Solanum
Solanum tuberosum
Solanum nigrum
Solanum melongena
Lycopersicon esculentum
Solanaceae
Plant Tubers
Phytophthora infestans
Solanaceous Alkaloids
Plant Proteins
Solanum glaucophyllum
Plant Leaves
Plants, Genetically Modified
Gene Expression Regulation, Plant
Disease Resistance
Chromosomes, Plant
Plant Roots
Phytophthora
Plant Stems
Plant Extracts
Molecular Sequence Data
Study of apoptosis in human liver cancers. (1/177)
AIM: To investigate the action of apoptosis in occurrence of liver carcinomas in vivo and the biological effect of Solanum lyratum Thumb on BEL-7404 cell line inducing apoptosis in vivo. METHODS: The apoptosis in the liver carcinoma was detected with terminal deoxynucl neotidyl transferase mediated dUTP nick end labelling (TUNEL); the cancer cells cultured in DMED medium were treated with extract of Solanum lyratum Thumb and observed under microscope, and their DNA was assayed by gel electrophoresis. RESULTS: In vivo apoptotic cells in the cancer adjacent tissues inceased; in vivo treatment of liver cancers with extract of Solanum lyratum Thumb could induce the cells to manifest a typical apoptotic morphology. Their DNA was fractured and a characteristic ladder pattern could be found using electrophoresis. CONCLUSION: In vivo the apoptosis of carcinomas was lower; maybe the cells divided quickly and then the cancers occurred. In the cancer adjacent tissues,the apoptosis pricked up, and in vivo Solanum lyratum Thumb could induce the apoptosis of BEL-7404 cells. (+info)Bower decorations attract females but provoke other male spotted bowerbirds: bower owners resolve this trade-off. (2/177)
Elaborate secondary sexual traits offset the costs that they impose on their bearer by facilitating reproductive benefits, through increased success in intrasexual contests or increased attractiveness to choosy mates. Some traits enhance both strategies. Conversely, I show that spotted bowerbirds Chlamydera maculata may face a trade-off. The trait that best predicts their mating success, numbers of Solanum berries exhibited on a bower, also provokes increased intrasexual aggression in the form of bower destructions by neighbouring bower owners, which reduce the quality of the male's bower. At natural berry numbers, levels of mating success in the population are skewed, but levels of destruction do not vary with berry number. When berry numbers are artificially exaggerated, increased levels of destructions occur, but mating success does not increase. When offered excess berries, either to add to the bower or artificially placed on the bower, bower owners preferred to use numbers of berries related to the number that they displayed naturally. This decision is made without direct experience of the attendant changes in destruction or mating success. This indicates that bower owners may assess their own social standing in relation to their neighbours and modulate their display accordingly. (+info)The role of 2n gametes and endosperm balance number in the origin and evolution of polyploids in the tuber-bearing Solanums. (3/177)
Polyploidization has played a major role in the origin and evolution of polyploid species. In this article we outline the unique characteristics of 2n gametes and implications of their participation in the evolution of polyploid Solanum species. The genetic consequences of 2n gametes indicate that sexual polyploidization results in greater variability, fitness, and heterozygosity than does somatic doubling. Further, the mechanisms of 2n gamete formation and the frequency of 2n gamete-forming genes in present polyploids and their ancestral species provide additional evidence of their involvement. Equally important is the endosperm, via the endosperm balance number (EBN) incompatibility system, in complementing the role of 2n gametes. In fact, the EBN system acts as a screen for either 1n or 2n gametes, depending on the EBN and chromosome numbers of parental species. EBN in combination with 2n gametes maintains the ploidy integrity of diploid ancestral species, while providing the flexibility for either unilateral or bilateral sexual polyploidization. (+info)The starch from Solanum lycocarpum St. Hill. fruit is not a hypoglycemic agent. (4/177)
