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Summary Pollination syndromes are a key component of flowering plant diversification, prompting questions about the architecture of single traits and genetic coordination among traits. Here, we investigate the genetics of extreme floral divergence between naturally hybridizing monkeyflowers, Mimulus parishii (self‐pollinated) and M. cardinalis (hummingbird‐pollinated). We mapped quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for 18 pigment, pollinator reward/handling, and dimensional traits in parallel sets of F2 hybrids plus recombinant inbred lines and generated nearly isogenic lines (NILs) for two dimensional traits, pistil length and corolla size. Our multi‐population approach revealed a highly polygenic basis (n = 190 QTLs total) for pollination syndrome divergence, capturing minor QTLs even for pigment traits with leading major loci. There was significant QTL overlap within pigment and dimensional categories. Nectar volume QTLs clustered with those for floral dimensions, suggesting a partially shared module. The NILs refined two pistil length QTLs, only one of which has tightly correlated effects on other dimensional traits. An overall polygenic architecture of floral divergence is partially coordinated by genetic modules formed by linkage (pigments) and likely pleiotropy (dimensions plus nectar). This work illuminates pollinator syndrome diversification in a model radiation and generates a robust framework for molecular and ecological genomics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Successful pollination and fertilization are crucial for grain setting in cereals. Wheat is an allohexaploid autogamous species. Due to its evolutionary history, the genetic diversity of current bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) cultivars is limited. Introducing favorable alleles from related wild and cultivated wheat species is a promising breeding strategy for resolving this issue. However, wide hybridization between bread wheat and its relatives is hampered by the presence of suppressor genes and difficulties in crossing. Optimized methods for observing pollen tubes are essential for understanding the mechanism of crossability between wheat and its relatives. Here, we improved the crossing procedure between bread wheat and rye (Secale cereale) and established an optimized protocol for visualizing pollen tube behavior. Crossing via detached spike culture significantly enhanced crossing efficiency and phenotypic stability. A combination of canonical aniline blue staining and optimized clearing and sectioning allowed us to visualize pollen tube behavior. The proportion of rye pollen tubes reaching the micropyle was lower than that for pollen tubes germinated on the stigmatic hair, explaining why the hybrid seed-setting rate was approximately 75% instead of 100%. This method sheds light on wide hybridization through deeper visualization of the insides of pistils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-incompatibility (SI) is a genetic mechanism to prevent self-fertilization and thereby promote outcrossing in hermaphroditic plant species through discrimination of self and nonself-pollen by pistils. In many SI systems, recognition between pollen and pistils is controlled by a single multiallelic locus (called the S -locus), in which multiple alleles (called S -alleles) are segregating. Because of the extreme level of polymorphism of the S -locus, identification of S -alleles has been a major issue in many SI studies for decades. Here, we report an RNA-seq–based method to explore allelic diversity of the S -locus by employing the long-read sequencing technology of the Oxford Nanopore MinION and applied it for the gametophytic SI system of Petunia (Solanaceae), in which the female determinant is a secreted ribonuclease called S-RNase that inhibits the elongation of self-pollen tubes by degrading RNA. We developed a method to identify S -alleles by the search of S-RNase sequences, using the previously reported sequences as queries, and found in total 62 types of S-RNase including 45 novel types. We validated this method through Sanger sequencing and crossing experiments, confirming the sequencing accuracy and SI phenotypes corresponding to genotypes. Then, using the obtained sequence data together with polymerase chain reaction–based genotyping in a larger sample set of 187 plants, we investigated the diversity, frequency, and the level of shared polymorphism of S -alleles across populations and species. The method and the dataset obtained in Petunia will be an important basis for further studying the evolution of S-RNase–based gametophytic SI systems in natural populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterizing the mechanisms of reproductive isolation between lineages is key to determining how new species are formed and maintained. In flowering plants, interactions between the reproductive organs of the flower—the pollen and the pistil—serve as the last barrier to reproduction before fertilization. As such, these pollen–pistil interactions are both complex and important for determining a suitable mate. Here, we test whether differences in style length (a part of the pistil) generate a postmating prezygotic mechanical barrier between five species of perennial Phlox wildflowers with geographically overlapping distributions. We perform controlled pairwise reciprocal crosses between three species with long styles and two species with short styles to assess crossing success (seed set). We find that the heterospecific seed set is broadly reduced compared to conspecific cross success and reveal a striking asymmetry in heterospecific crosses between species with different style lengths. To determine the mechanism underlying this asymmetric reproductive isolating barrier, we assess pollen tube growth in vivo and in vitro. We demonstrate that pollen tubes of short-styled species do not grow long enough to reach the ovaries of long-styled species. We find that short-styled species also have smaller pollen and that both within- and between-species pollen diameter is highly correlated with pollen tube length. Our results support the hypothesis that the small pollen of short-styled species lacks resources to grow pollen tubes long enough to access the ovaries of the long-styled species, resulting in an asymmetrical, mechanical barrier to reproduction. Such reproductive isolating mechanisms, combined with additional pollen–pistil incompatibilities, may be particularly important for closely related species in geographic proximity that share pollinators. