Biology[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Seasonal Dynamics of the Volatile Metabolome and Aroma Contribution in Xinyang Maojian Green Tea.
Zhou J, Yang Y, Wei Z … +2 more , Che Y, Cui J
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345781 · Full text
Seasonal variation in aroma quality is critical for commercial grading of Xinyang Maojian (XYMJ) green tea, and how seasonal changes shape its volatile composition and aroma profile remains unclear. This study investigat...
Seasonal variation in aroma quality is critical for commercial grading of Xinyang Maojian (XYMJ) green tea, and how seasonal changes shape its volatile composition and aroma profile remains unclear. This study investigated the volatile profiles of XYMJ harvested in spring, summer, and autumn using headspace solid-phase microextraction-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (HS-SPME-GC-MS) and odor activity value (OAV) analysis. A total of 93 volatile compounds were identified, with alkenes, alcohols, and esters being the most numerous chemical classes. Total volatile content decreased significantly seasonally ( < 0.05), being highest in spring (1716.68 μg/kg), followed by summer (1566.72 μg/kg) and autumn (1378.21 μg/kg). PCA and PLS-DA clearly distinguished seasons. Using a dual-filtering strategy (variable importance in the projection > 1.0 and < 0.01), 14 differential volatile metabolites were identified as core seasonal markers. Geraniol, -jasmone, and indole were identified as key drivers of the premium floral fragrance in spring XYMJ, while -3-hexenyl hexanoate and linalool peaked in the summer harvest. OAV results and cross-modal sensory interaction principles suggest that the superior flavor of spring XYMJ arises from both higher aromatic intensity and an optimized aroma-taste balance. These findings provide useful insights into the seasonal variations in the metabolic and chemical profiles of XYMJ, enhancing our understanding of the biochemical markers associated with its production timeline.
Chromosome-Scale Genome Architecture and Historical Demography of the Southern White Rhinoceros.
Zhou J, Zhou X, Zhang F … +2 more , Chen W, Chen L
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345780 · Full text
The white rhinoceros () offers a unique model for investigating the genomic consequences of extreme demographic bottlenecks. However, the fragmented southern white rhinoceros genome assembly has limited chromosome-scale...
The white rhinoceros () offers a unique model for investigating the genomic consequences of extreme demographic bottlenecks. However, the fragmented southern white rhinoceros genome assembly has limited chromosome-scale structural and evolutionary comparisons with the functionally extinct northern subspecies. Here, we report a chromosome-scale genome assembly for the southern white rhinoceros by integrating Oxford Nanopore Technology long-read sequencing, Illumina short-read polishing and high-throughput chromosome conformation capture (Hi-C) scaffolding. The final assembly spans 2.48 Gb and achieves a contig N50 of 42.06 Mb, representing a 452-fold improvement in contiguity over the previous assembly. In total, 2.46 Gb of sequence was anchored to 40 autosomes plus the X and Y chromosomes. Genome annotation identified 1.13 Gb of repetitive elements (45.7% of the assembly), 22,593 protein-coding genes, and 100.68 Mb of segmental duplications. Inspection of the major histocompatibility complex class II gene region further supported the local assembly and annotation reliability, revealing conserved gene composition and order between the southern and northern white rhinoceroses. Whole-genome comparison with the northern white rhinoceros assembly indicated extensive chromosome-scale synteny, along with localized structural variants between the two subspecies, including 111 inversions spanning 33.48 Mb and 497 translocations spanning 36.48 Mb. Furthermore, coalescent demographic reconstruction indicated asynchronous Pleistocene population dynamics for southern and northern white rhinoceroses, reflecting divergent responses to historical climate oscillations. Both subspecies also exhibit lower recent effective population sizes than estimated Pleistocene ancestral levels, underscoring persistent conservation concern. This assembly provides a useful resource for evaluating the genomic consequences of historical bottlenecks, informing future genomic-rescue plans, and strengthening the comparative framework for rhinoceros conservation and evolutionary genomics.
Genetically Modified Plants in Agriculture.
Ogienko AA, Surkova ES, Omelina ES
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345779 · Full text
Genetically modified (GM) plants have revolutionized agriculture for more than three decades. The production of a GM plants is a complex, multi-stage process. Several key methods are available for generating GM plants. T...