We have investigated the hypoglycemic effect induced by the starch obtained from the unripe fruits of Solanum lycocarpum (Solanaceae). Per os administration of the starch (1000 or 2000 mg/kg, twice daily for 7 days, N = 6) did not change glycemia levels of nondiabetic female Swiss mice weighing 25-30 g. In streptozotocin-induced diabetic mice, similar treatment with the starch did not change the elevated glycemia 3 h after the last dose (diabetic treated with saline = 288 17/309 18; starch 1000 mg/kg = 295 +/- 33; starch 2000 mg/kg = 258 +/- 37; N = 5). In animals fasted for 15 h, per os administration of glucose (600 mg/kg) significantly increased glycemia 1 h later. Previous (-30 min) treatment of the animals with the starch (1000 or 2000 mg/kg; N = 5) did not change the increase of glycemia. Per os administration of the starch (1000 or 2000 mg kg-1 day-1, twice daily for 7 days) did not induce body weight gain or loss. The chemical analysis of the starch indicated the presence of glycoalkaloids, a finding that represents a reason for concern since many of these substances are generally toxic. In interviews with 56 diabetic patients, 29 medicinal plants were reported as useful in their treatment of diabetes and S. lycocarpum was the sixth most frequently mentioned. All patients interviewed reported that they also used insulin or oral hypoglycemic drugs. The results of the present study do not provide evidence for a hypoglycemic effect associated with the polysaccharide fraction of S. lycocarpum in either normal or hyperglycemic mice. These data demonstrate the need for adequate pharmacological investigation of the natural products widely used in folk medicine. (+info)Pollen performance before and during the autotrophic-heterotrophic transition of pollen tube growth. (5/177)
For species with bicellular pollen, the attrition of pollen tubes is often greatest where the style narrows at the transition between stigmatic tissue and the transmitting tissue of the style. In this region, the tubes switch from predominantly autotrophic to predominantly heterotrophic growth, the generative cell divides, the first callose plugs are produced, and, in species with RNase-type self-incompatibility (SI), incompatible tubes are arrested. We review the literature and present new findings concerning the genetic, environmental and stylar influences on the performance of pollen before and during the autotrophic-heterotrophic transition of pollen tube growth. We found that the ability of the paternal sporophyte to provision its pollen during development significantly influences pollen performance during the autotrophic growth phase. Consequently, under conditions of pollen competition, pollen selection during the autotrophic phase is acting on the phenotype of the paternal sporophyte. In a field experiment, using Cucurbita pepo, we found broad-sense heritable variation for herbivore-pathogen resistance, and that the most resistant families produced larger and better performing pollen when the paternal sporophytes were not protected by insecticides, indicating that selection during the autotrophic phase can act on traits that are not expressed by the microgametophyte. In a study of a weedy SI species, Solanum carolinense, we found that the ability of the styles to arrest self-pollen tubes at the autotrophic-heterotrophic transition changes with floral age and the presence of developing fruits. These findings have important implications for selection at the level of the microgametophyte and the evolution of mating systems of plants. (+info)Gene RB cloned from Solanum bulbocastanum confers broad spectrum resistance to potato late blight. (6/177)
Late blight, caused by the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora infestans, is the most devastating potato disease in the world. Control of late blight in the United States and other developed countries relies extensively on fungicide application. We previously demonstrated that the wild diploid potato species Solanum bulbocastanum is highly resistant to all known races of P. infestans. Potato germplasm derived from S. bulbocastanum has shown durable and effective resistance in the field. Here we report the cloning of the major resistance gene RB in S. bulbocastanum by using a map-based approach in combination with a long-range (LR)-PCR strategy. A cluster of four resistance genes of the CC-NBS-LRR (coiled coil-nucleotide binding site-Leu-rich repeat) class was found within the genetically mapped RB region. Transgenic plants containing a LR-PCR product of one of these four genes displayed broad spectrum late blight resistance. The cloned RB gene provides a new resource for developing late blight-resistant potato varieties. Our results also demonstrate that LR-PCR is a valuable approach to isolate genes that cannot be maintained in the bacterial artificial chromosome system. (+info)Cytotoxic activity of steroidal glycosides from solanum plants. (7/177)
Since some Solanum-genera plants have traditionally been used as anti-cancer and anti-herpes agents from olden times, we examined the cytotoxic activity of typical steroidal glycosides with the framework of spirostane, furostane, spirosolane, and pregnane obtained from Solanum plants. Among these steroidal glycosides, the spirostanol glycosides having a beta-lycotetraosyl moiety were the most effective against PC-12 and HCT-116 cell lines. The potency of activity was observed to be decreased in the order of spirostane, furostane, spirosolane, and pregnane type steroid glycosides. It was also suggested that the activity depend on the kind of oligosaccharide moiety and aglycone moiety. (+info)Sheltered load associated with S-alleles in Solanum carolinense. (8/177)