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study offers the taxonomy, karyomorphology, and pollen-pistil interactions in the bulbous species Hymenocallis littoralis (Jacq.) Salisb. of the family Amaryllidaceae. The genus Hymenocallis is closely allied to Pancratium, however, differs from the later by filament, number and shape of ovule, and seed characteristics. Detailed descriptions and illustrations of H. littoralis are provided, alongside information on its habitat, distribution, examined specimens, and economic significance. A new somatic chromosome number of 2n = 50 is reported for H. littoralis, and this count was not found to be consistent with any of the earlier reports, offering additional insights into its chromosomal characteristics. Furthermore, the study reveals a high pollen viability of 95% in H. littoralis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Auxin and gibberellin significantly influence plant pistil development, but their specific roles in the formation of the three pistils trait in wheat are still unclear. To investigate the effects of auxin and gibberellin on the three pistils trait in wheat, we measured the contents of auxin and gibberellin in young spikes from three pistils wheat (TP and CM28TP) and single pistil wheat (CM28) at three stages. We also performed transcriptome sequencing. A total of 14 different auxins and 7 different gibberellins were detected from all samples, among which the contents of IAA-Glc and GA19 showed significant differences among different samples. The transcriptome sequencing yielded over 1.28 billion clean reads and 3.2 million transcripts. A total of 2,018 and 6,163 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from the comparisons of CM28 vs CM28TP and CM28 vs TP, respectively. Through the correlation analysis between auxin, gibberellin, and DEGs, 4 ARF genes, 3 AMI genes, and 3 DELLA genes were identified. These results suggest that IAA-Glc, GA19, and the 10 key genes were crucial factors in the formation of three pistils trait. Further analysis showed that ARF expression level and GA contents were negatively correlated with three pistils trait, while DELLA expression level and auxin contents were positively correlated. This study suggests that auxin and gibberellin signal transduction have an antagonistic relationship during wheat flower development, influencing the formation of the three pistils. This discovery helps further understanding of the mechanism behind the formation of the three pistils trait and provides theoretical support for the cultivation of high-yield wheat. [Display omitted] • IAA-Glc, a storage forms of IAA, accumulates in wheat's three pistils formation. • Ten key genes were identified by correlation analysis of IAA, GA content & DEGs. • ARF and DELLA family genes express differently in wheat's three pistils formation. • Auxin and gibberellin may collaboratively influence the formation of three pistils. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species of Lauraceae is described and illustrated from the Andean forests of Santander, Colombia. Aniba alleniae is characterized by leaves obovate, oblong or broadly elliptic and abaxially tomentose, paniculate inflorescences at tip of branches below the terminal bud or along the new growth, sessile flowers with nine stamens in three whorls, whorls I and II with ventral-lateral locules, and the inner surface of the hypanthium and pistil glabrous. Ocotea palaciosii is also reported for the first time for the flora of Colombia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The sorghum inflorescence is consisted of sessile (SS) and pedicellate spikelets (PS). Commonly, only SS could produce seeds and each spikelet produces one single seed. Here, we identified a sorghum mutant, named Double-grain (Dgs), which can produce twin seeds in each pair of glumes. We characterized the developmental process of inflorescence in Dgs and Jinliang 5 (Jin5, a single-seeded variety) using scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results showed that at the stamen and pistil differentiation stage, Dgs could develop two sets of stamens and carpels in one sessile floret, which resulted in twin-seeded phenotype in Dgs. Two F2 mapping populations derived from the cross between Jin5 and Dgs, and BTx622B and Dgs, were constructed, respectively. The genetic analysis showed that Dgs trait was controlled by a single dominant gene. Through bulk segregation analysis with whole-genome sequencing (BSA-seq) and linkage analysis, Dgs locus was delimited into a region of around 210-kb on chromosome 6, between the markers SSR24 and SSR47, which contained 32 putative genes. Further analysis indicated that Sobic.006G249000 or Sobic.006G249100 may be responsible for the twin-seeded phenotype. This result will be useful for map-based cloning of the Dgs gene and for marker-assisted breeding for increased grain number per panicle in sorghum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

One of the first cellular locations of the calreticulin (CRT) chaperone in eukaryotic cells, apart from its obvious localization in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), was the cell nucleus (Opas et al. 1991). The presence of CRT has been detected inside the nucleus and in the nuclear envelope of animal and plant cells, and a putative nuclear localization signal (NLS) in the CRT amino acid sequence has been mapped in several animal and plant species. Over the last 30 years, other localization sites of this protein outside the ER and cell nucleus have also been discovered, suggesting that CRT is a multifunctional Ca2+-binding protein widely found in various cell types. In our previous studies focusing on plant developmental biology, we have demonstrated the presence of CRT inside and outside the ER in highly specialized plant cells, as well as the possibility of CRT localization in the cell nucleus. In this paper, we present a detailed analysis of immunocytochemical localization of CRT inside nuclei of the pistil transmission tract somatic cells before and after pollination. We show a similar pattern of the nuclear CRT localization in relation to exchangeable Ca2+ for two selected species of angiosperms, dicotyledonous Petunia and monocot Haemanthus, that differ in anatomical structure of the pistil and discuss the potential role of CRT in the cell nucleus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on morphological observations, molecular phylogenetic analyses and literature consultations, a new species of Gesneriaceae, Petrocodon mirus, is described and illustrated here. This new species exhibits morphological similarity with P. pulchriflorus and P. hechiensis, but is easily distinguished from the latter two by its slightly leathery leaf blade, liner to ligulate‐oblong lip lobes, and shorter tube with constriction at middle. In addition, the new species differs from P. pulchriflorus by its reflexed adaxial lip lobes, and from P. hechiensis by its included stamen and pistil. However, the stigma of P. mirus is much similar to the chiritoid stigma diagnostic for ChiritaBuch.