Genetically modified (GM) plants have revolutionized agriculture for more than three decades. The production of a GM plants is a complex, multi-stage process. Several key methods are available for generating GM plants. The choice of transformation method depends on the type of plant (dicotyledonous or monocotyledonous), the objective (large-scale production versus studying a specific gene in particular cells or tissues), and whether stable or transient transformation is desired. Following successful transformation, the next step is the regeneration of a whole plant from a single cell in tissue culture, which is a labor-intensive and time-consuming process. Currently, numerous genes that confer desirable traits have been identified. These traits include stress tolerance, herbicide and pest resistance, and improved consumer qualities (such as flavor, appearance, shelf life, and nutritional value). In this review, we describe the main methods for producing GM plants and provide examples of trait genes utilized in agricultural biotechnology. Despite the fact that GM plants represent one of the most significant biotechnological advances, they also remain among the most contentious issues in contemporary food safety and agricultural policy. Here, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using GM plants for humans.
Hematopoietic Rejuvenation via Natural Senolytic NSPCC1 Delays Inflammatory Aging.
Wang W, Yang S, Zhang R … +7 more , Wang Y, Zhang Z, Xiao F, Wu S, Ju Z, He R, Ge Y
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345778 · Full text
Chronic inflammation accelerates the aging process, and targeted clearance of senescent cells shows potential in alleviating age-related decline. PCC1, a potent senescent cell clearance agent in grape seed extract (GSE),...
Chronic inflammation accelerates the aging process, and targeted clearance of senescent cells shows potential in alleviating age-related decline. PCC1, a potent senescent cell clearance agent in grape seed extract (GSE), has limited applications due to its low oral bioavailability. This study introduced a novel GSE formulation, Natural Senolytics PCC1 (NSPCC1), which significantly enhanced PCC1 absorption and metabolic characteristics. Validation in two mouse aging models demonstrated that oral administration of NSPCC1 markedly extended lifespan and promoted healthy aging. The formulation improved the capacity for hematopoietic stem/progenitor cell differentiation and reduced age-related myeloid cell bias. Comprehensive histological analysis revealed attenuated aging phenotypes in bone marrow and skin, improved peripheral blood erythroid parameters, and a partial increase in blood antioxidant capacity, alongside reduced M1 macrophage infiltration and fibrosis in liver, kidney, and lung tissues. These effects were validated through histological assessments, including H&E, Masson, F4/80, and iNOS staining. This study highlighted the pivotal role of hematopoietic stem cells in aging and established NSPCC1 as a promising natural intervention for age-related pathologies. Its enhanced efficacy lays the groundwork for deeper exploration of natural products in aging biology and provides crucial support for the development of safe and effective anti-aging therapies.
Development of a Multiplex PCR Assay for Selected Virulence Genes, and 18S rRNA in Faecal Samples from Diarrheic Dairy Calves.
Hou JJ, Zhao JQ, Fan YY … +4 more , Zhang MY, Song JK, Yang X, Zhao GH
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345777 · Full text
, and are common diarrhea-related pathogens in dairy calves, posing considerable economic losses to animal husbandry and threatening public health. A previous study in our lab found the frequent occurrence of virulenc...
, and are common diarrhea-related pathogens in dairy calves, posing considerable economic losses to animal husbandry and threatening public health. A previous study in our lab found the frequent occurrence of virulence genes (, and ), and in diarrheic dairy calves in Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, China. The present study aimed to develop a multiplex PCR for simultaneous detection of these virulence genes and in diarrheic dairy calves. The multiplex PCR demonstrated sensitivities of 2060 copies, 18200 copies, 1300 copies, 1990 copies and 974 copies for , , , and , respectively. Moreover, the method showed no cross-reactivity with , , , , , , , and . Further application of the multiplex PCR in 20 clinical faecal samples from diarrheic dairy calves found that the positive rates of the multiplex PCR assay were 55% (11/20), 50% (10/20), 60% (12/20), 45% (9/20) and 25% (5/20) for , , , and , respectively, which were not significantly lower than those of the conventional PCR targeting (60%, 12/20) and (65%, 13/20), but higher than those of the reported PCR targeting (45%, 9/20) and (40%, 8/20), and were consistent with those of the reported nested PCR targeting (25%, 5/20). Taken together, the present study preliminarily developed a multiplex PCR assay for the rapid detection of selected virulence genes, and in dairy calves, which could provide basic data and technical support for the diagnosis and prevention of calf diarrhea. However, more samples from divergent clinical settings are needed to validate the assay in the diagnosis of selected virulence genes, and in future studies.
Study on the Antifungal Activity and Molecular Docking of Polyester Metabolites from .