Bud pollinations allowed me to examine the effects of homozygosity at loci in the area of suppressed recombination around the S-locus in Solanum carolinense, whose S-alleles show surprisingly low diversification rates. The total number of seeds produced was lower for incompatible than compatible pollinations, revealing that self-incompatibility was only somewhat overcome by bud pollination. However, low seed set in incompatible crosses was not due solely to the incompatibility response; crosses between distinct plants sharing the same alleles at the S-locus led to dramatically high seed abortion, nearly equal to that found upon selfing. An excess of heterozygotes in the surviving progeny supports the supposition that these high abortion rates are due to sheltered load, that is, previously unexpressed load accumulated due to enforced heterozygosity and recombination suppression around the S-locus. Of the seven alleles examined in total, two showed evidence of severe load and five did not. The magnitude of load was consistent with terminal branch length in some, but not all, cases. (+info)"Solanum" is a genus of flowering plants that includes many species, some of which are economically important as food crops and others which are toxic. The term "Solanum" itself does not have a specific medical definition, but several species within this genus are relevant to medicine and human health. Here are some examples:
1. Solanum lycopersicum (tomato): While tomatoes are primarily known as a food crop, they also contain various compounds with potential medicinal properties. For instance, they are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which has been studied for its potential benefits in preventing cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
2. Solanum tuberosum (potato): Potatoes are a staple food crop, but their leaves and green parts contain solanine, a toxic alkaloid that can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, neurological symptoms, and even death in severe cases.
3. Solanum melongena (eggplant): Eggplants have been studied for their potential health benefits due to their high antioxidant content, including nasunin, which has been shown to protect against lipid peroxidation and DNA damage.
4. Solanum nigrum (black nightshade): This species contains solanine and other toxic alkaloids, but some parts of the plant have been used in traditional medicine for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic properties. However, its use as a medicinal herb is not well-established, and it can be toxic if improperly prepared or consumed in large quantities.
5. Solanum dulcamara (bittersweet nightshade): This species has been used in traditional medicine for various purposes, including treating skin conditions, respiratory ailments, and gastrointestinal complaints. However, its use as a medicinal herb is not well-supported by scientific evidence, and it can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
In summary, "Solanum" refers to a genus of flowering plants that includes several species with relevance to medicine and human health. While some species are important food crops, others contain toxic compounds that can cause harm if improperly consumed or prepared. Additionally, the medicinal use of some Solanum species is not well-established and may carry risks.
"Solanum tuberosum" is the scientific name for a plant species that is commonly known as the potato. According to medical and botanical definitions, Solanum tuberosum refers to the starchy, edible tubers that grow underground from this plant. Potatoes are native to the Andes region of South America and are now grown worldwide. They are an important food source for many people and are used in a variety of culinary applications.
Potatoes contain several essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, fiber, protein, vitamin C, and some B vitamins. However, they can also be high in calories, especially when prepared with added fats like butter or oil. Additionally, potatoes are often consumed in forms that are less healthy, such as French fries and potato chips, which can contribute to weight gain and other health problems if consumed excessively.
In a medical context, potatoes may also be discussed in relation to food allergies or intolerances. While uncommon, some people may have adverse reactions to potatoes, including skin rashes, digestive symptoms, or difficulty breathing. These reactions are typically caused by an immune response to proteins found in the potato plant, rather than the tubers themselves.
