Biology[JOURNAL]
Sun
200 papers
Regulation Progresses of Selenium Improving Intestinal and Extra-Intestinal Tissues Health Through Regulating Gut Microbiota.
Fan Y, Zhang W, Zhuang W … +8 more , Zhao X, Hu Y, Li T, Cui X, Wang C, Zhang L, Luo X, Wang S
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274538 · Full text
Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element that exerts pleiotropic effects on host physiology, yet the mechanisms by which it coordinates systemic health remain incompletely understood. Emerging evidence regards the gut...
Selenium (Se) is an essential trace element that exerts pleiotropic effects on host physiology, yet the mechanisms by which it coordinates systemic health remain incompletely understood. Emerging evidence regards the gut microbiota as a key mediator of Se biological functions, giving rise to the Se-gut-tissue axis. This review synthesizes the current research progresses on how dietary Se may shape gut microbial composition and metabolism, and how these microbial shifts are associated with protective effects in both intestinal and extra-intestinal tissues. Se sources (particularly organic or new synthetic form) may bidirectionally interact with gut bacteria by enriching beneficial genera such as , , and butyrate-producing , while suppressing opportunistic pathogens. This microbial remodeling strengthens intestinal barrier integrity, enhances antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses (e.g., via GPX, TrxR, and NF-κB suppression), and generates bioactive metabolites, notably short-chain fatty acids and secondary bile acids. Through these mechanisms, the Se-gut-microbiota axis may regulate distal organ homeostasis, including the liver (ameliorating NAFLD and acute injury), brain (counteracting neurodegeneration and modulating serotonin/GABA), muscle (improving mass and Se deposition), kidney (attenuating uremic toxin-induced ferroptosis), and reproductive organs. Despite encouraging progress, challenges remain in establishing causality, optimizing dose-response relationships, and translating findings into precision interventions.
Host Plant Preferences and Survival of the Native Australian Spittlebug, Erichson (Hemiptera: Cercopoidea).
Jaroslow D, Nancarrow N, Blacket M … +3 more , Selleck C, Mavende KP, Trębicki P
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274537 · Full text
The xylem feeder (Aphrophoridae: Cercopoidea: Hemiptera) has been identified as one of the most abundant and widely distributed cercopoid insects in Australia. This native Australian species might potentially vector , a...
The xylem feeder (Aphrophoridae: Cercopoidea: Hemiptera) has been identified as one of the most abundant and widely distributed cercopoid insects in Australia. This native Australian species might potentially vector , an exotic and deadly plant pathogen, if it were to arrive in Australia. Previous surveys indicated that is associated with a wide range of plants, further elevating its impact as a potential disease vector. However, it is unknown if all the associated plants are equally viable hosts. Due to the variety of plant records and distribution across the southern half of Australia, it was expected that would successfully feed and survive on a taxonomically diverse range of plants. In the present study, a small-scale no-choice feeding-controlled glasshouse experiment was completed where insect nymphs were supplied with plants that are economically significant and susceptible to . In this experiment, we monitored the maturation and longevity of , specifically by comparing insect cohorts distinguished by nymph size, host species, or feeding season. This study documented important interactions of life-history factors for , including suitability of host plant species among insect sex and season. This could indicate that the ability for to spread may vary with host plant species and time of year. These findings provide a vital knowledge framework for future research and surveys to consider when implementing control efforts or tracking plant pathogens that may be spread by .
Recent Advances in Beta-Alanine Production via Enzymatic Catalysis and Microbial Whole-Cell Catalysis.
Yu J, Ma P, Zhang J … +3 more , Zhang H, Tie H, Ruan H
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274536 · Full text
Beta-alanine, a naturally occurring non-proteinogenic beta-amino acid, is widely used in delaying fatigue, enhancing exercise performance, and alleviating hyperuricemia. It also serves as a three-carbon platform for the...
Beta-alanine, a naturally occurring non-proteinogenic beta-amino acid, is widely used in delaying fatigue, enhancing exercise performance, and alleviating hyperuricemia. It also serves as a three-carbon platform for the synthesis of various high-value compounds, thus showing extremely broad market prospects. However, the practical application of beta-alanine is severely limited by the harsh reaction conditions and abundant by-products in chemical synthesis, as well as the low endogenous content and complex biosynthetic pathway. Recently, advances have been made in the one-pot, one- or two-step production of beta-alanine using genetically engineered recombinant enzymes, and in the microbial synthesis of beta-alanine via whole-cell biocatalysis. These advances are based on a series of attempts, including the enzymatic conversion to beta-alanine using 1,3-diaminopropane (DAP), L-aspartate (L-Asp), fumarate, or 3-aminopropionitrile as substrates, and the whole-cell biosynthesis of beta-alanine by regulating metabolic flux from carbon sources (e.g., glucose, oil, and glycerol) to L-Asp-the precursor for beta-alanine synthesis catalyzed by L-aspartate-α-decarboxylase (ADC). This study provides a rational theoretical basis and valuable practical references for the future industrial application of beta-alanine.