Chen Y, Zhang M, Li S … +6 more , Xiao J, Ma Z, Sun J, Wang X, Sun J, Zhang Y
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345776 · Full text
Plant pathogenic fungi seriously threaten global crop production, and endophytic fungi are promising reservoirs of bioactive antifungal metabolites. Three undescribed polyester derivatives, talapolyesters I-K (-), along...
Plant pathogenic fungi seriously threaten global crop production, and endophytic fungi are promising reservoirs of bioactive antifungal metabolites. Three undescribed polyester derivatives, talapolyesters I-K (-), along with thirteen known compounds including 15G256ω (), 15G256ι (), 15G256α (), talapolyester E (), 15G256α-1 (), 15G256α-2 (), 15G256α-2-me (), 15G256ν (), ES-242-3 (), dongtinganthracene A (), penicillide (), 3-methyl-6-hydroxy-8-methoxy-3,4-dihydroisocoumarin (), and ()-6-hydroxymellein (), were isolated from the endophytic fungus WI-F2. Their chemical structures were elucidated comprehensively using NMR and MS spectroscopic analyses, combined with alkaline hydrolysis. Compounds - exhibited in vitro promising antifungal activity against f. sp. , with half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC) values of 9.72, 21.07, 7.89, 8.91 and 9.65 μg/mL respectively, all markedly lower than that of ketoconazole (46.23 μg/mL). Molecular docking simulations further validated the observed antifungal activity, with binding energies ranging from -9.01 to -12.25 kcal/mol, indicative of stronger binding affinity compared with benzamidine (-6.80 kcal/mol). This study offers new clues for research on antifungal agents.
Transcriptomic Analysis and Physiological Indicators Synthetically Uncover Candidate Genes Regulating Polyembryony Formation of Seeds.
Mei G, Wan L, Jian Z … +6 more , Chen B, Li X, Liu B, Xiong J, Chen S, Hu H
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345775 · Full text
is a precious timber species unique to China, possessing significant ornamental, ecological, and medicinal values. The polyembryonic phenomenon is widely observed in its seeds, but the underlying mechanisms driving its f...
is a precious timber species unique to China, possessing significant ornamental, ecological, and medicinal values. The polyembryonic phenomenon is widely observed in its seeds, but the underlying mechanisms driving its formation remain unclear. In this study, an integrated analysis was conducted for polyembryony formation in seeds, including biochemical indicators, environmental factors, and transcriptional levels. Firstly, morphological observation of seeds from 13 plus trees showed no significant correlation between polyembryony rate and external environment or seed morphology. Subsequently, comparative transcriptomic analysis between monoembryonic and polyembryonic seeds identified 1957 differentially expressed genes (DEGs), which were significantly enriched in biological processes and pathways including photosystem II, tetrapyrrole binding, heme binding, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, indicating the probable effect of gene regulation in polyembryony formation. Furthermore, eight RWP transcription factors were identified, potentially involved in polyembryony. qRT-PCR analysis revealed that the expression levels of and were significantly upregulated in polyembryonic seeds, indicating they may be key regulatory genes during polyembryony formation in seeds. This study preliminarily explored the transcriptomic characterization and potential molecular regulatory basis of polyembryony formation in , laying a critical foundation for further deciphering the intricate mechanisms governing its polyembryonic development.
Consequences of Heat Stress on Physiology, Microbiome Dynamics, and Multi-Omics in Dairy Cows: More than Meets the Eye.
Giannoulis T, Dovolou E, Mamuris Z … +1 more , Amiridis GS
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345774 · Full text
Heat stress (HS) is at the top of the challenges facing modern dairy production, with annual losses according to global projections, under high-emission scenarios, reaching US$14.7-40.0 billion by the end of the century....
Heat stress (HS) is at the top of the challenges facing modern dairy production, with annual losses according to global projections, under high-emission scenarios, reaching US$14.7-40.0 billion by the end of the century. This review emphasizes three interconnected topics that account for most of the proportion of the productive and reproductive losses during HS. First, the physiological consequences of HS are reviewed, with emphasis on the pair-fed thermal neutral (PFTN) paradigm, which established that reduced dry matter intake (DMI) accounts for only 35-50% of the observed milk yield decline, with the remainder arising from tissue-level effects of hyperthermia on mammary function, metabolism, and reproductive performance. Second, HS-induced microbiome disruption is examined as an active pathophysiological amplifier, whereby rumen dysbiosis compromises intestinal barrier integrity and drives systemic endotoxaemia, chronically amplifying the immune suppression already imposed by the thermal insult. Third, we focus on the integration of multi-omics platforms as a management approach, since single-omics analyses capture only a fraction of the biological complexity underlying the HS response. As the available datasets expand in coverage and scale, their integration through AI-driven analytical frameworks has the potential to substantially advance beyond the current fragmented picture, progressively building toward a systems-level model of thermal stress. Evidence-based mitigation strategies spanning environmental cooling, targeted nutritional supplementation, and genomic selection are critically evaluated within this framework, with emphasis on equity of access to evidence-based solutions across global dairy production systems.