‐Ham. ex Don (now mostly included in Primulina); based on this observation a new hypothesis for the evolution of the chiritoid stigma is proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the presented research, four recorded species of the genus Silene belonging to the family Caryophyllaceae attained as newly added species to science in the Iraqi flora. The current work involved the study of the morphological features of the vegetative and floral parts of these new species recorded in Iraq. The newly identified species were S. muscipula, S. nocturna, S. latifolia, and S. sedoides, belonging to the family Caryophyllaceae. The collected samples of the different landraces came from separate locations in the Northern Iraqi Mountains. The study also recorded information on locations, longitude, latitude, and collection dates. The diagnosis of four species and their naming relied on flora from neighboring countries, such as the Flora Iranica and Flora of South Africa. After confirmation, the description assessment of vital parts of the new plant species included the shape, leaf venation, length, shape, and calyx tube venation, the modification shapes, appendages of coronal scales petals, and pistil structures. The plant part images of the different landraces also enhanced the morphological characteristics of these new species under study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Self-incompatibility (SI) is a complex mechanism that prevents plants from self-fertilizing to preserve and promote genetic variability. The angiosperm species have developed two different SI systems, the sporophytic (SSI) and the gametophytic (GSI) systems. SI is a significant impediment to steady fruit production in fruit tree species of the Rosaceae. In Rosaceae, GSI is genetically regulated via a single locus, named the 'S-locus', which includes a minimum of two polymorphic and relatively intercorrelated S genes: a pistil-expressed S-RNase gene and several pollen-expressed SFBB (S-locus F-Box Brothers) or SFB (S haplotype-specific F-box protein). This necessitates the interaction of S-RNases with the male determinants. Although genetic and molecular analyses of S genes have shown that mutations in both pistils and pollen-specific components induce self-compatibility in many species and cultivars, other genes or molecules outside the S-locus can co-participate in the male gamete rejection in GSI. However, we highlight and synthesize the most recent knowledge on different mechanisms of GSI in Rosaceae in this current review. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prezygotic isolation is important for successful fertilization in rice, significantly affecting yield. This study focused on F 5:6 generation plants derived from inter-subspecific crosses (Nipponbare × KDML105) with low (LS) and high seed-setting rates (HS), in which normal pollen fertility was observed. However, LS plants showed a reduced number of pollen grains adhering to the stigma and fewer pollen tubes reaching the ovules at 4‒5 h post-pollination, compared with HS plants. Bulked segregant RNA-Seq analysis of pollinated pistils from the HS and LS groups revealed 249 and 473 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), respectively. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis of the HS and LS- specific DEGs indicated enrichment in metabolic pathways, pentose and glucuronate interconversions, and flavonoid biosynthesis. Several of these DEGs exhibited co-expression with pollen development genes and formed extensive clusters of co-expression networks. Compared with LS pistils, enzyme genes controlling pectin degradation, such as OsPME35 and OsPLL9 , showed similar expression patterns, with higher levels in HS pistils pre-pollination. Os02g0467600 , similar to cinnamate 4-hydroxylase gene (CYP73), involved in flavonoid biosynthesis, displayed higher expression in HS pistils post-pollination. Our findings suggest that OsPME35 , OsPLL9 , and Os02g0467600 contribute to prezygotic isolation by potentially modifying the stigma cell wall (OsPME35 and OsPLL9) and controlling later processes such as pollen-stigma adhesion (Os02g0467600) genes. Furthermore, several DEGs specific to HS and LS were co-localized with QTLs and functional genes associated with spikelet fertility. These findings provide valuable insights for further research on rice spikelet fertility, ultimately contributing to the development of high-yielding rice varieties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus (L.) G. Don) is renowned for its diverse colors and resilience to harsh climates. Still, most commercial cultivars predominantly display flat petals. Using cultivars representing non-wavy, medium-wavy, and extreme-wavy flower forms, we examined morphological differences in both their mature leaves and floral organs. Phenotypes of self-pollinated (S1) and cross-pollinated (F1, F2) populations further underscored their morphological distinctions. Specifically, the extreme-wavy type displayed elliptical leaves, broader than the non-wavy type, with a pronounced acute apex and a notably wrinkled blade surface. The non-wavy type also bore intensely wavy petal margins and exhibited a smaller flower diameter, with a notable absence of a functional pistil, indicating female sterility. The insights gained allowed for early differentiation during the seedling period. This study suggests that the inheritance of these flower forms is regulated by an allele WAVY (Wv), which exhibits incomplete dominance. Concretely, the non-wavy form arises from a recessive homozygous expression (wvwv), the extreme-wavy from a dominant homozygous expression (WvWv), and the medium-wavy from a heterozygous expression (Wvwv). This study provides clarity on morphological descriptions and inheritance patterns of wavy flower forms, facilitating strategic breeding of diverse flower forms in periwinkle. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primulina guarouba, a new species from the limestone area of northern Guangxi, China, is described and illustrated. According to the maximum likelihood (ML) and Bayesian inference (BI) analysis, it nests in a strongly supported clade (BP = 99%) that includes P. cordifolia, P. repanda and P. huangii. Of these, P. guarouba is similar to the P. cordifolia in morphology, but it is easily distinguished from the latter by some of the distinct characters in leaf blade, peduncles, bracts, calyx, corolla, pistil. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cherry (Prunus avium) fruits are important sources of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients in the human diet; however, they contain a large stone, making them inconvenient to eat 'on the move' and process. The exogenous application of gibberellic acid (GA3) can induce parthenocarpy in a variety of fruits during development. Here, we showed that the application of GA3 to sweet cherry unpollinated pistils acted as a trigger for fruit set and permitted the normal formation of fruit up to a period of twenty-eight days, indicating that gibberellins are involved in the activation of the cell cycle in the ovary wall cells, leading to fruit initiation. However, after this period, fruit development ceased and developing fruit began to be excised from the branch by 35 days post treatment. This work also showed that additional signals are required for the continued development of fully mature parthenocarpic fruit in sweet cherry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article explores the process of ovule abortion and its implications for the invasiveness and seed dispersal of Hyptis suaveolens Lamiaceae Poit species. The study examines the anthesis and dehiscence of anthers, stigma receptivity, path of pollen tubes under fluorescence microscope, pollen-ovule ratio, and time and duration of visits of insects on the flower. It evaluates the total number of pistils with ovule abortion and floral morphology.