Conservation and Captive Breeding of the Asian Houbara Bustard ().
Al-Khalaifah H, Al-Nasser A
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274535 · Full text
The Houbara Bustard () is a vulnerable species found in arid and semi-desert regions of the Middle East and Central Asia. In recent decades, Houbara populations have significantly declined due to overhunting, habitat los...
The Houbara Bustard () is a vulnerable species found in arid and semi-desert regions of the Middle East and Central Asia. In recent decades, Houbara populations have significantly declined due to overhunting, habitat loss, and commercial development. As a result, the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified this species as Vulnerable. This review examines global conservation efforts and breeding management strategies for the Asian Houbara Bustard, with particular focus on captive breeding programs established in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. The study evaluates key reproductive technologies, including artificial insemination and other assisted breeding techniques, and examines the genetic and behavioral risks associated with captive breeding. Findings from the reviewed studies indicate that, while captive breeding programs have achieved notable production goals, they also present critical challenges for conservation. Effective long-term conservation therefore requires integrating reproductive technologies with habitat protection, careful management of genetic diversity, and the establishment of monitoring systems to ensure sustainable population recovery.
Responses of Methane Emissions to Different Soil Amendments in Paddy Soil: Soil Properties, Microbial Communities, and Functional Genes.
Wu Q, Deng D, Zhang Y … +4 more , Liang W, Li Y, Zhang Y, Wang Y
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274534 · Full text
Paddy soils are important contributors to agricultural greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane, and soil amendments may regulate methane production by altering soil physicochemical properties and microbial methane...
Paddy soils are important contributors to agricultural greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane, and soil amendments may regulate methane production by altering soil physicochemical properties and microbial methane cycling. However, the effects of different amendment types on methane emissions from anaerobic paddy soils remain uncertain. In this study, an anaerobic microcosm experiment was conducted to evaluate the effect of microbial inoculants, biochar, humic acid, and montmorillonite on CH and CO emissions from paddy soil. Changes in acetate concentration, pH, electrical conductivity, microbial community structure, and methane cycling functional genes were further analyzed to explore the underlying mechanisms. The results showed that microbial inoculants had stronger effects on CH emissions than the other amendments, but their effects were contrasting. The Chabeijian (CB) inoculant significantly increased methane emissions by 100.8%, whereas the Duojun-360 (DJ) inoculant reduced cumulative methane by 57.1%. The stimulation of CH emissions under Chabeijian was associated with enhanced acetate turnover, enrichment of methanogenic taxa including , , , and , and a 48.7% increase in abundance. In contrast, Duojun 360 markedly increased soil electrical conductivity, reduced methanogen abundance, decreased abundance by 26.9%, and lowered the / ratio, indicating a shift away from methane production. Although both inoculants increased methanotroph abundance and abundance, methane production remained the dominant factor controlling net CH emissions. These findings may provide preliminary mechanistic support for the targeted selection of soil amendments to mitigate CH emissions in rice cultivation by regulating soil properties, methanogenic communities, and the balance between methane production and oxidation.
Genetic and Environmentally Induced Scalation Variation in Bisexual and Parthenogenetic Lizards.
Tarkhnishvili D, Kosman E, Barateli N … +1 more , Iankoshvili G
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274533 · Full text
Lack of recombination in parthenogenetic organisms limits their ability to adapt to changing environments by natural selection. However, some obligatory parthenogens, such as rock lizards of the genus , could survive for...