Dietary Chlorogenic Acid Attenuates Hepatic Lipid Accumulation and Reprograms Lipid Metabolism in Heat-Stressed Laying Hens: Integrated Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analyses.
Wang D, Tan H, Peng L … +3 more , Wu X, Gao J, Ma W
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345773 · Full text
Heat stress leads to excessive hepatic lipid deposition and oxidative imbalance in laying hens, especially during peak laying period. Chlorogenic acid (CGA), a dietary polyphenol with antioxidant and lipid-modulating pro...
Heat stress leads to excessive hepatic lipid deposition and oxidative imbalance in laying hens, especially during peak laying period. Chlorogenic acid (CGA), a dietary polyphenol with antioxidant and lipid-modulating properties, may improve hepatic lipid homeostasis, yet its effects under heat-stress conditions remain unclear. In this study, 240 Hy-Line Brown laying hens at 36 weeks of age were randomly assigned to one of two treatments (120 hens per treatment, with six replicates of 20 hens each): a basal diet or a basal diet supplemented with 300 mg/kg CGA and subjected to heat-stress conditions for 8 weeks. CGA supplementation significantly reduced liver weight (25.3%), liver index (14.4%), hepatic triglyceride content (29.1%), and serum triglyceride level (61.7%) ( < 0.05). Histological assessment revealed lower steatosis and inflammation scores, alongside increased hepatic SOD activity (13.6%) and decreased MDA content (58.7%) ( < 0.05). RNA-seq analysis identified 420 differentially expressed genes that were significantly enriched in PPAR signaling and fatty acid β-oxidation pathways. CGA upregulated fatty acid oxidation-related genes (, , , ) and downregulated lipogenic markers (, ). Serum metabolomics revealed coordinated changes in lipid and carbon metabolism. These results indicate that dietary CGA alleviates hepatic lipid accumulation and oxidative stress in heat-stressed peak-laying hens, potentially via PPARα-mediated enhancement of fatty acid oxidation and inhibition of de novo lipogenesis.
Prediction of the Global Potential Distribution Area of Based on the Maxent Model.
Feng J, Zhang X, Ding Y … +6 more , Zheng B, Zang J, Yang C, Wang H, Kong Y, Dai T
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345772 · Full text
This study aims to predict the global distribution and future potential distribution trends of to support its prevention and control. The current suitable habitat area is estimated at 3702.85 × 10 km, mainly in North Am...
This study aims to predict the global distribution and future potential distribution trends of to support its prevention and control. The current suitable habitat area is estimated at 3702.85 × 10 km, mainly in North America, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. Using 150 global occurrence records and 36 environmental variables, we applied the MaxEnt model (FC = LQHPT, RM = 4) to identify dominant environmental factors and project suitable habitats and centroid shifts under three future climate scenarios. The model performed well (AUC > 0.95). The main influencing factors were Mean Temperature of the Coldest Quarter, Isothermality, and Precipitation of the Coldest Quarter. Under future scenarios, the total suitable area is projected to increase, while some currently suitable regions will shrink and shift toward higher latitudes. The habitat centroid is predicted to migrate northeastward from Tamanrasset Province, Algeria, with a maximum displacement of 960 km (SSP3-7.0, 2081-2100). By predicting these distributional shifts, this study enhances our understanding of biogeography and provides a scientific basis for managing this pathogen under climate change.
Latitudinal Adaptive Strategies of : Insights from Functional Traits and Phylogenetic Conservatism.
Yang L, Yang Z, Wan Z … +3 more , He W, Han H, Gan X
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345771 · Full text
Anthropogenic disturbances and climate warming threaten the rare paleoendemic species . To identify the divers of its latitudinal adaptation, we integrated functional trait differentiation, environmental filtering, and p...
