanol (MeOH) and water extracts of the medicinal plant, Sida acuta Burm. f. were evaluated. The individual phenolic components were assessed via ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry (UHPLC-HRMS). In terms of chemical composition, phenolics (hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids) and flavonoids were identified as main groups. The antioxidant capacities were evaluated using a panoply of cell-free bioassays and the enzymatic inhibitory potentials against key enzymes involved in human diseases were also determined. The water extract exhibited the strongest scavenging abilities on DPPH (IC50: 1.05 mg/mL) and ABTS (IC50: 1.02 mg /mL). The best cholinesterase inhibitory abilities were observed with the methanol extract (IC50: 0.51 and 0.52 mg/mL for AChE and BChE, respectively), while DCM exhibited the strongest α-amylase (IC50: 1.21 mg/mL) and α-glucosidase (IC50: 0.62 mg/mL) inhibitory effects. The anti-cancer effects of methanol and water extracts were tested on human breast cancer cells, MDA-MB-231, and the methanol extract showed the best anti-cancer effect with an IC50 value of 102.4 μg/mL. In conclusion, the experimental data have demonstrated promising pharmacological activities of S. acuta extracts obtained using different solvents, thereby providing a scientific basis for the validation of the traditional medicinal uses of this plant.

This study was geared towards assessing the possible antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory, and cytotoxic activities of ethyl acetate, methanol, and water extracts of Sideritis ozturkii Aytac & Aksoy. The phytochemical profiles of the studied extracts were characterised by HPLC-MS/MS. The methanol extract, rich in phenolics (78.04 mg gallic acid equivalent/g), exhibited the strongest antioxidant activities. However, the ethyl acetate extract was the most active extract in the enzyme inhibitory assays. The water extract of S. ozturkii (1 mg/ml, 48 h incubation) slightly inhibited (22%) growth of human breast cancer cell line (MDA-MB-231 cells). On the other hand, the ethyl acetate and methanol extracts showed strong inhibition (98% and 97%, respectively) of MDA-MB-231 cells and caused apoptotic cell death. Scientific data generated from this study further appraises the multiple biological activities of plants belonging to the Sideritis genus. In addition, preliminary evidence gathered from the current investigation advocates for further studies geared towards the preparation of therapeutic formulations from S. ozturkii.

Şen, Fatih (Dumlupınar-Author), Broad-spectrum antibiotics have been widely used in the treatment of many systemic and local infections in humans and animals. Herein, we aimed to determine the synergistic and antagonistic effects of phenylalanine with antibiotics cefoxitin, amoxicillin, vancomycin, lincomycin, and bacitracin against 14 pathogenic bacteria. The effect of antibiotics, either alone or in combination with this biomolecular liquid, was tested using the disk diffusion method against different bacteria. The addition of phenylalanine to antibiotic disks directly affected their antimicrobial activity. All the antibiotics used did not show any antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus haemolyticus when used alone. However, in combination with phenylalanine, each antibiotic inhibited the growth of S. haemolyticus. The use of this biomolecular liquid together with amoxicillin and vancomycin also increased the antimicrobial activity against Enterococcus durans. The use of phenylalanine in combination with antibiotics also resulted in antagonistic effects on some pathogens. Further, the effects of antibiotics in combination with phenylalanine on different bacterial pathogens were investigated in vitro. Results provide valuable information to further our understanding of the molecular mechanism of action of antibiotics and to improve their efficacy against bacterial pathogens.

The family of basic leucine zipper (bZIP) transcription factors plays diverse crucial roles in numerous biological processes. Despite the identification of bZIP genes in several plants, to our knowledge, bZIP members in watermelon and melon are yet to be comprehensively investigated. The genomes of watermelon and melon encode 59 ClabZIP and 75 CmbZIP putative genes, respectively. Both bZIP protein family members were phylogenetically grouped into seven subfamilies. The majority of bZIP genes in the same subfamily shared similar gene structures and conserved motifs. Chromosome distribution and genetic analysis revealed that 21 duplication events between ClabZIP genes and 106 duplication events between CmbZIP genes have occurred. Further, the three-dimensional structure and functional annotation of bZIP proteins was predicted. For evaluating the expression patterns of ClabZIP and CmbZIP genes, RNA-seq data available in public databases were analyzed. The expression profiles of selected ClabZIP and CmbZIP genes in root and leaf tissues of drought-stressed watermelon and melon were also examined using qRT-PCR. ClabZIP-57, CmbZIP-52, and CmbZIP-31 genes exhibited the highest expression levels after stress exposure in leaf and root tissues. Gene identification studies like the present study offer new perspectives in the analysis of bZIP protein family members and their functions in plants.

