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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 06 October 2025

FP25200Green-synthesized ZnO and MgO nanoparticles modulate physiology and antioxidant defense in maize under alkaline stress

Muhammad Iftikhar 0009-0008-6716-5367 and Anis Ali Shah 0000-0003-2071-9939
 

Green-synthesized ZnO and MgO nanoparticles, produced using neem and licorice extracts, improved maize tolerance to alkaline stress. Moderate doses enhanced growth, photosynthetic pigments, antioxidant enzymes, and osmolytes and reduced oxidative damage (MDA, H2O2, RMP). Excessive nanoparticle concentrations were phytotoxic. Findings suggest nanoparticle-based strategies can enhance crop resilience and promote sustainable agriculture in alkaline soils.

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

FP25200 Abstract  |  FP25200 Full Text  | FP25200PDF (5.2 MB)  | FP25200Supplementary Material (2.6 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 06 October 2025

FP25212Cyclic 3-hydroxymelatonin application improves chilling tolerance by regulating selected biochemical properties and antioxidative enzyme activities in pepper

Aygül Karaca 0000-0001-9142-9678 and Gökçen Yakupoglu 0000-0003-4921-0925
 

Our results showed that chilling stress reduced Capsicum annuum L. seed germination and seedling emergence. 3-OHM application significantly enhanced germination and emergence performance under stress conditions. 3-OHM application mitigated oxidative damage by boosting proline content and amplifying the activities of antioxidant enzymes. 3-OHM was shown to behave in a melatonin-like manner in increasing chilling stress tolerance.

FP25212 Abstract  | PDF (4 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 02 October 2025

FP24198Drought stress in Andrographis paniculata: impact on physiological parameters and andrographolide content as mediated by growth stages

Pritee Singh 0000-0003-4353-9754, V. Keshava Rao, R. H. Laxman, K. S. Shivashankara and Prakash Kumar
 

This is the first study to comprehensively examine drought stress effects on physiological performance and bioactive compounds in Andrographis paniculata across three growth stages. Drought stress increased bioactive compounds during vegetative and flowering stages, but had no effect at the fruiting stage. The flowering and fruiting stages are more sensitive to drought stress than the vegetative stage. Findings may help determine optimal harvesting times, improve irrigation practices, and develope drought-tolerant genotypes to enhance bioactive compound content and reduce yield loss.

FP24198 Abstract  | PDF (2.1 MB) - $35.00   | FP24198Supplementary Material (306 KB)
Published online 30 September 2025

FP24349Pan-genome analysis and functional characterisation of the terpene synthase (TPS) gene family in five varieties of yellowhorn (Xanthoceras sorbifolium)

Tao Lu, Shuaiyu Jiang, Xinyu Liu, Zhen Lu, Muhammad Sadaqat, Chen Chen, Xiangyu Zuo and Muhammad Tahir ul Qamar 0000-0003-4832-4250
 

A pan-genome-wide analysis of the terpene synthase (TPS) gene family in yellowhorn (Xanthoceras sorbifolium) identified 257 TPS genes across five varieties. Phylogenetic analysis categorised these genes into distinct functional clades, while conserved domain and motif analyses highlighted their structural features. Expression profiling under cold and drought stresses, and tissue-specific expression studies revealed key roles of TPS genes in stress tolerance and physiological processes. The findings provide insights into the TPS gene family, offering potential applications in crop improvement and biotechnology.

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

FP24349 Abstract  | PDF (5.1 MB) - $35.00   | FP24349Supplementary Material (26.7 MB)
Published online 25 September 2025

FP25100Comprehensive evaluation of agronomic traits, physiological responses, and gene expression in chickpea cultivars under fungal stress

Samra Irum, Muhammad Hayder Bin Khalid 0000-0003-0934-2093, Tanveer Hussain, Amjad Saeed, Imran Haider, Zaheer Ahmed, Rashid Iqbal, Noorah AlKubaisi and Mohamed S. Elshikh
 

An integrative analysis of chickpea cultivars under Fusarium wilt stress demonstrated cultivars’ specific agronomic, physiological, and gene expression responses. Increased antioxidant enzyme activity and upregulation of defense-related genes, such as WRKY55 and MADS-box TF23-like, were correlated with resistance. These results are worth using in breeding Fusarium-resistant chickpea cultivars.

