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    GENETICS & BREEDING · GERMPLASM RESOURCES · MOLECULAR GENETICS
    Fine Mapping and Cloning of the Grain Number Per-Panicle Gene (Gnp4) on Chromosome 4 in Rice (Oryza sativa L.)
    ZHANG Zhan-ying, LI Jin-jie, YAO Guo-xin, ZHANG Hong-liang, DOU Hui-jing, SHI Hong-li, SUN Xingming, LI Zi-chao
    2011, 10(12): 1825-1833.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60182-X
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    Grain number per-panicle is one of the most important components for rice yield. Spikelets on the primary and secondary branches determine the grain number per-panicle in rice. In this study, we identified a natural mutant, gnp4, lack of lateral spikelet on the secondary branches in the field condition. In addition, the Gnp4 and Lax1-1 double mutant showed dramatically reduced secondary branches and spikelets in panicle at reproductive stage, and tillers at vegetative stage. By map-based cloning approach, and using four F2 segregating populations, the Gnp4 gene was finally mapped to a 10.7-kb region on the long arm of chromosome 4 in rice. In this region, only one gene was predicted, and genomic DNA sequencing of the 10.7-kb region showed no nucleotide differences between the mutant and wild type. Interestingly, we found that the methylation level of several cytosines in the promoter CpG islands region of the predicted gene in gnp4 were different from the wild type. Thus, we propose that the DNA methylation changes at these sites may induce to decrease expression level of Gnp4, consequently, resulting in phenotypic variation.
    Cloning and Characterization of a Novel Gene GmMF1 in Soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.)
    JIANG Wei, YANG Shou-ping, YU De-yue and GAI Jun-yi
    2011, 10(12): 1834-1841.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60183-1
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    Cytoplasmic male sterility plays an important role in utilization of crop heterosis. Screening of soybean for novel genes related to male sterility in soybean could provide a basis for studying the molecular mechanism of male sterility in plants. In this study, gene differential expressions between the cytoplasmic male-sterile line NJCMS1A and its maintainer line NJCMS1B in soybean were analyzed using cDNA-AFLP. A differentially expressed fragment, GmMF-T4A15, was isolated from large flower buds of NJCMS1B. By searching the soybean genomic library and PCR amplification, the cDNA fulllength sequence of 1 311 bp was obtained and named GmMF1. The expression characteristics of GmMF1 were studied by semiquantitative real-time PCR and real-time quantitative PCR. The results showed that GmMF1 was expressed highly in flower buds of NJCMS1B. The deduced protein contains 436 amino acids and shows high similarity to members of the DUF620 protein family with unknown functions in other plant species. It is predicted that the protein encoded by GmMF1 is localized in the nucleus.
    Optimization of Two-Dimensional Gel Electrophoresis for Kenaf Leaf Proteins
    CHEN Tao, QI Jian-min, XU Jian-tang, CHEN Pin-pin, TAO Ai-fen, CHEN Fu-cheng , CHEN Wei
    2011, 10(12): 1842-1850.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60184-3
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    To establish a suitable and effective protocol of protein extraction for two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) analysis in kenaf leaf tissues, three extraction methods (trichloroacetic acid/acetone, urea/thiourea, and phenol extraction methods) were applied to the extraction of kenaf leaf protein. The results were compared in regard to protein extraction efficiency, sodiumdodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE), and 2-DE gels. Furthermore, the 2-DE system was optimized for four aspects: the pH range of IPG (immobilized pH gradient) stripes, sampling methods, sample volumes, and concentration of polyacrylamide gels. The data presented showed that the phenol extraction method is the best method to perform 2-DE analysis of kenaf leaf protein. The protein extracted from phenol extraction method reached the purity of (26.40±0.859)%, showed (25.67±1.53) protein bands in one dimension SDS-PAGE gels, and (1 374±54.44) protein spots on 2-DE gels. The research also indicates that kenaf leaf protein spots were distributed mainly within the pH range of 4-8. More clear background with a better distribution effect and many protein spots could be obtained on 2-DE gels under the conditions of active rehydration loading, 24 cm IPG strips (linear pH gradient of 4-7), 1.4 mg samples, and 12% SDS-PAGE gels.