"Solanum nigrum" is the scientific name for a plant species that is commonly known as black nightshade. It belongs to the family Solanaceae, which also includes other well-known plants such as tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants.
Black nightshade is an annual or short-lived perennial herb that can grow up to 1 meter tall. The plant has simple, alternate leaves that are usually dark green in color and have a slightly hairy texture. The flowers of the black nightshade are small and white with yellow centers, and they produce round, shiny black berries that contain numerous seeds.
While some parts of the black nightshade plant, including the berries, are edible and can be used in cooking, it is important to note that all parts of the plant contain solanine, a toxic alkaloid that can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dizziness if ingested in large quantities. Therefore, it is generally recommended to avoid consuming any part of the black nightshade plant unless it has been properly prepared by a knowledgeable source.
In medical contexts, "Solanum nigrum" may be mentioned in relation to its potential medicinal properties or as a cause of toxicity if ingested in large quantities. However, it is not typically used as a medical treatment or therapy.
'Solanum melongena' is the scientific name for a plant species more commonly known as eggplant or aubergine. It belongs to the Solanaceae family, which also includes tomatoes, bell peppers, and potatoes. The eggplant fruit is widely consumed and used in various cuisines around the world.
While 'Solanum melongena' is a horticultural term related to the plant species, it does not have a direct medical definition. However, eggplants do have some nutritional and potential medicinal properties. They are low in calories and contain vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Some studies suggest that eggplants may have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties due to their phenolic compounds. Nonetheless, it is essential to consult medical professionals or healthcare providers for advice on medicinal applications rather than relying on information about the plant's scientific name alone.
"Lycopersicon esculentum" is the scientific name for the common red tomato. It is a species of fruit from the nightshade family (Solanaceae) that is native to western South America and Central America. Tomatoes are widely grown and consumed in many parts of the world as a vegetable, although they are technically a fruit. They are rich in nutrients such as vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, which has been studied for its potential health benefits.
"Solanaceae" is not a medical term but a taxonomic category in biology, referring to the Nightshade family of plants. This family includes several plants that have economic and medicinal importance, as well as some that are toxic or poisonous. Some common examples of plants in this family include:
- Solanum lycopersicum (tomato)
- Solanum tuberosum (potato)
- Capsicum annuum (bell pepper and chili pepper)
- Nicotiana tabacum (tobacco)
- Atropa belladonna (deadly nightshade)
- Hyoscyamus niger (henbane)
While Solanaceae isn't a medical term itself, certain plants within this family have medical significance. For instance, some alkaloids found in these plants can be used as medications or pharmaceutical precursors, such as atropine and scopolamine from Atropa belladonna, hyoscine from Hyoscyamus niger, and capsaicin from Capsicum species. However, it's important to note that many of these plants also contain toxic compounds, so they must be handled with care and used only under professional supervision.
A plant tuber is not a medical term per se, but rather a term from botany. However, I can certainly provide a definition for you.
Tubers are specialized underground stems or roots that serve as storage organs for many types of plants. They consist of enlarged structures filled with nutrients, such as carbohydrates, proteins, and other organic compounds. Tubers can be classified into two main categories: true tubers and false tubers.
True tubers are swollen underground stems, such as those found in potatoes (Solanum tuberosum). They have nodes and internodes like aboveground stems, but they lack leaves or buds. Instead, they have small bumps called "eyes" that contain dormant buds, which can sprout to produce new plants when conditions are favorable.
False tubers, on the other hand, are enlarged roots, such as those found in cassava (Manihot esculenta). They do not have nodes and internodes like true tubers but instead store nutrients in their fleshy tissues.
While plant tubers may not have a direct medical definition, they are essential to human health and nutrition. Many tuber crops provide important sources of carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients in diets around the world.