Lack of recombination in parthenogenetic organisms limits their ability to adapt to changing environments by natural selection. However, some obligatory parthenogens, such as rock lizards of the genus , could survive for millions of years across multiple Pleistocene glaciations. There are different explanations for this phenomenon. Analysis of phenotypic variation may shed further light on the high adaptability of the parthenogenetic lizards. We compared the genetic and phenotypic variability of 186 individuals of the parthenogenetic and 54 individuals of its sexually reproducing paternal species, , whose ranges almost coincide in Georgia (the Caucasus). The analysis showed that, despite the higher genetic variability of the individuals and metapopulations of , phenotypic variability (as measured by KW dispersion and the normalized effective number of individuals per metapopulation), based on the nominal traits, was almost equal in the two species. Moreover, phenotypes of the parthenogen correlated with the distances among the localities, and with the annual rainfall level at a locality. The latter species also had more outlier phenotypes. Phenotypic plasticity may be a strategy for adaptation of parthenogenetic rock lizards, to a certain extent, compensating for the lack of genetic diversity.
Association Analysis of , , and Gene Polymorphisms with Growth Traits in Dongfeng Sika Deer.
Zhang Y, Zhang X, Han H … +1 more , Wang X
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274532 · Full text
To investigate the association between polymorphisms in the , , and genes and growth traits in Dongfeng sika deer and to identify potential molecular markers for breeding, this study was conducted based on prior genome-...
To investigate the association between polymorphisms in the , , and genes and growth traits in Dongfeng sika deer and to identify potential molecular markers for breeding, this study was conducted based on prior genome-wide association analysis. Based on the previous GWAS analysis of 266 Dongfeng sika deer, the SNP loci of , , and genes were detected in 36 male deer samples. The genetic parameters were calculated, and an association analysis with growth traits was carried out. Phenotypic analysis indicated that body weight and chest circumference had higher coefficients of variation than other growth traits, and body weight showed a strong positive correlation with body-slant length (r = 0.743, < 0.01) and a moderate correlation with chest circumference (r = 0.709). A total of six SNP loci were identified, including three within (Chr13-8442730, Chr13-9033380, and Chr13-9045819), one within (Chr14-5681678), and two within (Chr20-66603370 and Chr20-66618510). The dominant genotypes at these loci include CG (CC), AA, CG, CC (CG), AA, and GG (GC). Linkage disequilibrium analysis revealed a relatively strong association between Chr13-8442730 and Chr13-903380 on chromosome 13. Combined genotype analysis showed that diplotype CCCGGC was associated with higher body weight and larger chest circumference than other genotype combinations. Gene expression analysis showed that the relative expression levels of , , and were lower in the low-growth group than in the high-growth group, and expression variation was also observed within groups. Overall, gene expression levels appeared to be positively associated with growth traits, with higher expression associated with improved growth performance. These findings suggest that and may serve as candidate genes for further investigation and that the identified SNP loci may contribute to the development of molecular markers for the selection of growth traits in Dongfeng sika deer. The results provide a preliminary basis for molecular breeding and genetic improvement strategies in Dongfeng sika deer bucks and serve as an important reference for genetic improvement of growth traits in Cervidae.
EZH2 Regulates the Pluripotency of Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells by Modulating Expression Under PKC Inhibition.
Wu F, Liu Z, Gao Y … +5 more , Li J, Chen X, Wang X, Liu L, Du F
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274531 · Full text
Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) regulates the expression of pluripotency genes in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and suppresses multiple genes associated with development, cell fate determination, and differentiation....
Polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) regulates the expression of pluripotency genes in embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and suppresses multiple genes associated with development, cell fate determination, and differentiation. Mouse embryonic stem cells (mESCs) derived from protein kinase C inhibition (PKCi) exhibit self-renewal and pluripotency comparable to those ESCs captured by the classical 2iL (CHIR99021, PD0325901, and leukemia inhibitory factor) system. However, the dynamic expression pattern of PRC2 in PKCi-mESCs and its role in regulating pluripotency remain unclear. This study demonstrated that the expression level of the enhancer of zeste 2 gene (), of which protein is the catalytic subunit of PRC2 responsible for the trimethylation of lysine 27 on nucleosome histone H3 subunit (H3K27me3), is significantly higher in PKCi-mESCs than in 2iL-mESCs. EZH2 knockdown enhances the self-renewal capacity of PKCi-mESCs, as evidenced by a significant increase in the number of undifferentiated mESCs colonies. The effect of an EZH2 reduced expression is accompanied by the upregulation of specific core pluripotency gene , along with the general downregulation of differentiational genes representing the three germ layers. Conversely, EZH2 overexpression promotes a significant differentiation of PKCi-mESCs, resulting in the downregulation of pluripotency genes, including core pluripotency genes and , as well as naïve pluripotency genes , , and , while with a wide upregulation of three germ layer associated genes. Importantly, Cleavage Under Targets and Tagmentation (CUT&Tag) demonstrates that EZH2 directly controls H3K27me3 enrichment at the promoter near the transcription start site. Thus, EZH2, a core subunit of PRC2, exhibits the distinct regulatory functions orchestrating mESCs at a poised state between self-renewal and differentiation under PKC inhibition. EZH2 exerts histone H3 methyltransferase activity to regulate expression as one of its key targets, thereby modulating the transcriptional regulatory network that maintains pluripotency and lineage specification in mESCs.