    Cloning of a Calcium-Dependent Protein Kinase Gene NtCDPK12, and Its Induced Expression by High-Salt and Drought in Nicotiana tabacum
    CHEN Shuai, LIU Guan-shan, WANG Yuan-ying, SUN Yu-he , CHEN Jia
    2011, 10(12): 1851-1860.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60185-5abiotic stress| CDPK| Nicotiana tabacum| RACE| real-time qRT-PCR
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    Calcium-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs, EC 2.7.1.37) comprise a large family of Ser/Thr kinases in plants and play an important role in plant Ca2+ signal transduction. A full-length CDPK gene, NtCDPK12 (GenBank accession number GQ337420), was isolated from common tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) leaves by rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). The NtCDPK12 cDNA is 1 816 bp length and contains an open reading frame (ORF) of 1 461 bp encoding 486 amino acids. Sequence alignments indicated that NtCDPK12 contains all conserved regions found in CDPKs and shows a high level of sequence similarity to many other plant CDPKs. The results of real-time quantitative reverse transcription-PCR (qRTPCR) showed that NtCDPK12 was highly expressed in stems and increased in roots treated with high-salt or subjected to drought stress, which indicates that NtCDPK12 was induced by high-salt and drought stresses.
    Cloning and Characterization of WOX4 Gene from Vitis vinifera L. Involved in Stem Cell Regulation
    DAI Ru, JIN Hai-peng, WANG Zeng, Avihai Perl, XU Hai-ying, ZHANG Wen, CHEN Shang-wu, MA Hui-qin
    2011, 10(12): 1861-1871.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60186-7
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    Wuschel-related homeobox (WOX) genes play essential, specific, and sometimes redundant roles in plant embryo development, shoot and root meristem maintenance, and plant development. Though much information was quickly gained with members of the WOX gene family of Arabidopsis, monocotyledonous crops, and gymnospermous conifers, little is known about perennial woody plants. In this study, we isolated the first WOX gene family member from grape (Vitis vinifera L. cv. Cabernet Sauvignon), and named it VvWOX4 based on its characteristic domains and phylogenetic analysis. The identity of VvWOX4 was validated by MALDI-TOF MS and Western blot with polyclonal antibody against Arabidopsis thaliana Wuschel. Functional analysis showed that VvWOX4 markedly increased shoot primordia structures when overexpressed under CaMV 35S promoter in tobacco. A different expression pattern was found for VvVOX4 compared with AtWUCHEL and its expression was detected in unique organs of grapevines. Besides the expression in the vegetative shoot apical meristem (SAM) of grape shoot tips, VvWOX4 is expressed in dormant winter buds, inflorescence, young leaves, and tendril tips, but not in root tips. In young leaves, the expression of VvWOX4 is strongly upregulated by wounding, and also by plant growth regulators such as 2 mg L-1 2,4-D, 1 mg L-1 NAA and 1 mg L-1 BAP treatments, while downregulation was monitored by 1 mg L-1 IBA treatment, and there was no response to 0.5 mg L-1 GA3 treatment. Together, our results revealed the first member of grape WOX gene family and indicated different roles and regulation of VvWOX4 in the perennial woody crop grapevine.
    Molecular Cloning and Characterization of Carnation EBF1 Gene During Flower Senescence and upon Ethylene Exposure and Sugar
    FU Zhao-di, WANG Hui-nan, LIU Juan-xu, ZENG Hong-xue, ZHANG Jiao, KUANG Xiao-cong , YUYi-xun
    2011, 10(12): 1872-1880.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60187-9
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    A cDNA clone encoding a putative EBF-like protein (DCEBF1) was obtained from total RNA isolated from senescing carnation (Dianthus caryophyllus L.) petals using reverse transcription PCR and rapid-amplification of cDNA ends techniques. The cDNA contained an open reading frame of 1 878 bp corresponding to 625 amino acids. Results of Northern blot indicated DCEBF1 expression was enhanced by endogenous and exogenous ethylene, and was inhibited by STS in petals and ovaries. Upon wounding treatment, DCEBF1 showed a quick increase in mRNA accumulation which was positively correlated with the increase in ethylene production. The levels of DCEBF1 mRNA increased in both petals and ovaries by sucrose treatment compared with the control.
    PHYSIOLOGY & BIOCHEMISTRY · TILLAGE · CULTIVATION
    Effects of Photoperiod on Alternative Respiration Pathway in Nectarine Flower Buds During Dormancy Induction
    LI Dong-mei, TAN Yue, YU Qin, CHEN Xiu-de, LI Ling, ZHANG Hai-sen , GAO Dong-sheng
    2011, 10(12): 1881-1886.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60188-0
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    Characteristics of dormancy induction and alternative respiration pathway (also known as cyanide-resistant respiration) of nectarine flower buds in different photoperiods were studied to determine the function of photoperiod and alternative respiration pathway in dormancy induction. Oxygen-electrode system and respiratory inhibitors were used to measure total respiratory rates and rates of alternative respiration pathway. The results showed that total respiration rate (Vt) in flower buds showed to be double hump-shaped curves. Short day raised, brought the first-hump of Vt forward and delayed the second-hump, while long day delayed the whole curve. The capacity (Valt) and activity (ρValt) of SD and LD changed synchronously and both showed to be double hump-shaped curves. Short day made the first climax of Valt and ρValt existed much earlier, while long day increased their rates significantly. The length of day had little effects on the later period climax. Long day also increased the contributions of alternative respiration pathway in total respiration rate (ρValt/Vt). The changes in alternative respiration pathway were correlated with the induction of dormancy and adjusted by photoperiod. Short day promoted dormancy induction of nectarine trees, while long day delayed it.