Anthropogenic disturbances and climate warming threaten the rare paleoendemic species . To identify the divers of its latitudinal adaptation, we integrated functional trait differentiation, environmental filtering, and phylogenetic conservatism. We measured 35 functional traits (leaf morphology, nutrient stoichiometry, stomatal traits, whole-plant architecture) across four natural populations spanning the species' latitudinal range: BMXS (Baima Snow Mountain), DFD (Dafengding), FP (Foping), LGS (Leigong Mountain). Using correlation analysis, principal component analysis, and phylogenetic community metrics, we found that dominated all communities. Populations exhibited divergent strategies: DFD expanded leaf area for light capture under high rainfall and shaded conditions; FP increased height and crown width to compete for light; LGS enhanced nutrient-use efficiency under phosphorus limitation; BMXS promoted phosphorus uptake under nitrogen limitation (N/P < 14). Trait variation correlated significantly with elevation, solar radiation, and temperature. PCA explained 90.44% of total variance, and standardized effect size (SES) values for phylogenetic signals range from -2.031 to 1.973; Phylogenetic signals were stronger in co-occurring taxa than in populations in BMXS and FP are structured by competitive exclusion, while those in LGS and DFD by habitat filtering. We conclude that achieves latitudinal adaptation by overcoming phylogenetic niche conservatism through phenotypic plasticity. While leaf economic traits remain evolutionarily conserved and niches in glacial refugium are relatively stable, populations adjust trait syndromes via metabolic shifts and structural trade-offs in response to heterogeneous environmental filters. Identifying these adaptive strategies can guide seed sourcing for restoration efforts under climate change.
Nitrogen and Phosphorus Additions Alleviate Nitrogen Limitation in Seedlings by Reshaping Organ-Specific Stoichiometry.
Li N, Liao J, Su X … +3 more , Li X, Cai N, Xu Y
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345770 · Full text
Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are essential elements for plants and are also the main limiting elements in the growth process. In order to investigate the effects of fertilization on the nutrient conten...
Nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) are essential elements for plants and are also the main limiting elements in the growth process. In order to investigate the effects of fertilization on the nutrient content and stoichiometric ratio of seedlings, we implemented a complete 3 × 3 factorial design incorporating three nitrogen levels (0, 0.4, and 0.8 g·plant-1) and three phosphorus levels (0, 3, and 6 g·plant-1), yielding nine distinct treatment combinations. The contents of N, P, and K in different organs of were determined, and their stoichiometric ratios were calculated. N content ranked as needle > root > stem; P content was in the order of root > stem > needle; and K content showed the pattern of stem > needle > root. Fertilization did not alter the above nutrient distribution patterns; it significantly influenced nutrient concentrations and stoichiometry. Single applications of nitrogen fertilizer had the most significant effect on nutrient content; compared with the unfertilized control, single nitrogen application increased needle N content by 1.13-fold. Combined nitrogen and phosphorus application preferentially promoted the accumulation of N relative to P in stems; specifically, under combined N-P treatment, stem N content increased by 1.11-fold while stem P content increased by 1.03-fold, indicating a greater relative increase in N. In terms of stoichiometric ratio, fertilization increased N:P, particularly in the root and needle; root N:P increased by 1.19-fold under T8 (0.8 g N + 3 g P) and needle N:P increased by 1.17-fold under T2 (3 g P alone), both indicating a mitigation of N limitation. Consistent with the nutrient content results, single nitrogen application exerted the greatest effect on stoichiometric ratio, followed by nitrogen and phosphorus combined application, and single phosphorus application had the least effect. These findings suggest that fertilization can alter nutrient allocation and stoichiometric relationships in , which may affect its growth and metabolic processes, but further studies are needed to link these changes to seedling growth.
Thermal Stress Disrupts Gut Microbiota, Induces Oxidative DNA Damage, and Modulates Immune and Stress-Related Gene Expression in the Red Sea Urchin ().
Llanos-Azócar K, Estrada JM, Oyarzún PA … +3 more , Dettleff P, Ugarte GD, Valdés JA
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345769 · Full text
The red sea urchin is a species of high commercial importance in Chilean aquaculture, whose performance is strongly influenced by environmental conditions such as temperature. The gut microbiota plays a central role in...
