Carla Zilli - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Carla Zilli
Redox Report, Dec 1, 2008
We have previously demonstrated that the induction of haem oxygenase-1 (EC 1.14.99.3) plays a pro... more We have previously demonstrated that the induction of haem oxygenase-1 (EC 1.14.99.3) plays a protective role for soybean plants against cadmium and UV-B stress. Here, we have investigated the possible signal transduction pathways involved in haem oxygenase-1 induction in leaves of soybean plants subjected to salt stress. Treatment with 100 mM NaCl during 48 h increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances by 30%, whereas GSH decreased by 50%, with respect to controls. These effects were prevented by pre-incubation with diphenyleneiodonium (DPI; an NADPH oxidase inhibitor), [1,2,4]oxadiazolo-[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ; a guanylate cyclase inhibitor) or LaCl 3 (calcium channel blocker). NaCl at 100 mM produced in situ accumulation of H 2 O 2 and O 2 • •-, which were also prevented by DPI, ODQ or LaCl 3. Moreover, salt-induced haem oxygenase-1 activity was also totally abolished by pretreatment with the different inhibitors. These results clearly demonstrated that the signal transduction pathways involved in oxidative stress triggered by salt stress were similar to those implicated in haem oxygenase-1 induction, and provide additional information suggesting that haem oxygenase might play a key role in the antioxidative protection machinery of higher plants.
Crop & Pasture Science
Megathyrsus maximus (Gatton panic) is a tropical grass highly valued both for its use as forage a... more Megathyrsus maximus (Gatton panic) is a tropical grass highly valued both for its use as forage and for its biofuel potential. A major constraint in establishing pastures of this cultivar is the low viability and germination of seeds and the poor initial seedling establishment. We used non-thermal plasma (NTP, partially ionised gas) as a novel technology to treat seeds of this grass, aiming to improve their quality (i.e. germination traits). We also followed the performance of seedlings grown from NTP-treated seeds under field conditions by assessing seedling establishment, biomass production and forage quality during the first regrowth period, which is the critical period for pasture establishment. Two NTP treatments were performed through dielectric barrier discharges employing N2 as carrier gas. Non-treated seeds served as the control. Results showed that the viability of NTP-treated seeds was, on average, 1.5-fold higher than the control, and that germination energy and germinat...
Journal of Stored Products Research
Pest Management Science, 2021
BACKGROUND Diaporthe/Phomopsis complex (D/P) is a group of soybean seed-borne fungi. The use of c... more BACKGROUND Diaporthe/Phomopsis complex (D/P) is a group of soybean seed-borne fungi. The use of chemical fungicides, either for seed treatment or during the crop cycle, is the most adopted practice for facing the fungal diseases provoked by this complex. Worldwide, science is searching for alternative seed treatments less harmful to the environment than chemicals. Non-thermal plasma (NTP) is a novel technology suitable for seed treatment with pathogen removal purposes. The present research aimed to evaluate the effects of NTP on the in vitro performance of pure cultures of Diaporthe longicolla and elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects. RESULTS Active D. longicolla mycelium, growing in vitro, was exposed to different NTP treatments, employing a DBD arrangement with different carrier gases (N2 or O2 ). Fungal growth, fresh biomass, and colony appearance were negatively affected by plasma treatments (TN3 and TO3). Lipid peroxidation and antioxidant activities were higher in plasma-treated colonies in comparison to non-exposed colonies (Control). Fungal asexual spores (conidia) were also exposed to NTP, showing high susceptibility. CONCLUSION The exposure of D. longicolla colonies to NTP compromised severely fungal biology. Ozone production during treatments and lipid peroxidation of fungal cell membranes appeared to be involved in the observed effects. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Plants are frequently subjected to different kinds of stress, such as salinity and, like other or... more Plants are frequently subjected to different kinds of stress, such as salinity and, like other organisms, they have evolved strategies for preventing and repairing cellular damage caused by salt stress. Glycine max L. plants were subjected to different NaCl concentrations (0–200 mM) for 10 days. Treatments with 100 and 200 mM NaCl induced ion leakage and lipid peroxidation augmentation, loss in chlorophyll content, and accumulation of O2 • − and H2O2. However, 50 mM NaCl did not modify these parameters, which remains similar to control values. Catalase, superoxide dismutase, and heme oxygenase (HO-1) activities and gene expressions were increased under 100 mM NaCl, while no differences were observed with respect to controls under 50 mM salt. Treatment with 200 mM NaCl caused a diminution in the enzyme activities and gene expressions. Results here reported let us conclude that HO also plays a leading role in the defense mechanisms against salinity. Copyright © 2009 Carla Giannina Zil...
