Floral color and scent are crucial for plant-environment interactions,especially in reproduction by attracting pollinators for fertilization.They also have wide applications in cosmetic,pharmaceutical,and nutraceutica...Floral color and scent are crucial for plant-environment interactions,especially in reproduction by attracting pollinators for fertilization.They also have wide applications in cosmetic,pharmaceutical,and nutraceutical industries.Plant pigments are typically classified as chlorophylls,flavonoids,carotenoids,and betalains,while volatile organic compounds(VOCs)are grouped as terpenes,phenylpropanoids/benzenoids,and fatty acid derivatives.Significant progresses have been made in understanding the biosynthesis and regulation of these floral pigments and VOCs.Despite differences in their biosynthetic pathways,floral pigments and VOCs are biochemically connected and exhibit synergistic interactions during flower development and in response to biotic and abiotic stresses,suggesting the existence of pleiotropic regulators or complex mechanisms co-regulating their biosynthesis.In this review,we summarize and outline the metabolite pathways mainly integrating flavonoids,carotenoids,terpenes,and phenylpropanoids/benzenoids.We also provide a series of scenarios illustrating the coordinated regulation of floral color and scent.Finally,we suggest areas for future research.We hope this review will spark interest in this research direction and stimulate further studies.展开更多
Cotton fiber quality is a persistent concern that determines planting benefits and the quality of finished textile products.However,the limitations of measurement instruments have hindered the accurate evaluation of s...Cotton fiber quality is a persistent concern that determines planting benefits and the quality of finished textile products.However,the limitations of measurement instruments have hindered the accurate evaluation of some important fiber characteristics such as fiber maturity,fineness,and neps,which in turn has impeded the genetic improvement and industrial utilization of cotton fiber.Here,12 single fiber quality traits were measured using Advanced Fiber Information System(AFIS)equipment among 383 accessions of upland cotton(Gossypium hirsutum L.).In addition,eight conventional fiber quality traits were assessed by the High Volume Instrument(HVI)System.Genome-wide association study(GWAS),linkage disequilibrium(LD)block genotyping and functional identification were conducted sequentially to uncover the associated elite loci and candidate genes of fiber quality traits.As a result,the previously reported pleiotropic locus FL_D11 regulating fiber length-related traits was identified in this study.More importantly,three novel pleiotropic loci(FM_A03,FF_A05,and FN_A07)regulating fiber maturity,fineness and neps,respectively,were detected based on AFIS traits.Numerous highly promising candidate genes were screened out by integrating RNA-seq and qRT-PCR analyses,including the reported GhKRP6 for fiber length,the newly identified GhMAP8 for maturity and GhDFR for fineness.The origin and evolutionary analysis of pleiotropic loci indicated that the selection pressure on FL_D11,FM_A03 and FF_A05 increased as the breeding period approached the present and the origins of FM_A03 and FF_A05 were traced back to cotton landraces.These findings reveal the genetic basis underlying fiber quality and provide insight into the genetic improvement and textile utilization of fiber in G.hirsutum.展开更多
Anthocyanins play crucial roles in pollen protection and pollinator attraction in flowering plants.However,the mechanisms underlying flower color determination and whether floral anthocyanin regulators participate in ...Anthocyanins play crucial roles in pollen protection and pollinator attraction in flowering plants.However,the mechanisms underlying flower color determination and whether floral anthocyanin regulators participate in other processes remain largely unresolved in soybeans(Glycine max).In this study,we investigated the genetic components and mechanisms governing anthocyanin biosynthesis in soybean flowers.Molecular and genetic studies have characterized two antagonistic regulators,the positive activator GmMYBA3 and the negative repressor GmMYBR1,that modulate the gene expression of anthocyanin biosynthesis in soybean flowers.Further findings revealed a regulatory interplay between GmMYBA3 and GmMYBR1 bridged by GmTT8a,highlighting the complexity of anthocyanin regulation in different soybean organs.Exploration of additional soybean cultivars demonstrated the universality of GmMYBA3 and GmMYBR1 in regulating floral anthocyanin biosynthesis-related genes,with GmF3’5’H identified as a crucial determinant of white flower color.This study provides a molecular mechanism underlying soybean flower color determination,paving the way for the molecular modification of soybean flowers to probably enhance their resistance to abiotic stresses and attractiveness to pollinators.展开更多
Understanding functional relations among plant traits and their modulation by growing conditions is imperative in designing selection strategies for breeding programs. This study assessed trait relationships among 196...Understanding functional relations among plant traits and their modulation by growing conditions is imperative in designing selection strategies for breeding programs. This study assessed trait relationships among 196 common bean genotypes exposed to stresses for drought and field infestation of bean fly or bean stem maggot(BSM). The study was carried out at two locations and data was analyzed with linear correlation, path coefficient and genotype × trait biplot analyses. Multiple trait data related to mechanisms of drought and bean fly tolerance were collected on 196 genotypes grown under i) water deficit at mid-pod fill, or ii) unprotected against bean fly; iii) irrigated, well watered conditions, or iv) bean fly protection with chemicals. Seed yield exhibited positive and significant correlations with leaf chlorophyll content, vertical root pulling resistance, pod harvest index, pods per plant and seeds per pod at both phenotypic and genotypic levels under stress and non-stress conditions. Genotypic correlations of traits with seed yield were greater than their respective phenotypic correlations across environments indicating the greater contribution of genotypic factors to the trait correlation. Pods per plant and seeds per pod had high positive direct effects on seed yield both under stress and non-stress whereas pods per plant had the highest indirect effect on seed yield through pod harvest index under stress.In general, our results suggest that vertical root pulling resistance and pod harvest index are important selection objectives for improving seed yield in common beans under non-stress and stress conditions, and particularly useful for drought and BSM tolerance evaluation.展开更多
Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a major micro-vascular complication of diabetes, has emerged as a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness among working adults in the worldwide. The pathobiology of DR involves mult...Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a major micro-vascular complication of diabetes, has emerged as a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness among working adults in the worldwide. The pathobiology of DR involves multiple molecular pathways and is characterized chronic neurovascular degeneration. Current approaches to prevent or to treat DR are still far from satisfactory. Therefore, it is important to develop new therapeutic strategies for the prevention and treatment to DR. Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), a 50-kDa secreted glycoprotein, has been described as a multi-functional protein. Some emerging evidences indicate that PEDF are able to target multiple pathways exerting neurotropic, neuroprotective, anti-angiogenic, antivasopermeability, anti-inflammation, anti-thrombogenic and anti-oxidative effects in DR. In this review, we addressed the functions of PEDF in different pathways, which could lead to potential therapeutics on the treatment to DR.展开更多