The red sea urchin is a species of high commercial importance in Chilean aquaculture, whose performance is strongly influenced by environmental conditions such as temperature. The gut microbiota plays a central role in host physiology; however, its interaction with stress-induced molecular responses remains poorly understood. This study evaluated the effects of thermal stress on food consumption, gut microbial composition, oxidative status, and immune- and stress-related gene expressions in gut. Sea urchins were exposed to control (16 °C) and elevated temperature (22 °C) conditions for 7 and 14 days. Gut microbiota was characterized using 16S rRNA sequencing, while oxidative damage to DNA and proteins was quantified. Gene expression analyses targeted markers of apoptosis (, , ), cellular growth (, ), stress response (), and immune regulation (, ). Thermal stress induced a marked reduction in microbial alpha diversity and promoted a shift toward opportunistic taxa. Heat-stressed individuals exhibited significantly increased oxidative DNA damage, whereas protein oxidation remained unchanged. Gene expression analyses revealed early upregulation of , , , , and , suggesting activation of apoptotic, immune, and stress-response pathways. In contrast, , , and showed limited or no significant modulation. These findings demonstrate that thermal stress disrupts host-microbiota homeostasis and induces oxidative and molecular responses in . This integrative response provides insight into mechanisms underlying physiological performance under thermal stress, with important implications for aquaculture sustainability.
Using Social Networks and Model Simulations of Social Disruption to Identify Alternative Translocation Strategies for the Endangered Cooperative-Breeding Floreana Mockingbird.
Reyes EMR, Smith ANH, Sevilla C … +2 more , Roper MM, Brunton DH
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345768 · Full text
(1) The importance of social structure and dominance hierarchies in cooperative-breeding species is well-documented, yet the inclusion of these processes in conservation translocation planning remains limited. Here, we e...
(1) The importance of social structure and dominance hierarchies in cooperative-breeding species is well-documented, yet the inclusion of these processes in conservation translocation planning remains limited. Here, we empirically measured the social networks of three populations of the endangered Floreana Mockingbird, then used model simulations of different translocation scenarios to test the effects of social disruption on the social networks. (2) We used social network analysis and Exponential Random Graph Models (ERGMs) to characterise dominance hierarchies, group structure, and the consequences of selectively removing individuals from family groups. (3) Dominance hierarchies were strongly transitive, with age emerging as the primary determinant of dominance relationships. Simulated removals demonstrated that the loss of individuals occupying different network positions produced variable levels of social disruption. (4) Although age is the principal driver of antagonistic interactions, network properties such as high betweenness centrality and the presence of a broker (individuals that occupy a strategic position) are also critical considerations for translocation design. Incorporating social network structure into management strategies can minimise group disruption and enhance the success of conservation translocations for endangered cooperative breeders.
Response Changes in Biological Soil Crusts (BSCs) to Different Sand-Fixing Plantations in Alpine Sandy Land.
Jin X, Qiao F, Chen Z … +6 more , Luo Q, Du S, Dong Z, Ji S, Xie H, Kong X
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345767 · Full text
Biological soil crusts (BSCs) play key roles in arid, semi-arid regions and ecological marginal habitats. This study focused on four types of sand-fixing plantations established in 1990 in alpine sandy land (, SL; , NT;...
Biological soil crusts (BSCs) play key roles in arid, semi-arid regions and ecological marginal habitats. This study focused on four types of sand-fixing plantations established in 1990 in alpine sandy land (, SL; , NT; , WL; , XYY). Soil samples were collected from bare sand, algae crusts, and moss crusts. Soil particle size distribution, physicochemical properties, and enzyme activity were determined. Then bacterial communities were analyzed using high-throughput (Illumina) sequencing and the correlations among these three factors were examined. The results showed that: (1) From bare sand to algae and moss crusts, the content of fine particles (clay + silt) gradually increased. (2) Soil water content (SWC), nutrients and enzyme activities increased progressively. (3) In the study area, the dominant bacterial phyla of BSCs included Pseudomonadota, Cyanobacteria, Actinobacteriota and Vibrionota. Principal Coordinates Analysis (PCoA) and Analysis of Similarities (ANOSIM) results showed that BSCs drive the differentiation of bacterial communities during succession, while forest stands influence their spatial distribution. (4) Spearman's correlation and redundancy analysis (RDA) showed that available phosphorus (AP), alkaline hydrolyzable nitrogen (AN), soil organic matter (SOM), catalase (CAT), pH, soil water content (SWC), and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) are key physicochemical factors shaping the bacterial community structure of BSCs. Mantel's test confirmed that these variables mediated BSCs' bacterial community structure. This study elucidates the mechanisms underlying ecological restoration via BSCs and provides a theoretical basis for future restoration efforts in alpine sandy land.