Journal of Plant Growth Regulation, 2021
Non-thermal plasmas (NTP) are partially ionized gases that represent a promising technology for s... more Non-thermal plasmas (NTP) are partially ionized gases that represent a promising technology for seed treatment to enhance seed health while promoting germination and vigor in a fast, cost-effective, and eco-friendly way. The seed treatment with NTP generates phenotypic variations in plants that could be related to changes in DNA methylation. This work analyses the effects of two different NTP: nitrogen for 3 min (PMN3) and oxygen for 2 min (PMO2) applied to soybean (Glycine max) seeds. Growth parameters of plants grown from treated and untreated seeds were evaluated at two growth stages: 6 and 20 days after sowing (DAS). MSAP (Methylation Sensitive Amplified Polymorphism) markers were assayed to evaluate epigenetic changes induced by NTP treatments. Plants obtained from PMN3 and PMO2-treated seeds were phenotypically similar to each other: exhibited a superior growth at both stages. At 6 DAS root and shoot length and fresh weight surpassed the Control, while at 20 DAS root length and fresh and dry weight were higher than Control. PMN3 and PMO2 induced DNA methylation changes with respect to the Control plants, with higher differentiation at 20 DAS than at 6 DAS. The epigenetic variability and the phenotypic variability correlated only at 20 DAS (R2 = 0.5). The observed phenotypic differences among Control and NTP-treated plants could not be explained by overall changes in the methylation levels, but both demethylation and methylation changes at specific loci appear to be operating in response to NTP treatments.
Biocontrol Science and Technology, 2018
We examined the biocontrol and the differential production of H 2 O 2 and O •− 2 in the relations... more We examined the biocontrol and the differential production of H 2 O 2 and O •− 2 in the relationship Macrophomina phaseolina-PGPR in soybean seedling. Fungal colonisation was efficiently prevented by inoculation with Pseudomonas fluorescens 9. Its ability to improve ROS production and gene expression of antioxidant enzymes could be related to its capacity to control the disease.
Scientific Reports, 2020
Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) is one of the most important crops worldwide providing dietary... more Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) is one of the most important crops worldwide providing dietary protein and vegetable oil. Most of the nitrogen required by the crop is supplied through biological N2 fixation. Non-thermal plasma is a fast, economical, and environmental-friendly technology that can improve seed quality, plant growth, and crop yield. Soybean seeds were exposed to a dielectric barrier discharge plasma operating at atmospheric pressure air with superimposed flows of O2 or N2 as carrying gases. An arrangement of a thin phenolic sheet covered by polyester films was employed as an insulating barrier. We focused on the ability of plasma to improve soybean nodulation and biological nitrogen fixation. The total number of nodules and their weight were significantly higher in plants grown from treated seeds than in control. Plasma treatments incremented 1.6 fold the nitrogenase activity in nodules, while leghaemoglobin content was increased two times, indicating that nodules w...
![Research paper thumbnail of Erratum to “Improvement of growth and yield of soybean plants through the application of non-thermal plasmas to seeds with different health status” [Heliyon Volume 5, Issue 4, April 2019, e01495]](https://attachments.academia-assets.com/93831131/thumbnails/1.jpg)
](Heliyon, 2020
Erratum to "Improvement of growth and yield of soybean plants through the application of non-ther... more Erratum to "Improvement of growth and yield of soybean plants through the application of non-thermal plasmas to seeds with different health status"
Heliyon, 2019
Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) is a globally important crop, providing oil and protein. Diapo... more Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) is a globally important crop, providing oil and protein. Diaporthe/Phomopsis complex includes seed-borne pathogens that affect this legume. Non-thermal plasma treatment is a fast, cost-effective and environmental-friendly technology. Soybean seeds were exposed to a quasistationary (50 Hz) dielectric barrier discharge plasma operating at atmospheric pressure air. Different carrying gases (O 2 and N 2) and barrier insulating materials were used. This work was performed to test if the effects of non-thermal plasma treatment applied to healthy and infected seeds persist throughout the entire cycle of plants. To this aim, lipid peroxidation, activity of catalase, superoxide dismutase and guaiacol peroxidase, vegetative growth and agronomic traits were analysed. The results here reported showed that plants grown from infected seeds
Microbiological Research, 2015
Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are potential agents to control plant pathogens and t... more Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are potential agents to control plant pathogens and their combined use with biopesticides such as phosphites may constitute a novel strategy to incorporate in disease management programs. In the present study, 11 bacterial isolates were selected on the basis of their antagonistic activity against Macrophomina phaseolina in dual-culture tests, and their plant growth promoting traits. Selected isolates were characterised on the basis of auxin and siderophore production, phosphate solubilisation and rep-PCR genomic fingerprinting. Two of these isolates, identified as Pseudomonas fluorescens 9 and Bacillus subtilis 54, were further evaluated for their inhibitory capacity against M. phaseolina using in vitro (on soybean seeds) and in vivo (greenhouse assay) tests. Both bacteria were applied individually as well as in combined treatment with manganese phosphite as seed treatments. Damage severity on soybean seeds was significantly reduced, compared with the untreated control, by both bacterial strains; however, the individual application of phosphite showed to be least effective in controlling M. phaseolina. Interestingly, the phosphite treatment improved its performance under greenhouse conditions compared to the results from the in vitro assays. In the greenhouse trials, the greatest reductions in disease severity were achieved when strain P. fluorescens 9 was applied singly or when strain B. subtilis 54 was combined with manganese phosphite, achieving 82% of control in both cases. This work is the first to report the control of M. phaseolina using combined treatment with PGPR and phosphite under greenhouse conditions.
