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Functional Plant Biology

Functional Plant Biology

Functional Plant Biology publishes new and significant information on the functional biology of plants at all scales from the molecular through whole plant to community. Read more about the journalMore

Editor-in-Chief: Sergey Shabala

Publishing Model: Hybrid. Open Access options available.

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Latest

These articles are the latest published in the journal. Functional Plant Biology is published under a continuous publication model. More information is available on our Continuous Publication page.

Published online 10 July 2025

FP25092Nitric oxide regulates water status, antioxidant enzymes, nutritional balance, and growth of gazania (Gazania rigens) under drought stress

Muhammad Ahsan 0000-0002-7656-1547, Aasma Tufail, Aftab Jamal 0000-0001-8518-3130, Hatim M. Al-Yasi, Emanuele Radicetti, Muhammad Ammar Raza, Ali Bakhsh, Mateen Sajid, Zaibun-Nisa Memon and Mohammad Valipour
 

Drought exposure can lead to substantial agricultural yield losses, causing agriculture to collapse in many developing countries. This study aimed to examine the beneficial effects of nitric oxide spray on Gazania regens under drought conditions and the results showed that nitric oxide application helped reduce the negative effects of drought on gazania. It is suggested that supplementing with nitric oxide could be a practical and environmentally friendly approach to enhance drought resilience in Gazania regens.

FP25092 Abstract  | PDF (1.4 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 01 July 2025

FP24183Trehalose application mitigates drought stress in by enhancing photosynthesis, antioxidant activity, and osmolyte production in sugar beet (Betus vulgaris)

Yuyu Hao, Yuning Zhai, Piergiorgio Stevanato, Ruixing Li, Lihua Yu, Gui Geng, Lihua Wang, Yao Xu, Jiahui Liu 0009-0000-5516-1782 and Yuguang Wang
 

Trehalose is a disaccharide that can alleviate abiotic stress. In our study, different concentrations of Tre (5, 10, 15, 20, and 30 mM) were applied foliarly to sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) seedlings during drought stress. Compared with drought stress, 20 mM trehalose treatment enhanced the net photosynthetic rate, antioxidant enzyme activity, and altered the content of osmotic substances in sugar beet seedlings.

FP24183 Abstract  | PDF (2.7 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 26 June 2025

FP25020Impact of Helicoverpa armigera Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) infestation and wounding on gene expression of defense-related genes and chlorophyll fluorescence in common bean

Abdurrahman Sami Koca 0000-0002-7657-5615, Vahdettin Çiftçi and Mehmet Zahit Yeken 0000-0003-0490-371X
 

We examined the expression of four defense-related genes, PvPAL, PvLOX, PvGST, and PvPOD, in common bean under Helicoverpa armigera infestation and wounding. We found that all genes were significantly upregulated in response to H. armigera, with distinct expression profiles compared to wounding. Marked reductions in chlorophyll fluorescence parameters (Fv/Fm, PIABS, ETo/RC) were determined under both H. armigera infestation and wounding. In particular, findings highlight potential roles of PvLOX and PvGST genes in common bean’s defense against herbivory and wounding.

This article belongs to the collection: Functional Genomics for Developing Climate Resilient Crops - Volume II.

FP25020 Abstract  | PDF (2.3 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 24 June 2025

FP24297Enriched enzymes and crosstalking KEGG pathways in the rhizospheric soil fungiome of the wild plant Moringa oleifera

Rewaa S. Jalal 0000-0002-8372-9117, Abeer S. Aloufi, Abeer Al-Andal 0000-0003-3957-2391, Nahaa M. Alotaibi, Haneen W. Abuauf, Fatimah M. Alshehrei, Mohammed Y. Refai, Sahar A. Alshareef, Alaa A. Alnahari, Fatmah O. Sefrji, Abeer M. Almutrafy and Aala A. Abulfaraj 0000-0001-5833-2495
 

We investigate the rhizospheric mycobiome of Moringa oleifera, identifying pivotal genes encoding enzymes integral to metabolic pathways, as per KEGG. Fungal taxa from Mucoromycota and Zoopagomycota, including Rhizophagus and Mucor ambiguus, harbour enzymes crucial for metabolic, genetic and environmental processes. These enzymes facilitate the biosynthesis of metabolites such as acetyl-CoA and isoleucine essential for DNA repair, energy metabolism and membrane integrity. We underscore the symbiotic relationship between fungal enzymes and Moringa roots, optimising nutrient acquisition and energy provisioning.