Heat shock proteins (Hsps) play a key role for regulation of the changes during different stress conditions including salinity, drought, heavy metal and extreme temperature. Molecular based studies on the response mechanisms of forest trees to abiotic stresses started in 2006 when Populus trichocarpa genome sequence was completed as a model tree species. In recent years, bioinformatic analyzes have been carried out to determine functional gene regions of tree species. In this study, sHsp, Hsp40, Hsp60, Hsp90 and Hsp100 gene family members were identified in poplar genome. Some bioinformatics analyses were conducted, such as: identification of DNA/protein sequences, chromosomal localization, gene structure, calculation of genomic duplications, determination of phylogenetic groups, examination of protected motif regions, identification of gene ontology categories, modeling of protein 3D structure, determination of miRNA targeting genes, examination of sHsp, Hsp40, Hsp60, Hsp90 and Hsp100 gene family members in transcriptome data during salinity stress. As a result of bioinformatic analyzes made on P. trichocarpa genome; 60, 145, 49, 34, 12 and 90 genes belonging to members of sHsp, Hsp40, Hsp60, Hsp70, Hsp90 and Hsp100 protein families were firstly defined within the scope of this study. A total of 390 genes belonging to all Hsps gene families were characterized using different bioinformatics tools. In addition, salinity stress was applied to Populus tremula L. (Samsun) naturally grown in Turkey, Hybrid poplar species I-214 (Populus euramericana Dode. Guinier) and Black Poplar species (Populus nigra L.), Geyve and N.03.368.A clones. The expression levels of the selected Hsps genes were determined by the qRT-PCR method. After salt stress application in various poplar clones, expression levels of genes including PtsHsp-11, PtsHsp-21, PtsHsp-36, PtHsp40-113, PtHsp40-117, PtHsp60-31, PtHsp60-33, PtHsp60-38, PtHsp60-49, PtHsp70-09, PtHsp70-12, 33, PtHsp90-09, PtHsp90-12, PtHsp100-21, and PtHsp100-75 were increased. The role of the Hsps genes during salt stress has been revealed. Together with detailed bioinformatics analyses, gene expression analysis greatly contributes to understand functions of these gene family members. This research serves as a blueprint for future studies and offers a significant clue for the further study of the functions of this important gene family. Moreover, determined genes in this study can also be used for cloning studies in agricultural practices.

A new series of 2,4-dihydroxyquinoline derived disazo dyes has been synthesized by the reaction of 5-amino-4-phenylazo-3-methyl-1H-pyrazole derivatives with 2,4-dihydroxyquinoline. The structures of the obtained dyes were identified by various spectrophotometric methods such as FT-IR, 1H-NMR, and elemental analysis. The synthesized compounds were also examined for different biological activities, including DNA protection, antimicrobial, and anticancer activities. Compound 3b was found most effective on Gram-positive bacteria. A DNA protection assay was applied to all compounds, and it was found that compounds 3h and 3j had a high capacity for binding to DNA. Besides, compounds 3h and 3j showed cytotoxicity against HeLa and PC3 cancer cell lines. These compounds could potentially be used as drugs or drug additives based on their effects on bacterial and cancer cell lines.

This study aims to establish the biological and chemical profile of Asphodeline liburnica (Scop.) Rchb. root. The antioxidant, antimicrobial, enzyme inhibitory, DNA protection, apoptotic DNA ladder fragmentation analysis, and anti-proliferative of A. liburnica were established using standard assays. In silico study was also performed to understand interactions between quantified anthraquinones and key enzymes of clinical relevance. Total phenolic and flavonoid contents were found to be 9.67 mgGAE/g and 1.48 mgRE/g extract, respectively. Chrysophanol was detected as a major anthraquinone. The extract exhibited radical scavenging ability against DPPH and ABTS with values of 13.23 and 66.99 mgTE/g extract, respectively. Good inhibitory activity against tyrosinase was recorded. In silico experiments showed that the anthraquinones were able to establish coordinative bonds with the copper atoms present in the enzymatic cavity of tyrosinase. MTT cell viability test on MDA-MB-231 cells showed that at 0.1 and 1 μg of extracts induced anti-proliferative effect. Apoptotic DNA fragmentation analysis indicated nuclear condensation resulting in DNA fragmentation, which exhibited apoptotic cell death in the presence of A. liburnica. This study has provided insights on the potential usage of A. liburnica which could open new avenues for research and stimulate future interest for the development of safe novel biopharmaceuticals.