Background: Fatty acids are important traits that affect meat quality and nutritive values in beef cattle. Detection of genetic variants for fatty acid composition can help to elucidate the genetic mechanism underpinn...Background: Fatty acids are important traits that affect meat quality and nutritive values in beef cattle. Detection of genetic variants for fatty acid composition can help to elucidate the genetic mechanism underpinning these traits and promote the improvement of fatty acid profiles. In this study, we performed a genome-wide association study(GWAS) on fatty acid composition using high-density single nucleotide polymorphism(SNP) arrays in Chinese Wagyu cattle.Results: In total, we detected 15 and 8 significant genome-wide SNPs for individual fatty acids and fatty acid groups in Chinese Wagyu cattle, respectively. Also, we identified nine candidate genes based on 100 kb regions around associated SNPs. Four SNPs significantly associated with C14:1 cis-9 were embedded with stearoyl-CoA desaturase(SCD), while three SNPs in total were identified for C22:6 n-3 within Phospholipid scramblase family member 5(PLSCR5), Cytoplasmic linker associated protein 1(CLASP1), and Chymosin(CYM). Notably, we found the top candidate SNP within SCD can explain ~ 7.37% of phenotypic variance for C14:1 cis-9.Moreover, we detected several blocks with high LD in the 100 kb region around SCD. In addition, we found three significant SNPs within a 100 kb region showing pleiotropic effects related to multiple FA groups(PUFA,n-6, and PUFA/SFA), which contains BAI1 associated protein 2 like 2(BAIAP2 L2), MAF bZIP transcription factor F(MAFF),and transmembrane protein 184 B(TMEM184 B).Conclusions: Our study identified several significant SNPs and candidate genes for individual fatty acids and fatty acid groups in Chinese Wagyu cattle, and these findings will further assist the design of breeding programs for meat quality in cattle.展开更多
Statins have become a cornerstone of risk modification for ischaemic heart disease patients. A number of studies have shown that they are effective and safe. However studies have observed an early benefit in terms of ...Statins have become a cornerstone of risk modification for ischaemic heart disease patients. A number of studies have shown that they are effective and safe. However studies have observed an early benefit in terms of a reduction in recurrent infarct and or death after a myocardial infarction,prior to any significant change in lipid profile. Therefore,pleiotropic mechanisms,other than lowering lipid profile alone,must account for this effect. One such proposed pleiotropic mechanism is the ability of statins to augment both number and function of endothelial progenitor cells. The ability to augment repair and maintenance of a functioning endothelium may have profound beneficial effect on vascular repair and potentially a positive impact on clinical outcomes in patients with cardiovascular disease. The following literature review will discuss issues surrounding endothelial progenitor cell(EPC) identification,role in vascular repair,factors affecting EPC numbers,the role of statins in current medical practice and their effects on EPC number.展开更多
Bombesin and neurotensin are neuropeptides which exert a wide spectrum of biological actions on gastrointestinal tissues influencing intestinal growth and adaptation, intestinal motility, blood flow, secretion, nutrie...Bombesin and neurotensin are neuropeptides which exert a wide spectrum of biological actions on gastrointestinal tissues influencing intestinal growth and adaptation, intestinal motility, blood flow, secretion, nutrient absorption and immune response. Based mainly on their well-established potent enterotrophic effect, numerous experimental studies investigated their potential positive effect on the atrophic or injured intestinal mucosa. These peptides proved to be effective mucosa-healing factors, but the potential molecular and cellular mechanisms for this action remained unresolved. In a recently published study (World J Gastroenterol 2008; 14(8): 1222-1230), it was shown that their protective effect on the intestine in experimentally induced inflammatory bowel disease was related to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiapoptotic actions. These results are in close agreement with our previous studies on jaundiced and hepatectomized rats that showed a regulatory effect of bombesin and neurotensin on critical cellular processes such as enterocyte' proliferation and death, oxidative stress and redox equilibrium, tight junctions' formation and function, and inflammatory response. The pleiotropic effects of bombesin and neurotensin on diverse types of intestinal injury may justify their consideration for clinical trials.展开更多
Three major cardiovascular outcome trials(CVOTs)with a new class of antidiabetic drugs-sodium-glucose cotransporter 2(SGLT2)inhibitors(EMPAREG OUTCOME trial with empagliflozin,CANVAS Program with canagliflozin,DECLARE...Three major cardiovascular outcome trials(CVOTs)with a new class of antidiabetic drugs-sodium-glucose cotransporter 2(SGLT2)inhibitors(EMPAREG OUTCOME trial with empagliflozin,CANVAS Program with canagliflozin,DECLARE-TIMI 58 with dapagliflozin)unexpectedly showed that cardiovascular outcomes could be improved possibly due to a reduction in heart failure risk,which seems to be the most sensitive outcome of SGLT2 inhibition.No other CVOT to date has shown any significant benefit on heart failure events.Even more impressive findings came recently from the DAPA-HF trial in patients with confirmed and well-treated heart failure:Dapagliflozin was shown to reduce heart failure risk for patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction regardless of diabetes status.Nevertheless,despite their possible wide clinical implications,there is much doubt about the mechanisms of action and a lot of questions to unravel,especially now when their benefits translated to nondiabetic patients,rising doubts about the validity of some current mechanistic assumptions.The time frame of their cardiovascular benefits excludes glucoselowering and antiatherosclerotic-mediated effects and multiple other mechanisms,direct cardiac as well as systemic,are suggested to explain their early cardiorenal benefits.These are:Anti-inflammatory,antifibrotic,antioxidative,antiapoptotic properties,then renoprotective and hemodynamic effects,attenuation of glucotoxicity,reduction of uric acid levels and epicardial adipose tissue,modification of neurohumoral system and cardiac fuel energetics,sodiumhydrogen exchange inhibition.The most logic explanation seems that SGLT2 inhibitors timely target various mechanisms underpinning heart failure pathogenesis.All the proposed mechanisms of their action could interfere with evolution of heart failure and are discussed separately within the main text.展开更多
To enhance the yield potential of an elite indica rice cultivar,an introgression(BC_3-derived) line of IR64,YTH288,was developed using a new-plant-type cultivar,IR66215-44-2-3,as a donor parent.YTH288 has agronomicall...To enhance the yield potential of an elite indica rice cultivar,an introgression(BC_3-derived) line of IR64,YTH288,was developed using a new-plant-type cultivar,IR66215-44-2-3,as a donor parent.YTH288 has agronomically valuable characteristics such as large panicles,few unproductive tillers,and large leaves inherited from NPT.To identify the genetic basis of these traits,we used 167 F_2 plants derived from a cross between IR64 and YTH288 to conduct QTL analysis for five agronomic traits:days to heading(DTH),culm length(CL),flag leaf length(FLL),flag leaf width(FLW),and filled spikelet number per panicle(FSN).Six putative QTL were detected:four on chromosome4(for CL,FLL,FLW,and FSN) and two on chromosome 2(for DTH and FLL).All QTL with the IR66215-44-2-3 allele,except that for FLL on chromosome 2,had positive effects on each trait.To confirm the effects of these putative QTL,we developed NILs with the IR64 genetic background by marker-assisted selection.We observed significant differences in several agronomic traits between IR64 and NILs that carried these QTL on chromosomes2 and 4.Additionally,four IR64-NILs carrying