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, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20260198
Abstract:
In recent years, drought has become a major abiotic stress leading to yield decline in Camellia oleifera. Investigating the drought resistance mechanisms of C. oleifera and breeding drought-tolerant, high-yielding varieties are crucial approaches to addressing seasonal drought and ensuring the sustainable development of the C. oleifera industry. This article provides an overview of the signal transduction pathways involved in drought stress in C. oleifera, including the abscisic acid (ABA) signaling pathway (PYR/PYL-PP2C-SnRK2) and the calcium signaling pathway (CDPK/CBL-CIPK). These pathways induce the expression of key transcription factors (NAC, MYB, WRKY families, etc.), which further regulate the expression of critical genes, including LEA protein genes (CoLEA), osmotic regulation key genes (CoP5S5, CoSUS2, CoBADH), and antioxidant enzyme genes (CoPOD, CoCAT, CoSOD), thereby driving the regulatory response network of C. oleifera to enhance drought resistance through physiological and biochemical mechanisms, including the accumulation of osmotic adjustment substances, induction of antioxidant enzyme synthesis, regulation of endogenous hormone levels, and adjustment of photosynthetic adaptability. A “signal perception-gene regulation-physiological response” framework for drought resistance has been preliminarily established, but the depth of related research is insufficient. The key gene mining and ontology verification are lagging behind, and there is a lack of research on compound stresses such as high temperature and drought. Key regulatory network analysis and compound stress mechanisms are important directions for future research on drought stress in C. oleifera. [Ch, 2 tab. 165 ref.]
In recent years, drought has become a major abiotic stress leading to yield decline in Camellia oleifera. Investigating the drought resistance mechanisms of C. oleifera and breeding drought-tolerant, high-yielding varieties are crucial approaches to addressing seasonal drought and ensuring the sustainable development of the C. oleifera industry. This article provides an overview of the signal transduction pathways involved in drought stress in C. oleifera, including the abscisic acid (ABA) signaling pathway (PYR/PYL-PP2C-SnRK2) and the calcium signaling pathway (CDPK/CBL-CIPK). These pathways induce the expression of key transcription factors (NAC, MYB, WRKY families, etc.), which further regulate the expression of critical genes, including LEA protein genes (CoLEA), osmotic regulation key genes (CoP5S5, CoSUS2, CoBADH), and antioxidant enzyme genes (CoPOD, CoCAT, CoSOD), thereby driving the regulatory response network of C. oleifera to enhance drought resistance through physiological and biochemical mechanisms, including the accumulation of osmotic adjustment substances, induction of antioxidant enzyme synthesis, regulation of endogenous hormone levels, and adjustment of photosynthetic adaptability. A “signal perception-gene regulation-physiological response” framework for drought resistance has been preliminarily established, but the depth of related research is insufficient. The key gene mining and ontology verification are lagging behind, and there is a lack of research on compound stresses such as high temperature and drought. Key regulatory network analysis and compound stress mechanisms are important directions for future research on drought stress in C. oleifera. [Ch, 2 tab. 165 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20260182
Abstract:
Objective The aim of this study is to explore the effects of different green manure and organic fertilizer combination treatments on the structure of soil arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungal communities and Citrus reticulata fruit quality through field experiments, so as to provide a scientific basis for sustainable green C. reticulata production. Method In a field experiment in the C. reticulata orchard of Quzhou, Zhejiang Province, four green manure treatments were set up: clean tillage (ck), Vulpia myuros, Trifolium repens, and Astragalus sinicus, each paired with compound fertilizer (CF), commercial organic fertilizer (COF), and bio-organic fertilizer (BOF). After two years, fruit quality, soil chemical properties, enzyme activities, and AM fungal spore density were measured. AM fungal community structure was analyzed via Illumina MiSeq sequencing, and the community stability was assessed by co-occurrence network analysis. Result Compared with the application of ck combined with CF, the treatment of V. myuros combined with BOF significantly increased fruit soluble solids-to-titratable acidity ratio and vitamin C content by 73.6% and 16.6% (P＜0.05), respectively. At the same time, soil total nitrogen, easily extractable glomalin and AM fungal spore density significantly increased (P＜0.05). After the combined application of green manure and organic fertilizer, the dominant genera shifted to Glomus, Claroideoglomus and Paraglomus. The combination of green manure and organic fertilizer enhanced AM fungal network modularity, with a modularity index of 0.844 for the treatment of V. myuros with BOF. Conclusion The combined application of green manure (especially V. myuros) and bio-organic fertilizer can improve soil nutrient and glomalin contents, optimize AM fungal community structure and increase network modularity, and promote C. reticulata fruit quality. [Ch, 7 fig. 4 tab. 58 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20260166