This article belongs to the collection: Soil Microbiome and Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants.

FP24297 Abstract  |  FP24297 Full Text  | FP24297PDF (501 KB)  | FP24297Corrigendum (138 KB)  | FP24297Supplementary Material (50.1 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 20 June 2025

FP25045The gibberellic acid responsive GmbHLHm1 transcription factor influences nodule development, nitrogen fixation activity and shoot nitrogen content in soybean (Glycine max)

Die Hu, Zhengyu Wen, Nijat Imin, Kanwarpal S. Dhugga and Brent N. Kaiser 0000-0001-6167-2423
 

The genetic regulation of soybean nitrogen fixation is poorly understood. Here, we describe evidence for a membrane bound basic helix loop helix transcription factor (GmbHLHm1) influencing nodule development and nitrogen fixation when either silenced (negative) or overexpressed (positive). We also demonstrate a preliminary link with gibberellic acid in the control of GmbHLHm1 expression in soybean (Glycine max) nodules.

FP25045 Abstract  |  FP25045 Full Text  | FP25045PDF (1.3 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 13 June 2025

FP24226Spermidine synthase genes from mulberry play an important role in drought stress tolerance by altering antioxidant enzymes and osmotic regulation

Dan Liu 0000-0002-5868-9459, Qiang Lin, Changyu Qiu, Xiaomei Lu and Ningjia He
 

Drought stress is one of the main abiotic stresses that cause plant yield reduction, and research on improving plant drought tolerance has attracted widespread attention. Our previous experiments confirmed that two mulberry spermidine synthase genes (MnSPDS1 and MnSPDS2) encode for functional proteins and were expressed highly under drought stress. Overexpression of MnSPDS1/MnSPDS2 at the physiological level alleviated membrane damage caused by drought and improved osmotic regulation and antioxidant capacity. These results suggest that a high level of accumulation of spermidine in the mulberry conferred a high tolerance to drought stress.

FP24226 Abstract  | PDF (2.3 MB) - $35.00   | FP24226Supplementary Material (721 KB)
Published online 13 June 2025

FP25018Identification and analysis of superoxide dismutase (SOD) family genes in oat (Avena sativa L.) and their potential role in abiotic stress responses

Mouna Ghorbel, Ikram Zribi, Ahmad Alghamidi 0000-0001-9186-7969, Khalil Mseddi 0000-0003-3401-2897 and Faiçal Brini 0000-0002-8435-381X
 

Superoxide dismutase (SOD) enzymes form the first line of plant protection against reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation in cells. We identified 14 AvSOD genes including nine AvCSDs, two AvMSDs, and three AvFSDs genes in oat (Avena sativa) genome. The expression profile of all SOD genes under salt, drought, cold, salicylic acid, and abscisic acid treatments was strongly upregulated. Our findings provide important information about candidate genes for a further functional characterisation in oat plants to select stress tolerant varieties.

FP25018 Abstract  | PDF (5.9 MB) - $35.00   | FP25018Supplementary Material (1.1 MB)
Published online 06 June 2025

FP24323Multivariate analysis reveals physiological trade-offs and synergies under light and nutrient gradients in the herbaceous species Agastache rugosa

Khairul Azree Rosli 0009-0002-9150-3684, Azizah Misran, Latifah Saiful Yazan and Puteri Edaroyati Megat Wahab
 

Plants are the ultimate survivors, adapting to diverse and changing environments with remarkable resilience. In this study, we investigated the intricate strategies employed by the herbaceous species Agastache rugosa to optimise its growth and resource use across varying light and nutrient conditions in tropical habitats. Our findings showed that this adaptable plant fine-tunes its leaf structure, photosynthesis, and nutrient allocation in a coordinated manner, providing valuable insights into how plants may cope with the challenges posed by global environmental change.

FP24323 Abstract  | PDF (3.2 MB) - $35.00   | FP24323Supplementary Material (977 KB)
Published online 05 June 2025

FP24273Iodine application induces the antioxidant defense system, alleviates salt stress, reduces nitrate content, and increases the nutritional value of lettuce plants

Osama Abdelsalam Shalaby 0000-0002-9133-9530
 

Iodine application reduced the deleterious effects of salinity on lettuce. Iodine affects plants in a dose-dependent manner, with low doses stimulating but high doses inhibiting. Iodine spray increased the activity of enzymatic and nonenzymatic antioxidants. Plants treated with iodine showed reduced toxic compounds such as H2O2 and malondialdehyde. Lettuce plants sprayed with iodine showed improved nutritional status and increased photosynthetic pigments. Iodine addition increased lettuce growth and yield while reducing its nitrate content

This article belongs to the collection: Soil Microbiome and Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants.