chromosomal segments derived from different NPT varieties on the long arm of chromosome 4 exhibited similar pleiotropic To enhance the yield potential of an elite indica rice cultivar, an introgression(BC3-derived) line of IR64, YTH288, was developed using a new-plant-type cultivar,IR66215-44-2-3, as a donor parent. YTH288 has agronomically valuable characteristics such as large panicles, few unproductive tillers, and large leaves inherited from NPT.To identify the genetic basis of these traits, we used 167 F2 plants derived from a cross between IR64 and YTH288 to conduct QTL analysis for five agronomic traits: days to heading(DTH), culm length(CL), flag leaf length(FLL), flag leaf width(FLW), and filled spikelet number per panicle(FSN). Six putative QTL were detected: four on chromosome4(for CL, FLL, FLW, and FSN) and two on chromosome 2(for DTH and FLL). All QTL with the IR66215-44-2-3 allele, except that for FLL on chromosome 2, had positive effects on each trait. To confirm the effects of these putative QTL, we developed NILs with the IR64 genetic background by marker-assisted selection. We observed significant differences in several agronomic traits between IR64 and NILs that carried these QTL on chromosomes2 and 4. Additionally, four IR64-NILs carrying chromosomal segments derived from different NPT varieties on the long arm of chromosome 4 exhibited similar pleiotropiceffects for unique agronomic traits. These NILs can be used as research materials for studying each trait and as breeding materials for yield improvement of indica rice cultivars.展开更多
Pleiotropic drug resistance(PDR) transporters are widely distributed membrane proteins catalyzing the export or import of a diverse array of molecules, and are involved in many plant responses to biotic and abiotic st...Pleiotropic drug resistance(PDR) transporters are widely distributed membrane proteins catalyzing the export or import of a diverse array of molecules, and are involved in many plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. However, it is unclear whether PDRs are involved in Nicotiana attenuata resistance to the necrotic fungal pathogen Alternaria alternata. In this study, transcriptional levels of both NaPDR1 and NaPDR1-like were highly induced in N. attenuata leaves after A. alternata inoculation. Interestingly,silencing NaPDR1 or NaPDR1-like individually had little effect on N. attenuata resistance to A. alternata;however, when both genes were co-silenced plants became highly susceptible to the fungus, which was associated with elevated JA and ethylene responses. Neither NaPDR1 nor NaPDR1-like was significantly elicited by exogenous treatment with methyl jasmonate(MeJA), whereas both were highly induced by ethylene. The elicitation levels of both genes by A. alternata were significantly reduced in plants with impaired JA or ethylene signaling pathways. Thus, we conclude that both NaPDR1 and NaPDR1-like function redundantly to confer resistance against A. alternata in N. attenuata, and the elicitation of the transcripts of both genes by the fungus is partially dependent on ethylene and jasmonate signaling.展开更多
Matrix metalloproteinases（MMPs）are members of the metzincin superfamily named after the zinc ion and the conserved methionine residue at the active site.In addition to their role in extracellular matrix（ECM）remode...Matrix metalloproteinases（MMPs）are members of the metzincin superfamily named after the zinc ion and the conserved methionine residue at the active site.In addition to their role in extracellular matrix（ECM）remodeling,these proteinases（in）activate many signaling molecules such as growth factors.展开更多
Tissue plasminogen activator （tPA） use in the treatment of isch- emic stroke： tPA is a serine protease that catalyzes the breakdown of blood dots. Because of its thrombolytic properties, tPA is used to treat specif...Tissue plasminogen activator （tPA） use in the treatment of isch- emic stroke： tPA is a serine protease that catalyzes the breakdown of blood dots. Because of its thrombolytic properties, tPA is used to treat specific types of stroke, including ischemia, but is contra- indicated for treatment of hemorrhagic stroke or head trauma. Although a life saving and powerful ＇dot buster＇, tPA has a short therapeutic window. When administered outside of this prescribed timeframe, research suggests that tPA can produce neurotoxic ef- fects in the brain, due in part to activation of several signalling pro- cesses associated with cell apoptosis, degradation of the extracel- lular matrix, and increase in the permeability of the neurovascular unit （Yepes et al., 2009）. Concerted research has been dedicated to- ward understanding the mechanisms mediating the impact of tPA on the brain, using both in vivo and in vitro animal models.展开更多
“Sweet is Sweet but until it is not too Sweet”. As the sweet spoon of diabetes challenges the global population, diabetic organizations across the globe call for unanimous resonance of Diabetes Voice to tackle diabe...“Sweet is Sweet but until it is not too Sweet”. As the sweet spoon of diabetes challenges the global population, diabetic organizations across the globe call for unanimous resonance of Diabetes Voice to tackle diabetes with healthy living. With the discovery of new pathophysiology associated with diabetes, patients are gaining access to the newer therapeutic classes. Teneligliptin, a third generation DPP-4 inhibitor exhibits unique “J-shaped” structure with “anchor-lock domain” mechanism which provides potent & long duration of action. It acts like an insulin/glucagon modulator controlling blood glucose over 24 hours. It is effective in tackling short-term glycemic fluctuations and improvement in β-cell parameters is observed soon after treatment. Half-life of 26.9 hours ensures once a day administration. Because the metabolites of this drug are eliminated via renal and hepatic excretion, no dose adjustment is necessary in patients with renal impairment. Improvement in lipid profile, LV function, adiponectin levels & natriuretic effect is among the added pleiotropic benefits. With the effective glycemic control & capability for improvement in β-cell function, Teneligliptin promises to be a preferable antidiabetic agent with long-term efficacy & safety in patients with type 2 diabetes. The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive datum analysis of Teneligliptin in the management of type 2 diabetes. It summarizes the unique pharmacodynamic & pharmacokinetic advantages of Teneligliptin and additionally its pleiotropic benefits of cardioprotection. It provides a comprehensive comparison of Teneligliptin vis-à-vis other gliptins in the class & provides a concise summary of all clinical trials till the date with Teneligliptin monotherapy & combination with other antidiabetic drugs.展开更多
Zinc(Zn) is an essential mineral element for plant growth and development. Zn deficiency in crops frequently occurs in many types of soils. It is therefore crucial to identify genetic resources linking Zn acquisition ...Zinc(Zn) is an essential mineral element for plant growth and development. Zn deficiency in crops frequently occurs in many types of soils. It is therefore crucial to identify genetic resources linking Zn acquisition traits and development of crops with improved Zn-use efficiency for sustainable crop production. In this study, we functionally identified a rice uncharacterized ABCG(ATP-binding cassette G-subfamily) gene encoding a PDR20(pleiotropic drug resistance 20) metal transporter for mediation of rice growth, seed development and Zn accumulation. OsPDR20 was localized to the plasma membrane, but it was not transcriptionally induced under Zn deficiency, rather was sufficiently up-regulated under high level of Zn stress. Yeast(Saccharomyces cerevisiae) transformed with OsPDR20 displayed a relatively lower Zn accumulation with attenuated cellular growth, suggesting that OsPDR20 had an activity for Zn transport. Knocking-down OsPDR20 by RNA interference(RNAi) compromised rice growth with shorter plant height and decreased biomass in rice plantlets grown under hydroponic media. Zn concentration in the roots of OsPDR20 knocked-down rice lines declined under Zn deficiency, while they remained unchanged compared with the wild type under normal Zn supply. A rice lifelong field trial demonstrated that OsPDR20 mutation impaired the capacity of seed development, with shortened panicle and seed length, compromised spikelet fertility, and reduced grain number per plant or grain weight per unit area. Interestingly, OsPDR20 mutation elevated the accumulation of Zn in husk and brown rice over the wild type. Overall, this study pointed out that OsPDR20 is fundamentally required for rice growth and seed development through Zn transport and homeostasis.展开更多