"Phytophthora infestans" is a specific species of oomycete, which is a type of microorganism that resembles fungi but is actually more closely related to algae. It is a plant pathogen, meaning it causes disease in plants. This particular species is notorious for causing the potato late blight, which was responsible for the Great Famine in Ireland during the mid-19th century.
The term "Phytophthora infestans" can be broken down into its components: "Phytophthora" comes from the Greek words "phyton" (plant) and "phtheros" (destroyer), indicating its destructive nature towards plants. "Infestans" is a Latin word meaning 'inhabiting' or 'infesting'.
This pathogen thrives in cool, moist conditions and spreads rapidly through the air in the form of spores. It infects leaves, stems, and tubers of potato plants, leading to extensive damage and yield loss. The disease manifests as large, dark lesions on foliage that can quickly cover the entire plant, and a rotting, slimy decay in tubers.
Effective management strategies include use of resistant potato varieties, crop rotation, fungicide applications, and proper irrigation management to avoid prolonged leaf wetness.
Solanaceous alkaloids are a type of natural toxin found in plants belonging to the Solanaceae family, also known as the nightshade family. These alkaloids contain nitrogen and are produced by the plant as a defense mechanism against herbivores and other threats. Some common solanaceous alkaloids include nicotine, atropine, scopolamine, and solanine.
Nicotine is found in tobacco plants (Nicotiana tabacum) and is highly addictive. Atropine and scopolamine are found in belladonna (Atropa belladonna), also known as deadly nightshade, and are used in medical settings for their anticholinergic effects, but can be toxic or even fatal if ingested in large quantities. Solanine is found in potatoes, tomatoes, and eggplants, and can cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea if consumed in large amounts.
It's worth noting that the levels of solanaceous alkaloids in commonly consumed plants like potatoes and tomatoes are generally low and not considered harmful to most people. However, some individuals may be more sensitive to these compounds and may experience adverse effects even at low levels.
"Plant proteins" refer to the proteins that are derived from plant sources. These can include proteins from legumes such as beans, lentils, and peas, as well as proteins from grains like wheat, rice, and corn. Other sources of plant proteins include nuts, seeds, and vegetables.
Plant proteins are made up of individual amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. While animal-based proteins typically contain all of the essential amino acids that the body needs to function properly, many plant-based proteins may be lacking in one or more of these essential amino acids. However, by consuming a variety of plant-based foods throughout the day, it is possible to get all of the essential amino acids that the body needs from plant sources alone.
Plant proteins are often lower in calories and saturated fat than animal proteins, making them a popular choice for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, as well as those looking to maintain a healthy weight or reduce their risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Additionally, plant proteins have been shown to have a number of health benefits, including improving gut health, reducing inflammation, and supporting muscle growth and repair.
I'm sorry for any confusion, but "fruit" is not a medical term per se. It is a common term used to describe the part of a plant that develops from the ovary after flowering and contains seeds. However, in a nutritional or dietary context, "fruits" are often referred to as foods that are typically sweet and juicy, and come from plants' flowers. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an essential part of a healthy diet. But in a strict medical sense, there isn't a specific definition for "fruit."
I apologize for the confusion, but "Solanum glaucophyllum" is not a recognized medical term or a well-known plant in medical or pharmacological contexts. The term "Solanum" refers to a genus of flowering plants that includes many familiar food crops like tomatoes, potatoes, and eggplants, as well as toxic plants such as belladonna. However, "glaucophyllum" is not a commonly used species name within the Solanum genus.
It's possible that you may be referring to a specific plant variety or a regional name that is not widely recognized in medical or scientific communities. If you could provide more context or clarify your question, I would be happy to help further.
I believe there may be a slight misunderstanding in your question. "Plant leaves" are not a medical term, but rather a general biological term referring to a specific organ found in plants.
Leaves are organs that are typically flat and broad, and they are the primary site of photosynthesis in most plants. They are usually green due to the presence of chlorophyll, which is essential for capturing sunlight and converting it into chemical energy through photosynthesis.
