Volume 4 Issue 7, July 2018

Next-generation sequencing technologies have significantly changed the scope of ancient plant DNA research, moving from analysis of a few loci to generation of ancient genomes. Future research could refine our understanding of plant evolution and adaptation, and provide information for conservation, crop breeding and food security.

The reference genomes of two fern species shed light on fern genome evolution and fern-cyanobacterial symbiosis, paving the way for understanding the unique and interesting biology of ferns.

The publication of two high-quality rose reference genomes opens new possibilities for a better understanding of the rise of the phenotypic diversity behind domestication.

In autogamous plants, self-pollination is ensured by a timely opening of anthers (dehiscence) and release of mature pollen grains. Auxin plays a paramount role in controlling the correct timing of anther dehiscence. Now, a molecular switch that allows the timely change in auxin level in rice anthers has been unveiled.

The canonical auxin receptor complex mediates gene expression, but it is also necessary for responses far too rapid to be mediated by transcription. An innovative setup that uses advanced microscopy and microfluidics can record auxin-induced changes within 30 seconds during root growth.

A new class of gene-editing reagents precisely alters plant genomes without creating a DNA double strand break.

The photorespiratory pathway generates malate that drives chemical reactions, including nitrate assimilation. The relative amounts of magnesium and manganese change the activity of key enzymes, possibly tuning the efficiency of these processes.

A descriptive study of several of the oldest baobab trees in sub-Saharan Africa, which are some of the largest and oldest trees on the planet. The authors report that 9 of the 13 oldest baobabs have died in recent years. After describing the structure of the trees (including their false cavities), they also report the carbon dating of these trees and call for more research into the trees’ mortality.

Plant-compatible adenine base editor systems are now demonstrated to work in protoplasts and individual plants of Arabidopsis thaliana and Brassica napus, yielding plants with predicted nucleotide substitutions and stably inherited phenotypes.

Entire landscapes are scanned by airborne hyperspectral imaging to detect early infection of individual olive trees by the pathogenic bacteria, Xylella fastidiosa. The disease can then be mapped before symptoms are visible from the ground.

Oaks can live hundreds of years. Comparative genomics using a high-quality genome sequence provides new insights that may explain tree longevity. Samples from branches and corresponding acorns also help quantify heritable somatic mutations.

Using an innovative combination of microfluidics and live imaging, the authors demonstrate that the inhibition of root growth by auxin happens in seconds—and so does not require transcription—and is dependent on TIR1/AFB receptors.

The genomes of two fern species, Azolla filiculoides and Salvinia cucullata, are reported and provide insights into fern-specific whole-genome duplications, fern-specific insect-resistant gene evolution and fern–cyanobacterial symbiosis.

A high-quality reference genome of rose is generated by sequencing a doubled haploid line. The researchers analysed the genome structure and uncovered candidate genes associated with major ornamental traits through integrated genetic and genomic analyses.

During the cell cycle, BUB3 acts in spindle assembly checkpoint control. In plants, it is also involved in phragmoplast formation, interacting with microtubule-associated proteins to coordinate the expansion of the phragmoplast microtubule array.

Anther dehiscence is necessary for pollen dispersal and the following pollination process. Now, a molecular framework that regulates local auxin biosynthesis at the late stages of anther development has been elucidated to coordinate anther dehiscence in rice.