FP24273 Abstract  | PDF (1.1 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 05 June 2025

FP24357Advanced gene editing techniques for enhancing disease resistance and climate resilience in crops

Zareen Sarfraz, Yusra Zarlashat 0009-0000-8744-2255, Alia Ambreen, Muhammad Mujahid and Muhammad Shahid Iqbal 0000-0001-5458-1179
 

In an era where food security is increasingly threatened by climate change and plant diseases, innovative solutions are essential for sustainable agriculture. This review explores advanced gene editing techniques that enhance disease resistance in crops, revealing that methods such as CRISPR/Cas9 can significantly improve crop resilience and yield. By harnessing these cutting-edge technologies, we can pave the way for more robust agricultural practices that ensure a stable food supply and promote environmental sustainability.

This article belongs to the collection: Functional Genomics for Developing Climate Resilient Crops - Volume II.

FP24357 Abstract  | PDF (1.6 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 05 June 2025

FP25021Shaping the future of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) through new genetic improvement strategies

Nasser Abdullah Ghdayer Al Kaabi, Karthishwaran Kandhan, Faisal Hayat 0000-0001-8762-9693, Saif Ali Matar Al Blooshi, Mohamed S. Sheteiwy and Mohammed Alyafei
 

Date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) breeding faces challenges due to its long generation time, dioecious nature, and genetic heterogeneity. Advances in genomics and molecular biology such as Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats-CRISPR-associated protein 9 (CRISPR-Cas9) offer precise trait modification to enhance breeding efficiency. Transcriptome and metabolome analyses reveal stress tolerance mechanisms and secondary metabolism pathways, such as flavonoids. Genomic studies, including single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) diversity, genome-wide association studies (GWAS), and miRNA profiling, provide insights into fruit development and resilience. These innovations are transforming date palm breeding, enabling faster development of superior cultivars.

FP25021 Abstract  | PDF (805 KB) - $35.00 
Published online 05 June 2025

FP25090Flag leaf metabolomics and agronomic performance in rice cultivars under nitrogen-potassium fertilization

Mahmoud Moustafa, Ambreen Maqsood 0000-0002-0788-8909, Muhammad Taimoor Shakeel, Muhammad Naveed Aslam, Khurram Shahzad, Idrees Haider 0000-0002-3587-1194, Uthman Algopishi, Mohammed O. Alshaharni and Suliman A. Alrumman
 

Varying levels of nitrogen and potassium fertilizers influence growth, photosynthesis and metabolic activity in two rice cultivars, IRRI-6 and ksk 434. Optimal fertilization enhances nitrogen use efficiency, boosts grain yield and upregulates key genes linked to photosynthesis. Through examining leaf traits and metabolite profiles, research highlights sustainable strategies for improving rice productivity while minimizing environmental impact through more efficient fertilizer use.

This article belongs to the collection: Functional Genomics for Developing Climate Resilient Crops - Volume II.

FP25090 Abstract  | PDF (2.4 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 29 May 2025

FP25041Identification of key pathways and associated transcription factor-miRNA-gene regulatory networks driving heterosis in cotton (Gossypium spp.)

Rasmieh Hamid, Bahman Panahi 0000-0001-8523-994X and Feba Jacob
 

We investigated the molecular basis of heterosis in cotton (Gossypium spp.) using RNA-seq meta-analysis of root and bud tissues from hybrid and parental lines. A total of 591 differentially expressed genes were identified, with tissue-specific and shared patterns. Functional enrichment revealed key roles in circadian rhythm, water transport, and primary metabolism. Regulatory networks involving miRNAs, transcription factors, and target genes were reconstructed, providing novel insights into heterosis-associated gene regulation and a valuable framework for enhancing hybrid performance in breeding programs.

FP25041 Abstract  | PDF (3.1 MB) - $35.00   | FP25041Supplementary Material (12.4 MB)

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Collections

Collections are a curation of articles relevant to a topical research area

Functional Genomics for Developing Climate Resilient Crops - Volume II

This Collection of Functional Plant Biology papers summarises the technological and conceptual advances in genetics and functional genomics that have the potential to achieve the 2nd sustainable development goal of zero hunger under challenging climatic conditions. This collection represents Vol. II of this series.