Background:Economically important milk production traits including milk volume,milk fat and protein yield vary considerably across dairy goats in New Zealand.A significant portion of the variation is attributable to g...Background:Economically important milk production traits including milk volume,milk fat and protein yield vary considerably across dairy goats in New Zealand.A significant portion of the variation is attributable to genetic variation.Discovery of genetic markers linked to milk production traits can be utilised to drive selection of highperformance animals.A previously reported genome wide association study across dairy goats in New Zealand identified a quantitative trait locus(QTL)located on chromosome 19.The most significantly associated single nucleotide polymorphism(SNP)marker for this locus is located at position 26,610,610(SNP marker rs268292132).This locus is associated with multiple milk production traits including fat,protein and volume.The predicted effect of selection for the beneficial haplotype would result in an average production increase of 2.2 kg fat,1.9 kg protein and 73.6 kg milk yield.An outstanding question was whether selection for the beneficial allele would co-select for any negative pleiotropic effects.An adverse relationship between milk production and udder health traits has been reported at this locus.Therefore,a genome wide association study was undertaken looking for loci associated with udder traits.Results:The QTL and production associated marker rs268292132 was identified in this study to also be associated with several goat udder traits including udder depth(UD),fore udder attachment(FUA)and rear udder attachment(RUA).Our study replicates the negative relationship between production and udder traits with the high production allele at position 19:26,610,610(SNP marker rs268292132)associated with an adverse change in UD,FUA and RUA.Conclusions:Our study has confirmed the negative relationship between udder traits and production traits in the NZ goat population.We have found that the frequency of the high production allele is relatively high in the NZ goat population,indicating that its effect on udder conformation is not significantly detrimental on animal health.It will however be important to monitor udder conformation as the chromosome 19 locus is progressively implemented for marker assisted selection.It will also be of interest to determine if the gene underlying the production QTL has a direct effect on mammary gland morphology or whether the changes observed are a consequence of the increased milk volume.展开更多
Truttmann MC et al.[1] recently reported that AMPylation of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) family of chaperones participates in altering the aggregation properties and maintaining protein homeostasis (proteostasis), th...Truttmann MC et al.[1] recently reported that AMPylation of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) family of chaperones participates in altering the aggregation properties and maintaining protein homeostasis (proteostasis), thereby playing a vital role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). NDs are commonly manifested by protein aggregates, which exert harmful effects on proteostasis. Interestingly, it has been observed that AMPylation of heat shock proteins (HSPs) can maintain proteostasis by inhibiting the formation of protein aggregates. As previous studies only indicate that HSPs could regulate proteostasis, such a novel discovery further demonstrates the involvement of HSP70 AMPylation in the regulation of protein aggregation and the maintenance of proteostasis. Therefore, AMPylation can be considered to possess a therapeutic potential to target certain physiological processes related to proteostasis, such as age-related diseases.展开更多
Wheat resistance to Fusarium head blight(FHB)has often been associated with some undesirable agronomic traits.To study the relationship between wheat FHB resistance and agronomic traits,we constructed a linkage map of...Wheat resistance to Fusarium head blight(FHB)has often been associated with some undesirable agronomic traits.To study the relationship between wheat FHB resistance and agronomic traits,we constructed a linkage map of single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)using an F6:8 population from G97252WG97380A.The two hard winter wheat parents showed contrasts in FHB resistance,plant height(HT),heading date(HD),spike length(SL),spike compactness(SC),kernel number per spike(KNS),spikelet number per spike(SNS),thousand-grain weight(TGW)and grain size(length and width).Quantitative trait locus(QTL)mapping identified one major QTL(QFhb.hwwg-2DS)on chromosome arm 2DS for the percentage of symptomatic spikelets(PSS)in the spike,deoxynivalenol(DON)content and Fusarium damaged kernel(FDK).This QTL explained up to 71.8%of the phenotypic variation for the three FHB-related traits and overlapped with the major QTL for HT,HD,SL,KNS,SNS,TGW,and grain size.QTL on chromosome arms 2AL,2DS,3AL and 4BS were significant for the spike and grain traits measured.G97252W contributed FHB resistance and high SNS alleles at QFhb.hwwg-2DS,high KNS alleles at the QTL on 2AL and 2DS,and high TGW and grain size alleles at QTL on 3AL;whereas G97380A contributed high TGW and grain size alleles at the QTL on 2AL and 2DS,respectively,and the high KNS allele at the 4BS QTL.Combining QFhb.hwwg-2DS with positive alleles for spike and grain traits from other chromosomes may simultaneously improve FHB resistance and grain yield in new cultivars.展开更多
From the standpoint of evolution, caring for old parents may be maladaptive, because they have ceased reproduction, so that the benefit for inclusive fitness may not be expected. Then why do we care for old parents? I...From the standpoint of evolution, caring for old parents may be maladaptive, because they have ceased reproduction, so that the benefit for inclusive fitness may not be expected. Then why do we care for old parents? In this study, the evolution of care for the elderly was examined, by using an evolutionary genetic model, in which pleiotropic constraints between behaviors expressed in different social contexts among family members were assumed. It was suggested that establishing a solid relationship with parents during infancy should be selectively favorable, even though old parents have to be cared for in the future, but that caring for old parents may be excluded from the population if this behavior imposes high costs on reproduction of the younger generation. Despite the diminishing numbers of individuals within the population, care for the elderly may not be readily selected against, but at the same time this may not contribute to the rate of increase in population size. The significance of discussing the behavior of elderly caring from the standpoint of evolutionary genetics was emphasized.展开更多