Abstract:
Objective The trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase encoding gene CnRAMOSA3 (CnRA3) was cloned from Chrysanthemum nankingense, and its bioinformatics characteristics and expression patterns were analyzed to characterize its structural features and explore its potential roles in abiotic stress responses. Method Using C. nankingense as the experimental material, the full-length coding sequence of the CnRA3 gene was cloned based on transcriptome database information. Bioinformatics analysis were conducted to investigate its phylogenetic relationships, protein structural characteristics, and cis-acting elements in the promoter region. In addition, real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) was employed to analyze the expression patterns of CnRA3 under exogenous abscisic acid (ABA), PEG-simulated drought, and salt stress treatments, as well as in different tissues. Result The open reading frame (ORF) of CnRA3 was 1095 bp in length, encoding 364 amino acids. The encoded protein contained a typical trehalose-6-phosphate phosphatase (TPP) domain, without transmembrane structure, and exhibited overall hydrophilic characteristics. Phylogenetic analysis showed that CnRA3 was conserved in the Asteraceae family, with its promoter enriched in ABA- and stress-responsive cis-acting elements. RT-qPCR analysis revealed that CnRA3 was expressed in multiple tissues with distinct tissue specificity and developmental stage differences. During the vegetative growth stage, CnRA3 was primarily expressed in stems and shoot tips, while during the reproductive growth stage, it was mainly expressed in roots and stems. Under ABA, PEG, and salt stress treatments, the expression level of CnRA3 changed significantly, exhibiting a time-dependent decrease followed by an increase. Conclusion CnRA3 may exhibit an inhibitory response under drought and salt stress conditions and participate in ABA-mediated abiotic stress responses. [Ch, 5 fig. 2 tab. 26 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20250527
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Objective To explore the soil fungal community composition under different habitats in the Eastern Pamir Plateau, so as to provide a basis for the conservation of plateau ecosystems. Method 3 habitats, including alpine saline-alkali soil, alpine meadow, and alpine wetland were selected, and Illumina NovaSeq high-throughput sequencing was used to analyze the community structure of soil fungi. Result A total of 10 phyla, 30 classes, 58 orders, 125 families, 180 genera, and 227 species were detected. The fungal community abundance of alpine wetland and alpine meadow were significantly higher than that of alpine saline-alkali soil (P＜0.05). In contrast, the fungal diversity of alpine saline-alkali soil and alpine meadow were significantly higher than that of alpine wetland (P＜0.05). Ascomycota was the dominant phylum across the 3 habitats, while the dominant genera differed. The dominant genera were Alternaria and Mortierella in alpine saline-alkali soil, Alternaria and Doratomyces in alpine meadow, and Fusarium and Tricharina in alpine wetland. Moreover, Tricharina was the common genus. The FunGuild database prediction indicated that saprotrophic trophic mode dominated in all 3 habitats. Alpine saline-alkali soil was mainly composed of primary saprotrophs, while alpine meadow belonged to the pathogen-endophyte composite type. Alpine wetland exhibited a highly diverse composite trophic pattern. The co-occurrence network density of communities was ranked in the order of alpine wetlands, alpine meadows, and alpine saline-alkali soils. Conclusion Habitat types influenced the fungal community structure of alpine soils on the Eastern Pamir Plateau, with significant differences in fungal abundance, diversity, and dominant groups across different habitats. Ascomycota was the common dominant phylum across all habitats, and saprophytic fungi dominated in 3 habitats. [Ch, 6 fig. 1 tab. 52 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20250599
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Objective Crocus sativus is an important medicinal plant whose dried stigmas possess high economic value. However, due to its complex triploid genome, FT homologs have not been systematically characterized. This study aims to identify key FT homologs involved in floral primordium differentiation, thereby providing candidate genes for elucidating flowering mechanisms and molecular breeding in saffron. Method Based on the recently published haplotype-resolved genome, FT genes associated with floral primordium differentiation were identified and functionally analyzed. Members of the PEBP gene family were identified through bioinformatics analysis, and a phylogenetic tree was constructed for subfamily classification. Transcriptome data from key stages of floral primordium differentiation were integrated to identify 5 FT-like genes potentially involved in this process. Result CsatFT2-1 and CsatFT2-2 were continuously upregulated from the early stages of floral primordium differentiation in flowering