New pyrazole Schiffbases containing azo groups were synthesized using the condensation reaction between p-nitrobenzaldehyde and (E)-4-(phenyl)-1-H-pyrazole-3,5-diamine in the molar ratio of 1:2. Characterization of the compounds was performed by spectroscopic techniques, including IR, UV-Vis, H-1-NMR and C-13-NMR. Biological activity of the compounds was evaluated by analyzing DNA protection, antimicrobial and anticancer properties. Compound 4 was effective for Salmonella typhimurium with the MIC concentration of 62.5 mu g/mL. Moreover, this compound had the highest protection activity on DNA. Cytotoxic activity of compound 4 was determined on the HeLa cancer cell line with the IC50 concentration of 976.6 mu M. The anti-cancer characteristic of compounds 4 and 5 for HeLa cancer was theoretically analyzed by molecular docking study as well. Among the tested compounds, compound 4 possessed significant results due to its in vitro cytotoxic properties. Therefore, it may be considered as a potential bioactive agent for cancer treatment studies. In addition, further in vivo analysis can be performed to indicate its anticancer property. (C) 2021 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. Scientific Research Projects Council of Kastamonu University [KuBAP01/201817] The authors are grateful to the Scientific Research Projects Council of Kastamonu University (KuBAP01/201817) . WOS:000664754100008 2-s2.0-85106596873

Sweet pepper is a typical type of Capsicum annuum from Abruzzo region, recognized as a traditional and local product, traditionally cultivated in the town of Altino (Abruzzo region, Italy). The aim of this study is to compare the sweet type of peppers from Altino with the hot pepper cultivated in the same area, in order to delineate their different phytochemical and biological profiles in vitro and in vivo. In this study, we elucidated their phytochemical composition, fatty acids composition and phenolic/flavonoid contents in extracts. Then antioxidant and enzyme inhibition assays were performed to evaluate their biological properties, together with in vitro cell assay and in vivo anti-inflammatory activity. Microwave (1000 mg/mL) extract of hot pepper showed the best inhibition value on in vitro cell growth assay, in fact, the number of survived cells was about 20% and 40% for microwave and Soxhlet extracts, respectively. In vivo anti-inflammatory assay revealed good activity for both species, which, when associated with in vitro cell inhibition results, could explain the protective effect on human prostatic hyperplasia.

Bidens tripartita L. is a traditional phyto-remedy used in several countries, yet there is still a paucity of data on its biological potential. We aimed to provide new insights on the pharmacological potential of extracts prepared from B. tripartita via highlighting its antioxidant, key enzymes inhibitory potency, and DNA protecting effects. Phytochemical profile was established using High-Performance Liquid Chromatography with Diode-Array Detection (HPLC-DAD) and bioactive compound(s) docked against target enzymes using in silica methods. Cytotoxicity against three cancer cell lines was assessed using the methylthiazolyldiphenyl-tetrazolium bromide (MTT) cell viability test. The main compounds were luteolin-7-glucoside (cynaroside), chlorogenic acid, and epicatechin in the extracts. The methanol extract exhibited the highest radical scavenging activity. Ethyl acetate extract showed strongest a-amylase inhibitory activity, while the best a-glucosidase inhibitory effect recorded for the methanol extract. Molecular docking showed that cynaroside strongly interact to a-glucosidase cavity by establishing six hydrogen bonds. B. tripartita extracts were found to protect supercoiled form of pUC19 plasmid (>70%) and also showed anti-proliferative properties. Results amassed in the present study add on to a growing body of literature on the multi-pharmacological potency of B. tripartita which can be applied to bio-products development geared towards management of common diseases.

Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) is one of the world's most cultivated cereal crops. Biotechnology approaches have great potential to complement traditional crop improvement. Earlier studies in rice and maize revealed that LIGULELESS-1 (LG1) is responsible for formation of the ligule and auricle, which determine the leaf inclination angle. However, generation and analysis of lg1 mutants in sorghum has so far not been described. Here, we describe CRISPR/Cas9 mediated targeted mutagenesis of LG1 in sorghum and phenotypic changes in mono- and bi-allelic lg1 mutants. Genome editing reagents were co-delivered to sorghum (var. Tx430) with the nptII selectable marker via particle bombardment of immature embryos followed by regeneration of transgenic plants. Sanger sequencing confirmed a single nucleotide insertion in the sgRNA LG1 target site. Monoallelic edited plantlets displayed more upright leaves in tissue culture and after transfer to soil when compared to wild type. T1 progeny plants with biallelic lg1 mutation lacked ligules entirely and displayed a more severe reduction in leaf inclination angle than monoallelic mutants. Transgene-free lg1 mutants devoid of the genome editing vector were also recovered in the segregating T1 generation. Targeted mutagenesis of LG1 provides a rapidly scorable phenotype in tissue culture and will facilitate optimization of genome editing protocols. Altering leaf inclination angle also has the potential to elevate yield in high-density plantings.

Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench is an important medicinal herb; its roots, leaves and, flowers have been used by the food and pharmaceutical industries. In this study, DNA protection, antimicrobial, antioxidant-enzyme inhibition, and antiproliferative activities of water, methanol (MeOH), and ethyl acetate (EA) extracts of leaves and flowers of E. purpurea were evaluated. In addition, total phenolics and flavonoids, as well as individual compounds, were identified using colorimetric assays and HPLC-ion trap mass spectrometry, respectively. Chicoric acid and its isomer were the most abundant natural compounds, with concentrations similar to previous studies of E. purpurea. All extracts had antimicrobial activity against a broad range of bacteria, particularly Enterococcus faecalis. The antiproliferative activity of the extracts on the HeLa cells was shown. The lowest value of IC50 (73 μg/ml) came from the 24 h MeOH extract of flowers. The water extract of leaves showed strong antioxidant activity with the DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, and FRAP assays. EA and MeOH extracts of leaves showed a significant inhibition ability of cholinesterase and tyrosinase, respectively. The presented study suggested that E. purpurea extracts had promising therapeutic properties. Further investigation at the cellular level could be done to highlight the mechanism behind these biological activities.

Pittosporum senacia (PS) Putt. (Pittosporaceae), indigenous to the Mascarene Islands, is a common ingredient in traditional medicines. However, there is currently a dearth of studies to validate some of these traditional claims. Given the broad traditional uses of PS against several diseases, we aimed to provide a comprehensive insight into the biological and chemical profile of P. senacia. The antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory activity, anticancer, and phytochemical composition of the methanolic extract of P. senacia leaf extracts were studied. The possible interaction and binding mode of the most abundant phytochemicals were studied via in silico docking experiments on tyrosinase and α-glucosidase. The mechanism behind the cytotoxic property of P. senacia extract for MDA-MB-231 was also examined using different methods including 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) cell viability test checking apoptosis-associated genes, and wound healing assays. Twenty-six compounds were identified, of which caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, ferulic acid derivative, cinnamoylquinic acid derivative and two other polyphenols (oleuropeine and isoramnetin glucoside) being abundant, have been tested using in silico studies, against α-glucosidase and tyrosinase. The extract (IC

WOS: 000479328000035, PubMed: 31185340, This study aimed to reveal chemical profiles and biological activities of ethyl acetate (EA), methanol (MeOH), and water extracts of Lotus corniculatus. Ethnobotanical reports have indicated the importance of phytochemical properties of the genus Lotus. In this study, the effects of medicinal plant extracts on antioxidant (DPPH, ABTS, CUPRAC, FRAP, phosphomolybdenum, and metal chelating assays), enzyme inhibitory (on cholinesterase, tyrosinase, a-amylase and a-glucosidase), DNA protection and anticancer properties (including anti-proliferative, cell death and telomerase activity marker gene analysis, apoptotic DNA fragmentation analysis, cell migration test) were evaluated. According to chemical analysis, quercetin derivatives geraldol, isorhamnetin and kaempferol-O-coumaroylhexoside-O-deoxyhexoside isomers were dominant in the extracts. MeOH extracts showed the highest total flavonoids capacity with 21.13 mg RE/g. EA extract showed the strongest anti-amylase activity among the tested extracts. Water extract had the most protective activity against plasmid DNA. To indicate cell survival, MIT test was performed against human MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells. Half-maximal inhibitory concentration for cells were calculated and used for detection of mechanisms behind the cancer cell death. EA extract showed up-regulation of Bax proapoptotic gene and apoptotic DNA fragmentation activity on highly invasive MDA-MB-231 cells. Beclin-1 and LC3-II autophagy genes were higly expressed after treatment of MCF-7 cells with EA extracts. EA and MeOH extracts inhibited cell migration ability of both cancer cells. Linoleamide, was dominant component in EA extract and caused apoptosis on MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells via increasing intranuclear Ca2+. The detailed mechanism behind the anticancer properties should be further investigated. (C) 2019 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved., Kastamonu University (Kastamonu University Scientific Projects Research Office) [KUBAP-01/2018-7], The authors gratefully acknowledge the generous technical and financial support of Kastamonu University (Kastamonu University Scientific Projects Research Office (Project Number KUBAP-01/2018-7).