Statins,which are competitive inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutarylcoenzyme A reductase,reduce cholesterol blood levels and the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and their related complications.In additio...Statins,which are competitive inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutarylcoenzyme A reductase,reduce cholesterol blood levels and the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and their related complications.In addition to this main activity,statins show pleiotropic effects such as antioxidant,anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties,with applications in many pathologies.Based on their antiproliferative properties,in vitro and in vivo studies have investigated their effects on various types of cancer(i.e.,breast cancer,prostate cancer,colorectal cancer,ovarian cancer,lung cancer)with different genetic and molecular characteristics.Many positive results were obtained,but they were highly dependent on the physiochemical properties of the statins,their dose and treatment period.Combined therapies of statins and cytotoxic drugs have also been tested,and synergistic or additive effects were observed.Moreover,observational studies performed on patients who used statins for different pathologies,revealed that statins reduced the risk of developing various cancers,and improved the outcomes for cancer patients.Currently,there are many ongoing clinical trials aimed at exploring the potential of statins to lower the mortality and the disease-recurrence risk.All these results are the foundation of new treatment directions in cancer therapy.展开更多
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.32272751,32272750,31972445)the Department of Science and Technology of Jilin Province(Grant Nos.20220508112RC,20210101005JC)+1 种基金the“Pioneer”and“Leading Goose”R&D Program of Zhejiang(Grant No.2023C02028)the China Scholarship Council(Grant No.202006625007)。
文摘Floral color and scent are crucial for plant-environment interactions,especially in reproduction by attracting pollinators for fertilization.They also have wide applications in cosmetic,pharmaceutical,and nutraceutical industries.Plant pigments are typically classified as chlorophylls,flavonoids,carotenoids,and betalains,while volatile organic compounds(VOCs)are grouped as terpenes,phenylpropanoids/benzenoids,and fatty acid derivatives.Significant progresses have been made in understanding the biosynthesis and regulation of these floral pigments and VOCs.Despite differences in their biosynthetic pathways,floral pigments and VOCs are biochemically connected and exhibit synergistic interactions during flower development and in response to biotic and abiotic stresses,suggesting the existence of pleiotropic regulators or complex mechanisms co-regulating their biosynthesis.In this review,we summarize and outline the metabolite pathways mainly integrating flavonoids,carotenoids,terpenes,and phenylpropanoids/benzenoids.We also provide a series of scenarios illustrating the coordinated regulation of floral color and scent.Finally,we suggest areas for future research.We hope this review will spark interest in this research direction and stimulate further studies.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2022YFD1200300)the Central Plain Scholar Program,China(234000510004)the National Supercomputing Center in Zhengzhou,China。
文摘Cotton fiber quality is a persistent concern that determines planting benefits and the quality of finished textile products.However,the limitations of measurement instruments have hindered the accurate evaluation of some important fiber characteristics such as fiber maturity,fineness,and neps,which in turn has impeded the genetic improvement and industrial utilization of cotton fiber.Here,12 single fiber quality traits were measured using Advanced Fiber Information System(AFIS)equipment among 383 accessions of upland cotton(Gossypium hirsutum L.).In addition,eight conventional fiber quality traits were assessed by the High Volume Instrument(HVI)System.Genome-wide association study(GWAS),linkage disequilibrium(LD)block genotyping and functional identification were conducted sequentially to uncover the associated elite loci and candidate genes of fiber quality traits.As a result,the previously reported pleiotropic locus FL_D11 regulating fiber length-related traits was identified in this study.More importantly,three novel pleiotropic loci(FM_A03,FF_A05,and FN_A07)regulating fiber maturity,fineness and neps,respectively,were detected based on AFIS traits.Numerous highly promising candidate genes were screened out by integrating RNA-seq and qRT-PCR analyses,including the reported GhKRP6 for fiber length,the newly identified GhMAP8 for maturity and GhDFR for fineness.The origin and evolutionary analysis of pleiotropic loci indicated that the selection pressure on FL_D11,FM_A03 and FF_A05 increased as the breeding period approached the present and the origins of FM_A03 and FF_A05 were traced back to cotton landraces.These findings reveal the genetic basis underlying fiber quality and provide insight into the genetic improvement and textile utilization of fiber in G.hirsutum.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32201781,32100211)the Department of Science and Technology of Jilin Province(20220508112RC,20210101005JC)+1 种基金the Fundamental Research Fund for the Central Universities(2412023YQ005)China Agriculture Research System(CARS04)。
文摘Anthocyanins play crucial roles in pollen protection and pollinator attraction in flowering plants.However,the mechanisms underlying flower color determination and whether floral anthocyanin regulators participate in other processes remain largely unresolved in soybeans(Glycine max).In this study,we investigated the genetic components and mechanisms governing anthocyanin biosynthesis in soybean flowers.Molecular and genetic studies have characterized two antagonistic regulators,the positive activator GmMYBA3 and the negative repressor GmMYBR1,that modulate the gene expression of anthocyanin biosynthesis in soybean flowers.Further findings revealed a regulatory interplay between GmMYBA3 and GmMYBR1 bridged by GmTT8a,highlighting the complexity of anthocyanin regulation in different soybean organs.Exploration of additional soybean cultivars demonstrated the universality of GmMYBA3 and GmMYBR1 in regulating floral anthocyanin biosynthesis-related genes,with GmF3’5’H identified as a crucial determinant of white flower color.This study provides a molecular mechanism underlying soybean flower color determination,paving the way for the molecular modification of soybean flowers to probably enhance their resistance to abiotic stresses and attractiveness to pollinators.
基金the Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa (AGRA) PASS project for providing financial support for the field studythe South Agricultural Research Institute (SARI) for hosting this researchDrs. I.M. Rao and B. Raatz at CIAT for supplying methods to analyze the recombinant inbred lines used as well the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation through the Generation Challenge Program (GCP), Tropical Legume I (TL-I) project, for financial support to the research
文摘Understanding functional relations among plant traits and their modulation by growing conditions is imperative in designing selection strategies for breeding programs. This study assessed trait relationships among 196 common bean genotypes exposed to stresses for drought and field infestation of bean fly or bean stem maggot(BSM). The study was carried out at two locations and data was analyzed with linear correlation, path coefficient and genotype × trait biplot analyses. Multiple trait data related to mechanisms of drought and bean fly tolerance were collected on 196 genotypes grown under i) water deficit at mid-pod fill, or ii) unprotected against bean fly; iii) irrigated, well watered conditions, or iv) bean fly protection with chemicals. Seed yield exhibited positive and significant correlations with leaf chlorophyll content, vertical root pulling resistance, pod harvest index, pods per plant and seeds per pod at both phenotypic and genotypic levels under stress and non-stress conditions. Genotypic correlations of traits with seed yield were greater than their respective phenotypic correlations across environments indicating the greater contribution of genotypic factors to the trait correlation. Pods per plant and seeds per pod had high positive direct effects on seed yield both under stress and non-stress whereas pods per plant had the highest indirect effect on seed yield through pod harvest index under stress.In general, our results suggest that vertical root pulling resistance and pod harvest index are important selection objectives for improving seed yield in common beans under non-stress and stress conditions, and particularly useful for drought and BSM tolerance evaluation.