apical buds under normal temperature conditions and exhibited significantly higher expression levels than those in non-flowering buds under low-temperature conditions. Their expression levels were extremely low or undetectable in non-flowering samples but gradually increased during floral development. In contrast, CsatFT3-1, CsatFT3-2, and CsatFT6-1 showed increasing expression trends, but no obvious differences were observed between flowering and non-flowering samples, and CsatFT6-1 exhibited overall low expression levels. These results suggested that CsatFT2 genes may participate in floral initiation. Among them, CsatFT2-2 showed specifically high expression in flowering apical buds, indicating an important role in floral primordium differentiation and flowering induction. CsatFT2-2 belongs to the flowering-promotive clade and contains a conserved PEBP domain. RT-qPCR analysis showed that the expression level of CsatFT2-2 increased by approximately 20-fold during flowering induction under normal temperature conditions but was significantly downregulated under low temperature, drought, and hypoxic stresses. Subcellular localization analysis reveals that the CsatFT2-2 protein was localized in the nucleus and plasma membrane. Heterologous overexpression of CsatFT2-2 in Arabidopsis thaliana resulted in bolting approximately 9 days earlier and reduced rosette leaf number by approximately 54%, further confirming its flowering-promoting function. Conclusion This study systematically reveals the roles of FT homologs in flowering regulation in C. sativus and identified CsatFT2-2 as a key positive regulatory gene involved in floral primordium differentiation, providing an important molecular target for elucidating flowering mechanisms and molecular breeding in saffron. [Ch, 8 fig. 2 tab. 30 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20260233
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Objective To address the harsh conditions and poor selectivity control in conventional monophasic hydrodeoxygenation (HDO) of anisole, a decalin/water biphasic catalytic system was developed and evaluated. Method Amphiphilic Ru/xNb2O5-yMC(x+y=100) catalysts were synthesized and characterized by SEM, TEM, XRD, BET, and contact angle measurements. The HDO performance of anisole was investigated in a decalin/water biphasic system under various catalyst compositions, solvent ratios, temperatures, and hydrogen pressures. Result The Ru/40Nb2O5-60MC catalyst exhibited the largest specific surface area (366.7 m2·g−1) and optimal amphiphilicity. Under 200 ℃ and 0.6 MPa initial H2 pressure for 6.0 h, anisole conversion reached 62.7% with 91.9% benzene selectivity. The catalyst showed no significant deactivation after five cycles. The apparent activation energy was 49.57 kJ·mol−1, much lower than the typical C–O bond dissociation energy (＞240 kJ·mol−1). Conclusion The synergy between Ru nanoparticles and the Nb2O5-MC composite support, along with tunable wettability, enables highly selective HDO of anisole to benzene under mild conditions. This biphasic strategy offers a promising route for upgrading lignin-derived phenolic compounds from agricultural and forestry waste. [Ch, 6 fig. 2 tab. 41 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20260181
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Objective The objective is to explore a scientific and reasonable grassland management model to maintain the stability of grassland ecosystem structure and function. Method A comparative experiment involving long-term enclosure and moderate grazing was conducted to investigate the effects of the two management practices on grassland plant community structure, species diversity, and productivity in an alpine grassland on the eastern margin of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. Result (1) Compared with grazing, long-term enclosure significantly reduced overall plant diversity of grassland communities (P＜ 0.05), with the most significant declines observed in the species richness of legumes, sedges, and forbs. (2) Enclosure did not significantly alter total aboveground biomass, but it significantly shifted biomass allocation among functional groups, significantly promoting biomass accumulation in legumes and forbs (P＜0.05). Additionally, enclosure led to substantial litter accumulation (about 5.5 times that of grazed grasslands). (3) Long-term enclosure significantly reduced species evenness compared with moderate grazing (P＜0.001), resulting in a significant differentiation in plant community structure and function. Conclusion Long-term enclosure drives grassland plant communities toward high productivity characterized by increased biomass and litter accumulation, while grazing is beneficial for the maintenance of a high level of species diversity. For non-degraded alpine grasslands, moderate grazing is more conducive to maintaining species diversity and stabilizing ecosystem functions. [Ch, 6 fig. 1 tab. 54 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20260146