Pitaya flower, a medicinal and edible plant commonly used in tropical and subtropical regions, was the focus of this study, which compared the effects of hot-air drying (HAD) and vacuum drying (VD) on phytochemical profiles and biological activities of its four parts: calyx, petals, stamens, and pistils. Both drying methods significantly increased the total phenolic content (TPC) of pitaya flowers, with values ranging from 1.86 to 3.24 times higher than those of fresh samples. Twelve flavonoid compounds were identified in pitaya flowers, with the glycoside derivatives of three flavonols (kaempferol, isorhamnetin, and quercetin) being the most abundant. VD resulted in 1.15 times higher total flavonoid glycoside content than HAD, whereas in petals, HAD yielded a total flavonoid glycoside content 1.21 times higher than VD. Both HAD and VD effectively increased the antioxidant capacities of pitaya flowers, though the difference between the two methods was not significant. Additionally, both drying methods enhanced the antiproliferative activity of pitaya flowers, with HAD showing a more significant effect than VD. The present study emphasized the efficacy of drying methods for enhancing flavonoids in pitaya flowers and provided insights for functional products' innovation with different parts of pitaya flowers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Science & Technology of Food Industry is the property of Science & Technology of Food Industry Editorial Office 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.)

Self-incompatibility (SI) is a crucial mechanism that prevents self-fertilization and inbreeding in flowering plants. Citrus exhibits SI regulated by a polymorphic S -locus containing an S-RNase gene and multiple S -locus F-box (SLF) genes. It has been documented that S-RNase functions as the pistil S determinant, but there is no direct evidence that the SLF genes closely linked with S-RNase function as pollen S determinants in Citrus. This study assembled the genomes of two pummelo (Citrus grandis) plants, obtained three novel complete and well-annotated S -haplotypes, and isolated 36 SLF or SLF-like alleles on the S -loci. Phylogenetic analysis of 138 SLFs revealed that the SLF genes were classified into 12 types, including six types with divergent or missing alleles. Furthermore, transformation experiments verified that the conserved S6-SLF7a protein can lead to the transition of SI to self-compatibility by recognizing non-self S8-RNase in 'Mini-Citrus' plants (S 7 S 8 and S 8 S 29 , Fortunella hindsii), a model plant for citrus gene function studies. In vitro assays demonstrated interactions between SLFs of different S haplotypes and the Skp1–Cullin1–F-box subunit CgSSK1 protein. This study provides direct evidence that SLF controls the pollen function in Citrus , demonstrating its role in the 'non-self recognition' SI system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to characterize the reproductive compatibility among cultivars and selections of Japanese plum through controlled pollination, both in vivo and in situ, to obtain a profile of reproductively compatible cultivars. In situ and in vivo self-pollinations were carried out in an F1 population of Japanese plum, and in vivo pollinations were conducted on the pollen-grain receptor cultivars: Laetitia, Zafira and Fortune, and the pollen-grain donor cultivars: Piamontesa, Selection Plum 86-13, Harry Pickstone, Black Amber, Bruce, SC-17, Laetitia, SC-15, SC 7, Zafira, Amarelinha, América, Reubennel and Fortune, to verify the percentage of germination of pollen grains and growth of pollen tubes in the pistils of the recipient plants. The in situ and in vivo assays for the F1 population confirm the self-compatibility of genotypes 13 and 35. The Laetitia cultivar is self-incompatible; however, it is compatible with the Selection 'Plum 86-13'. 'Zafira' is self-incompatible. 'Fortune' is compatible with 'Amarelinha', 'SC-7', 'America', 'Harry Pickstone' and 'Reubennel', but it is self-incompatible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The development of Ceanothus perplexans Trelease (Rhamnaceae) flowers was observed during April in 2023 and 2024 in the Cerbat Mountains of western Arizona. Flowers are strongly protandrous, with anthers dehiscing inside flower buds. Nectar is produced when flowers begin to open; the anthers are exposed; and the pistil is short and blue or purple. Fully open flowers lack most pollen and produce abundant nectar surrounding an elongated, pale pistil with blue or purple stigmas. Most flowers begin opening during the morning and become fully open during midday. Flowers in each inflorescence open on different days within a 4-day time span, and inflorescences on each shrub flower at around the same time. Flower development resembles other species in the family, except for differences in the timing of pollen and nectar production, and separates pollen acquisition and deposition by pollinating insects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have shown that ethylene levels in flower buds are key to sex determination in plants. However, the roles of ethylene in wheat flower development are poorly understood. In this study, pistillody wheat HTS-1 (three-pistil trait), CM28TP (three-pistil trait), CS (one-pistil trait), and CM28 (one-pistil trait) were used as experimental materials. The effect of exogenous ethephon (ETH) and 1-methylcyclopropene (1-MCP) on the morphology of wheat flowers and candidate genes in the ethylene signaling pathway was investigated. The results revealed that exogenous ETH or 1-MCP treatment had a strong effect on the stamens but not on the pistils of wheat. Specifically, after treatment with ETH, the stamens of CS and CM28 became significantly shorter, while in CM28TP, 71.38% of stamens were homologously transformed into pistils or pistil-like structures (pistillody). Moreover, after treatment with 1-MCP, the pistillody stamens of HTS-1 were transformed back into stamens, and the pistillody rate decreased from 73.61 to 55.25%. Furthermore, pistillody occurred in three-pistil wheat but not in one-pistil wheat, so the three-pistil trait was closely related to the occurrence of pistillody. In addition, the expression of the ethylene transduction genes TaETR1, TaCTR1, and TaEIN2 and the ethylene response gene TaERF was upregulated under pistillody. Among them, TaCTR1 presented the highest level under pistillody, being 150 times in HTS-1 and 103 times higher in CM28TP treated with ETH than in CM28TP. Moreover, the ERELEE4 cis-acting element was found upstream of the TaCTR1 gene promoter and could facilitate homologous transformation of stamens into pistils or pistil-like structures. The results lay a theoretical foundation for analyzing the effect of ethylene on wheat flower development and supply important information for wheat hybrid breeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Objective] The present study aimed to provide key information for an in-depth exploration of the reasons behind the low yield of Prunus salicina var. Fengtangli by analyzing the process of flower bud differentiation and flowering in