文摘Diabetic retinopathy (DR), a major micro-vascular complication of diabetes, has emerged as a leading cause of visual impairment and blindness among working adults in the worldwide. The pathobiology of DR involves multiple molecular pathways and is characterized chronic neurovascular degeneration. Current approaches to prevent or to treat DR are still far from satisfactory. Therefore, it is important to develop new therapeutic strategies for the prevention and treatment to DR. Pigment epithelium-derived factor (PEDF), a 50-kDa secreted glycoprotein, has been described as a multi-functional protein. Some emerging evidences indicate that PEDF are able to target multiple pathways exerting neurotropic, neuroprotective, anti-angiogenic, antivasopermeability, anti-inflammation, anti-thrombogenic and anti-oxidative effects in DR. In this review, we addressed the functions of PEDF in different pathways, which could lead to potential therapeutics on the treatment to DR.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundations of China(31372294 and 31702084)Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences of Technology Innovation Project(CAAS-XTCX2016010,CAAS-ZDXT2018006,ASTIP-IAS-TS-9,ASTIP-IAS-TS-16 and ASTIP-IAS03)for the design of the study and data collectionpartly supported by Beijing City Board of Education Foundation(PXM2016_014207_000012)for the data analysis and interpretation of the study
文摘Background: Fatty acids are important traits that affect meat quality and nutritive values in beef cattle. Detection of genetic variants for fatty acid composition can help to elucidate the genetic mechanism underpinning these traits and promote the improvement of fatty acid profiles. In this study, we performed a genome-wide association study(GWAS) on fatty acid composition using high-density single nucleotide polymorphism(SNP) arrays in Chinese Wagyu cattle.Results: In total, we detected 15 and 8 significant genome-wide SNPs for individual fatty acids and fatty acid groups in Chinese Wagyu cattle, respectively. Also, we identified nine candidate genes based on 100 kb regions around associated SNPs. Four SNPs significantly associated with C14:1 cis-9 were embedded with stearoyl-CoA desaturase(SCD), while three SNPs in total were identified for C22:6 n-3 within Phospholipid scramblase family member 5(PLSCR5), Cytoplasmic linker associated protein 1(CLASP1), and Chymosin(CYM). Notably, we found the top candidate SNP within SCD can explain ~ 7.37% of phenotypic variance for C14:1 cis-9.Moreover, we detected several blocks with high LD in the 100 kb region around SCD. In addition, we found three significant SNPs within a 100 kb region showing pleiotropic effects related to multiple FA groups(PUFA,n-6, and PUFA/SFA), which contains BAI1 associated protein 2 like 2(BAIAP2 L2), MAF bZIP transcription factor F(MAFF),and transmembrane protein 184 B(TMEM184 B).Conclusions: Our study identified several significant SNPs and candidate genes for individual fatty acids and fatty acid groups in Chinese Wagyu cattle, and these findings will further assist the design of breeding programs for meat quality in cattle.
文摘Statins have become a cornerstone of risk modification for ischaemic heart disease patients. A number of studies have shown that they are effective and safe. However studies have observed an early benefit in terms of a reduction in recurrent infarct and or death after a myocardial infarction,prior to any significant change in lipid profile. Therefore,pleiotropic mechanisms,other than lowering lipid profile alone,must account for this effect. One such proposed pleiotropic mechanism is the ability of statins to augment both number and function of endothelial progenitor cells. The ability to augment repair and maintenance of a functioning endothelium may have profound beneficial effect on vascular repair and potentially a positive impact on clinical outcomes in patients with cardiovascular disease. The following literature review will discuss issues surrounding endothelial progenitor cell(EPC) identification,role in vascular repair,factors affecting EPC numbers,the role of statins in current medical practice and their effects on EPC number.
文摘Bombesin and neurotensin are neuropeptides which exert a wide spectrum of biological actions on gastrointestinal tissues influencing intestinal growth and adaptation, intestinal motility, blood flow, secretion, nutrient absorption and immune response. Based mainly on their well-established potent enterotrophic effect, numerous experimental studies investigated their potential positive effect on the atrophic or injured intestinal mucosa. These peptides proved to be effective mucosa-healing factors, but the potential molecular and cellular mechanisms for this action remained unresolved. In a recently published study (World J Gastroenterol 2008; 14(8): 1222-1230), it was shown that their protective effect on the intestine in experimentally induced inflammatory bowel disease was related to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiapoptotic actions. These results are in close agreement with our previous studies on jaundiced and hepatectomized rats that showed a regulatory effect of bombesin and neurotensin on critical cellular processes such as enterocyte' proliferation and death, oxidative stress and redox equilibrium, tight junctions' formation and function, and inflammatory response. The pleiotropic effects of bombesin and neurotensin on diverse types of intestinal injury may justify their consideration for clinical trials.
文摘Three major cardiovascular outcome trials(CVOTs)with a new class of antidiabetic drugs-sodium-glucose cotransporter 2(SGLT2)inhibitors(EMPAREG OUTCOME trial with empagliflozin,CANVAS Program with canagliflozin,DECLARE-TIMI 58 with dapagliflozin)unexpectedly showed that cardiovascular outcomes could be improved possibly due to a reduction in heart failure risk,which seems to be the most sensitive outcome of SGLT2 inhibition.No other CVOT to date has shown any significant benefit on heart failure events.Even more impressive findings came recently from the DAPA-HF trial in patients with confirmed and well-treated heart failure:Dapagliflozin was shown to reduce heart failure risk for patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction regardless of diabetes status.Nevertheless,despite their possible wide clinical implications,there is much doubt about the mechanisms of action and a lot of questions to unravel,especially now when their benefits translated to nondiabetic patients,rising doubts about the validity of some current mechanistic assumptions.The time frame of their cardiovascular benefits excludes glucoselowering and antiatherosclerotic-mediated effects and multiple other mechanisms,direct cardiac as well as systemic,are suggested to explain their early cardiorenal benefits.These are:Anti-inflammatory,antifibrotic,antioxidative,antiapoptotic properties,then renoprotective and hemodynamic effects,attenuation of glucotoxicity,reduction of uric acid levels and epicardial adipose tissue,modification of neurohumoral system and cardiac fuel energetics,sodiumhydrogen exchange inhibition.The most logic explanation seems that SGLT2 inhibitors timely target various mechanisms underpinning heart failure pathogenesis.All the proposed mechanisms of their action could interfere with evolution of heart failure and are discussed separately within the main text.