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Objective The objective is to investigate the passivation effects of Fe-Mg bimetallic modified coconut shell biochar (FCBC) on arsenic (As) and cadmium (Cd) in tropical paddy soil under different moisture conditions, as well as its impact on microbial community structure. Method A 30-day indoor soil incubation experiment was performed from August to September 2025, with two moisture treatments: flooded and moist. The effects of FCBC on the mobility of As and Cd, soil physicochemical properties, and microbial community structure were systematically analyzed. Result Compared with the control and unmodified biochar, FCBC significantly (P＜0.05) reduced the contents of available As (by 8.74%–12.5%) and available Cd (by 92.88%–93.50%) in soil under moist conditions. Under flooded conditions, it decreased the available Cd content (by 76.92%–86.2%), but significantly (P＜ 0.05) promoted the migration and transformation of As (by 24.95%–33.45%), thereby increasing its potential ecological risk. Mantel analysis revealed that the passivation effect of FCBC on As was mainly regulated by Fe and S cycling driven by moisture changes, while its effect on Cd was primarily achieved by altering soil pH and other physicochemical properties. The application of FCBC overall reduced soil microbial α-diversity and significantly altered the bacterial community structure under different moisture conditions. Compared with other treatments, FCBC significantly decreased the relative abundance of taxa such as Thermodesulfobacteriota, and Clostridium, and increased that of Pseudomonadota, Microvirga and Neobacillus, thereby affecting the migration and transformation of As and Cd. Moisture conditions further affected bacterial community composition. Co-occurrence network analysis showed that FCBC reduced the complexity and stability of the soil bacterial network, while the anaerobic environment enhanced the synergistic relationships among bacterial species. The functional prediction results of PICRUSt2 revealed that the application of FCBC under aerobic conditions enhanced protein functions related to As and Cd resistance, and promoted key metabolic processes such as amino acid metabolism and organic matter synthesis. Conclusion The synergistic effect of moisture management and Fe-Mg modified coconut shell biochar affects the migration and transformation of As and Cd in paddy soil by regulating the structure and function of microbial communities.[Ch, 8 fig. 3 tab. 38 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20260140
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Objective This study aims to address the decline in ecosystem integrity and connectivity caused by human activities that disturb ecological spaces. Method The supply-demand ratios of four ecosystem services in Hangzhou in 2000, 2010, and 2020 were calculated, including habitat quality, water conservation, carbon sequestration, and soil erosion. Based on this, an ecological network connecting isolated habitat patches was constructed and optimized based on the correlation between its functions and topological structure. The optimization effect of the ecological network was tested through robustness evaluation. Result (1) Compared with 2000, the supply-demand ratio of water conservation increased by 27% in 2020, while those of carbon sequestration, habitat quality, and soil erosion control declined significantly. (2) In 2020, there were 132 core source areas. The resistance surface decreased gradually from the central urban area to the outside. 334 corridors with a total length of 1027 km were identified. (3) From 2010 to 2020, eigenvector centrality increased by 34% in the last stage, indicating a gradual recovery in the influence of core nodes, while average degree value and clustering coefficient remained low. The importance of topological structure was significantly positively correlated with the matching degree of supply and demand of ecosystem services, and had the strongest correlation with the supply and demand ratio of carbon sequestration and water conservation. (4) 31 new network stepping stones and 56 new corridors were added to the optimization plan. Robustness-based resilience evaluation confirmed the scientific validity and feasibility of optimization. Conclusion The optimization framework can effectively identify and restore ecological pinch points with high ecosystem service value and structural connectivity, form a more stable ecological network, and provide insights for the synergistic optimization of ecological network functions and structures in highly urbanized areas. [Ch, 8 fig. 4 tab. 34 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20250488
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Objective The evolution of vegetation coverage reflects regional ecological environment changes. This study aims to explore the vegetation restoration status and driving mechanism in the karst rocky desertification area of Chongqing City, so as to provide references for regional ecological protection and sustainable development. Method Based on the Google Earth Engine (GEE) cloud computing platform, the spatiotemporal patterns of vegetation coverage in different areas of Chongqing from 2000 to 2020 were analyzed. A Generalized Additive Model (GAM) was employed to investigate the driving mechanism of vegetation changes from both socioeconomic and natural factor perspectives. Result (1) In Chongqing, the normalized vegetation index in 93% of the area showed an upward trend, and the areas with remarkable vegetation restoration effects were concentrated in the west and the northeast. (2) Among the