Comprehensive Analysis of the TLP Gene Family in Pine and Functional Implications in Response to Pine Wood Nematode Infection.
An Y, Luo P, Xiao S … +5 more , Pan C, Zhou H, Wang X, Xiao Y, Guo M
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274530 · Full text
Pine wilt disease, caused by , poses a serious threat to global pine forest ecosystems and forestry production. Thaumatin-like proteins (TLPs), which belong to the PR-5 family, are known to participate in plant defense,...
Pine wilt disease, caused by , poses a serious threat to global pine forest ecosystems and forestry production. Thaumatin-like proteins (TLPs), which belong to the PR-5 family, are known to participate in plant defense, but their roles in pine have not been well characterized. In this study, a comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the TLP gene family was conducted in . A total of 116 TLP genes were identified and classified into four major clades based on phylogenetic analysis. Gene structure and conserved motif analyses revealed that members within the same clade generally exhibited similar exon-intron organization patterns and conserved motif compositions. Promoter analysis identified numerous cis-regulatory elements associated with stress responses and phytohormone signaling. Transcriptome data from different stages of pine wood nematode infection identified eight TLP genes that exhibited continuous differential expression, and their expression patterns were further confirmed by qRT-PCR. A multilayer regulatory network highlighted MYB and other transcription factors as key upstream regulators, and yeast one-hybrid assays confirmed MYB-mediated regulation. Together, these findings improve our understanding of the TLP gene family in and offer valuable candidate genes and regulatory information for future studies on pine resistance to pine wilt disease.
Vegetation-Atmosphere Water Deficit as the Primary Control on Alpine Steppe and Forest Coverage: An Empirical Assessment from the Altay Mountains, Northwestern China.
Xu Q, Xu Y, Cui D … +5 more , Lin T, Miao Z, Gong Y, Aili A, Bakayisire F
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274529 · Full text
Mountain vegetation in dryland regions is highly sensitive to climatic variability, particularly changes in water availability and atmospheric demand. This study assessed the relationships between vegetation coverage and...
Mountain vegetation in dryland regions is highly sensitive to climatic variability, particularly changes in water availability and atmospheric demand. This study assessed the relationships between vegetation coverage and climatic factors in the Chinese Altay Mountains from 2000 to 2024 using MODIS NDVI data, meteorological observations, drought indices, and extreme climate indicators. Pixel-based correlation analysis and directional interaction classification were used to evaluate the spatial consistency and divergence between vegetation dynamics and climate variability. The results showed that water availability was the dominant factor controlling vegetation cover. Annual precipitation, SPEI, and precipitation-related extreme indices were generally positively associated with vegetation coverage, whereas warmth-related indices such as GSL, WSDI, and TX90 were mostly negatively associated with vegetation coverage. Temperature showed a spatially variable effect, with warming tending to suppress vegetation in water-limited low- and middle-elevation areas but potentially benefiting vegetation in cold-limited high-elevation zones. SPEI showed a more consistent relationship with vegetation coverage than TVDI, indicating that cumulative climatic water balance better captured regional vegetation drought responses than surface dryness alone. These findings highlight the importance of vegetation-atmosphere water deficit in regulating mountain vegetation dynamics and provide a scientific basis for ecological conservation and water resource management in the Altay Mountains.
Occurrence and Antimicrobial Resistance Profiles of Isolated from Commercial Poultry Farm in West Kazakhstan.
Dushayeva L, Murzabayev K, Karagulov A … +8 more , Mlaga KD, Karmaliyev R, Nametov A, Sidikhov B, Ichshanova A, Sidikhov R, Demeugaliyeva G, Gabbassov M
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274528 · Full text
The widespread use of antimicrobials in poultry production exerts selective pressure for the emergence of resistant bacteria, yet molecular data on resistance determinants in from commercial farms in Central Asia remain...