Soil Depth Influences Fungal Community Structure and Ecological Processes in a Degraded Soda Saline-Alkali Wetland.
Ding J, Li X
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345766 · Full text
Soil depth and habitat degradation can reshape fungal communities in salt-affected wetlands, but their effects on fungal ecological processes remain insufficiently understood. This study examined soil fungi in the Halaha...
Soil depth and habitat degradation can reshape fungal communities in salt-affected wetlands, but their effects on fungal ecological processes remain insufficiently understood. This study examined soil fungi in the Halahai Provincial Nature Reserve and adjacent converted farmland in the western Songnen Plain, Northeast China, where salt-affected meadow soils correspond mainly to Solonetz. Four habitat types-reed wetland, meadow steppe, degraded saline patch, and converted farmland-were sampled at 0-20 cm and 20-40 cm soil depths. Soil properties, fungal diversity, taxonomic composition, environmental associations, niche breadth, assembly processes, and FUNGuild-based trophic modes were analyzed using ITS sequencing. Degraded Suaeda soils showed the strongest salinity-alkalinity stress, with pH values of 10.34-10.30 and electrical conductivity of 1.70-1.75 dS·m. Fungal richness was highest in surface-converted farmland, with a Sobs value of 423.33, and lowest in deeper degraded Suaeda soil, with a Sobs value of 86.00. Ascomycota dominated most groups, especially degraded Suaeda soils, where its relative abundance reached 75.29-76.80%. ANOSIM confirmed significant community dissimilarity among habitat-depth groups (R = 0.56878, = 0.001). Specialists accounted for 68.07% of fungal taxa, and stochastic processes, especially drift and dispersal limitation, contributed substantially to assembly. These results indicate that soil depth, salinity-alkalinity, and habitat conversion jointly regulate fungal community structure and ecological processes in degraded soda saline-alkali wetlands.
Effect of Methyl Jasmonate on the Growth, Antioxidant Potential, and Phenolic Compound Synthesis of L. In Vitro Shoots.
Chakarova M, Miladinova-Georgieva K, Geneva M … +8 more , Sichanova M, Trendafilova A, Ivanova V, Sozoniuk M, Dimitrova L, Dimitrova M, Nikolova M, Petrova M
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345765 · Full text
L. is a valuable medicinal plant with strong anti-inflammatory properties attributed to its high levels of antioxidants and specific metabolites. The species is endemic to Europe, and its natural populations are threaten...
L. is a valuable medicinal plant with strong anti-inflammatory properties attributed to its high levels of antioxidants and specific metabolites. The species is endemic to Europe, and its natural populations are threatened by habitat disturbance and poor management. In vitro plant cultures are an alternative method for rapid plant multiplication and the controlled synthesis of biologically active substances. Elicitation is a common strategy for inducing physiological changes and defense responses in plants, thereby increasing their antioxidant potential and the synthesis of specialized metabolites. Methyl jasmonate, a plant growth regulator involved in the modulation of plant growth and development at morphological and molecular levels, has gained increasing attention as an elicitor. In the present study, three concentrations of MeJA (50, 100, and 200 μM) were applied for 3 and 7 days to evaluate their effects on growth, antioxidant capacity, and accumulation of caffeoylquinic acids in in vitro shoots of arnica. Seven-day MeJA treatment reduced growth parameters and was accompanied by increased activities of antioxidant enzymes SOD and APX, as well as elevated levels of water-soluble antioxidants, which correlated with the enhanced accumulation of caffeoylquinic acids, total phenolics, and flavonoids. The results demonstrate that MeJA affected shoot growth and antioxidant potential of , with concentration and treatment duration playing a critical role in response magnitude.
P2-4 Supplementation Enhances Immunity, Antioxidant Capability, Intestinal Microbiota Diversity, and Disease Resistance Against Infection in Chinese Mitten Crab .