socioeconomic factors, GDP had a relatively weak impact on vegetation coverage. The increase in road network density was synchronous with the decrease in vegetation coverage area. The population density had an overall negative impact on vegetation coverage changes, and this impact was significant. (3) Among natural factors, the increase in precipitation and soil layer thickness promoted vegetation restoration to varying degrees, while temperature rise had a negative impact on vegetation growth. Compared to rocky desertification areas, vegetation in non-rocky desertification areas responded more significantly and sensitively to natural driving factors, and soil layer thickness and temperature could better explain changes in vegetation coverage. (4) Over the past 21 years, the rocky desertification area in Chongqing decreased by 5.3%, indicating significant overall improvement. The areas with a notable reduction in rocky desertification area also exhibited a more pronounced increasing trend in vegetation coverage. Conclusion The overall restoration effect of vegetation in Chongqing has achieved favorable results, and population density, soil layer thickness, and temperature have a significant impact on the trend of vegetation change. There is a synergistic evolutionary relationship between the reduction in rocky desertification area and the increase in vegetation coverage. In ecological restoration and management, it is essential to consider the mediating role of rocky desertification. Precise, region-specific, and classification-based measures should be implemented. [Ch, 5 fig. 5 tab. 42 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20250611
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Objective To explore the natural community structure and species diversity characteristics of Platycrater arguta (Hydrangeaceae), an endangered shrub endemic to East Asia, providing a basis for formulating scientific conservation strategies within protected areas. Method Community surveys were conducted using the quadrat method. Nineteen representative quadrats were established within the candidate area of Qianjiangyuan-Baishanzu National Park Baishanzu area in Zhejiang Province (Baishanzu National Park). Result (1) A total of 224 vascular plant species (including varieties/forms), belonging to 162 genera and 89 families, were recorded across 19 quadrats. P. arguta exhibited high importance values and was dominant in 8 quadrats. The floristic composition was dominated by temperate elements, exhibiting distinct East Asian characteristics. (2) Species were evenly distributed across all community layers, indicating a transitional successional stage subject to strong environmental disturbance. (3) P. arguta showed the most significant ecological co-occurrence relationship with the herb Trichophorum subcapitatum. Simpson, indicating similar habitat preferences. (4) Phylogenetic structure analysis revealed that the entire community, the tree and shrub layers were phylogenetically clustered, while the herb layer was phylogenetically overdispersed. (5) Community functional richness varied significantly, and phylogenetic signals for major functional traits were generally weak. (6) Species α-diversity was significantly positively correlated with both phylogenetic diversity and functional richness, but the correlation between phylogenetic structure and functional diversity was weak. Conclusion Baishanzu National Park harbours P. arguta natural communities with high vascular plant diversity of temperate affinity. Currently in transitional successional stages, these communities show weak phylogenetic clustering that varies among strata. Environmental heterogeneity rather than phylogenetic history shapes functional traits. P. arguta preferentially associates with shade-tolerant, hygrophilous species, necessitating coordinated conservation of these key associates and their habitats. Multi-dimensional diversity metrics should be adopted for monitoring instead of single indicators. [Ch, 4 fig. 2 tab. 57 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20260132
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Objective This study aims to evaluate the effects of two organic amendments—mineral-source potassium fulvate combined with a root-guard agent (LKY) and a microbial inoculant (LW)—on soil physicochemical properties, microbial community structure, and grape fruit quality in arid regions, so as to provide data support for selecting effective soil-improvement schemes in production areas. Method A field experiment was conducted in a Vitis vinifera ‘Cabernet Sauvignon’ vineyard in May 2024 using a randomized block design, with three treatments: LKY, LW, and a control with no organic amendment (ck). Soil physicochemical indicators and aggregate characteristics in the vineyard at different periods were analyzed and determined. High-throughput sequencing was employed to analyze the microbial community structure of soil and fruit skin. Fruit quality, phenolic substances, and yield were also measured. Result (1) LKY treatment significantly reduced soil pH and increased the content of available nutrients, especially available nitrogen (P＜0.05), while LW treatment enhanced soil organic matter and total nitrogen. (2) LKY treatment significantly increased the proportion and stability of medium-sized soil aggregates (P＜0.05), while LW treatment primarily increased the proportion of large aggregates. (3) Both amendments significantly affected soil bacterial and microbial community structure (P＜0.05). (4) The titratable acidity, hundred-seed weight, total phenols in the peel and seeds, total flavonoids in the peel and seeds, and yield under LKY treatment were significantly higher than those under LW and ck treatments (P＜0.05). (5) Spearman correlation and Mantel test analysis showed that soil total phosphorus, aggregates larger than 0.25 mm, and soil pH were key factors affecting soil bacterial community structure and fruit quality. Conclusion Both LKY and LW treatments can improve fruit quality by modifying soil physicochemical properties and optimizing the structure of soil bacterial communities. Among them, LKY treatment achieve a comprehensive improvement in yield, flavor, and functional components by regulating soil pH and increasing soil available nutrients. [Ch, 7 fig. 5 tab. 32 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20250605
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The microalgal-bacterial symbiosis (MABS) system has attracted broad attention for its ability to remove organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other pollutants from wastewater through mutualistic interactions between algae and bacteria. It boasts such advantages as high purification efficiency, low energy consumption, and environmental friendliness. Quorum sensing (QS), a crucial chemical communication mechanism among microorganisms, regulates gene expression and collective behaviors via signaling molecules, profoundly influencing the formation, structural stability, metabolic function, and environmental adaptability of MABS. This article systematically reviews the interaction mechanisms between microalgae and bacteria, including material exchange and signal communication. It also summarizes the existing MABS systems and their applications in wastewater treatment. Based on this, it is further clarified how QS regulates the development and structural integrity of biofilms, and how it coordinates the metabolic cooperation between both parties during pollutant degradation, thereby enhancing overall performance and resilience of the system. Finally, the prospects for targeted optimization of MABS system functions by intervening in QS signaling pathways are discussed. The important role of QS regulation in developing efficient, stable, and intelligent novel wastewater treatment technologies is emphasized, which is expected to drive the field toward a more energy-efficient, controllable, and resourceful direction. [Ch, 2 tab. 92 ref. ]
The microalgal-bacterial symbiosis (MABS) system has attracted broad attention for its ability to remove organic matter, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other pollutants from wastewater through mutualistic interactions between algae and bacteria. It boasts such advantages as high purification efficiency, low energy consumption, and environmental friendliness. Quorum sensing (QS), a crucial chemical communication mechanism among microorganisms, regulates gene expression and collective behaviors via signaling molecules, profoundly influencing the formation, structural stability, metabolic function, and environmental adaptability of MABS. This article systematically reviews the interaction mechanisms between microalgae and bacteria, including material exchange and signal communication. It also summarizes the existing MABS systems and their applications in wastewater treatment. Based on this, it is further clarified how QS regulates the development and structural integrity of biofilms, and how it coordinates the metabolic cooperation between both parties during pollutant degradation, thereby enhancing overall performance and resilience of the system. Finally, the prospects for targeted optimization of MABS system functions by intervening in QS signaling pathways are discussed. The important role of QS regulation in developing efficient, stable, and intelligent novel wastewater treatment technologies is emphasized, which is expected to drive the field toward a more energy-efficient, controllable, and resourceful direction. [Ch, 2 tab. 92 ref. ]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20260129
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Objective The objective is to observe the flower bud differentiation process of Zanthoxylum bungeanum ‘Xiaolongpao’, clarify the corresponding relationship between the morphology and structure of flower buds, and analyze the dynamic changes of endogenous hormones and their ratios in influencing the flower bud differentiation, so as to provide a scientific basis for the regulation of flower and fruit and cultivation management of Z. bungeanum. Method From May 23, 2024 to March 31, 2025, 32 consecutive samplings were conducted in the Z. bungeanum base in Longshu Town, Ludian County, Zhaotong City, Yunnan Province. The morphological and structural changes of flower bud differentiation process of ‘Xiaolongpao’ were analyzed using paraffin sectioning technology combined with morphological observation. Typical stages were identified and the start and duration of each stage were determined. The contents of abscisic acid (ABA), gibberellin (GA3), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) and