International Journal of Cell Biology, 2009
Plants are frequently subjected to different kinds of stress, such as salinity and, like other or... more Plants are frequently subjected to different kinds of stress, such as salinity and, like other organisms, they have evolved strategies for preventing and repairing cellular damage caused by salt stress.Glycine maxL. plants were subjected to different NaCl concentrations (0–200 mM) for 10 days. Treatments with 100 and 200 mM NaCl induced ion leakage and lipid peroxidation augmentation, loss in chlorophyll content, and accumulation ofO2•-andH2O2. However, 50 mM NaCl did not modify these parameters, which remains similar to control values. Catalase, superoxide dismutase, and heme oxygenase (HO-1) activities and gene expressions were increased under 100 mM NaCl, while no differences were observed with respect to controls under 50 mM salt. Treatment with 200 mM NaCl caused a diminution in the enzyme activities and gene expressions. Results here reported let us conclude that HO also plays a leading role in the defense mechanisms against salinity.
Soybean Physiology and Biochemistry, 2011
Innovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies, 2018
Diaporthe/Phomopsis (D/P) is a complex of seed-borne fungi that severely affects soybean (Glycine... more Diaporthe/Phomopsis (D/P) is a complex of seed-borne fungi that severely affects soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill), one of the most important crops worldwide. Non-thermal plasma treatment is a fast, economic and ecological friendly technology that can destroy seed-borne fungi and improve seed quality. Soybean seeds were exposed for 1, 2 and 3 minutes to a quasi-stationary (50 Hz) dielectric barrier discharge plasma operating at atmospheric pressure air. Different carrying gases (O2 and N2) and barrier-insulating materials were used. In this work we focused on the ability of plasma to control D/P in soybean seeds and to enhance seed quality. To support these results, different antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase and guaiacol peroxidase), lipid peroxidation and phytohormones (ABA and AIA) content in seeds were evaluated. The results demonstrated reductions of 29% in catalase activity and increments of 30% in glutathione content after plasma treatment, reversing the oxidative damage caused by D/P fungi. This eco-friendly technology improved soybean seed quality and, for the first time, its efficiency in controlling soybean seed-borne pathogen fungi that colonize the inside of seeds was demonstrated.
Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are potential agents to control plant pathogens and t... more Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are potential agents to control plant pathogens and their combined use with biopesticides such as phosphites may constitute a novel strategy to incorporate in disease management programs. In the present study, 11 bacterial isolates were selected on the basis of their antagonistic activity against Macrophomina phaseolina in dual-culture tests, and their plant growth promoting traits. Selected isolates were characterised on the basis of auxin and siderophore production, phosphate solubilisation and rep-PCR genomic fingerprinting. Two of these isolates, identified as Pseudomonas fluorescens 9 and Bacillus subtilis 54, were further evaluated for their inhibitory capacity against M. phaseolina using in vitro (on soybean seeds) and in vivo (greenhouse assay) tests. Both bacteria were applied individually as well as in combined treatment with manganese phosphite as seed treatments. Damage severity on soybean seeds was significantly reduced, compa...