    The Responses of Morphological Trait, Leaf Ultrastructure, Photosynthetic and Biochemical Performance of Tomato to Differential Light Availabilities
    FU Qiu-shi, ZHAO Bing, WANG Xue-wen, WANG Yu-jue, REN Shu-xin , GUO Yang-dong
    2011, 10(12): 1887-1897.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60189-2
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    The whole-plant morphology, leaf ultrastructure, photosynthesis as well as enzyme activities of two tomato cultivars (Meifen-2 and Hongsheng) to differential light availabilities (450-500 μmol m-2 s-1, 75-100 μmol m-2 s-1) were examined in controlled environment. The results showed that the plant biomass and root/shoot ratio decreased and the specific leaf area increased significantly under the low light condition. There was a significant increase in malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and peroxidase (POD) activities and decrease in soluble sugar and protein contents in LL-grown plants. For both cultivars, downregulation of photosynthesis and electron transport components were observed in LL-grown plants, the inhibition of the photosynthesis under the LL condition could be partially explained by the decrease of stomata density and by the changes of chloroplast.
    PLANT PROTECTION
    Identification and Molecular Tagging of Leaf Rust Resistance Gene (Lr24) in Wheat
    ZHANG Na, YANG Wen-xiang , LIU Da-qun
    2011, 10(12): 1898-1905.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60190-9
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    This research was aimed to develop AFLP markers co-segregated with gene Lr24 and validate the using for marker assisted selection (MAS). An F2 population developed from the cross between the resistant line TcLr24 and the susceptible line Thatcher was tested for resistance to the Puccinia triticina races BGQQ and SHRT using for genetic analysis and molecular marker. A total of 224 AFLP primer combinations were used to test the resistant and susceptible parents, as well as the resistant bulk and the susceptible bulk. Four AFLP markers, P-AGA/M-CTT289 bp, P-AGC/M-CAC188 bp, P-AGC/MCAC 162 bp, and P-ACG/M-CGC239 bp, were co-segregated with Lr24. The AFLP fragment from the primer combination PACG/ M-CGC was cloned, sequenced and converted into a STS marker named as ASTS212. Thatcher backgrounded NILs and 115 varieties were examined by using this STS marker and the marker SCS1302607 developed by Gupta. 5R615, 5R616, 1R13, and 1R17 were identified and validated to contain gene Lr24. The marker is dominant and may be useful in identification the resistance gene Lr24 in wheat and wheat breeding programs.
    Activity of the Fungicide JS399-19 Against Fusarium Head Blight of Wheat and the Risk of Resistance
    CHEN Yu, WANG Wen-xiang, ZHANG Ai-fang, GU Chun-yan, ZHOU Ming-guo , GAO Tong-chun
    2011, 10(12): 1906-1913.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60191-0
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    This report reviews the characteristics of JS399-19, a novel cyanoacrylate fungicide. JS399-19 strongly inhibits the mycelial growth of the fungal plant pathogens of the genus Fusarium and exhibits great potential in controlling Fusarium head blight (FHB) on wheat and other cereals. The mode of action of JS399-19 is evidently different from that of benzimidazole (for example, carbendazim) and other sort of fungicides, making it a possible replacement for carbendazim in China to manage carbendazim-resistant subpopulations of Fusarium graminearum and F. asiaticum. JS399-19 has excellent protective and curative activity against these pathogens. Incorrect use of this fungicide, however, is likely to select for resistance. Among JS399-19-resistant mutants of F. asiaticum induced in the laboratory, the resistant level of mutants was high and the phenotype of resistance against JS399-19 was conferred by a major gene by genetic analysis. The fitness of laboratory-induced JS399-19-resistant mutants of F. asiaticum was nearly equal to that of their parents. JS399-19 lacks cross resistance with other sort fungicides. To control FHB with JS399-19 and to delay the development of the fungicide-resistance, farmers should use tank mixtures containing JS399-19 and carbendazim, metconazole, tebuconazole, or prothioconazole.