Liu Y, Yang Y, Zheng X … +3 more , Cao H, Gai C, Ye W
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345764 · Full text
has potential as a probiotic to inhibit bacterial pathogens in aquaculture, but very limited information is available regarding its use in Chinese mitten crab for enhancing host immunity, antioxidant ability and intesti...
has potential as a probiotic to inhibit bacterial pathogens in aquaculture, but very limited information is available regarding its use in Chinese mitten crab for enhancing host immunity, antioxidant ability and intestinal microbiota homeostasis. In this study, a 40-day feeding trial was conducted to evaluate the protective effects of dietary supplementation with P2-4 on nonspecific immune response, antioxidant status, intestinal microbiota and resistance against infection in . Results demonstrated that dietary supplementation with P2-4 at 6.0 × 10 to 6.0 × 10 CFU/g diet significantly boosted nonspecific immunity and improved antioxidant capability of , mainly as evidenced by markedly increased activities of plasma lysozyme, plasma superoxide dismutase, hepatopancreatic superoxide dismutase and catalase. Furthermore, crabs fed P2-4-supplemented diets exhibited markedly improvements in intestinal microbiota composition and diversity, and showed substantially enhanced survival following challenge, with 7-day relative percentage survival ranging from 76.9% to 100.0%. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to reveal that P2-4 supplementation functions as a new biocontrol strategy in by effectively improving the non-specific immunity, antioxidant status and intestinal microbiota to mitigate infection.
Energy Expenditure Optimization in the Echolocation of : Evidence from Heart Rate Stability.
Zhang M, Qi W, Han B … +4 more , Han F, Gu H, Zhang K, Liu Y
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345763 · Full text
Acoustic behavior, essential for communication and perception, is metabolically demanding. Studying the energy costs of echolocation helps us to understand animal energy allocation and provides key insights into the evol...
Acoustic behavior, essential for communication and perception, is metabolically demanding. Studying the energy costs of echolocation helps us to understand animal energy allocation and provides key insights into the evolutionary constraints of acoustic signals. We examined the constant-frequency bat using a miniature electrocardiogram system and a custom servomotor that moved prey toward stationary bats. This setup allowed for synchronous recording of high-resolution electrocardiogram and echolocation calls from the search phase to the approach phase. During the search phase, bats emitted isolated echolocation pulses characterized by long pulse durations and inter-pulse intervals (IPIs), together with higher root mean square (RMS) amplitude, pulse energy, and peak amplitude. In the approach phase, call rate increased significantly (3.15-fold), and bats predominantly produced sonar sound groups. Meanwhile, pulse duration, IPIs, RMS amplitude, and pulse energy decreased to 65.23%, 25.82%, 78.50%, and 86.32% of the corresponding search-phase values, whereas peak amplitude increased to 110.99%, indicating that can flexibly adjust the structure of its echolocation calls. However, despite the increased call rate ( < 0.05), neither heart rate nor metabolic rate differed between phases. This study provides direct physiological evidence for understanding energy expenditure in bat echolocation and offers a methodological reference for future research.
Non-Homogeneous Toxicity of Polyvinyl Chloride Microplastics on Microalgal Cells Regulated by Nutrient Availability.
Wang C, Jiang Z, Ma J … +1 more , He M
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42345762 · Full text
Microplastics (MPs) have been shown to exert time-dependent toxic effects on microalgae, with toxicity either intensifying or alleviating over prolonged exposure. However, the underlying mechanisms driving this phenomeno...
Microplastics (MPs) have been shown to exert time-dependent toxic effects on microalgae, with toxicity either intensifying or alleviating over prolonged exposure. However, the underlying mechanisms driving this phenomenon remain unclear, particularly regarding the role of external nutrient depletion in the surrounding medium. Herein, we performed bioassays and computational modeling to evaluate the effects of polyvinyl chloride microplastics (mPVC, 10, 50, and 100 mg L) on the growth and physiology of sp. under varying initial medium nutrient levels (100%, 25%, 8%, and 4%) for 96 h. The results demonstrated that nutrient levels in the culture medium modulated the toxic impact of mPVC. Under a 25% nutrient concentration, exposure to 100 mg L mPVC significantly inhibited algal growth by 6.5%, whereas at a 4% nutrient level, the growth of sp. was significantly enhanced by 7.0%. Consistently, mPVC exposure at 25% nutrient concentration led to a sharper decline in intracellular pigment content (13.1-15.5%), soluble sugars content (8.2-27.0%), and photosynthetic efficiency (4.3-20.5%). In contrast, exposure to mPVC at 4% nutrient level improved the light use efficiency (11.9-15.4%) and electron transport rate (9.2-13.9%) of the algal cells. Independent action modeling revealed that as medium nutrient levels decreased, the interaction effects of mPVC exposure shifted from a synergistic to an antagonistic relationship. Overall, our findings identify medium nutrient availability as a critical regulatory factor influencing the toxic effects of mPVC on microalgae, potentially providing different insights into understanding the time-dependent toxicity of MPs.
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