Review
Plant Sciences
Dian Wang, Yan Chen, Wei Li, Quanzi Li, Mengzhu Lu, Gongke Zhou, Guohua Chai
Summary: Research has shown that the formation of wood involves the initiation, proliferation, and differentiation of vascular stem cells, which requires coordination of multiple hormones and peptides. In Populus and Arabidopsis, there is a similar but more complex regulatory network orchestrating vascular cambium development. Future research will focus on the development of vascular cambium in perennial woody plants.
FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Ecology
Wenhuan Mu, Xiuchen Wu, J. Julio Camarero, Yongshuo H. Fu, Jianguo Huang, Xiaoyan Li, Deliang Chen
Summary: This study examines the cessation of wood formation in northern conifers and reveals the dominant role of photoperiod in this process. It also highlights the interactive effects between photoperiod, seasonal climatic factors, and preceding xylem phenophases in different ecoregions and tree species.
GLOBAL ECOLOGY AND BIOGEOGRAPHY
(2023)
Article
Forestry
Anthony Piot, Yousry A. El-Kassaby, Ilga Porth
Summary: Wood genomics, studied through biotechnological approaches such as genomics, is essential for understanding the molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying wood formation and improving wood quality. Recent advancements include the use of sequencing technologies and annotated plant genomes to explore wood formation patterns, the study of non-coding RNAs and epigenetic interactions in gene expression regulation during wood formation, and the integration of molecular data through systems genetics and network graph theory. Genomics-enabled breeding has shown promising results in wood improvement. The field of wood genomics is shifting towards a more holistic approach, and future research will focus on evolutionary developmental biology, epigenomics, and biomolecular interactions to enhance tree germplasm.
CURRENT FORESTRY REPORTS
(2022)
Review
Plant Sciences
Annemarie H. Eckes-Shephard, Fredrik Charpentier Ljungqvist, David M. Drew, Cyrille B. K. Rathgeber, Andrew D. Friend
Summary: This review summarizes 17 wood formation models and discusses the processes and drivers involved. The authors identify unresolved questions regarding wood formation processes and emphasize the potential of wood formation models in studying carbon dynamics in individual trees and terrestrial vegetation models on regional to global scales.
FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE
(2022)
Review
Green & Sustainable Science & Technology
Ying Fang, Chuyan Jing, Guoliang Li, Shengjie Ling, Zhaohui Wang, Ping Lu, Qing Li, Chenchen Dai, Sen Gao, Bailing Chen, Lulu Bai, Hanqiu Zhang, Tian Liu, Qingwen Wang, Jian Li, Haipeng Yu, Shouxin Liu, Wenshuai Chen
Summary: Separating oil and water using wood-derived systems is a sustainable solution for the challenge of oil/water mixtures, achieved through filtration and absorption methods. Wood and its derivatives have many advantageous properties for practical applications in this field.
ADVANCED SUSTAINABLE SYSTEMS
(2021)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Joana Meier, Patricio A. Salazar, Marek Kucka, Robert William Davies, Andreea Dreau, Ismael Aldas, Olivia Box Power, Nicola J. Nadeau, Jon R. Bridle, Campbell Rolian, Nicholas H. Barton, W. Owen McMillan, Chris D. Jiggins, Yingguang Frank Chan
Summary: Genetic variation segregates as linked sets of variants or haplotypes. Haplotypes and linkage are central to genetics and underpin virtually all genetic and selection analysis. Yet, genomic data often omit haplotype information due to constraints in sequencing technologies. Here, we present haplotagging, a simple, low-cost linked-read sequencing technique that allows sequencing of hundreds of individuals while retaining linkage information. We apply haplotagging to construct megabase-size haplotypes for over 600 individual butterflies (Heliconius erato and H. melpomene), which form overlapping hybrid zones across an elevational gradient in Ecuador. Haplotagging identifies loci controlling distinctive high- and lowland wing color patterns. Divergent haplotypes are found at the same major loci in both species, while chromosome rearrangements show no parallelism. Remarkably, in both species, the geographic clines for the major wing-pattern loci are displaced by 18 km, leading to the rise of a novel hybrid morph in the center of the hybrid zone. We propose that shared warning signaling (Mullerian mimicry) may couple the cline shifts seen in both species and facilitate the parallel coemergence of a novel hybrid morph in both comimetic species. Our results show the power of efficient haplotyping methods when combined with large-scale sequencing data from natural populations.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2021)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sheng-Chieh Lin, Geng-Hao Bai, Pei-Chun Lin, Chung-Yung Chen, Yi-Hsiang Hsu, Yuan-Chang Lee, Shih-Yen Chen