zeatin riboside (ZR) at different differentiation stages of flower buds were determined by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, and the dynamic changes of their contents and ratios were analyzed. Result The flower bud differentiation process of ‘Xiaolongpao’ was divided into 6 stages: undifferentiated stage (Ⅰ), differentiation initiation stage (Ⅱ), inflorescence axis differentiation stage (Ⅲ), flower bud differentiation stage (Ⅳ), calyx differentiation stage (Ⅴ), and pistil differentiation stage (Ⅵ). The flower bud differentiation process lasted about 10 months, and there was overlap between different differentiation stages. Stage Ⅱ was the critical period for the initiation of flower bud differentiation, starting in the second half of May. The size and morphology of axillary buds at stages Ⅰ to Ⅵ showed extremely significant stage changes (P＜ 0.01). The mass fractions and ratios of endogenous hormones at different differentiation stages showed extremely significant differences (P＜ 0.01): The mass fractions of ABA and GA3 continued to decrease extremely significantly (P＜ 0.01) from stage Ⅰ to stage Ⅴ, slightly increased at stage Ⅵ. The mass fractions of IAA and ZR reached their peak at stage Ⅲ and were the lowest at stage Ⅴ. The ratios of ABA/GA3 and ZR/GA3 gradually increased from stage Ⅰ to Ⅳ, reach the highest in stage Ⅳ and then decrease, while the ratios of ABA/IAA and ZR/IAA reached their peak in stage Ⅴ. Conclusion The anatomical structure and morphology of flower buds of ‘Xiaolongpao’ at different differentiation stages are closely related, and the differentiation duration is relatively long. The changes in the mass fraction of endogenous hormones and their ratios significantly affect the initiation and structural formation of differentiation. In production, the differentiation of flower buds can be artificially regulated during the critical period. [Ch, 3 fig. 2 tab. 38 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20260119
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Objective This study aims to investigate the leaf functional traits and the combination characteristics of Rhododendron in Shergyla Mountain, and systematically analyze ecological strategy differences among the species in this region, so as to provide a theoretical basis for the conservation and management of biodiversity in alpine mountainous regions. Method 13 Rhododendron species were selected as study subjects. 16 leaf functional traits, including leaf area, leaf thickness, and leaf dry matter content were measured. The coefficient of variation for each trait was calculated to investigate the characteristics and interrelationships of leaf functional traits, thereby constructing a leaf economic spectrum for Rhododendron species. Result The coefficient of variation for leaf functional traits of Rhododendron in Shergyla Mountain ranged from 10.67% to 120.29%. Among them, leaf dry weight and leaf area exhibited strong variation, while specific leaf area, spongy tissue thickness, palisade tissue thickness, leaf carbon nitrogen ratio, leaf nitrogen content, leaf phosphorus content, leaf shape index, leaf carbon phosphorus ratio, leaf thickness, and leaf nitrogen phosphorus ratio showed moderate variation. The remaining indicators demonstrated weak variation, and the inter-species coefficient of variation for leaf traits in Rhododendron plants was generally higher than intraspecific coefficient of variation. Rhododendron plants exhibited a trade-off between growth and defense capabilities, achieving a balance between the plant survival, growth, and reproduction. R. Oreotrephes, R. fragariiflorum, R. lepidotum, R. nivale, R. nyingchiense, R. virgatum and R. triflorum tended to adopt a “fast investment-return” strategy, while R. vellereum, R. lulangense, R. coryanum, R. hirtipes, R. phaeochrysum and R.wardii tended to adopt a “slow investment-return” strategy. Conclusion The Rhododendron genus has developed two distinct resource balancing strategies by adjusting leaf functional trait indicators, reflecting the resource balancing relationship between plant functional traits and the differentiation of ecological niches among different species. [Ch, 4 fig. 3 tab. 73 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20250518
Abstract:
Objective The objective is to explore the regulatory effects of polyamines (PAs) on the growth and flavonoid (Fla) metabolism in Ginkgo biloba suspension cells, so as to provide theoretical and technical support for constructing and optimizing the genetic transformation system of G. biloba, enzyme activity chassis control, and the large-scale biosynthesis of useful drugs. Method Using suspension cells of G. biloba as the material, different concentrations (0.5,1.0, 3.0 mmol·L−1) of putrescine (Put), spermidine (Spd), and spermine (Spm) were added into the suspension cell culture medium (CCM), labeled as Put 0.5, Put 1.0, Put 3.0, Spm 0.5, Spm 1.0, Spm 3.0, Spd 0.5, Spd 1.0, and Spd 3.0 respectively. A treatment without polyamine addition (0 mmol·L−1 ) was served as the control. After 7 days of cultivation, the effects of PAs on pH and electrical conductivity (EC) of CCM, the contents of photosynthetic pigments, total Fla, total terpenoid lactones (Lac), and the activity of key Fla biosynthesis enzymes were investigated. Result The higher the concentration of