Collection Editors
Sajid Fiaz (Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, The University of Haripur, Pakistan)
Muhammad Azhar Nadeem (Sivas University of Science and Technology, Turkey)
Inzamam Ul Haq (Gansu Agricultural University, China)

Last Updated: 26 Jun 2025

Soil Microbiome and Abiotic Stress Tolerance in Plants

This Collection of Functional Plant Biology papers will focus on the intricate interactions between soil microbes and abiotic stress factors such as drought, salinity, and heavy metals, and their collective impact on plant root physiology, growth, and hormonal dynamics. Emphasising the role of microbial communities in enhancing plant resilience, this collection will explore mechanisms that mitigate stress responses and improve crop performance. By integrating current research on microbial-plant interactions and abiotic stress, the collection aims to advance our understanding of sustainable agricultural practices and provide insights into strategies for improving plant productivity under environmental constraints.

Collection Editors
Dr Muhammad Saqlain Zaheer (Khwaja Fareed University of Engineering and Information Technology)
Dr Hafiz Haider Ali (Government College University Lahore (GCUL))
Dr Clarisse Brígido (Universidade de Évora)
Dr Debadatta Sethi (Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology)

Last Updated: 24 Jun 2025

Functional Genomics for Developing Climate Resilient Crops

This Collection of Functional Plant Biology includes articles summarising the technological and conceptual advancement in genetics and functional genomics with the potential for achieving the United Nations' second sustainable development goal of zero hunger under challenging climatic conditions. These articles illustrate the development of cutting-edge technologies helping researchers to develop germplasm with better resistance/tolerance for emerging food security threats.

Collection Editors
Sajid Fiaz (Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, The University of Haripur, Pakistan)
Muhammad Azhar Nadeem (Sivas University of Science and Technology, Turkey)
Inzamam Ul Haq (Gansu Agricultural University, China)

Last Updated: 22 Apr 2025

Machine Learning for Plant Stress Phenotyping

This Collection of Functional Plant Biology explores cutting-edge phenotyping applications of machine learning approaches for stress detection and plant phenotyping at the different scales of their structural organisation.

Collection Editors
Jungpil Shin (University of Aizu, Japan)
Md. Al Mehedi Hasan (Rajshahi University of Engineering and Technology, Bangladesh)
Yong Seok Hwang (Kwangwoon University, Korea)

Last Updated: 20 Sep 2024

Flooding Stress and Responses to Hypoxia in Plants

This Collection of Functional Plant Biology focuses on ‘Flooding stress and responses to hypoxia in plants’ and includes papers demonstrating various plant responses to low-O2 conditions, flooding stress and a combination of stresses commonly found in flooded areas. This compilation significantly advances our understanding of flooding stress and responses to low-O2 levels in plants.

Collection Editors
Romy Schmidt-Schippers (University of Bielefeld, Germany)
Ole Pedersen (University of Copenhagen, Denmark)
Angelika Mustroph (University of Bayreuth, Germany)
Daan Weits (Utrecht University, Netherlands)
Juan Jiménez (University of Copenhagen, Denmark)

Last Updated: 15 Mar 2024

Understanding Mechanistic Basis of Plant Adaptation to Salinity and Drought

Drought and salinity are two major constraints in agriculture, restricting plant growth and yield in many parts of the world, especially in arid and semi-arid regions, and in the majority of plants, growth ceases under extreme exposure to drought and salt stress. This collection of Functional Plant Biology papers focuses on the advances and progress in studying the underlying mechanisms of salinity and drought tolerance in plants, particularly those that are considered agriculturally important.

Collection Editors
Muhammad Waseem (Hainan University, Sanya, China)
Mehtab Muhammad Aslam (The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, China)
Sunil Kumar Sahu (Beijing Genomics Institute, Shenzhen, China)

Last Updated: 15 Feb 2024

Editor’s Choice – ‘Abiotic stress signalling and adaptation’

Agricultural crop production has to be increased by 70% by 2050 to ensure food security and meet the challenge of feeding a population of 9.3 billion. The only way to meet this challenge is by identifying key genes and mechanisms mediating plant sensing, signalling and adaptation to adverse environmental conditions, and then using modern genetic tools to modify them, to enable better plant performance. The papers selected for this Functional Plant Biology Collection contribute to this task and, therefore, may be of substantial interest to readers.

Collection Editor
Professor Sergey Shabala, Editor-in-Chief

Last Updated: 02 Oct 2017

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