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

FP25100 Abstract  |  FP25100 Full Text  | FP25100PDF (3.5 MB)  | FP25100Supplementary Material (174 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 25 September 2025

FP25128Effects of copper treatment on the redox state and secondary metabolism of Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi roots

Simeng Wan, Weiwei Wu, Chunlei Ou, Ying Cao, Xinyun Guo, Hua Liu, Lihua Yao and Hu Su 0000-0002-9672-944X
 

We explore how copper treatment influences the redox state and secondary metabolism in Scutellaria baicalensis Georgi roots. Copper exposure elevated the glutathioine (GSH): oxidized glutathione ratio, and altered the expression of genes related to GSH recycling and the salicylic acid pathway. Distinct accumulation patterns of baicalin and baicalein suggest a redox-mediated adjustment of secondary metabolism in response to copper treatment.

FP25128 Abstract  | PDF (1.6 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 16 September 2025

FP25025Impact of foliar applications of MeJA and MgO-NPs on secondary metabolites and essential oil of Rosa damascena Mill.

Mitra Zamani, Azra Saboora 0000-0003-1691-0511, Mohammad Taghi Ebadi, Nassim Ghorbanmehr, Akbar Karami and Francesco Loreto
 

Rosa damascena Mill. was treated with two elicitors (magnesium oxide nanoparticles and methyl jasmonate) at several concentrations, alone or in combination, via foliar spray. Effects of the treatments on the concentrations of phenolic compounds, flavonoids and anthocyanins, antioxidant Cactivity and changes in volatile organic compound concentrations at flowering stages were investigated. Our result demonstrated that the elicitors stimulated production of monoterpenoid and aromatic alcohols that are responsible for the perfume of petals. The elicitors also enhanced concentrations of total phenolic compounds and flavonoids in flowers.

FP25025 Abstract  | PDF (2.8 MB) - $35.00   | FP25025Supplementary Material (1.1 MB)
Published online 15 September 2025

FP25152Synergistic effects of L-arginine and nitric oxide in alleviating nickel-induced phytotoxicity: reducing oxidative damage and enhancing antioxidant defense in rice

Mona H. Soliman 0000-0002-9102-4790
 

This study explores the combined foliar application of nitric oxide (NO) and L-arginine (L-Arg) to alleviate nickel (Ni) toxicity in rice. The treatment enhanced plant growth, photosynthesis, antioxidant defense, osmolyte accumulation, and reduced Ni uptake. Gene expression analysis revealed upregulation of stress-related genes. Multivariate analyses confirmed clear physiological and biochemical improvements. These results suggest that co-application of NO and L-Arg is a promising strategy to improve rice tolerance to heavy metal stress.

FP25152 Abstract  | PDF (4 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 04 September 2025

FP24288Perspectives on deciphering thermotolerance mechanisms in Heliotropium thermophilum: integrating biochemical responses and gene expression patterns

Asiye Sezgin Muslu 0000-0003-0899-0742, Necdet Mehmet Ünel, Aykut Saglam 0000-0003-4102-7990, Mehmet Cengiz Baloglu and Asim Kadioglu 0000-0002-4781-6264
 

This research directly addresses the understanding of physiological and molecular mechanisms involved in plant responses to abiotic stress. We provide a detailed analysis of biochemical responses, including the accumulation of osmoprotectants under heat stress. Additionally, we offer a comprehensive transcriptomic profile that highlights the upregulation of genes involved in osmoprotectant biosynthesis, antioxidant defense, heat shock proteins, and sugar transport, contributing to thermotolerance. We believe our findings provide significant insights into plant responses to heat stress at multiple levels.

FP24288 Abstract  | PDF (2.9 MB) - $35.00   | FP24288Supplementary Material (2.7 MB)
Published online 04 September 2025

FP25031Modulation of ion transporter genes of salt-stressed sorghum (Sorghum bicolor L. Moench) by foliar application of digitoxin

 

Salinity is considered a major threat affecting cereal crop yield, such as sorghum. Some plant secondary metabolites, such as digitoxin, can help crops to alleviate toxic salinity effects. Digitoxin induces gene activation that helps plants reduce salinity effects by controlling the potassium/sodium channel and ultimately mitigates toxic salinity effects on sorghum.