Summary: Human noroviruses (HuNoV) are a major cause of acute gastroenteritis worldwide, and their high mutation rate and recombination potential pose challenges in studying their genetic diversity and evolution. Recent advances in technology have allowed for the detection and analysis of complete genome sequences of noroviruses, as well as the tracing of their evolution and genetic diversity. The inability to cultivate infectious viruses in cell models has hindered the understanding of HuNoV infection mechanisms and the development of antiviral drugs. However, reverse genetics has shown promise in recovering and generating infectious viral particles, providing an alternative method for studying viral infection mechanisms.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Multidisciplinary Sciences
Lyle L. Nelson, James L. Crowley, Emily F. Smith, Darin M. Schwartz, Eben B. Hodgin, Mark D. Schmitz
Summary: The rapid appearance of fossils of modern animal phyla during the Cambrian period is a significant characteristic of Earth's history of life. However, the precise dating of the start of the Cambrian period remains uncertain, leading to challenges to the concept of a discrete Cambrian explosion. New geochronological data from the Wood Canyon Formation in Nevada reveals that the base of the Cambrian period is at least 6 million years younger than previously thought, demonstrating an explosive pace to the early radiation of modern animal phyla when integrated with global records.
PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
(2023)
Article
Ophthalmology
Jingjie Xu, Ying Zhang, Jian Liu, Lidan Hu, Chenqi Luo, Ke Yao, Xiangjun Chen
Summary: This study reveals that the decreased thermal stability of beta B1-crystallin due to the L116P mutation contributes significantly to the formation of congenital cataracts. Additionally, the heteromer formation between beta B1 and beta A3 protects against the low thermal stability of beta B1-L116P.
BRITISH JOURNAL OF OPHTHALMOLOGY
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Yang Zhang, Yingying Liu, Xueying Wang, Ruiqi Wang, Xuebing Chen, Shuang Wang, Hairong Wei, Zhigang Wei
Summary: In this study, a plant-specific transcription factor PtrWOX13A was identified and characterized for its role in secondary cell wall formation in Populus trichocarpa. Overexpression of PtrWOX13A resulted in enhanced growth potential and increased secondary cell wall thickness, fiber length, and lignin and hemicellulose contents. PtrWOX13A directly activated its target genes through binding to specific cis-elements in their promoter regions. Furthermore, PtrWOX13A was found to be responsive to gibberellin signaling and could regulate genes involved in GA homeostasis. The discovery of PtrWOX13A's role in secondary cell wall formation and its regulatory functions has important implications for improving wood quality through genetic engineering.
FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE
(2022)
Article
Chemistry, Multidisciplinary
Sheng Yang, Chengsheng Gui, Dongbin Fan, Gaiyun Li
Summary: A novel strategy using a deep eutectic system (DES) with low melting temperature was proposed to improve the efficient formation of reconstituted wood-based composites prepared via hot pressing. The feasibility and performance mechanism of this method were investigated in depth. Results showed that the dimensional stability and mechanical performances of the composites were improved due to the efficient distribution of amorphous components and re-condensation of degradation products.
ACS SUSTAINABLE CHEMISTRY & ENGINEERING
(2023)
Article
Microbiology
Shuo Cao, Yang Yang, Guiqi Bi, David Nelson, Sheng Hu, Nokwanda Pearl Makunga, Bin Yu, Xin Liu, Xiaohua Li, Xuebo Hu
Summary: This study explores the formation of giant sclerotia by Woodiporia cocos (W. cocos) under unfavorable conditions, and reveals the mechanism of converting complex wood polysaccharides into highly homogenized glucans in W. cocos by sequencing and assembling the genome of a cultivated W. cocos strain.