WOS: 000471361200005, Cluysophyllum perpulchrum Mildbr. ex Hutch. & Dalziel has been reported to possess several therapeutic properties in African traditional medicine. However, its pharmacological properties have not been fully studied. Herein, we focused on the evaluation of the antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory, antimicrobial and cytotoxic effects of three solvent extracts (ethyl acetate, methanol, and water) of the stem bark and leaves. Polyphenolic components of the extracts were also identified by high-performance liquid chromatography with electrospray ionization mass spectrometric detection (HPLC-ESI-MSn). The methanolic stem bark extract possess the highest DPPH (2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl) scavenging, ferric and molybdenum (VI) reducing, and the highest inhibitory effect against acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase. The aqueous stem bark extract displayed the highest ABTS (2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid)) scavenging and cupric reducing power. In contrast, the leaf ethyl acetate extract was the most effective metal chelator and a-amylase inhibitor while the leaf methanolic extract exhibited the highest tyrosinase and alpha-glucosidase inhibition. The highest total phenolic content (131.58 mg GAE/g extract) was recorded from the methanolic stem bark extract while the leaf methanolic extract was the richest in total flavonoid content (30.43 mg RE/g extract). Flavan-3-ols were main group in the methanol extracts. The minimum inhibitiory concentration values for the methanolic stem bark extract against Gram positive and negative bacteria strains ranged between 62.5-125 mu g/ml. Bark extracts of C. petpulchrtun were very effective against Salmonella kentucky, Proteus vulgaris and Staphylococcus aureus at 62.5 mu g/ml. In addition, cytotoxic activity of stem bark samples was evident at lower concentration than those of leaf extracts. Stem bark extracts displayed the highest prevention against to HeLa cell line (IC50 = 264 mu g/mL after 48 h). In light of the above, C. perpulcluum might provide health benefits against oxidative stress and the associated chronic diseases. Nonetheless, the detailed mechanism of action is yet to be further investigated., Kastamonu University (Kastamonu University Scientific Projects Research Office) [KUBAP-01/2016-45], The authors gratefully acknowledge the generous technical and human support of Universidad de Jaen (ICT of Universidad de Jaen (UJA, MINECO, Junta de Andalucia, FEDER) as well as financial support of Kastamonu University (Kastamonu University Scientific Projects Research Office (Project Number KUBAP-01/2016-45).

Herein, the biogenic platinum nanoparticles (Pt NPs) were synthesized by using black cumin seed (Nigella sativa L.) extract as a reducing agent. The biogenic platinum nanoparticles synthesized by black cumin seed extract was characterized in detail by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), UV–vis spectrophotometer, X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). According to TEM analysis, Pt nanoparticles have spherical shapes and sizes between 1–6 nm. Moreover, the biogenic Pt NPs was assessed for its cytotoxicity effect on MDA-MB-231 breast and HeLa cervical cancer lines and their antibacterial effect against selected strains of gram-positive and negative bacteria. The cytotoxicity and bacterial tests showed the effectiveness of biogenic Pt nanoparticles. Dose-dependent toxicity effects were shown in the MDA-MB-231 breast and HeLa cervical cancer lines (IC50: 36.86 µg/mL and 19.83 µg/mL, respectively). In addition, Pt NPs showed high zone diameters against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria at concentrations of 100 and 500 µg/ml. These results contribute to the development of the pharmaceutical industry as a potential antibacterial and anticancer agent. © 2019 Elsevier B.V., 2018-FBE-A02, This study was funded by the Igdır University Scienti?c Projects Research Of?ce (Project Number 2018-FBE-A02). We would like to thank the SEN Research Group from Dumlupinar University for their contribution.

WOS: 000501651500023, PubMed: 31493741, Pittosporum senacia (PS) Putt. (Pittosporaceae), indigenous to the Mascarene Islands, is a common ingredient in traditional medicines. However, there is currently a dearth of studies to validate some of these traditional claims. Given the broad traditional uses of PS against several diseases, we aimed to provide a comprehensive insight into the biological and chemical profile of P. senacia. The antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory activity, anticancer, and phytochemical composition of the methanolic extract of P. senacia leaf extracts were studied. The possible interaction and binding mode of the most abundant phytochemicals were studied via in silico docking experiments on tyrosinase and alpha-glucosidase. The mechanism behind the cytotoxic property of P. senacia extract for MDA-MB-231 was also examined using different methods including 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) cell viability test checking apoptosis-associated genes, and wound healing assays. Twenty-six compounds were identified, of which caffeoylquinic acid derivatives, ferulic acid derivative, cinnamoylquinic acid derivative and two other polyphenols (oleuropeine and isoramnetin glucoside) being abundant, have been tested using in silico studies, against alpha-glucosidase and tyrosinase. The extract (IC50 = 118.8 mu g/ml) exhibited time and dose dependent anti-proliferative effect on human breast cancer cell line, MDA-MB-231. According to the expression profile of apoptosis inhibitors and apoptosis promoters genes, expression of Bar and Bak genes were significantly increased compared to Bcl-2 and Birc5 genes. Based on wound healing analysis, cell migration was inhibited after the application of the plant extract. The present findings suggested that PS might be a good candidate as sources of bioactive compounds for designing functional applications.