FP25031 Abstract  |  FP25031 Full Text  | FP25031PDF (1.7 MB)   Open Access Article

Published online 02 September 2025

FP25145Effects of nitrogen level on growth, nutrient uptake, and nitrogen use efficiency in cotton seedlings

Dandan Chen 0000-0003-1138-6765, Zhao Zhang 0000-0003-2366-9156, Honghong Wu 0000-0001-6629-0280 and Guozheng Yang
 

We identified optimal nitrogen (N) levels for cotton seedlings and their nutrient demands (N:P:K:Ca ≈ 1:0.2:1.2:0.5). Low N promoted root growth by preferential nutrient allocation, while N-use efficiency correlated closely with root traits.

FP25145 Abstract  |  FP25145 Full Text  | FP25145PDF (2.2 MB)  | FP25145Supplementary Material (173 KB)   Open Access Article

Published online 01 September 2025

FP24311Chickpea genotypes with high ascorbic acid accumulation can mitigate the impact of high temperature stress

Amol P. Solanke, S. R. Gadakh, Kruthika S, V. R. Awari, Apoorva Ashu, Navodhaya J. V, Harimadhav C, C. Laxuman and Gurumurthy S 0000-0002-2178-0216
 

Despite its potential, the role of ascorbic acid (AsA) in mitigating high-temperature stress (HTS) in chickpea has not been extensively studied. Given IPCC projections that global temperatures have exceeded the optimal range for chickpea cultivation, posing risks to yield stability, our research highlights the contribution of AsA to HTS tolerance. High AsA accumulation genotypes maintained cooler canopies, higher chlorophyll content, and enhanced antioxidant activity, i.e. ascorbate peroxide, lipid peroxidation rate, and proline content supporting HTS resilience. Genotypes with high AsA levels exhibited higher seed yield under HTS.

FP24311 Abstract  | PDF (688 KB) - $35.00   | FP24311Supplementary Material (2.1 MB)
Published online 25 August 2025

FP25195The role of microalgae in circular carbon capture systems

Dariga K. Kirbayeva, Huma Balouch, Tao Xu, Meruyert O. Bauenova, Dilnaz E. Zaletova 0009-0000-1604-4241 and Bekzhan D. Kossalbayev 0000-0003-3892-7920
 

Closed-loop microalgal CO2 capture integrates circular bioeconomy with decarbonization. Hybrid photobioreactors and nutrient recycling boost biomass and CO2 utilization. Industrial pilot projects show pathways to scale up microalgae-based CO2 capture. Industrial symbiosis and regulatory advances drive market adoption of CO2 capture.

FP25195 Abstract  | PDF (1.3 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 21 August 2025

FP25140Trichome mediated external water transport may compensate for reduced vascular efficiency in atmospheric epiphytic Bromeliaceae

Narcy Anai Pereira-Zaldívar 0000-0002-9256-8669, Luis David Patiño-López, Raúl Rodríguez-García, José Luis Andrade, Manuel Jesús Cach-Pérez, Celene Espadas-Manrique, Felipe Barredo-Pool and Casandra Reyes-García 0000-0001-9847-9053
 

Epiphytes – plants that grow on other plants – can move and absorb water across their leaf surfaces using specialized hairs. In bromeliads, this ability is found in species from dry, seasonal habitats and is linked to having less efficient internal water transport. This discovery highlights how plants evolve creative solutions to survive in challenging environments.

FP25140 Abstract  | PDF (3.6 MB) - $35.00 
Published online 21 August 2025

FP25060Source and rate of nutrients may change the yield and aroma profile of Zataria multiflora Boiss

Zohreh Emami Bistgani 0000-0002-0325-4263, Vahid Rowshan, Razieh Azimi and Masoud Hashemi 0000-0002-6126-4208
 

Sustainable agricultural practices play a crucial role in enhancing crop productivity and quality while minimizing environmental impact. The effects of various fertilizers: synthetic, organic (cow manure, vermicompost), and their combinations, on the growth, nutrient content, and essential oil composition of Zataria multiflora Boiss. over 2 years in field conditions were examined. Results show that organic fertilizers improve soil health, promote plant growth, and increase essential oil yield while enriching the aromatic profile, suggesting that eco-friendly fertilization practices can enhance productivity and sustainability.

FP25060 Abstract  | PDF (1007 KB) - $35.00 

Just Accepted

These articles have been peer reviewed and accepted for publication. They are still in production and have not been edited, so may differ from the final published form.

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Collections

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

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: 06 Oct 2025

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: 02 Oct 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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