While leaves do not have a direct medical definition, understanding their structure and function can be important in various medical fields, such as pharmacognosy (the study of medicinal plants) or environmental health. For example, certain plant leaves may contain bioactive compounds that have therapeutic potential, while others may produce allergens or toxins that can impact human health.
A plant disease is a disorder that affects the normal growth and development of plants, caused by pathogenic organisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, or nematodes, as well as environmental factors like nutrient deficiencies, extreme temperatures, or physical damage. These diseases can cause various symptoms, including discoloration, wilting, stunted growth, necrosis, and reduced yield or productivity, which can have significant economic and ecological impacts.
Genetically modified plants (GMPs) are plants that have had their DNA altered through genetic engineering techniques to exhibit desired traits. These modifications can be made to enhance certain characteristics such as increased resistance to pests, improved tolerance to environmental stresses like drought or salinity, or enhanced nutritional content. The process often involves introducing genes from other organisms, such as bacteria or viruses, into the plant's genome. Examples of GMPs include Bt cotton, which has a gene from the bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis that makes it resistant to certain pests, and golden rice, which is engineered to contain higher levels of beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A. It's important to note that genetically modified plants are subject to rigorous testing and regulation to ensure their safety for human consumption and environmental impact before they are approved for commercial use.
Gene expression regulation in plants refers to the processes that control the production of proteins and RNA from the genes present in the plant's DNA. This regulation is crucial for normal growth, development, and response to environmental stimuli in plants. It can occur at various levels, including transcription (the first step in gene expression, where the DNA sequence is copied into RNA), RNA processing (such as alternative splicing, which generates different mRNA molecules from a single gene), translation (where the information in the mRNA is used to produce a protein), and post-translational modification (where proteins are chemically modified after they have been synthesized).
In plants, gene expression regulation can be influenced by various factors such as hormones, light, temperature, and stress. Plants use complex networks of transcription factors, chromatin remodeling complexes, and small RNAs to regulate gene expression in response to these signals. Understanding the mechanisms of gene expression regulation in plants is important for basic research, as well as for developing crops with improved traits such as increased yield, stress tolerance, and disease resistance.
A gene in plants, like in other organisms, is a hereditary unit that carries genetic information from one generation to the next. It is a segment of DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) that contains the instructions for the development and function of an organism. Genes in plants determine various traits such as flower color, plant height, resistance to diseases, and many others. They are responsible for encoding proteins and RNA molecules that play crucial roles in the growth, development, and reproduction of plants. Plant genes can be manipulated through traditional breeding methods or genetic engineering techniques to improve crop yield, enhance disease resistance, and increase nutritional value.
Disease resistance, in a medical context, refers to the inherent or acquired ability of an organism to withstand or limit infection by a pathogen, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. This resistance can be due to various factors including the presence of physical barriers (e.g., intact skin), chemical barriers (e.g., stomach acid), and immune responses that recognize and eliminate the pathogen.
Inherited disease resistance is often determined by genetics, where certain genetic variations can make an individual more or less susceptible to a particular infection. For example, some people are naturally resistant to certain diseases due to genetic factors that prevent the pathogen from infecting their cells or replicating within them.
Acquired disease resistance can occur through exposure to a pathogen, which triggers an immune response that confers immunity or resistance to future infections by the same pathogen. This is the basis of vaccination, where a weakened or dead form of a pathogen is introduced into the body to stimulate an immune response without causing disease.
Overall, disease resistance is an important factor in maintaining health and preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
Chromosomes in plants are thread-like structures that contain genetic material, DNA, and proteins. They are present in the nucleus of every cell and are inherited from the parent plants during sexual reproduction. Chromosomes come in pairs, with each pair consisting of one chromosome from each parent.
In plants, like in other organisms, chromosomes play a crucial role in inheritance, development, and reproduction. They carry genetic information that determines various traits and characteristics of the plant, such as its physical appearance, growth patterns, and resistance to diseases.