WOS: 000456758800050, PubMed: 30599961, Phyllanduts phillyreifolius var. conunersonii Mfill. Arg is an endemic plant of Mauritius. To date, no study has been performed concerning its polyphenolic profile and pharmacological properties. In this study, a decoction (water), ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of the aerial parts of P. phillyreifolius, obtained from different extraction procedures (maceration and Soxhlet), were studied for antibacterial, antioxidant, anticancer, and enzyme inhibitory properties along with their polyphenolic profile. The ethyl acetate macerated extract showed high antibacterial activity against B. cereus (MIC = 0.293 mg/mL) and E. coil (MIC = 0.417 mg/mL) while S. epidermidis was most susceptible to the ethyl acetate-Soxhlet extract (MIC = 0.521 mg/mL). The methanolSoxhlet extract displayed the most potent cupric and ferric reducing power, and metal chelating effect, while the macerated methanolic extract was the most effective DPPH and ABTS scavenger, and BChE inhibitor. Only the ethyl acetate-Soxhlet extract exhibited alpha-glucosidase inhibition. All extracts exhibited a strong anti-tyrosinase activity, which was further investigated by molecular docking and molecular dynamic. After 48 h exposure to the extracts for HeLa cell lines, the ethyl acetate-Soxhlet extract showed the highest inhibition (IC50 = 533.1 pg/mL) while the decoction extract was more cytotoxic to MDA-MB-231 cells (IC50 = 337.4 pg/mL). Treatment of cancer cell lines with all P. phillyreifolius extracts resulted in a time-dependent reduction of cell viability for HeLa and dose-and time-dependent reduction for MDA-MB-231. Gene expression ratio of Bcl-2 to Bax was higher for all Soxhlet-extracts. Total phenolics (TPC) and flavonoids (TFC) content were highest in the decoction and methanol-Soxhlet extract, respectively (122.43 mg GAE/g extract and 31.28 mg RE/g extract, respectively). The extracts were abundant in ellagitannins, although phenolic acids and flavonoids were also detected. Granatin B was detected for the first time in Phyllanthus species. Overall, the aerial parts of P. phillyreifolius exemplify a potent reservoir of bioactive phytochemicals for therapeutic applications.

The 1,3,4-thiadiazole core has been mainly used as a pharmacological scaffold in medicinal chemistry. A series of Schiff bases derived from 5-substituted-1,3,4-thiadiazole-2-amine were designed and synthesized to investigate their biological activities. Structures of compounds were clarified with FTIR, H-1 NMR and elemental analysis. Due to the importance of this core in pharmacology, all these newly synthesized compounds were tested for different biological properties at the same time. Compound 3A ((E)-N-(2,5-dimethoxybenzylidene)-5-(4-methoxyquinolin-2-yl)-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-amine) and compound 4A ((E)-N-(2,5-dimethoxybenzylidene)-5-(3-methylbenzofuran-2-yl)-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-amine) possessed high DNA protective ability against oxidative Fenton mixture. Compound 1A ((E)-N-(2,5-dimethoxybenzylidene)-5-(benzo[b]thiophen-2-yl)-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-amine) and compound 2B ((E)-2-((5-(1H-indol-2-yl)-1,3,4-thiadiazol-2-ylimino)methyl)-6-methoxyphenol) showed strong antimicrobial activity against S. epidermidis. The most effective compound was detected as compound 3A which exhibited cytotoxicity on both PC-3 and MDA-MB-231 cancer cell lines. The IC50 of this compound was calculated as 370.7 mu M and 505.1 mu M for MDA-MB-231 and PC-3 cells, respectively. Molecular docking studies were also performed to examine the understanding of the mechanism behind the anti-cancer and anti-bacterial properties. For further study, compound 3A has the potential for utilization with chemotherapy drugs to establish a more efficient therapy strategy with minimum cytotoxicity against cancer cells. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved. Scientific Research Projects Council of Kastamonu University [KUBAP-01/2018-12] The authors are grateful to the Scientific Research Projects Council of Kastamonu University (KUBAP-01/2018-12). WOS:000569381800011 2-s2.0-85085842793

This paper reports the anticarcinogenic and antimicrobial properties of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) obtained by green synthesis using the extract of Rheum ribes (R. ribes), a medicinal plant. For the synthesis of Ag NPs, the ethanolic extracts of R. ribes were used as a reducing as well as the stabilizing agent. For the characterization of Ag NPs, advanced analytical methods such as transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and UV–vis spectrophotometry were performed. The synthesized Ag NPs obtained from R. ribes were evaluated as a cytotoxic agent against MDA-MB-231 breast carcinoma cell line. The IC50 values of the nanoparticles were ranged from 165 to 99 µg/mL against MDA-MB 231 cell line for 24 h and 48 h, respectively. The results show that the use of Ag NPs at low concentrations show the toxic effect in the cancer cells. In addition, the results of experiments on gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Bacillus subtilis (B. subtilis)) and gram-negative (Escherichia coli (E. coli)) bacteria showed that the Ag NPs had high antimicrobial activity. The results suggest that Ag NPs can be developed as potential anticancer and antibacterial agents. © 2019 Elsevier B.V.