Environmental and Experimental Botany, 2014
The exogenous application of carbon monoxide (CO) is a valuable strategy which enables study of t... more The exogenous application of carbon monoxide (CO) is a valuable strategy which enables study of the effects under different stress conditions. However, in this experimental model a true endogenous CO production by plants cannot be measured. In this work, so as to achieve an elevated sensitivity and to avoid invasive techniques, we quantify the endogenous CO production by tissues in salt-treated soybean plants through gas chromatography coupled to a reduction gas detector. This technique allows short and room temperature incubation of intact tissues and homogenates. We found that a 200 mM NaCl treatment induces total CO production in leaves and roots. The sensitivity of the technique offers no correlation between this increment and heme oxygenase (HO) activity measured as a function of CO production. We also found that untreated soybean plants continue to produce significant CO levels up to 7 days post planting, after which CO content decreases to a third and remains constant in the next days. However, HO activity does not change throughout these days. The data here reported shows that HO activity is not the main source of CO in soybean plants. We discuss alternative sources that could be implicated in this production. Taking our own results and data reported by other colleagues, we propose lipid peroxidation and ureide metabolism as potential sources of CO.
Journal of photochemistry and photobiology. B, Biology, 2014
Antioxidant enzymes play a key role in plant tolerance to different types of stress, including ul... more Antioxidant enzymes play a key role in plant tolerance to different types of stress, including ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation. Here we report that nitric oxide (NO) enhances antioxidant enzymes gene expression and increases the activity of specific isoforms protecting against UV-B radiation. Pre-treatments with sodium nitroprussiate (SNP), a NO-donor, prevented lipid peroxidation, ion leakage and H2O2 and superoxide anion accumulation in leaves of UV-B-treated soybean plants. Transcripts levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) were significantly induced by SNP. These data correlated with the enhancement of particular antioxidant enzyme isoforms, such as one CAT isoform and two APX isoforms. Moreover, SNP induced the expression of three new isoforms of SOD, identified as Mn-SOD subclass. Further results showed that total activities of SOD, CAT and APX significantly increased by 2.2-, 1.8- and 2.1-fold in SNP-treated plants compared to contr...
Redox Report, 2008
We have previously demonstrated that the induction of haem oxygenase-1 (EC 1.14.99.3) plays a pro... more We have previously demonstrated that the induction of haem oxygenase-1 (EC 1.14.99.3) plays a protective role for soybean plants against cadmium and UV-B stress. Here, we have investigated the possible signal transduction pathways involved in haem oxygenase-1 induction in leaves of soybean plants subjected to salt stress. Treatment with 100 mM NaCl during 48 h increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances by 30%, whereas GSH decreased by 50%, with respect to controls. These effects were prevented by pre-incubation with diphenyleneiodonium (DPI; an NADPH oxidase inhibitor), [1,2,4]oxadiazolo-[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ; a guanylate cyclase inhibitor) or LaCl3 (calcium channel blocker). NaCl at 100 mM produced in situ accumulation of H2O2 and O2*-, which were also prevented by DPI, ODQ or LaCl3. Moreover, salt-induced haem oxygenase-1 activity was also totally abolished by pretreatment with the different inhibitors. These results clearly demonstrated that the signal transduction pathways involved in oxidative stress triggered by salt stress were similar to those implicated in haem oxygenase-1 induction, and provide additional information suggesting that haem oxygenase might play a key role in the antioxidative protection machinery of higher plants.
Redox Biology, Aug 1, 2017
Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) plays a protective role against oxidative stress in plants. The mechanism... more Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) plays a protective role against oxidative stress in plants. The mechanisms regulating its expression, however, remain unclear. Here we studied the methylation state of a GC rich HO-1 promoter region and the expression of several stress-related transcription factors (TFs) in soybean plants subjected to ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation. Genomic DNA and total RNA were isolated from leaves of plants irradiated with 7.5 and 15 kJ m-2 UV-B. A 304 bp HO-1 promoter region was amplified by PCR from sodium bisulfite-treated DNA, cloned into pGEMT plasmid vector and evaluated by DNA sequencing. Bisulfite sequencing analysis showed similar HO-1 promoter methylation levels in control and UV-B-treated plants (C: 3.4 ± 1.3%; 7.5: 2.6 ± 0.5%; 15: 3.1 ± 1.1%). Interestingly, HO-1 promoter was strongly unmethylated in control plants. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis of TFs showed that GmMYB177, GmMYBJ6, GmWRKY21, GmNAC11, GmNAC20 and GmGT2A but not GmWRK13 and GmDREB were induced by UV-B radiation. The expression of several TFs was also enhanced by hemin, a potent and specific HO inducer, inferring that they may mediate HO-1 upregulation. These results suggest that soybean HO-1 gene expression is not epigenetically regulated. Moreover, the low level of HO-1 promoter methylation suggests that this antioxidant enzyme can rapidly respond to environmental stress. Finally, this study has identified some stress-related TFs involved in HO-1 up-regulation under UV-B radiation.