Fengtangli. [Method] A relatively high- yielding plum variety, Mili No. 1, was selected as the control. The external characteristics and size of flower buds in Fengtangli and Mili No. 1 were observed. The anatomical structure, deformities and the number of flower primordia were studied using the paraffin section method. The flowering process, flower quantity and the occurrence of abnormal flowers were also investigated. (Result) Both Fengtangli and Mili No. 1 plums experienced undifferentiated, initial differentiation, sepal primordia differentiation, petal primordia differentiation, stamen primordia differentiation, and pistil primordia differentiation phases during flower bud differentiation. Although the initiation time of flower bud differentiation in Fengtangli was similar to Mili No. 1, the peak period of differentiation in Fengtangli occurred relatively early, mainly concentrated from mid-September to the end of October. Furthermore, Fengtangli exhibited a higher occurrence of abnormal flower buds during the peak period, with fewer flower primordia differentiated in each bud. During the flowering period, the flower quantity of Fengtangli was significantly lower than that of other plum varieties, and a higher frequency of short pistils and double pistils in abnormal flowers was observed. Continued observation revealed that late-stage double pistil flowers could develop into deformed double fruits. [Conclusion] The peak period of flower bud differentiation and the occurrence of abnormal flower buds in Fengtangli are from mid-September to the end of October. Fengtangli has a higher proportion of deformities in flower buds, and each flower bud differentiates fewer flower primordia. These factors contribute to the higher occurrence of abnormal flowers and lower flower quantity during flowering, potentially explaining one of the reasons for the low yield of Fengtangli plum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Successful pollination and fertilization are crucial for grain setting in cereals. Wheat is an allohexaploid autogamous species. Due to its evolutionary history, the genetic diversity of current bread wheat (Triticum aestivum) cultivars is limited. Introducing favorable alleles from related wild and cultivated wheat species is a promising breeding strategy for resolving this issue. However, wide hybridization between bread wheat and its relatives is hampered by the presence of suppressor genes and difficulties in crossing. Optimized methods for observing pollen tubes are essential for understanding the mechanism of crossability between wheat and its relatives. Here, we improved the crossing procedure between bread wheat and rye (Secale cereale) and established an optimized protocol for visualizing pollen tube behavior. Crossing via detached spike culture significantly enhanced crossing efficiency and phenotypic stability. A combination of canonical aniline blue staining and optimized clearing and sectioning allowed us to visualize pollen tube behavior. The proportion of rye pollen tubes reaching the micropyle was lower than that for pollen tubes germinated on the stigmatic hair, explaining why the hybrid seed-setting rate was approximately 75% instead of 100%. This method sheds light on wide hybridization through deeper visualization of the insides of pistils.

Self-incompatibility (SI) is a complex mechanism that prevents plants from self-fertilizing to preserve and promote genetic variability. The angiosperm species have developed two different SI systems, the sporophytic (SSI) and the gametophytic (GSI) systems. SI is a significant impediment to steady fruit production in fruit tree species of the Rosaceae. In Rosaceae, GSI is genetically regulated via a single locus, named the ‘S-locus’, which includes a minimum of two polymorphic and relatively intercorrelated S genes: a pistil-expressed S-RNase gene and several pollen-expressed SFBB (S-locus F-Box Brothers) or SFB (S haplotype-specific F-box protein). This necessitates the interaction of S-RNases with the male determinants. Although genetic and molecular analyses of S genes have shown that mutations in both pistils and pollen-specific components induce self-compatibility in many species and cultivars, other genes or molecules outside the S-locus can co-participate in the male gamete rejection in GSI. However, we highlight and synthesize the most recent knowledge on different mechanisms of GSI in Rosaceae in this current review.

Allium purpureotunicatum Aytaç, Ekşi & Koçyiğit (Amaryllidaceae), a new species of sect. Scorodon, is described and illustrated from Kütahya Province, western Turkey. It is a narrowly distributed geophyte growing on calcareous marl slopes, resembling closely A. sibthorpianum and A. rumelicum. Allium purpureotunicatum differs from those species by its shorter tepals, longer filaments and pistil morphology. It also resembles A. stamineum by having pink flowers, stamens significantly longer than perigon, and a spherical ovary, but differs from it by having coriaceous, distinctly striped and purplish-pink inner tunics as well as fewer flowers. Following IUCN Red List Categories and Criteria, we assessed A. purpureotunicatum as Endangered (EN). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ocotea velloziana (Lauraceae) is a species with cryptic dioecy. The staminate flowers of this species have a pistillode and pistillate flowers have staminodes, which often makes it difficult to describe circumscribe the reproductive system correctly. Therefore, to understand the evolution of dioecy in this species, the morphology of both floral morphotypes needs to be described. We apply traditional and modern approaches to describe the comparative floral anatomy of the two floral morphotypes in O. velloziana. We found that the pistillate flowers have fewer (three) vascular traces in the tepals (compared to five traces in the tepals of the staminate flowers). The pistillode and the staminodes in the flowers of O. velloziana are smaller and less vascularized than their homologous, fertile counterparts, the pistils and stamens. In addition, even though the nectaries are smaller in pistillate flowers, their basic morphology and vascularization are similar in the two floral morphotypes. Our results suggest androtepaly in O. velloziana, however future ontogenetic studies and investigation of the vascularization are necessary in other Lauraceae species to clarify this issue. The nectaries have originated from the hypanthium and may be characterized as nectar-secreting emergencies not homologous to the stamens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The interaction between miRNAs (microRNAs) and target genes plays an important role in plant pistil development. MiRNAs related to pistils were explored in pomegranate. The differentially expressed miRNAs were screened at different developmental stages of pomegranate pistils, and their target differentially expressed mRNAs were further identified to clarify the regulatory effect of miRNAs on pistil development. In our study, 61 conserved miRNAs were identified in 30 families, including miR395, miR394, miR393, miR161, miR162, and miR168. Among