The widespread use of antimicrobials in poultry production exerts selective pressure for the emergence of resistant bacteria, yet molecular data on resistance determinants in from commercial farms in Central Asia remain scarce. This study aimed to characterize antimicrobial resistance genes and mobile genetic elements in isolates from a layer poultry farm in the West Kazakhstan region. A total of 100 samples (cloacal swabs, fresh feces, internal organs, and wild pigeons) were collected. was isolated using selective media and confirmed by qPCR targeting the gene. Forty isolates were confirmed, of which ten (25%) carried at least one resistance gene as determined by a panel of 57 primer sets. All ten isolates carrying antimicrobial resistance-associated genes (100%) harbored determinants associated with multidrug resistance. The most frequently detected genes were (80%), (90%), and (80%). A high prevalence of (80%) was also observed. At least one class 1 integron-associated gene was detected in all resistant isolates and those carrying both integron variants harbored the highest numbers of resistance genes (14-19). Resistance gene profiles in pigeon isolates mirrored those from poultry, suggesting wild birds as potential vectors. The correlation between detected resistance genes and farm antimicrobial use (enrofloxacin, trimethoprim/sulfonamide combinations) indicates strong selective pressure. These findings suggest that poultry farms may serve as environments supporting the persistence and dissemination of antimicrobial resistance-associated genes in and underscore the need for enhanced biosecurity and antimicrobial stewardship within a One Health framework.
Origins of Self-Fertility in Three Nematodes.
Bobinski M, Kennedy J, Pilgrim D … +1 more , Ellis RE
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274527 · Full text
How does novelty arise during evolution? Over the past few decades, work from many labs has developed a detailed genetic and cellular picture of how nematode mating systems were altered to yield self-fertile hermaphrodit...
How does novelty arise during evolution? Over the past few decades, work from many labs has developed a detailed genetic and cellular picture of how nematode mating systems were altered to yield self-fertile hermaphrodites from ancestral females. Since most analyses involve , this review focuses on three androdiecious species from this genus. In each, male spermatogenesis and sperm activation programs were co-opted for use in animals. Since each species followed a unique pathway to self-fertility, comparative analyses reveal how these regulatory pathways changed to produce new traits. Moreover, ecological studies are beginning to provide models for how selection and population structure might have interacted with these regulatory changes through a stepwise process. Taken together, our new understanding of how this complex trait originated combines evolutionary, genetic and developmental principles into a robust picture of evolutionary change. Comparing these results from with studies of more distant groups of nematodes provides further support for many of the conclusions.
The Effects of Different Culture Modes on the Nutritional Quality of and Mechanistic Insights: A Metabolomic Perspective.
Liu T, Tian J, Zhang L … +4 more , Chen J, Yu Y, Tian C, Gan J
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274526 · Full text
, a prominent aquaculture species, are mainly cultured through conventional modes: pond culture and rice-crayfish co-culture. In the present study, we proposed a novel industrial recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) fo...
, a prominent aquaculture species, are mainly cultured through conventional modes: pond culture and rice-crayfish co-culture. In the present study, we proposed a novel industrial recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) for the culture of . The nutritional quality of under different culture modes was evaluated. The results indicated that industrial culture achieved optimal amino acid profiles and a higher level of flavor amino acids. Crayfish cultured in RAS also showed more balanced textures with moderate hardness and good springiness. Moreover, distinct crayfish metabolites were identified across different culture modes. The main differential metabolites include amino acids, peptides (and their analogs), organic acids and acyl carnitines. Industrial culture prioritized metabolites linked to flavor and rapid growth, while other culture modes enriched metabolites associated with ecological resilience and nutritional diversity. Overall, industrial culture displays great potential in improving the nutritional quality and regulating metabolic characteristics of red swamp crayfish.
Awns Enhance the Thousand Seed Weight of Griseb. by Regulating Carbohydrate Contents and Gene Expression.
Qiu Y, Lu H, Zhao Y … +4 more , Tang L, Zhang F, Zhang R, Xie W
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274525 · Full text
Awns are crucial spike traits in Poaceae plants and are closely associated with seed development. Griseb. is a high-quality alpine forage and an essential grass species for ecological restoration. To reveal the regulato...