    Resistance Level and Metabolism of Barnyard-Grass (Echinochloa crusgalli (L.) Beauv.) Populations to Quizalofop-p-ethyl in Heilongjiang Province, China
    HUAN Zhi-bo, ZHANG Hong-jun, HOU Zhen, ZHANG Shao-yi, ZHANG Yang, LIU Wei-tang, BI Yaling , WANG Jin-xin
    2011, 10(12): 1914-1922.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60192-2
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    Eleven barnyardgrass populations were assayed. The highest resistant population was Geqiushan R with RI 125.45 resulted from the seed assay and 87.29 resulted from the whole plant bioassay followed by 853 R with RI 2.79 resulted from the seed assay and 6.04 resulted from the whole plant bioassay. The resistance level of other nine populations was low with RI 1.13-2.61 resulted from the seed assay and 1.48-3.63 resulted from the whole plant bioassay. The activity of an important metabolic enzyme glutathione S-transferases (GSTs) and three protective enzymes (SOD, POD, and CAT) were determined in vivo for Geqiushan R, 853 R, and Wudalianchi R. Compared with the S controls, the activities of POD in Geqiushan R, GSTs in 853 R, and Wudalianchi R were increased.
    SOIL & FERTILIZER · AGRI-ECOLOGY & ENVIRONMENT
    Effects of the Spatial Coupling of Water and Fertilizer on the Chlorophyll Fluorescence Parameters of Winter Wheat Leaves 
    SHEN Yu-fang , LI Shi-qing
    2011, 10(12): 1923-1931.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60193-4
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    Wheat is an important agricultural crop in the Loess region of China, where there is drought stress and low availability of soil nitrogen and phosphorus. Using a pulse modulation fluorometer, we studied the effects of water, nitrogen, and phosphorus on the kinetic parameters of chlorophyll fluorescence in winter wheat. The wheat was grown in layered columns of Eum-Orthic Anthrosol (Cinnamon soil), with the water content and nutrient composition of each layer controlled. The results showed that the kinetic parameters of chlorophyll fluorescence were sensitive to water stress. The basic fluorescence (F0) of leaves was higher in the dry treatment (0-30 cm layer at 40-45% of field capacity, 30-90 cm at 75-80% of field capacity) compared to the wet treatment (entire soil column at 75-80% of field capacity). The maximal fluorescence (Fm), the variable fluorescence (Fv), the photochemical efficiency (Fv/Fm) and potential activites (Fv/F0) of photosystem 2 (PS2) were significantly lower in the dry treatment. Although drought stress impaired PS2 function, this effect was significantly ameliorated by applying P or NP fertilizer, but not N alone. P application increased Fv/Fm, both in well-watered and water stressed plants, especially when fertilizer was applied throughout the column or within the top 30 cm of soil. A combined fertilizer improved photosynthesis in well watered plants, with Fm and Fv/Fm being the highest when fertilizer was applied throughout the columns. For drought stressed, plants Fv/Fm was significantly greater when combined fertilizer was added within the top 30 cm of soil. We concluded that, when growing winter wheat in both arid and semi-arid parts of the Loess region of China, it is important to guarantee the nutrient supply in the top 30 cm of the soil.
    Effects of Long-Term Fertilization on the Distribution of Carbon, Nitrogen and Phosphorus in Water-Stable Aggregates in Paddy Soil
    WANG Wei, CHEN Wei-cai, WANG Kai-rong, XIE Xiao-li, YIN Chun-mei , CHEN An-lei
    2011, 10(12): 1932-1940.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60194-6
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    We investigated the size distribution of water-stable aggregates and the soil carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus concentration
    over aggregate size fractions based on a long-term (1990-2006) fertilization experiment in a reddish paddy soil. The results
    showed that the largest water-stable aggregate (WSA) (>5 mm) and the smallest WSA (<0.25 mm) took up the first largest
    proportion (38.3%) and the second largest proportion (23.3%), respectively. Application of organic materials increased
    the proportion of the large WSA (>2 mm) and decreased the proportion of the small WSA (<1 mm), resulting in an increase
    in the mean weight diameter of WSA, whereas application of chemical fertilizer had little effect. Application of organic
    materials, especially combined with chemical fertilizers, increased total carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations
    in all sizes of WSA, and total carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus were prone to concentrate in the large WSA. Further more,
    application of organic materials improved the supply effectiveness of available phosphorus, whereas had little influence
    on the labile carbon in WSA. Application of chemical fertilizers improved concentrations of total and available phosphorus
    in all sizes of WSA, whereas had little influence on total carbon and nitrogen contents. Economical fertilization model
    maintained the soil fertility when compared with full dose of chemical fertilizers, indicating that using organic materials
    could reduce chemical fertilizers by about one third.We investigated the size distribution of water-stable aggregates and the soil carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus concentration over aggregate size fractions based on a long-term (1990-2006) fertilization experiment in a reddish paddy soil. The results showed that the largest water-stable aggregate (WSA) (>5 mm) and the smallest WSA (<0.25 mm) took up the first largest proportion (38.3%) and the second largest proportion (23.3%), respectively. Application of organic materials increased the proportion of the large WSA (>2 mm) and decreased the proportion of the small WSA (<1 mm), resulting in an increase in the mean weight diameter of WSA, whereas application of chemical fertilizer had little effect. Application of organic materials, especially combined with chemical fertilizers, increased total carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations in all sizes of WSA, and total carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus were prone to concentrate in the large WSA. Further more, application of organic materials improved the supply effectiveness of available phosphorus, whereas had little influence on the labile carbon in WSA. Application of chemical fertilizers improved concentrations of total and available phosphorus in all sizes of WSA, whereas had little influence on total carbon and nitrogen contents. Economical fertilization model maintained the soil fertility when compared with full dose of chemical fertilizers, indicating that using organic materials could reduce chemical fertilizers by about one third.