Redox Report, Dec 1, 2008
We have previously demonstrated that the induction of haem oxygenase-1 (EC 1.14.99.3) plays a pro... more We have previously demonstrated that the induction of haem oxygenase-1 (EC 1.14.99.3) plays a protective role for soybean plants against cadmium and UV-B stress. Here, we have investigated the possible signal transduction pathways involved in haem oxygenase-1 induction in leaves of soybean plants subjected to salt stress. Treatment with 100 mM NaCl during 48 h increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances by 30%, whereas GSH decreased by 50%, with respect to controls. These effects were prevented by pre-incubation with diphenyleneiodonium (DPI; an NADPH oxidase inhibitor), [1,2,4]oxadiazolo-[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ; a guanylate cyclase inhibitor) or LaCl 3 (calcium channel blocker). NaCl at 100 mM produced in situ accumulation of H 2 O 2 and O 2 • •-, which were also prevented by DPI, ODQ or LaCl 3. Moreover, salt-induced haem oxygenase-1 activity was also totally abolished by pretreatment with the different inhibitors. These results clearly demonstrated that the signal transduction pathways involved in oxidative stress triggered by salt stress were similar to those implicated in haem oxygenase-1 induction, and provide additional information suggesting that haem oxygenase might play a key role in the antioxidative protection machinery of higher plants.
Crop & Pasture Science
Megathyrsus maximus (Gatton panic) is a tropical grass highly valued both for its use as forage a... more Megathyrsus maximus (Gatton panic) is a tropical grass highly valued both for its use as forage and for its biofuel potential. A major constraint in establishing pastures of this cultivar is the low viability and germination of seeds and the poor initial seedling establishment. We used non-thermal plasma (NTP, partially ionised gas) as a novel technology to treat seeds of this grass, aiming to improve their quality (i.e. germination traits). We also followed the performance of seedlings grown from NTP-treated seeds under field conditions by assessing seedling establishment, biomass production and forage quality during the first regrowth period, which is the critical period for pasture establishment. Two NTP treatments were performed through dielectric barrier discharges employing N2 as carrier gas. Non-treated seeds served as the control. Results showed that the viability of NTP-treated seeds was, on average, 1.5-fold higher than the control, and that germination energy and germinat...
Journal of Stored Products Research
Pest Management Science, 2021
BACKGROUND Diaporthe/Phomopsis complex (D/P) is a group of soybean seed-borne fungi. The use of c... more BACKGROUND Diaporthe/Phomopsis complex (D/P) is a group of soybean seed-borne fungi. The use of chemical fungicides, either for seed treatment or during the crop cycle, is the most adopted practice for facing the fungal diseases provoked by this complex. Worldwide, science is searching for alternative seed treatments less harmful to the environment than chemicals. Non-thermal plasma (NTP) is a novel technology suitable for seed treatment with pathogen removal purposes. The present research aimed to evaluate the effects of NTP on the in vitro performance of pure cultures of Diaporthe longicolla and elucidate the mechanisms underlying these effects. RESULTS Active D. longicolla mycelium, growing in vitro, was exposed to different NTP treatments, employing a DBD arrangement with different carrier gases (N2 or O2 ). Fungal growth, fresh biomass, and colony appearance were negatively affected by plasma treatments (TN3 and TO3). Lipid peroxidation and antioxidant activities were higher in plasma-treated colonies in comparison to non-exposed colonies (Control). Fungal asexual spores (conidia) were also exposed to NTP, showing high susceptibility. CONCLUSION The exposure of D. longicolla colonies to NTP compromised severely fungal biology. Ozone production during treatments and lipid peroxidation of fungal cell membranes appeared to be involved in the observed effects. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.
Plants are frequently subjected to different kinds of stress, such as salinity and, like other or... more Plants are frequently subjected to different kinds of stress, such as salinity and, like other organisms, they have evolved strategies for preventing and repairing cellular damage caused by salt stress. Glycine max L. plants were subjected to different NaCl concentrations (0–200 mM) for 10 days. Treatments with 100 and 200 mM NaCl induced ion leakage and lipid peroxidation augmentation, loss in chlorophyll content, and accumulation of O2 • − and H2O2. However, 50 mM NaCl did not modify these parameters, which remains similar to control values. Catalase, superoxide dismutase, and heme oxygenase (HO-1) activities and gene expressions were increased under 100 mM NaCl, while no differences were observed with respect to controls under 50 mM salt. Treatment with 200 mM NaCl caused a diminution in the enzyme activities and gene expressions. Results here reported let us conclude that HO also plays a leading role in the defense mechanisms against salinity. Copyright © 2009 Carla Giannina Zil...