Plant chromosomes are typically much larger than those found in animals, making them easier to study under a microscope. The number of chromosomes varies among different plant species, ranging from as few as 2 in some ferns to over 1000 in certain varieties of wheat.
During cell division, the chromosomes replicate and then separate into two identical sets, ensuring that each new cell receives a complete set of genetic information. This process is critical for the growth and development of the plant, as well as for the production of viable seeds and offspring.
A plant root is not a medical term per se, but it is a term from botany, which is the study of plants. However, I can certainly provide a definition for you.
Plant roots are the underground organs of a plant that typically grow downward into the soil. They serve several important functions, including:
1. Anchorage: Roots help to stabilize the plant and keep it upright in the ground.
2. Absorption: Roots absorb water and nutrients from the soil, which are essential for the plant's growth and development.
3. Conduction: Roots conduct water and nutrients up to the above-ground parts of the plant, such as the stem and leaves.
4. Vegetative reproduction: Some plants can reproduce vegetatively through their roots, producing new plants from root fragments or specialized structures called rhizomes or tubers.
Roots are composed of several different tissues, including the epidermis, cortex, endodermis, and vascular tissue. The epidermis is the outermost layer of the root, which secretes a waxy substance called suberin that helps to prevent water loss. The cortex is the middle layer of the root, which contains cells that store carbohydrates and other nutrients. The endodermis is a thin layer of cells that surrounds the vascular tissue and regulates the movement of water and solutes into and out of the root. The vascular tissue consists of xylem and phloem, which transport water and nutrients throughout the plant.
"Phytophthora" is not a medical term, but rather a genus of microorganisms known as oomycetes, which are commonly referred to as water molds. These organisms are not true fungi, but they have a similar lifestyle and can cause diseases in plants. Some species of Phytophthora are responsible for significant crop losses and are considered important plant pathogens.
In a medical context, the term "phytophthora" is not used, and it would be more appropriate to refer to specific diseases caused by these organisms using their common or scientific names. For example, Phytophthora infestans is the causative agent of late blight, a serious disease of potatoes and tomatoes.
A plant stem is not typically defined in a medical context, but rather in the field of botany. However, I can certainly provide a general biological definition for you.
In plants, stems are organs that serve primarily as support structures, holding leaves, flowers, and fruits aloft where they can receive sunlight and exchange gases. They also act as conduits, transporting water, nutrients, and sugars made during photosynthesis between the roots and shoots of a plant.
The stem is usually composed of three main tissue systems: dermal, vascular, and ground. The dermal tissue system forms the outermost layer(s) of the stem, providing protection and sometimes participating in gas exchange. The vascular tissue system contains the xylem (which transports water and nutrients upward) and phloem (which transports sugars and other organic compounds downward). The ground tissue system, located between the dermal and vascular tissues, is responsible for food storage and support.
While not a direct medical definition, understanding the structure and function of plant stems can be relevant in fields such as nutrition, agriculture, and environmental science, which have implications for human health.
DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the genetic material present in the cells of all living organisms, including plants. In plants, DNA is located in the nucleus of a cell, as well as in chloroplasts and mitochondria. Plant DNA contains the instructions for the development, growth, and function of the plant, and is passed down from one generation to the next through the process of reproduction.
The structure of DNA is a double helix, formed by two strands of nucleotides that are linked together by hydrogen bonds. Each nucleotide contains a sugar molecule (deoxyribose), a phosphate group, and a nitrogenous base. There are four types of nitrogenous bases in DNA: adenine (A), guanine (G), cytosine (C), and thymine (T). Adenine pairs with thymine, and guanine pairs with cytosine, forming the rungs of the ladder that make up the double helix.
The genetic information in DNA is encoded in the sequence of these nitrogenous bases. Large sequences of bases form genes, which provide the instructions for the production of proteins. The process of gene expression involves transcribing the DNA sequence into a complementary RNA molecule, which is then translated into a protein.
Plant DNA is similar to animal DNA in many ways, but there are also some differences. For example, plant DNA contains a higher proportion of repetitive sequences and transposable elements, which are mobile genetic elements that can move around the genome and cause mutations. Additionally, plant cells have cell walls and chloroplasts, which are not present in animal cells, and these structures contain their own DNA.