基金the results obtained from phases Ⅲ , Ⅳ, Ⅴ, and Ⅵ of the IRRI – Japan Collaborative Research Project, which was supported by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries of Japan
文摘To enhance the yield potential of an elite indica rice cultivar,an introgression(BC_3-derived) line of IR64,YTH288,was developed using a new-plant-type cultivar,IR66215-44-2-3,as a donor parent.YTH288 has agronomically valuable characteristics such as large panicles,few unproductive tillers,and large leaves inherited from NPT.To identify the genetic basis of these traits,we used 167 F_2 plants derived from a cross between IR64 and YTH288 to conduct QTL analysis for five agronomic traits:days to heading(DTH),culm length(CL),flag leaf length(FLL),flag leaf width(FLW),and filled spikelet number per panicle(FSN).Six putative QTL were detected:four on chromosome4(for CL,FLL,FLW,and FSN) and two on chromosome 2(for DTH and FLL).All QTL with the IR66215-44-2-3 allele,except that for FLL on chromosome 2,had positive effects on each trait.To confirm the effects of these putative QTL,we developed NILs with the IR64 genetic background by marker-assisted selection.We observed significant differences in several agronomic traits between IR64 and NILs that carried these QTL on chromosomes2 and 4.Additionally,four IR64-NILs carrying chromosomal segments derived from different NPT varieties on the long arm of chromosome 4 exhibited similar pleiotropic To enhance the yield potential of an elite indica rice cultivar, an introgression(BC3-derived) line of IR64, YTH288, was developed using a new-plant-type cultivar,IR66215-44-2-3, as a donor parent. YTH288 has agronomically valuable characteristics such as large panicles, few unproductive tillers, and large leaves inherited from NPT.To identify the genetic basis of these traits, we used 167 F2 plants derived from a cross between IR64 and YTH288 to conduct QTL analysis for five agronomic traits: days to heading(DTH), culm length(CL), flag leaf length(FLL), flag leaf width(FLW), and filled spikelet number per panicle(FSN). Six putative QTL were detected: four on chromosome4(for CL, FLL, FLW, and FSN) and two on chromosome 2(for DTH and FLL). All QTL with the IR66215-44-2-3 allele, except that for FLL on chromosome 2, had positive effects on each trait. To confirm the effects of these putative QTL, we developed NILs with the IR64 genetic background by marker-assisted selection. We observed significant differences in several agronomic traits between IR64 and NILs that carried these QTL on chromosomes2 and 4. Additionally, four IR64-NILs carrying chromosomal segments derived from different NPT varieties on the long arm of chromosome 4 exhibited similar pleiotropiceffects for unique agronomic traits. These NILs can be used as research materials for studying each trait and as breeding materials for yield improvement of indica rice cultivars.
基金supported by the NSFC (Grant No. 31670262)Key Project of Applied Basic Research Program of Yunnan (Grant No. 2014FA040)+2 种基金100-Oversea-Top-Talents Recruitment plan of Yunnan to jinsong WuProject of Applied Basic Research Program of Yunnan(Grant No. 2017FB048) to Lan Mafounding (Grant No. 110201603008) to Dunhuang Fang
文摘Pleiotropic drug resistance(PDR) transporters are widely distributed membrane proteins catalyzing the export or import of a diverse array of molecules, and are involved in many plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. However, it is unclear whether PDRs are involved in Nicotiana attenuata resistance to the necrotic fungal pathogen Alternaria alternata. In this study, transcriptional levels of both NaPDR1 and NaPDR1-like were highly induced in N. attenuata leaves after A. alternata inoculation. Interestingly,silencing NaPDR1 or NaPDR1-like individually had little effect on N. attenuata resistance to A. alternata;however, when both genes were co-silenced plants became highly susceptible to the fungus, which was associated with elevated JA and ethylene responses. Neither NaPDR1 nor NaPDR1-like was significantly elicited by exogenous treatment with methyl jasmonate(MeJA), whereas both were highly induced by ethylene. The elicitation levels of both genes by A. alternata were significantly reduced in plants with impaired JA or ethylene signaling pathways. Thus, we conclude that both NaPDR1 and NaPDR1-like function redundantly to confer resistance against A. alternata in N. attenuata, and the elicitation of the transcripts of both genes by the fungus is partially dependent on ethylene and jasmonate signaling.
基金supported by the Hercules Foundation(AKUL/09/038&AKUL/13/09)national grants from the Research Council of KU Leuven(BOF-OT/14/064)+1 种基金the Research Foundation Flanders(FWO G0B2315N)the Flemish Institute for the promotion of scientific research(IWT)
文摘Matrix metalloproteinases（MMPs）are members of the metzincin superfamily named after the zinc ion and the conserved methionine residue at the active site.In addition to their role in extracellular matrix（ECM）remodeling,these proteinases（in）activate many signaling molecules such as growth factors.
文摘Tissue plasminogen activator （tPA） use in the treatment of isch- emic stroke： tPA is a serine protease that catalyzes the breakdown of blood dots. Because of its thrombolytic properties, tPA is used to treat specific types of stroke, including ischemia, but is contra- indicated for treatment of hemorrhagic stroke or head trauma. Although a life saving and powerful ＇dot buster＇, tPA has a short therapeutic window. When administered outside of this prescribed timeframe, research suggests that tPA can produce neurotoxic ef- fects in the brain, due in part to activation of several signalling pro- cesses associated with cell apoptosis, degradation of the extracel- lular matrix, and increase in the permeability of the neurovascular unit （Yepes et al., 2009）. Concerted research has been dedicated to- ward understanding the mechanisms mediating the impact of tPA on the brain, using both in vivo and in vitro animal models.
文摘“Sweet is Sweet but until it is not too Sweet”. As the sweet spoon of diabetes challenges the global population, diabetic organizations across the globe call for unanimous resonance of Diabetes Voice to tackle diabetes with healthy living. With the discovery of new pathophysiology associated with diabetes, patients are gaining access to the newer therapeutic classes. Teneligliptin, a third generation DPP-4 inhibitor exhibits unique “J-shaped” structure with “anchor-lock domain” mechanism which provides potent & long duration of action. It acts like an insulin/glucagon modulator controlling blood glucose over 24 hours. It is effective in tackling short-term glycemic fluctuations and improvement in β-cell parameters is observed soon after treatment. Half-life of 26.9 hours ensures once a day administration. Because the metabolites of this drug are eliminated via renal and hepatic excretion, no dose adjustment is necessary in patients with renal impairment. Improvement in lipid profile, LV function, adiponectin levels & natriuretic effect is among the added pleiotropic benefits. With the effective glycemic control & capability for improvement in β-cell function, Teneligliptin promises to be a preferable antidiabetic agent with long-term efficacy & safety in patients with type 2 diabetes. The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive datum analysis of Teneligliptin in the management of type 2 diabetes. It summarizes the unique pharmacodynamic & pharmacokinetic advantages of Teneligliptin and additionally its pleiotropic benefits of cardioprotection. It provides a comprehensive comparison of Teneligliptin vis-à-vis other gliptins in the class & provides a concise summary of all clinical trials till the date with Teneligliptin monotherapy & combination with other antidiabetic drugs.
基金financially supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.21777072)。
文摘Zinc(Zn) is an essential mineral element for plant growth and development. Zn deficiency in crops frequently occurs in many types of soils. It is therefore crucial to identify genetic resources linking Zn acquisition traits and development of crops with improved Zn-use efficiency for sustainable crop production. In this study, we functionally identified a rice uncharacterized ABCG(ATP-binding cassette G-subfamily) gene encoding a PDR20(pleiotropic drug resistance 20) metal transporter for mediation of rice growth, seed development and Zn accumulation. OsPDR20 was localized to the plasma membrane, but it was not transcriptionally induced under Zn deficiency, rather was sufficiently up-regulated under high level of Zn stress. Yeast(Saccharomyces cerevisiae) transformed with OsPDR20 displayed a relatively lower Zn accumulation with attenuated cellular growth, suggesting that OsPDR20 had an activity for Zn transport. Knocking-down OsPDR20 by RNA interference(RNAi) compromised rice growth with shorter plant height and decreased biomass in rice plantlets grown under hydroponic media. Zn concentration in the roots of OsPDR20 knocked-down rice lines declined under Zn deficiency, while they remained unchanged compared with the wild type under normal Zn supply. A rice lifelong field trial demonstrated that OsPDR20 mutation impaired the capacity of seed development, with shortened panicle and seed length, compromised spikelet fertility, and reduced grain number per plant or grain weight per unit area. Interestingly, OsPDR20 mutation elevated the accumulation of Zn in husk and brown rice over the wild type. Overall, this study pointed out that OsPDR20 is fundamentally required for rice growth and seed development through Zn transport and homeostasis.