Awns are crucial spike traits in Poaceae plants and are closely associated with seed development. Griseb. is a high-quality alpine forage and an essential grass species for ecological restoration. To reveal the regulatory mechanism of awns on thousand seed weight in , 20 germplasm accessions were used as experimental materials in this study. Superior germplasms were screened via phenotypic correlation analysis. The screened superior germplasm was subjected to awned and de-awned treatments. Physiological indicators during seed development under the two treatments were measured at the milk stage, dough stage, and full ripe stage, and transcriptome sequencing was further used to identify the core regulatory pathways and key genes. The results showed that awn length was extremely significantly positively correlated with thousand seed weight ( < 0.01), and the optimal germplasm PI 655186 with superior awn length and thousand seed weight was obtained. Compared with the de-awned treatment, the awn-retained treatment significantly increased the contents of soluble sugar and starch in seeds from the milk stage to the dough stage and enhanced the activities of SOD, CAT, and POD to maintain redox homeostasis. Transcriptome analysis indicated that differentially expressed genes were significantly enriched in pathways including starch and sucrose metabolism and ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, among which , , , and were identified as key genes regulating seed development, and WGCNA showed that the brown module was significantly correlated with soluble sugars and starch, with hub genes consisting of seven 60S ribosomal proteins and one prolyl 4-hydroxylase. In conclusion, awns positively affect the thousand seed weight of seeds by promoting the synthesis of storage substances, optimizing the antioxidant enzyme system, and regulating the ascorbate and aldarate metabolism pathway and the expression of hub genes. These findings clarify the physiological and molecular mechanisms by which awns regulate seed thousand seed weight and provide a theoretical basis and gene resources for the innovation of high-yield and high-quality germplasms of alpine forage grasses.
Traditional Knowledge and Biocultural Roles of Edible Flowers in Local Food Systems of Baise City, Guangxi, China.
Shen W, Cen X, Wang Z … +6 more , Saensouk P, Saensouk S, Junsongduang A, Srisuk P, Thanakornjuk K, Jitpromma T
Biology (Basel) · 2026 Jun · PMID 42274524 · Full text
Edible flowers are important components of traditional food systems and biocultural practices in southern China, yet their ethnobotanical significance remains poorly documented. This study investigated the diversity, tra...
Edible flowers are important components of traditional food systems and biocultural practices in southern China, yet their ethnobotanical significance remains poorly documented. This study investigated the diversity, traditional uses, and cultural importance of edible flowers in Baise City through semi-structured interviews, market surveys, and field observations with local informants. Quantitative ethnobotanical indices, including the Cultural Food Significance Index (CFSI), Fidelity Level (FL), and Informant Consensus Factor (ICF), were applied to evaluate cultural and medicinal importance. A total of 96 edible flower taxa belonging to 77 genera and 44 families were documented. Most species were native to China, herbaceous in growth form, and collected from wild habitats. Inflorescences were the most commonly utilized floral organs. Edible flowers were used as vegetables, herbal teas, medicinal edible plants, natural food colorants, condiments, desserts, and snack foods. Species such as (L.) DC., L., and Mill. showed high cultural significance. A total of 64 taxa were recognized as medicinal edible plants, and high ICF values indicated strong agreement among informants regarding ethnomedicinal uses. These findings demonstrate the important roles of edible flowers in local food systems, traditional healthcare, and biocultural heritage, emphasizing their relevance for biodiversity conservation and sustainable food practices.
Effects of Light Spectrum on Growth, Retinal Morphology, and Clock Gene Expression Patterns in Larvae.
Yuan Z, Liu Q, Wu Y … +5 more , Luo X, Shen P, Xia Y, Yan H, Liu Y
Biology (Basel) · 2026 May · PMID 42274523 · Full text
Light exhibits a significant influence on aquatic organisms. This study assessed the effects of five light spectra (blue, red, green, yellow, and full-spectrum white) on the growth and survival of larvae. The results sh...
Light exhibits a significant influence on aquatic organisms. This study assessed the effects of five light spectra (blue, red, green, yellow, and full-spectrum white) on the growth and survival of larvae. The results showed that the wet weight, body length, and specific growth rate (SGR) of fugu larvae in the green and yellow light spectra groups were significantly better than those in the other groups. The qPCR results showed that growth hormone () expression was significantly higher in larvae from the yellow light spectrum group. There was a significant increase in mRNA expression of in the yellow light spectrum group and pepsinogen in the green light spectrum group compared with the other groups, indicating that light regimes may help regulate endocrine function and digestive efficiency. The blue light spectrum significantly decreased the thickness of the photoreceptor layer (PRos/is), accompanied by increased expression of the apoptosis marker caspase3, which may be related to decreased expression of melanin-concentrating hormone receptors (). Analysis of clock genes (such as , , and ) revealed disrupted expression patterns under blue light, particularly at Zeitgeber time 12 (lights-off), indicating interference with circadian regulation. Our study indicated that optimizing lighting by prioritizing the green or yellow light spectrum can enhance growth efficiency and minimizing prolonged exposure to blue light is essential for retinal health during aquaculture.