them, miR156, miR157, miR159, miR160, miR164, miR165, miR166, miR167, miR169, and miR172 were involved in the development of flower organs. Eight miRNAs were randomly selected and verified for qRT-PCR analysis. The result analysis indicated that miR160, miR164, and miR172 might be positive factors in the regulation of pomegranate pistil development. MiR156 and miR166 might be involved in regulation of pomegranate pistil development as negative factors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sulforaphene is an isothiocyanate which is produced by the hydrolysis from glucoraphenin, one of glucosinolates mostly found in radish plant. This study evaluates the genetic diversity of sulforaphene contents from the seedlings of 29 radish genotypes in an attempt to find a variety with a high extraction yield and which can be used as a breeding source of intergeneric hybrid vegetable Baemuchae. The sulforaphene content was highest in the seedlings of 'Cheongwoonplus' (1,426.8 mg kg− 1 FW) and 'Taebaek' (1,363.3 mg kg− 1 FW) cultivars and lowest in the 'Matchuimbom' (328.7 mg kg− 1 FW) cultivar. The sulforaphene contents of four radish cultivars and three Baemuchae varieties sharply decreased during seedling growth; however, they were much higher in the seedlings of radish cultivars than in Baemuchae varieties. The sulforaphene contents in unpollinated pistil tissues were not affected by species, whereas they responded differently to the cultivar or variety. After pollination, the sulforaphene content gradually increased in radish cultivars during seed development, but relatively much less in Baemuchae varieties. These results indicated that the sulforaphene content varied widely in the seedlings of radish cultivars. Sulforaphene gradually accumulated after pollination during seed development in radish cultivars, but not much in Baemuchae varieties. However, not much difference was observed in the sulforaphene contents of unpollinated pistil tissues of radish and baemoochae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Floral fragrance, as one of the evaluation indicators for ornamental plants, influences people's perception of these plants. To explore the volatile compounds and their application value in different parts of Iris typhifolia and to investigate the contributions of each part to the floral aroma, an AIRSENSE electronic nose, principal component analysis (PCA), linear discriminant analysis (LDA), and loading analysis (Loading) are employed to study the differences in floral components among the various parts. Samples from the stamen, pistil, flag petal, and pendant petal are qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed using solid-phase microextraction (SPME) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques, combined with spectral library retrieval, cluster analysis, and Odor Activity Value (OAV) calculation. The results show that the electronic nose significantly distinguished the aromas from different parts, and there are significant differences in aroma composition. Through cluster analysis and OAV calculation, it is found that the pistil makes the primary contribution to the floral profile of Iris typhifolia, due to the presence of caproaldehyde, 2-methoxy-3-sec-butylpyrazine, and abundant terpenes. This research provides a valuable reference for reconstructing the floral aroma profile, extracting bioactive substances, and exploring aromatherapy with Iris typhifolia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultrastructure of stigmatic and stylar secretory tissues was studied in one cultivar of Pyrus communis and six cultivars of Pyrus pyrifolia var. culta (the so-called Nashi pear) using standard light, scanning, and transmission electron microscopy methods. Although both tissues secreted an extracellular fluid necessary for the development of male gametophyte, they differed markedly in the ultrastructure of the extracellular matrix and in the distribution and ultrastructure of organelles. The difference was most evident in regard to the endoplasmic reticulum, which represented the rough, smooth, and vesicular type in stigmatic papillate epidermis and distal stigmatoid tissue cells and occurred mainly as the rough type in form of expanded cisternae filled with fine-fibrillar content in the transmitting tissue of the style.

SUMMARY: Switch defective/sucrose non‐fermentable (SWI/SNF) chromatin remodeling complexes are evolutionarily conserved, multi‐subunit machinery that play vital roles in the regulation of gene expression by controlling nucleosome positioning and occupancy. However, little is known about the subunit composition of SPLAYED (SYD)‐containing SWI/SNF complexes in plants. Here, we show that the Arabidopsis thaliana Leaf and Flower Related (LFR) is a subunit of SYD‐containing SWI/SNF complexes. LFR interacts directly with multiple SWI/SNF subunits, including the catalytic ATPase subunit SYD, in vitro and in vivo. Phenotypic analyses of lfr‐2 mutant flowers revealed that LFR is important for proper filament and pistil development, resembling the function of SYD. Transcriptome profiling revealed that LFR and SYD shared a subset of co‐regulated genes. We further demonstrate that the LFR and SYD interdependently activate the transcription of AGAMOUS (AG), a C‐class floral organ identity gene, by regulating the occupation of nucleosome, chromatin loop, histone modification, and Pol II enrichment on the AG locus. Furthermore, the chromosome conformation capture (3C) assay revealed that the gene loop at AG locus is negatively correlated with the AG expression level, and LFR‐SYD was functional to demolish the AG chromatin loop to promote its transcription. Collectively, these results provide insight into the molecular mechanism of the Arabidopsis SYD‐SWI/SNF complex in the control of higher chromatin conformation of the floral identity gene essential to plant reproductive organ development. Significance Statement: This study provides insight into the molecular mechanism of the Arabidopsis SYD‐SWI/SNF complex in the control of higher chromatin conformation of the floral identity gene essential to plant reproductive organ development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Leucojum aestivum is a perennial bulbous plant belonging to the Amaryllidaceae family. Climate change causes an increase in the danger of plant species extinction by producing negative effects on biodiversity and geographical distribution of species. In this study, phenological observations were obtained from L. aestivum populations, which are naturally distributed in Bursa Karacabey, then the morphological characteristics were determined. Also, MaxEnt programme was used to determine the current and future potential distribution areas of the L. aestivum populations in terms of climate change. The plant height of L. aestivum was determined to be an average of 60.92 土 10.38 cm. The width of the bulbs was 31.30 土 6.77 mm on average, and also the mean length was 34.67 土 6.22 mm. The mean weight was 21.35 土 11.74 g. The mean width of the broad linear leaves is 12.61 土 3.50 mm and also 51.53 土 15.38 cm for their mean length. The mean width of the white