FRONTIERS IN MICROBIOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Forestry
Zeki Kaya, Bircan Taskiran, Asiye Ulug, Aysun D. Guvendiren, Jill L. Wegrzyn, David B. Neale
Summary: An association genetics approach was used to investigate the genetic control of wood traits in European black poplar. The study identified several candidate genes and their associations with cellulose, lignin, and 6C sugar contents. Moderate heritabilities were observed for cellulose and 6C sugar, while lignin had low heritability. Single-marker associations were found for cellulose, lignin, and 6C sugar contents, with one marker (CesA3A-15-456) showing a significant association with cellulose. Further investigation with a larger and diverse study population is warranted for these associations.
TREE GENETICS & GENOMES
(2023)
Review
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Thi Thu Tram Nguyen, Eun-Kyung Bae, Thi Ngoc Anh Tran, Hyoshin Lee, Jae-Heung Ko
Summary: Forests cover 31% of the Earth's surface and play a crucial role in regulating carbon, water, and energy cycles. Gymnosperms, despite being less diverse than angiosperms, contribute over 50% of the global woody biomass production. Gymnosperms have evolved the ability to sense and respond to cyclical environmental signals, such as changes in photoperiod and temperature, to ensure growth and development. This review summarizes recent research on the regulation of wood formation in gymnosperms (specifically conifers) in response to seasonal changes, including climatic, hormonal, genetic, and epigenetic factors.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Review
Plant Sciences
Aylin S. Haas, Dongbo Shi, Thomas Greb
Summary: Precise coordination of cell fate decisions is a hallmark of multicellular organisms, and the initial steps of cell fate transitions of vascular cambium cells are still not fully understood. In this article, based on gene regulatory networks and cellular environments, two possible scenarios of cell fate decisions are described, and further research directions are pointed out.
FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE
(2022)
Review
Plant Sciences
Alexander A. Myburg, Steven G. Hussey, Jack P. Wang, Nathaniel R. Street, Eshchar Mizrachi
FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE
(2019)
Article
Plant Sciences
Lorraine Mhoswa, Marja M. O'Neill, Makobatjatji M. Mphahlele, Caryn N. Oates, Kitt G. Payn, Bernard Slippers, Alexander A. Myburg, Sanushka Naidoo
PLANT AND CELL PHYSIOLOGY
(2020)
Article
Forestry
Makobatjatji M. Mphahlele, Fikret Isik, Marja M. Mostert-O'Neill, S. Melissa Reynolds, Gary R. Hodge, Alexander A. Myburg
TREE GENETICS & GENOMES
(2020)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Marja Mirjam Mostert-O'Neill, Sharon Melissa Reynolds, Juan Jose Acosta, David John Lee, Justin O. Borevitz, Alexander Andrew Myburg
Summary: This study used population genomics to investigate the genetic consequences of adaptation to changing environments in Eucalyptus grandis, revealing extensive interspecific introgression in response to increased aridity. It also identified potentially adaptive genetic variation associated with environmental SNP markers, as well as genes linked to stress responses enriched in the population.
Article
Plant Sciences
Caryn N. Oates, Katherine J. Denby, Alexander A. Myburg, Bernard Slippers, Sanushka Naidoo
Summary: The oviposition of gall-inducing insects on hosts triggers significant physiological and transcriptional responses in plants, potentially influencing defense mechanisms and gall development. Early responses include the accumulation of reactive oxygen species and phenolics, with gene expression supporting the role of phytohormones and transcription factors. Putative defenses such as the oxidative burst and barrier reinforcement may be redirected towards gall development by egg and oviposition fluid stimuli.
PLANT CELL AND ENVIRONMENT
(2021)
Article
Forestry
M. P. Malebe, R. K. Koech, E. G. N. Mbanjo, S. M. Kamunya, A. A. Myburg, Z. Apostolides
Summary: Tea plant, the second most consumed non-alcoholic beverage, has high economic value. This study identified 13 QTLs related to yield through QTL analysis and MAS technology in improving tea plants.
TREE GENETICS & GENOMES
(2021)
Article
Plant Sciences
Makobatjatji M. Mphahlele, Fikret Isik, Gary R. Hodge, Alexander A. Myburg
Summary: The study highlights the challenges facing the commercial deployment of Eucalyptus grandis, but proposes a genomic selection breeding strategy to improve diameter growth and disease resistance. Genetic correlations were found between diameter growth and Lepto tolerance (positive correlation) and BotryoTera tolerance (negative correlation), providing insights for breeding programs.
FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE
(2021)
Article
Biotechnology & Applied Microbiology
Estefania Elorriaga, Amy L. Klocko, Cathleen Ma, Marc Du Plessis, Xinmin An, Alexander A. Myburg, Steven H. Strauss
Summary: The disruption of ELFY function through CRISPR Cas9 mutation has been shown to reduce gene spread in Eucalyptus, without causing significant adverse effects on juvenile vegetative growth or leaf morphology.
PLANT BIOTECHNOLOGY JOURNAL
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Colin Jackson, Nanette Christie, Sharon Melissa Reynolds, Gerhard C. Marais, Yokateme Tii-kuzu, Madison Caballero, Tamanique Kampman, Erik A. Visser, Sanushka Naidoo, Dominic Kain, Ross W. Whetten, Fikret Isik, Jill Wegrzyn, Gary R. Hodge, Juan J. Acosta, Alexander A. Myburg
Summary: This study focused on gene and genome targeted SNP discovery to develop a genome-wide, multispecies genotyping array for tropical pines. The developed Pitro50K SNP chip will be valuable for population genomics and molecular breeding in a group of pine species, which represent the majority of fast-growing tropical and subtropical pine plantations globally.
MOLECULAR ECOLOGY RESOURCES
(2022)
Article
Biochemical Research Methods
Nanette Christie, Chanaka Mannapperuma, Raphael Ployet, Karen van der Merwe, Niklas Mahler, Nicolas Delhomme, Sanushka Naidoo, Eshchar Mizrachi, Nathaniel R. Street, Alexander A. Myburg
Summary: Affordable high-throughput DNA and RNA sequencing technologies are enabling genomic analysis of plant and animal populations, allowing for new systems genetics approaches to study complex traits. Developing intuitive tools to browse and analyze resulting large-scale genetic and genomic datasets remains a significant challenge.
BMC BIOINFORMATICS
(2021)
Article
Genetics & Heredity
Lorraine Mhoswa, Alexander A. Myburg, Bernard Slippers, Carsten Kulheim, Sanushka Naidoo
Summary: This study identified SNP markers associated with terpene traits in Eucalyptus grandis, indicating that these traits are influenced by a combination of minor and major effect loci.
G3-GENES GENOMES GENETICS
(2022)
Article
Plant Sciences
Marja M. Mostert-O'Neill, Hannah Tate, S. Melissa Reynolds, Makobatjatji M. Mphahlele, Gert van den Berg, Steve D. Verryn, Juan J. Acosta, Justin O. Borevitz, Alexander A. Myburg
Summary: This study analyzed the genomic consequences of artificial selection in Eucalyptus grandis, a wood crop. Results showed significant genetic differentiation between breeding and wild populations, indicating the importance of intra- and interspecific hybridization during early domestication.
Article
Plant Sciences
Julia Candotti, Nanette Christie, Raphael Ployet, Marja M. Mostert-O'Neill, S. Melissa Reynolds, Leandro Gomide Neves, Sanushka Naidoo, Eshchar Mizrachi, Tuan A. A. Duong, Alexander A. A. Myburg
Summary: To improve our understanding of complex traits in plants, a comprehensive analysis of gene variants is necessary. However, single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers fail to capture the large amount of haplotype diversity in eucalyptus. Therefore, a gene-based haplotype mining panel was developed to capture diversity within and between eucalyptus species, enabling genome-wide association studies and gene-based breeding approaches.
Article
Plant Sciences
Jiyang Chang, Tuan A. Duong, Cassandra Schoeman, Xiao Ma, Danielle Roodt, Nigel Barker, Zhen Li, Yves Van de Peer, Eshchar Mizrachi
Summary: The king protea, the national flower of South Africa, is an iconic species from the Cape Floristic Region. Its genome assembly reveals an ancestral whole-genome duplication event and provides insights into its adaptability to nutrient-poor soils. The research empowers new studies in plant diversification, horticulture, and adaptation.