基金co-funded by the Dairy Goat Co-operative,Ministry of Business,Innovation&Employment(3709153)the Ministry for Primary Industries Sustainable Food and Fibre Futures Fund(5000835)。
文摘Background:Economically important milk production traits including milk volume,milk fat and protein yield vary considerably across dairy goats in New Zealand.A significant portion of the variation is attributable to genetic variation.Discovery of genetic markers linked to milk production traits can be utilised to drive selection of highperformance animals.A previously reported genome wide association study across dairy goats in New Zealand identified a quantitative trait locus(QTL)located on chromosome 19.The most significantly associated single nucleotide polymorphism(SNP)marker for this locus is located at position 26,610,610(SNP marker rs268292132).This locus is associated with multiple milk production traits including fat,protein and volume.The predicted effect of selection for the beneficial haplotype would result in an average production increase of 2.2 kg fat,1.9 kg protein and 73.6 kg milk yield.An outstanding question was whether selection for the beneficial allele would co-select for any negative pleiotropic effects.An adverse relationship between milk production and udder health traits has been reported at this locus.Therefore,a genome wide association study was undertaken looking for loci associated with udder traits.Results:The QTL and production associated marker rs268292132 was identified in this study to also be associated with several goat udder traits including udder depth(UD),fore udder attachment(FUA)and rear udder attachment(RUA).Our study replicates the negative relationship between production and udder traits with the high production allele at position 19:26,610,610(SNP marker rs268292132)associated with an adverse change in UD,FUA and RUA.Conclusions:Our study has confirmed the negative relationship between udder traits and production traits in the NZ goat population.We have found that the frequency of the high production allele is relatively high in the NZ goat population,indicating that its effect on udder conformation is not significantly detrimental on animal health.It will however be important to monitor udder conformation as the chromosome 19 locus is progressively implemented for marker assisted selection.It will also be of interest to determine if the gene underlying the production QTL has a direct effect on mammary gland morphology or whether the changes observed are a consequence of the increased milk volume.
基金supported by the grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China [81470434]
文摘Truttmann MC et al.[1] recently reported that AMPylation of heat shock protein 70 (HSP70) family of chaperones participates in altering the aggregation properties and maintaining protein homeostasis (proteostasis), thereby playing a vital role in the development of neurodegenerative diseases (NDs). NDs are commonly manifested by protein aggregates, which exert harmful effects on proteostasis. Interestingly, it has been observed that AMPylation of heat shock proteins (HSPs) can maintain proteostasis by inhibiting the formation of protein aggregates. As previous studies only indicate that HSPs could regulate proteostasis, such a novel discovery further demonstrates the involvement of HSP70 AMPylation in the regulation of protein aggregation and the maintenance of proteostasis. Therefore, AMPylation can be considered to possess a therapeutic potential to target certain physiological processes related to proteostasis, such as age-related diseases.
基金the U.S.Wheat and Barley Scab Initiative and the National Research Initiative Competitive Grants(2022-68013-36439)from the National Institute of Food and Agriculture,U.S.Department of Agriculture(USDA).
文摘Wheat resistance to Fusarium head blight(FHB)has often been associated with some undesirable agronomic traits.To study the relationship between wheat FHB resistance and agronomic traits,we constructed a linkage map of single nucleotide polymorphisms(SNPs)using an F6:8 population from G97252WG97380A.The two hard winter wheat parents showed contrasts in FHB resistance,plant height(HT),heading date(HD),spike length(SL),spike compactness(SC),kernel number per spike(KNS),spikelet number per spike(SNS),thousand-grain weight(TGW)and grain size(length and width).Quantitative trait locus(QTL)mapping identified one major QTL(QFhb.hwwg-2DS)on chromosome arm 2DS for the percentage of symptomatic spikelets(PSS)in the spike,deoxynivalenol(DON)content and Fusarium damaged kernel(FDK).This QTL explained up to 71.8%of the phenotypic variation for the three FHB-related traits and overlapped with the major QTL for HT,HD,SL,KNS,SNS,TGW,and grain size.QTL on chromosome arms 2AL,2DS,3AL and 4BS were significant for the spike and grain traits measured.G97252W contributed FHB resistance and high SNS alleles at QFhb.hwwg-2DS,high KNS alleles at the QTL on 2AL and 2DS,and high TGW and grain size alleles at QTL on 3AL;whereas G97380A contributed high TGW and grain size alleles at the QTL on 2AL and 2DS,respectively,and the high KNS allele at the 4BS QTL.Combining QFhb.hwwg-2DS with positive alleles for spike and grain traits from other chromosomes may simultaneously improve FHB resistance and grain yield in new cultivars.
文摘From the standpoint of evolution, caring for old parents may be maladaptive, because they have ceased reproduction, so that the benefit for inclusive fitness may not be expected. Then why do we care for old parents? In this study, the evolution of care for the elderly was examined, by using an evolutionary genetic model, in which pleiotropic constraints between behaviors expressed in different social contexts among family members were assumed. It was suggested that establishing a solid relationship with parents during infancy should be selectively favorable, even though old parents have to be cared for in the future, but that caring for old parents may be excluded from the population if this behavior imposes high costs on reproduction of the younger generation. Despite the diminishing numbers of individuals within the population, care for the elderly may not be readily selected against, but at the same time this may not contribute to the rate of increase in population size. The significance of discussing the behavior of elderly caring from the standpoint of evolutionary genetics was emphasized.
文摘Statins,which are competitive inhibitors of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutarylcoenzyme A reductase,reduce cholesterol blood levels and the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and their related complications.In addition to this main activity,statins show pleiotropic effects such as antioxidant,anti-inflammatory and antiproliferative properties,with applications in many pathologies.Based on their antiproliferative properties,in vitro and in vivo studies have investigated their effects on various types of cancer(i.e.,breast cancer,prostate cancer,colorectal cancer,ovarian cancer,lung cancer)with different genetic and molecular characteristics.Many positive results were obtained,but they were highly dependent on the physiochemical properties of the statins,their dose and treatment period.Combined therapies of statins and cytotoxic drugs have also been tested,and synergistic or additive effects were observed.Moreover,observational studies performed on patients who used statins for different pathologies,revealed that statins reduced the risk of developing various cancers,and improved the outcomes for cancer patients.Currently,there are many ongoing clinical trials aimed at exploring the potential of statins to lower the mortality and the disease-recurrence risk.All these results are the foundation of new treatment directions in cancer therapy.