flowers was 22.97 土 4.01 mm and mean length was 20.56 土 1.80 mm. The mean flower stalk length was found to be 36.62 土 17.33 mm. The number of flowers was an average of 5.54 土 1.21. The mean anther length was 8.98 土 1.01 mm. The mean length of the pistil was found to be 11.93 土 0.84 mm. The mean width of the fruits was 20.86 土 3.62 mm. The number of fruits was found to be a minimum of 1 and maximum of 7 with an average of 2.12 土 1.61. The mean width of the seeds was 6.58 土 0.50 mm; and also the number of seeds was found to be at least 1 and at most 26 with an average of 8.16 土 4.90. According to the outputs of the two scenarios, which we evaluated as mild or strict, while no situation was present that would endanger the extinction of the species in Turkey over the next 80 years based on the SSP1-2.6 scenario; however serious reductions in the distribution areas of the species based on the SSP5-8.5 scenario. For this reason, in-situ and ex-situ conservation measures should be taken according to the species and their habitat requirements, and it is suggested to impose various conservation based sanctions and restrictions apart from these measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose. To study in vitro the morphological and cytological characteristics of anthers, pollen and pistils of plants of the genus Miscanthus. Methods. Preparations of pistils, unpollinated seed buds, anthers and pollen, unstained or stained with a solution of carmine (2%) in acetic acid (45%) or methylene blue solution, were examined by light microscopy. Measurements for plants of different Miscanthus species, as well as counting the number of pollen of different diameters, were made in ten replicates. Results. The morphological and cytological characteristics of the reproductive organs of M. sinensis, M. sacchariflorus and M. giganteus species were studied. It was found that the flower of this plant is monoecious, containing both stamens and a pistil. The color of the anthers is yellow or pinkish-yellow, their tissues consist of elongated cells 70-100 μm long. The pistil has a two-column ovary with long (2.0-2.8 mm) pinnate stigmas which vary in color from white to bright pink. The shape of the pistil feather is moderately branched; length - 160-300 μm; width - 20-30 μm; alternate position; the number of small branches is 10-15 pcs. The pollen of different Miscanthus species differ in qualitative and quantitative characteristics, in particular in M. sinensis and M. sacchariflorus it is characterized by a rounded shape, evenness and uniformity (43-48 μm in diameter), whereas in M. giganteus it is more heterogeneous in size (23-45 μm in diameter). The pollen has a rounded, decorated pore with a diameter of 2.7-4.0 μm. Conclusions. According to the results of the conducted research, the morphological and cytological characteristics of the reproductive organs of M. sinensis, M. sacchariflorus and M. giganteus, namely: pistils, anthers and pollen, were provided. The data obtained should be taken into account in future breeding for the production of di- and triploid Miscanthus hybrids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Heat stress during gametogenesis leads to spikelet sterility. To ascertain the role of female reproductive organ (pistil), two rice genotypes N22 and IR64 with contrasting heat stress responses were exposed to control (30 °C) and heat stress (38 °C and 40 °C) during megasporogenesis. Anatomical observations of ovule revealed greater disappearance of megaspore mother cell and nuclei at early stages, and during later stages mature embryo sac without female germ unit, improper positioning of nuclei, and shrunken embryo sac was observed in the sensitive IR64. Under heat stress, a decrease in sugar and starch, increase in H2O2 and malondialdehyde with lower antioxidant enzyme activities were recorded in pistils of both N22 and IR64. Lower accumulation of TCA cycle metabolites and amino acids were noticed in IR64 pistils under heat stress at gametogenesis, whereas N22 exhibited favorable metabolite profiles. At heading, however, N22 pistils had higher carbohydrate accumulation and better ROS homeostasis, suggesting higher recovery after heat stress exposure. In summary, the results indicate that heat stress during megasporogenesis leads to irreversible anatomical and physiological changes in pistil and alters metabolic signatures leading to increased spikelet sterility in rice. Mechanisms identified for enhanced heat tolerance in pistil can help in developing rice varieties that are better adapted to future hotter climate.

MADS-box genes play an important role in many developmental processes in plants, especially in flower organogenesis. Yellowhorn (Xanthoceras sorbifolium Bunge) is a monoecious plant, its male and female flowers are formed due to the abortion of flower organs at the later stages of flower development. To investigate the functions of MADS-box genes in flower development, we conducted a comprehensive analysis of MADS-box genes across the yellowhorn genome and discovered 79 XsMADS genes. The analysis of the transcriptome revealed that the XsMADS genes displayed distinct expression patterns during the flower development process. XsSTK showed an upward trend during the critical period for pistil formation and specifically expressed a high level in normal pistil. Moreover, XsSTK over-expression transgenic Arabidopsis exhibited an abnormal phenotype, with swollen ovary, shorter and thicker siliques, suggesting that XsSTK might contribute to ovary development. These findings offer a thorough and organized examination of the MADS-box genes in yellowhorn and lay a foundation for further analyzing the mechanism of sex differentiation in yellowhorn and cultivating new varieties with high-yield and quality. • The kernel oil of yellowhorn is rich of nerve acids, our study is beneficial for increasing the yield of nerve acids. • The first report of a comprehensive and systematic analysis of the yellowhorn MADS-box genes. • It identified the function of XsSTK in ovary development and analyzed the role in sex differentiation of yellowhorn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interaction between miRNAs (microRNAs) and target genes plays an important role in plant pistil development. MiRNAs related to pistils were explored in pomegranate. The differentially expressed miRNAs were screened at different developmental stages of pomegranate pistils, and their target differentially expressed mRNAs were further identified to clarify the regulatory effect of miRNAs on pistil development. In our study, 61 conserved miRNAs were identified in 30 families, including miR395, miR394, miR393, miR161, miR162, and miR168. Among them, miR156, miR157, miR159, miR160, miR164, miR165, miR166, miR167, miR169, and miR172 were involved in the development of flower organs. Eight miRNAs were randomly selected and verified for qRT-PCR analysis. The result analysis indicated that miR160, miR164, and miR172 might be positive factors in the regulation of pomegranate pistil development. MiR156 and miR166 might be involved in regulation of pomegranate pistil development as negative factors.