Journal of Plant Growth Regulation, 2021
Non-thermal plasmas (NTP) are partially ionized gases that represent a promising technology for s... more Non-thermal plasmas (NTP) are partially ionized gases that represent a promising technology for seed treatment to enhance seed health while promoting germination and vigor in a fast, cost-effective, and eco-friendly way. The seed treatment with NTP generates phenotypic variations in plants that could be related to changes in DNA methylation. This work analyses the effects of two different NTP: nitrogen for 3 min (PMN3) and oxygen for 2 min (PMO2) applied to soybean (Glycine max) seeds. Growth parameters of plants grown from treated and untreated seeds were evaluated at two growth stages: 6 and 20 days after sowing (DAS). MSAP (Methylation Sensitive Amplified Polymorphism) markers were assayed to evaluate epigenetic changes induced by NTP treatments. Plants obtained from PMN3 and PMO2-treated seeds were phenotypically similar to each other: exhibited a superior growth at both stages. At 6 DAS root and shoot length and fresh weight surpassed the Control, while at 20 DAS root length and fresh and dry weight were higher than Control. PMN3 and PMO2 induced DNA methylation changes with respect to the Control plants, with higher differentiation at 20 DAS than at 6 DAS. The epigenetic variability and the phenotypic variability correlated only at 20 DAS (R2 = 0.5). The observed phenotypic differences among Control and NTP-treated plants could not be explained by overall changes in the methylation levels, but both demethylation and methylation changes at specific loci appear to be operating in response to NTP treatments.
Biocontrol Science and Technology, 2018
We examined the biocontrol and the differential production of H 2 O 2 and O •− 2 in the relations... more We examined the biocontrol and the differential production of H 2 O 2 and O •− 2 in the relationship Macrophomina phaseolina-PGPR in soybean seedling. Fungal colonisation was efficiently prevented by inoculation with Pseudomonas fluorescens 9. Its ability to improve ROS production and gene expression of antioxidant enzymes could be related to its capacity to control the disease.
Scientific Reports, 2020
Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) is one of the most important crops worldwide providing dietary... more Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) is one of the most important crops worldwide providing dietary protein and vegetable oil. Most of the nitrogen required by the crop is supplied through biological N2 fixation. Non-thermal plasma is a fast, economical, and environmental-friendly technology that can improve seed quality, plant growth, and crop yield. Soybean seeds were exposed to a dielectric barrier discharge plasma operating at atmospheric pressure air with superimposed flows of O2 or N2 as carrying gases. An arrangement of a thin phenolic sheet covered by polyester films was employed as an insulating barrier. We focused on the ability of plasma to improve soybean nodulation and biological nitrogen fixation. The total number of nodules and their weight were significantly higher in plants grown from treated seeds than in control. Plasma treatments incremented 1.6 fold the nitrogenase activity in nodules, while leghaemoglobin content was increased two times, indicating that nodules w...
Heliyon, 2020
Erratum to "Improvement of growth and yield of soybean plants through the application of non-ther... more Erratum to "Improvement of growth and yield of soybean plants through the application of non-thermal plasmas to seeds with different health status"
Heliyon, 2019
Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) is a globally important crop, providing oil and protein. Diapo... more Soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill) is a globally important crop, providing oil and protein. Diaporthe/Phomopsis complex includes seed-borne pathogens that affect this legume. Non-thermal plasma treatment is a fast, cost-effective and environmental-friendly technology. Soybean seeds were exposed to a quasistationary (50 Hz) dielectric barrier discharge plasma operating at atmospheric pressure air. Different carrying gases (O 2 and N 2) and barrier insulating materials were used. This work was performed to test if the effects of non-thermal plasma treatment applied to healthy and infected seeds persist throughout the entire cycle of plants. To this aim, lipid peroxidation, activity of catalase, superoxide dismutase and guaiacol peroxidase, vegetative growth and agronomic traits were analysed. The results here reported showed that plants grown from infected seeds
Microbiological Research, 2015
Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are potential agents to control plant pathogens and t... more Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are potential agents to control plant pathogens and their combined use with biopesticides such as phosphites may constitute a novel strategy to incorporate in disease management programs. In the present study, 11 bacterial isolates were selected on the basis of their antagonistic activity against Macrophomina phaseolina in dual-culture tests, and their plant growth promoting traits. Selected isolates were characterised on the basis of auxin and siderophore production, phosphate solubilisation and rep-PCR genomic fingerprinting. Two of these isolates, identified as Pseudomonas fluorescens 9 and Bacillus subtilis 54, were further evaluated for their inhibitory capacity against M. phaseolina using in vitro (on soybean seeds) and in vivo (greenhouse assay) tests. Both bacteria were applied individually as well as in combined treatment with manganese phosphite as seed treatments. Damage severity on soybean seeds was significantly reduced, compared with the untreated control, by both bacterial strains; however, the individual application of phosphite showed to be least effective in controlling M. phaseolina. Interestingly, the phosphite treatment improved its performance under greenhouse conditions compared to the results from the in vitro assays. In the greenhouse trials, the greatest reductions in disease severity were achieved when strain P. fluorescens 9 was applied singly or when strain B. subtilis 54 was combined with manganese phosphite, achieving 82% of control in both cases. This work is the first to report the control of M. phaseolina using combined treatment with PGPR and phosphite under greenhouse conditions.