The Effects of Different Inoculant Agents on the Growth of and the Characteristics of Soil Bacterial Communities.
Mao X, Liu L, Liu Y … +1 more , Mao Z
Biology (Basel) · 2026 May · PMID 42274522 · Full text
This study explored the effects of one mineral fertilizer and two microbial inoculants and their combined applications on soil physicochemical properties, bacterial community structure, and plant growth of under potted...
This study explored the effects of one mineral fertilizer and two microbial inoculants and their combined applications on soil physicochemical properties, bacterial community structure, and plant growth of under potted cultivation, aiming to provide theoretical and technical support for the sustainable cultivation of ornamental orchids. A single-factor randomized block experiment was designed with eight treatments: control (CK), mineral sulfosulfuric acid potassium (HF), Bacillus subtilis (KC), (HC), mineral sulfosulfuric acid potassium + Bacillus subtilis (HK), mineral sulfosulfuric acid potassium + (HH), Bacillus subtilis + (KH), and mineral sulfosulfuric acid potassium + Bacillus subtilis + (HKH). Plant growth traits, soil properties, and soil bacterial community characteristics were measured. The effects of inoculant agents on growth, soil environment, and bacterial community, as well as their interaction relationships, were systematically analyzed. The combination of three inoculants significantly promoted plant height and leaf thickness in . Compared with CK, the relative abundance of and in HH treatment increased by 6.0% and 11.0%, respectively, while the relative abundance of and decreased by 6.0% and 12.0%, respectively. Venn diagram analysis revealed 146 ASVs shared among all treatments. KC, HC, and HF had more unique ASVs, whereas HK and HKH had the fewest. Principal component analysis (PCA) was used to visualize differences in bacterial community structure. Significant differences among treatments were confirmed using ANOSIM. Ecological network analysis indicated predominantly positive (cooperative) associations among bacterial taxa, with HKH showing the highest proportion of positive edges, suggesting stronger bacterial cooperation. Correlation analysis showed that , , and were significantly negatively correlated with pH and TP, while , , and were significantly positively correlated with pH. The Mantel analysis revealed a significant positive correlation between bacterial community composition and richness and pH. Further analysis using the structural equation model revealed that soil nutrients and bacterial communities were the main factors affecting plant growth. This study clarifies the response rules of plant growth, soil physicochemical properties and rhizosphere bacterial communities to different mineral fertilizer and microbial inoculant combinations, and provides a practical basis for the rational screening of functional inoculants and the construction of healthy rhizosphere microecosystems in pot cultivation.
Greenhouse Gas Emission Fluxes in Urban Wetlands of Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.
Si J, Kang J, Zhou S … +8 more , Tian J, Xie Q, Chen Z, Qi Y, An Q, Gong Y, Qin B, Lu S
Biology (Basel) · 2026 May · PMID 42274521 · Full text
BACKGROUND: This study aims to measure Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission fluxes at the soil-air and water-air interfaces in urban wetlands on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and identify the primary controlling factors. The object...
BACKGROUND: This study aims to measure Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emission fluxes at the soil-air and water-air interfaces in urban wetlands on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau and identify the primary controlling factors. The objective is to elucidate the key drivers of carbon and nitrogen processes at different interface levels in wetlands within high-altitude urban settings, thereby providing a scientific basis for accurately estimating their contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. RESULTS: In the wetlands of Xining City, with the exception of soil pH, bulk density, and moisture content (which showed no significant change over time), all other soil physicochemical properties differed significantly among the three wetlands and among the sampling periods ( < 0.05). Soil moisture content was less affected by variations across different wetlands and over time, and differences in soil physicochemical properties among different wetlands were small ( > 0.05). Significant differences were observed in the spatiotemporal variations in the physicochemical properties of water bodies in Xining's wetlands ( < 0.05), although water pH and total organic carbon (TOC) were less affected by the interaction between different wetlands and time periods. There were no significant differences in the bulk density and moisture content of wetland sediments in Xining over time ( > 0.05), while all other physicochemical indicators of sediments showed significant differences ( < 0.05). The physicochemical properties of sediments were influenced by both different wetland types and different time periods. GHG fluxes at the water-air interface in Xining wetlands were greater than those at the soil-air interface; overall, GHG emissions from both interfaces acted as "sources." Seasonal variations in wetland GHG emissions were pronounced, with emission peaks occurring from June to August. The study found that the primary soil factor influencing GHG emissions at the soil-air interface was total phosphorus (TP), while the primary sediment factors affecting emissions at the water-air interface were TP and nitrate nitrogen (NO-N), and the primary water factor was TOC. The interannual cumulative emissions from both interfaces in the wetland totaled 705.88 g·m. GHG emissions from the soil-air and water-air interfaces contributed 47.88% and 52.12%, respectively, to the global warming potential (GWP) of the wetland, while methane (CH), carbon dioxide (CO), and nitrous oxide (NO) contributed 32.55%, 62.33%, and 5.12%, respectively, to the GWP. CONCLUSIONS: Investigating the GHG emission patterns in Xining's wetlands and identifying the primary factors influencing these emissions provides a scientific basis for the protection and restoration of these wetlands. This is of great significance for safeguarding the ecological security of Xining's wetlands as well as the overall ecological security of high-altitude wetlands.