High night temperature (HNT) impairs crop productivity through the reproductive failure of gametes (pollen and pistil). Though female gametophyte (pistil) is an equal partner in the seed-set, the knowledge of the antioxidant system(s) and hormonal control of HNT tolerance or susceptibility of pistils is limited and lacking. The objectives of this study were to determine the antioxidant mechanism for homeostatic control of free radicals, and the involvement of abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellic acid (GA3) in HNT stress protection in the wheat pistils of contrasting wheat genotypes. We hypothesized that HNT tolerance is attributed to the homeostatic control of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and hormonal readjustment in pistils of the tolerant genotype. The ears of two contrasting wheat genotypes—HD 2329 (susceptible) and Raj 3765 (tolerant) were subjected to two HNTs (+5 °C and +8 °C) over ambient, in the absence and presence of dimethylthiourea (DMTU), a chemical trap of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). Results showed that HNTs significantly increased ROS in pistils of susceptible genotype HD 2329 to a relatively greater extent compared to tolerant genotype Raj 3765. The response was similar in the presence or absence of DMTU, but the H2O2 values were lower in the presence of DMTU. The ROS levels were balanced by increased activity of peroxidase under HNT to a greater extent in the tolerant genotype. Cytosolic glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPC) activity was inversely related to H2O2 production within a critical range in Raj 3765, indicating its modulation by H2O2 levels as no change was observed at the transcriptional level. The hormonal status showed increased ABA and decreased GA3 contents with increasing temperature. Our study elucidates the role of H2O2 and GA3 in stress tolerance of pistils of tolerant genotype where GAPC acts as a ROS sensor due to H2O2-mediated decrease in its activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plant specific SHORT INTERNODES/STYLISH (SHI/STY) protein is a transcription factor involved in the formation and development of early lateral organs in plants. However, research on the SHI/STY protein family is not focused enough. In this article, we review recent studies on SHI/STY genes and explore the evolution and structure of SHI/STY. The biological functions of SHI/STYs are discussed in detail in this review, and the application of each biological function to modern agriculture is discussed. All SHI/STY proteins contain typical conserved RING-like zinc finger domain and IGGH domain. SHI/STYs are involved in the formation and development of lateral root, stem extension, leaf morphogenesis, and root nodule development. They are also involved in the regulation of pistil and stamen development and flowering time. At the same time, the regulation of some GA, JA, and auxin signals also involves these family proteins. For each aspect, unanswered or poorly understood questions were identified to help define future research areas. This review will provide a basis for further functional study of this gene family. • The evolution and structure of SHI/STY genes are explored. • The formation and development of lateral root, stem, leaf, nodule, pistil and stamen and flowering are associated with SHI/STYs. • The regulation of GA, JA, and auxin signals also involves these family proteins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its great medicinal value, the Moldavian dragonhead, belonging to Lamiaceae, is naturally distributed in Europe, Siberia, and Central Asia and planted in different Iranian provinces. This research studied the development of male/female reproductive organs. Flowers and buds in different stages of development were fixed and preserved in order to prepare microtome sections using appropriate solutions and embed them in paraffin. Hematoxylin-eosin was used to stain the slices. Based on the results, despite the relative simultaneity of the formation of stamen primordium and carpel, stamens develop faster than ovules. Nurses' cells in secretory and plasmodium types are rectangular, spindle-shaped, and often mononuclear or more. The microspore's tetrads had tetrahedral ornamentations, and mature pollen grains were hexacolpate with reticulate ornamentation of the exine. The ovules were anatropous, unitegmic, and tenuinucellate. The functional megaspore has a micropillar position, and the embryo sac development belongs to the Polygonum type. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flower bud differentiation is a key component of plant blooming biology and understanding how it works is vital for flowering regulation and plant genetic breeding, increasing the number and quality of flowering. Red soil is the most widely covered soil type in the world, and it is also the most suitable soil type for crape myrtle planting. The flower buds of crape myrtle (Lagerstroemia indica) planted in red soil were employed as experimental materials in this study, and the distinct periods of differentiation were identified using stereomicroscopy and paraffin sectioning. We optimized the steps of dehydration, transparency, embedding, sectioning and staining when employing paraffin sections. When seen under a microscope, this optimization can make the cell structure of paraffin sections obvious, the tissue structure complete, and the staining clear and natural. The flower bud differentiation process is divided into 7 periods based on anatomical observations of the external morphology and internal structure during flower bud differentiation: undifferentiated period, start of differentiation period, inflorescence differentiation period, calyx differentiation period, petal differentiation period, stamen differentiation period, and pistil differentiation period. The differentiation time is concentrated from the end of May to mid-June. Crape myrtle flower bud differentiation is a complicated process, and the specific regulatory mechanism and affecting elements need to be investigated further. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]