WOS: 000503323200026, Syzygium species are renowned for being important reservoirs of phytochemicals with pharmaceutical and biomedical potential. However, no attempt has been made to delineate the pharmacological potential and phytochemical profile of Syzgtturt coriaceum Bosser & J. Gueho, an endemic plant to Mauritius. The present study aimed to determine the antibacterial, antioxidant, cytotoxicity, enzyme inhibitory and phytochemical profile of the ethyl acetate and methanol extracts of S. coriaceum. Preliminary qualitative phytochemical study of the extracts showed the presence of phenol, tannins, and alkaloids. Chemical characterisation showed the presence of derivatives of tannins, gallic acids, quercetin, and kaempferol. Potentiating activity between S. coriaceum extracts and antibiotics (ampicillin and streptomycin) using the checkerboard method showed additive interaction. The extracts showed potent 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) (2.95 and 2.93 mmol trolox equivalent (TE)/g sample for ethyl acetate and methanol extracts, respectively) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) (4.09 and 3.83 mmol TE/g sample for ethyl acetate and methanol extracts, respectively) scavenging abilities. Syzygium coriaceum extracts were active inhibitors of alpha-glucosidase (about 47 mmol acarbose equivalent/g sample for ethyl acetate and methanol extract). S. coriaceum methanol extract caused maximum inhibition against human breast adenocarcinoma (MDA-MB-231) cancer cells after 48 h treatment with the IC50 value of 53.41 mu g/mL. Expression of anti-apoptotic Bcl2 and BIRCS genes were down-regulated. It can be concluded that S. coriaceum extracts lead to YIDA-MB-231 cells apoptosis. This investigation has provided a comprehensive report of the biological and chemical profile of S. coriaceum. Collected scientific evidences can open new avenues for research and contributes towards establishing primary data on Syzygium species endemic to Mauritius for bioprospection of novel phytopharmaceuticals.

10th International Symposium on Natural Products Chemistry and Applications (ISNPCA) -- 2019 -- Chillan, CHILE, WOS: 000509791400046, PubMed: 31837349, Ethnobotanical evidences report the use of Rhododendron luteum Sweet (Ericaceae) in traditional medicinal systems. However, R. luteum has been associated to the occurrence of 'mad honey' poisoning. In the present study, the ethyl acetate, methanol, and water extracts of R. luteum were investigated for their in vitro antioxidant, enzyme inhibition, and cytotoxic properties. The cytotoxicity of R. luteum extracts on A549 lung cancer cell line was evaluated using MTT cell viability assay. Besides, HPLC-ESI-MSn approach was employed to elucidate the secondary metabolite profiles of R. luteum in order to establish any structure-activity relationship. Methanol and water extracts of R. luteum possessed highest radical scavenging and reducing properties while the ethyl acetate extract showed highest metal chelating properties. In terms of enzyme inhibition, the methanol and ethyl acetate extracts of R. luteum, possessing epigallocatechin, were active inhibitors of cholinesterase enzymes, a-glucosidase, and tyrosinase. Water extract caused growth inhibition of A549 cells with 207.2 mu g/ml IC50 value. Though R. luteum has received little scientific attention due to the occurrence of grayanotoxins in the plant, however, data presented in this work shows promising biological activity of R. luteum and highlighted its role as a potential source of antioxidant and key enzyme inhibitors.

Isatin, thiosemicarbazone and their derivatives have been widely used in biological applications such as antimicrobial, antiviral and anticancer therapies. Herein, eight isatin and thiosemicarbazone derivative compounds were re-synthesized and evaluated for DNA binding analysis including DNA protection studies using plasmid DNA (pUC19) and DNA interaction experiments using calf thymus DNA (CT-DNA). All compounds were also utilized in vitro assay to assess the antimicrobial activity of compounds against different pathogenic bacterial strains. All isatin and thiosemicarbazone derivative compounds exhibited DNA protection activity which ranged from 23.5 to 59.5%. Among them, I3-(N-2-MP)-TSC had the greatest DNA protective activity. For DNA binding analysis, all compounds had the same constant concentration (40 μM), which interacts with CT-DNA. It was also observed that DNA interactions gave a high intrinsic binding constant (Kb = 1.72 × 104 M−1–9.73 × 105 M−1). Besides, several derivatives of isatin thiosemicarbazone exhibited significant and selective antibacterial activity with low concentration. These compounds primarily affected Gram-positive bacteria, but were not effective against P. vulgaris and E. coli. The Gram-positive methicillin-resistant S. aureus ATCC 43300 (MRSA) was the most influenced strain by these compounds. It was found that methyphenyl group at isatin was essential for its antibacterial activity for MRSA.

Sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) and some oil crops have considerable economic value, making them important for commercial use. The fatty acid content of their seeds is crucial for proper nutrition. Additionally, the desaturation reaction via fatty acid desaturases (FADs) leads to formation of double bonds in fatty acids and is an essential step in fatty acid biosynthesis. This study aimed to identify and compare some fatty acid desaturase gene members in sunflower and other oil crops. Totally, 33 FAD genes from sunflower, 19 from sesame, 20 from canola, 25 from cacao and 46 from flax were analysed. The FAD members had roles in oxidation–reduction processes, fatty acid biosynthetic processes or lipid metabolic processes. Comparative phylogenetic and motif analysis revealed a conserved structure among FAD members belonging to various oil crops. The average Ka/Ks rates calculated on the basis of orthologous gene analysis were 0.04, 0.05 and 0.05 between sunflower and, respectively, canola, cacao and sesame. The most recent divergence time between sunflower and cacao was estimated at an average of 100 million years ago (MYA). This was followed by flax, sesame and canola with an average of 101 MYA, 114 MYA and 149 MYA, respectively. Alpha-helices were dominant in the predicted 3D structures of FAD proteins. The FAB2 expression levels from a drought tolerant sunflower variety were not affected by drought. The characterisation of desaturase family members in economically valuable oil crops could be useful for functional cloning studies to enhance the unsaturated fatty acid contents of the plants.

The Cucurbitaceae family possesses economically important species including cucumber, melon, watermelon, calabash, squash, and pumpkin. In this chapter, future outcomes of genomic research in Cucurbitaceae family members have been intensely discussed. Omics technologies, especially next-generation sequencing, provide mass analysis for genomes and transcriptomes of cucurbits. As a result of the application of these advanced techniques, genes, regulatory sequences, and molecular markers are found in cucurbits genomes. The resolution of the whole genome sequence of cucumber is the cornerstone of genome studies for the Cucurbitaceae family. Genome-wide characterization and expression analysis of specific cucurbits genes enable the identification of agronomically important traits for cucurbits breeders. TILLING (Targeting Induced Local Lesions in Genomes) and resequencing of genomes are also known as genomic approaches in which new mutant alleles and molecular markers are detected at the genomic level in cucurbits members. As a conclusion, extensive genome analysis and editing studies have expanded our knowledge and implementation for genomes of Cucurbitaceae family members.

The heat shock protein 70 (Hsp70) family members are known as molecular chaperones. They play a crucial role in protecting plant cells and tissues from thermal or abiotic stress through protein folding and in assembly, stabilization, activation, and degradation processes. Although many studies have been performed to identify molecular functions of individual family members, there is a limited study on genome-wide identification and characterizations of Hsps in the Populus model tree genus. We have identified 34 poplar Hsp70 genes, which were phylogenetically clustered into three major groups. Gene structure and motif composition are relatively conserved in each group. Mainly tandem and infrequently segmental duplications have a significant role in poplar Hsp70 gene expansion. The in silico microRNA (miRNA) and target transcript analyses identified that a total of 19 PtHsp70 genes were targeted by 27 plant miRNAs. PtHSP70-14 and PtHSP70-33 are the most targeted by miR390 and miR414 family members, respectively. For determination of drought response to Hsp70 genes, publicly available RNA-seq data were analyzed. Poplar Hsp70s are differentially expressed upon exposure to different drought stress conditions. Expression analysis of PtHsp70 genes was also examined under drought stress in drought-sensitive and drought-resistant Populus clones with quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). PtHsp70-16 and PtHsp70-26 genes might provide adaptation to drought stress for both clones. Because of high expression responses to drought in only resistant Populus clone, PtHsp70-25 and PtHsp70-33 genes might be used for determination of drought-tolerant clones for molecular breeding studies. This research provides a fundamental clue for contribution of PtHsp70s to drought tolerance in poplar.

Ribosomal proteins are crucial for the proper growth and development of any organism, including plants. The ribosomal protein L24 (RPL24) is found in the large subunit of the ribosome and is responsible for the stabilization of the peptidyl transferase activity. Although RPL24 gene has been individually identified in different organisms, little is known about the genome-wide survey and expression patterns of R24 genes in Cucurbitaceae family members. We identified seven Cucurbitaceae RPL24 genes from cucumber, melon and watermelon. They were phylogenetically clustered into seven major groups. Gene structure and motif composition are relatively conserved in each group. Three-dimensional homology modelling of RPL24 proteins was performed with higher confidence level. CmRPL24-01 was isolated from melon and characterized at a molecular level. The regulation of ribosomal proteins in melon under drought stress conditions was also studied. The expression of CmRPL24-01 gene increased in melon leaf tissue at 3 h u...