Genetic Diversity and Differentiation Pattern of in the Dongjiang and Ganjiang River Sources.
Wu B, Fang Y, Zeng Q … +3 more , Li H, Zhang Y, Wang H
Biology (Basel) · 2026 May · PMID 42274520 · Full text
To explore the genetic diversity and evolutionary differentiation of from the headwaters of the Dongjiang and Ganjiang Rivers, we performed whole-genome resequencing on three populations, including Xunyushui (XW) and Ji...
To explore the genetic diversity and evolutionary differentiation of from the headwaters of the Dongjiang and Ganjiang Rivers, we performed whole-genome resequencing on three populations, including Xunyushui (XW) and Jiuqu River (DN) from the Dongjiang River source as well as Taojiang River (XF) from the Ganjiang River source. We analyzed population structure, genetic differentiation, nucleotide diversity (π), pairwise FST, linkage disequilibrium, kinship, and neutrality tests (Tajima's D, Fu and Li's D). A total of 209.05 Gbp of clean data were obtained, with high quality and reliable alignment. Average nucleotide diversity (π) was higher in XW (0.00490 ± 0.00248) and DN (0.00478 ± 0.00312) and lower in XF (0.00463 ± 0.00158). Pairwise FST values revealed moderate differentiation between XW and DN (FST = 0.12) and strong divergence between XF and the other two populations (FST = 0.19 and 0.17). Neutrality tests showed no significant deviation from neutrality. XW and DN exhibited positive values, indicating stable demography, while XF showed negative values, suggesting a tendency of population expansion. Phylogenetic, admixture, and PCA analyses supported that all three populations belonged to one evolutionary clade with two ancestral components. XF showed the slowest linkage disequilibrium decay and distant kinship, indicating a small effective population size. Significant genetic divergence was primarily driven by geographic isolation and limited gene flow. This study reveals the genetic diversity and differentiation pattern of and provides a genomic basis for its conservation and management.
Bayesian Growth Modeling and Length-Based Indicators: Stock Assessment of Nile Tilapia () in Lake Nasser, Egypt.
Abdellatif M, Kindong R, AbouelFadl KY … +1 more , Tian S
Biology (Basel) · 2026 May · PMID 42274519 · Full text
The present study incorporates age- and length-based methods to estimate the stock status of Nile tilapia () in the inland fisheries of Lake Nasser, Egypt. In 2021, a total of 570 specimens were sampled to determine the...
The present study incorporates age- and length-based methods to estimate the stock status of Nile tilapia () in the inland fisheries of Lake Nasser, Egypt. In 2021, a total of 570 specimens were sampled to determine the length-weight relationships, condition factor, maturity schedules, age structure and growth parameters. The age estimations were quite accurate, suggesting a lifespan of 5 years. Females attained 50% maturity at a length of 27.85 cm and age of 2.30 years, while males attained maturity at 29.93 cm and 2.45 years. The von Bertalanffy model best described growth parameters using the Bayesian approach. Length-based reference points produced from aLBI indicate a close association between length at initial maturity (L = 29.3 cm) and optimal harvest length (L = 30.8 cm). The Froese indicators indicate that all the proportions of mature fish (P = 44.8%), fish of optimum size (P = 35.6%), and big spawners (P = 18.1%) were below sustainability targets. The results indicate that non-selective fishing gear is responsible for growth and recruitment overfishing by harvesting fish at, or below, maturity. The integrated Bayesian-aLBI approach offers a rigors and transparent assessment for inland fisheries with limited data and support for size-based management actions to rebuild the Nile tilapia stock in Lake Nasser.
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