International Journal of Cell Biology, 2009
Plants are frequently subjected to different kinds of stress, such as salinity and, like other or... more Plants are frequently subjected to different kinds of stress, such as salinity and, like other organisms, they have evolved strategies for preventing and repairing cellular damage caused by salt stress.Glycine maxL. plants were subjected to different NaCl concentrations (0–200 mM) for 10 days. Treatments with 100 and 200 mM NaCl induced ion leakage and lipid peroxidation augmentation, loss in chlorophyll content, and accumulation ofO2•-andH2O2. However, 50 mM NaCl did not modify these parameters, which remains similar to control values. Catalase, superoxide dismutase, and heme oxygenase (HO-1) activities and gene expressions were increased under 100 mM NaCl, while no differences were observed with respect to controls under 50 mM salt. Treatment with 200 mM NaCl caused a diminution in the enzyme activities and gene expressions. Results here reported let us conclude that HO also plays a leading role in the defense mechanisms against salinity.
Soybean Physiology and Biochemistry, 2011
Innovative Food Science & Emerging Technologies, 2018
Diaporthe/Phomopsis (D/P) is a complex of seed-borne fungi that severely affects soybean (Glycine... more Diaporthe/Phomopsis (D/P) is a complex of seed-borne fungi that severely affects soybean (Glycine max (L.) Merrill), one of the most important crops worldwide. Non-thermal plasma treatment is a fast, economic and ecological friendly technology that can destroy seed-borne fungi and improve seed quality. Soybean seeds were exposed for 1, 2 and 3 minutes to a quasi-stationary (50 Hz) dielectric barrier discharge plasma operating at atmospheric pressure air. Different carrying gases (O2 and N2) and barrier-insulating materials were used. In this work we focused on the ability of plasma to control D/P in soybean seeds and to enhance seed quality. To support these results, different antioxidant enzymes (catalase, superoxide dismutase and guaiacol peroxidase), lipid peroxidation and phytohormones (ABA and AIA) content in seeds were evaluated. The results demonstrated reductions of 29% in catalase activity and increments of 30% in glutathione content after plasma treatment, reversing the oxidative damage caused by D/P fungi. This eco-friendly technology improved soybean seed quality and, for the first time, its efficiency in controlling soybean seed-borne pathogen fungi that colonize the inside of seeds was demonstrated.
Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are potential agents to control plant pathogens and t... more Plant growth promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are potential agents to control plant pathogens and their combined use with biopesticides such as phosphites may constitute a novel strategy to incorporate in disease management programs. In the present study, 11 bacterial isolates were selected on the basis of their antagonistic activity against Macrophomina phaseolina in dual-culture tests, and their plant growth promoting traits. Selected isolates were characterised on the basis of auxin and siderophore production, phosphate solubilisation and rep-PCR genomic fingerprinting. Two of these isolates, identified as Pseudomonas fluorescens 9 and Bacillus subtilis 54, were further evaluated for their inhibitory capacity against M. phaseolina using in vitro (on soybean seeds) and in vivo (greenhouse assay) tests. Both bacteria were applied individually as well as in combined treatment with manganese phosphite as seed treatments. Damage severity on soybean seeds was significantly reduced, compa...