PAs was, the higher EC and pH were in CCM. Low concentration of Put treatment (0.5−1.0) was beneficial to the growth of cell clusters, resulting in a yellow-green color of the cells and an increase in the contents of total chlorophyll (Chlt) and carotenoids (Car), Fla and Lac, compared with the control. For example, Fla and Lac contents under Put 0.5 treatment increased by 65.1% and 38.5%, respectively, compared with the control group (P＜0.05). The cells treated with Spm 0.5−1.0 and Spd 0.5 turned yellowish brown, and the accumulation of Car, Fla and Lac in suspension cells significantly increased. For example, the content of Fla treated with Spm 1.0, Lac treated with Spm 0.5 and Spd 0.5 increased by 27.4%, 27.1%, and 20.1%, respectively, compared with the control (P＜0.05). The effects of 3 PAs treatments on the activity of key enzymes involved in Fla synthesis in suspension cells also showed concentration effects. The activities of 4-coumaric acid coenzyme A ligase (4CL) treated with Put 1.0, phenylalanine ammonia-lyase treated with Spm 1.0, and chalcone synthase treated with Spd 1.0 showed the highest increase compared with the control, reaching 36.8%, 21.5%, and 61.9%, respectively (P＜0.05). The activity of cinnamoyl coenzyme A reductase treated with Put 0.5, Spm 1.0, and Spd 0.5 increased by about 2.0 times compared with the control. The cinnamaldehyde dehydrogenase (CAD) treated with Put 0.5, and the dihydroflavonol reductase treated with Put 0.5 and Spm 1.0 increased by 52.6%, 123.2% or 105.2%, respectively, compared with the control (P＜ 0.05). Conclusion The optimal treatments for suspension cell growth and the accumulation of Fla and Lac are Put 0.5−1.0 and Spm 1.0. Polyamines, especially Put, can promote the biosynthesis of Fla, but Spd 3.0 and Spm 3.0 treatments are detrimental to cell growth, Fla and Lac accumulation. [Ch, 6 fig. 42 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20260156
Abstract:
Objective In situ hybridization(ISH)technology is widely used for studying the spatiotemporal expression patterns and functions in different tissues. This study utilizes materials from different cultivars, tissues, and developmental stages of Osmanthus fragrans to establish an efficient and stable in situ hybridization system for this flower species, providing a technical method for the spatiotemporal expression localization of functional genes in O. fragrans. Method Using the auxin response factor OfIAA14 as the detection gene, based on the conventional ISH process, key parameters such as sample vacuumization time, protease K digestion time, whether to perform pre-hybridization, and hybridization temperature and time were systematically optimized and compared. Meanwhile, the functional verification of related genes was conducted across different varieties, tissues, and developmental stages. Result The results showed that the optimal hybridization signal could be obtained under the conditions of vacuumization for 30 min at 0.08 MPa (2 times), proteinase K digestion for 20−25 min, no pre-hybridization, hybridization temperature at 50 ℃, and hybridization time of 20 h. Furthermore, genes such as OfPIF4, OfPIF5, OfUFO , OfYAB2 and OfAUX5 were selected to verifty the applicability of the optimized system in different O. fragrans cultivars, tissues and developmental stages. Good tissue structure preservation and clear and stable signal expression were obtained, indicating that the method has good reliability and certain universality. Conclusion This study established an optimized ISH technology system suitable for O. fragrans tissues, providing reliable technical support for in-depth analysis of the spatiotemporal expression characteristics and molecular regulation mechanisms of genes related to flower development in O. fragrans. [Ch, 9 fig. 1 tab. 25 ref.]
, Available online doi: 10.11833/j.issn.2095-0756.20250331
Abstract:
Objective The objective of this study is to explore the mechanism of rutin against myocardial fibrosis (MF) based on network pharmacology, molecular docking, and cellular experiments. Method Based on drug and disease databases, disease-associated gene targets related to rutin and MF were identified. A multidimensional “drug-target-disease” interaction network model was constructed using Cytoscape, and the core targets were subjected to Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis using R software. The interaction between rutin and the core target protein was simulated through molecular docking technology. The effect of rutin on the proliferation of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) was detected by the CCK-8 method. Result Network pharmacology analysis revealed that rutin acted on 91 MF-related targets, among which IL-6, TNF, TP53, and SRC were the core targets, and they were enriched in signaling pathways such as PI3K-Akt, MAPK, and IL-17. Molecular docking demonstrated that rutin had a good binding activity with the core target protein. Molecular biology experiments showed that rutin could reverse the expression of fibrotic biomarkers in TGF-β1-induced CFs and significantly downregulate the expression of key proteins associated with the MAPK-JNK/ERK signaling pathway (P＜0.05). Conclusion Rutin may alleviate TGF-β1-induced fibrosis in CFs by inhibiting the activation of the MAPK-JNK/ERK signaling pathway. [Ch, 7 fig. 2 tab. 31 ref.]