A plant extract is a preparation containing chemical constituents that have been extracted from a plant using a solvent. The resulting extract may contain a single compound or a mixture of several compounds, depending on the extraction process and the specific plant material used. These extracts are often used in various industries including pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, cosmetics, and food and beverage, due to their potential therapeutic or beneficial properties. The composition of plant extracts can vary widely, and it is important to ensure their quality, safety, and efficacy before use in any application.
A plant genome refers to the complete set of genetic material or DNA present in the cells of a plant. It contains all the hereditary information necessary for the development and functioning of the plant, including its structural and functional characteristics. The plant genome includes both coding regions that contain instructions for producing proteins and non-coding regions that have various regulatory functions.
The plant genome is composed of several types of DNA molecules, including chromosomes, which are located in the nucleus of the cell. Each chromosome contains one or more genes, which are segments of DNA that code for specific proteins or RNA molecules. Plants typically have multiple sets of chromosomes, with each set containing a complete copy of the genome.
The study of plant genomes is an active area of research in modern biology, with important applications in areas such as crop improvement, evolutionary biology, and medical research. Advances in DNA sequencing technologies have made it possible to determine the complete sequences of many plant genomes, providing valuable insights into their structure, function, and evolution.
Molecular sequence data refers to the specific arrangement of molecules, most commonly nucleotides in DNA or RNA, or amino acids in proteins, that make up a biological macromolecule. This data is generated through laboratory techniques such as sequencing, and provides information about the exact order of the constituent molecules. This data is crucial in various fields of biology, including genetics, evolution, and molecular biology, allowing for comparisons between different organisms, identification of genetic variations, and studies of gene function and regulation.
Phylogeny is the evolutionary history and relationship among biological entities, such as species or genes, based on their shared characteristics. In other words, it refers to the branching pattern of evolution that shows how various organisms have descended from a common ancestor over time. Phylogenetic analysis involves constructing a tree-like diagram called a phylogenetic tree, which depicts the inferred evolutionary relationships among organisms or genes based on molecular sequence data or other types of characters. This information is crucial for understanding the diversity and distribution of life on Earth, as well as for studying the emergence and spread of diseases.
Ribonucleic acid (RNA) in plants refers to the long, single-stranded molecules that are essential for the translation of genetic information from deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) into proteins. RNA is a nucleic acid, like DNA, and it is composed of a ribose sugar backbone with attached nitrogenous bases (adenine, uracil, guanine, and cytosine).
In plants, there are several types of RNA that play specific roles in the gene expression process:
1. Messenger RNA (mRNA): This type of RNA carries genetic information copied from DNA in the form of a sequence of three-base code units called codons. These codons specify the order of amino acids in a protein.
2. Transfer RNA (tRNA): tRNAs are small RNA molecules that serve as adaptors between the mRNA and the amino acids during protein synthesis. Each tRNA has a specific anticodon sequence that base-pairs with a complementary codon on the mRNA, and it carries a specific amino acid that corresponds to that codon.
3. Ribosomal RNA (rRNA): rRNAs are structural components of ribosomes, which are large macromolecular complexes where protein synthesis occurs. In plants, there are several types of rRNAs, including the 18S, 5.8S, and 25S/28S rRNAs, that form the core of the ribosome and help catalyze peptide bond formation during protein synthesis.
4. Small nuclear RNA (snRNA): These are small RNA molecules that play a role in RNA processing, such as splicing, where introns (non-coding sequences) are removed from pre-mRNA and exons (coding sequences) are joined together to form mature mRNAs.
5. MicroRNA (miRNA): These are small non-coding RNAs that regulate gene expression by binding to complementary sequences in target mRNAs, leading to their degradation or translation inhibition.
Overall, these different types of RNAs play crucial roles in various aspects of RNA metabolism, gene regulation, and protein synthesis in plants.