Environmental and Experimental Botany, 2014
The exogenous application of carbon monoxide (CO) is a valuable strategy which enables study of t... more The exogenous application of carbon monoxide (CO) is a valuable strategy which enables study of the effects under different stress conditions. However, in this experimental model a true endogenous CO production by plants cannot be measured. In this work, so as to achieve an elevated sensitivity and to avoid invasive techniques, we quantify the endogenous CO production by tissues in salt-treated soybean plants through gas chromatography coupled to a reduction gas detector. This technique allows short and room temperature incubation of intact tissues and homogenates. We found that a 200 mM NaCl treatment induces total CO production in leaves and roots. The sensitivity of the technique offers no correlation between this increment and heme oxygenase (HO) activity measured as a function of CO production. We also found that untreated soybean plants continue to produce significant CO levels up to 7 days post planting, after which CO content decreases to a third and remains constant in the next days. However, HO activity does not change throughout these days. The data here reported shows that HO activity is not the main source of CO in soybean plants. We discuss alternative sources that could be implicated in this production. Taking our own results and data reported by other colleagues, we propose lipid peroxidation and ureide metabolism as potential sources of CO.
Journal of photochemistry and photobiology. B, Biology, 2014
Antioxidant enzymes play a key role in plant tolerance to different types of stress, including ul... more Antioxidant enzymes play a key role in plant tolerance to different types of stress, including ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation. Here we report that nitric oxide (NO) enhances antioxidant enzymes gene expression and increases the activity of specific isoforms protecting against UV-B radiation. Pre-treatments with sodium nitroprussiate (SNP), a NO-donor, prevented lipid peroxidation, ion leakage and H2O2 and superoxide anion accumulation in leaves of UV-B-treated soybean plants. Transcripts levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) were significantly induced by SNP. These data correlated with the enhancement of particular antioxidant enzyme isoforms, such as one CAT isoform and two APX isoforms. Moreover, SNP induced the expression of three new isoforms of SOD, identified as Mn-SOD subclass. Further results showed that total activities of SOD, CAT and APX significantly increased by 2.2-, 1.8- and 2.1-fold in SNP-treated plants compared to contr...
Redox Report, 2008
We have previously demonstrated that the induction of haem oxygenase-1 (EC 1.14.99.3) plays a pro... more We have previously demonstrated that the induction of haem oxygenase-1 (EC 1.14.99.3) plays a protective role for soybean plants against cadmium and UV-B stress. Here, we have investigated the possible signal transduction pathways involved in haem oxygenase-1 induction in leaves of soybean plants subjected to salt stress. Treatment with 100 mM NaCl during 48 h increased thiobarbituric acid reactive substances by 30%, whereas GSH decreased by 50%, with respect to controls. These effects were prevented by pre-incubation with diphenyleneiodonium (DPI; an NADPH oxidase inhibitor), [1,2,4]oxadiazolo-[4,3-a]quinoxalin-1-one (ODQ; a guanylate cyclase inhibitor) or LaCl3 (calcium channel blocker). NaCl at 100 mM produced in situ accumulation of H2O2 and O2*-, which were also prevented by DPI, ODQ or LaCl3. Moreover, salt-induced haem oxygenase-1 activity was also totally abolished by pretreatment with the different inhibitors. These results clearly demonstrated that the signal transduction pathways involved in oxidative stress triggered by salt stress were similar to those implicated in haem oxygenase-1 induction, and provide additional information suggesting that haem oxygenase might play a key role in the antioxidative protection machinery of higher plants.
Redox Biology, Aug 1, 2017
Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) plays a protective role against oxidative stress in plants. The mechanism... more Heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) plays a protective role against oxidative stress in plants. The mechanisms regulating its expression, however, remain unclear. Here we studied the methylation state of a GC rich HO-1 promoter region and the expression of several stress-related transcription factors (TFs) in soybean plants subjected to ultraviolet-B (UV-B) radiation. Genomic DNA and total RNA were isolated from leaves of plants irradiated with 7.5 and 15 kJ m-2 UV-B. A 304 bp HO-1 promoter region was amplified by PCR from sodium bisulfite-treated DNA, cloned into pGEMT plasmid vector and evaluated by DNA sequencing. Bisulfite sequencing analysis showed similar HO-1 promoter methylation levels in control and UV-B-treated plants (C: 3.4 ± 1.3%; 7.5: 2.6 ± 0.5%; 15: 3.1 ± 1.1%). Interestingly, HO-1 promoter was strongly unmethylated in control plants. Quantitative RT-PCR analysis of TFs showed that GmMYB177, GmMYBJ6, GmWRKY21, GmNAC11, GmNAC20 and GmGT2A but not GmWRK13 and GmDREB were induced by UV-B radiation. The expression of several TFs was also enhanced by hemin, a potent and specific HO inducer, inferring that they may mediate HO-1 upregulation. These results suggest that soybean HO-1 gene expression is not epigenetically regulated. Moreover, the low level of HO-1 promoter methylation suggests that this antioxidant enzyme can rapidly respond to environmental stress. Finally, this study has identified some stress-related TFs involved in HO-1 up-regulation under UV-B radiation.