    Effects of Chronic Stress of Cadmium and Lead on Anatomical Structure of Tobacco Roots
    YUAN Zu-li, XIONG Shu-ping, LI Chun-ming , MA Xin-ming
    2011, 10(12): 1941-1948.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60195-8
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    Cadmium (Cd2+) is one of the major widespread environmental pollutants, and can cause serious problems to all organisms.
    Lead (Pb2+) is another wide spread dangerous heavy metal. Tobacco is a popular growing economic crop in China. Most
    tobacco growing region soils contain excessive Cd2+ and Pb2+. To assess anatomic changes of tobacco roots under Cd2+,
    Pb2+, and Cd2++Pb2+ chronic stress, a pot experiment was carried out in field. The tobacco seedlings with 6 leaves were
    transplanted to pots in which soil was placed. The amounts of Cd2+ added to soil were 0, 3, 6, 10, 30, 60, and 100 mg kg-1
    dry soil. The amounts of Pb2+ added to soil were 0, 150, 300, 450, 600, 750, and 1 000 mg kg-1 dry soil. The amounts of
    Cd2++Pb2+ added to soil were 0+0, 3+150, 6+300, 10+450, 30+600, 60+750, and 100+1 000 mg kg-1 dry soil. The contents of Cd2+ and Pb2+ in root systems were determined by inductively coupled plasma, and the anatomical structure was studied by method of paraffin sectioning. The results revealed that the amounts of exchangeable Cd2+ and Pb2+ and carbonate bound Cd2+ and Pb2+ in soil increased with the amounts of Cd2+ and Pb2+ added to soil, and the contents of both Cd2+ and Pb2+ in roots were significantly increased along with stress time and the amounts of Cd2+ and Pb2+ added to soil. The growing of tobacco in Cd2+ and Cd2++Pb2+ polluted soil for 50, 100, and 150 d resulted in some abnormal external morphological and anatomical changes in ripe region of lateral roots. All the abnormal roots had abnormal vascular cylinders, and the ratio of abnormal external morphological and anatomical changes of roots positively correlated with the Cd2+ contents in roots and stress time. While, there were no abnormal external morphological and anatomical changes of roots under Pb2+ stress. It was suggested that Cd2+ stress could cause abnormal anatomic changes of roots, but Pb2+ stress could not.
    ANIMAL SCIENCE · VETERINARY SCIENCE
    Evaluation of Breeding Programs Combining Genomic Information in Chinese Holstein
    CHEN Jun, WANG Ya-chun, ZHANG Yi, SUN Dong-xiao, ZHANG Sheng-li , ZHANG Yuan
    2011, 10(12): 1949-1957.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60196-X
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    Current study adopted gene flow theory and selection index method to compare the breeding efficiency of three breeding plans in the Chinese Holstein cattle using ZPLAN software. Simulated conventional progeny-testing program (PT) and young sire program (YS) were compared with breeding program using genomic selection (GS) taking parameters derived from Chinese Holstein breeding system. The results showed that, GS shortened generation interval by 1.5-2.2 years, and increased the genetic progress by 30-50%, comparing to PT and YS, respectively. Economic analysis showed that GS could obtain a higher breeding efficiency, being 119 and 97% higher than that of PT and YS, respectively; and GS was also powerful in improving functional traits with a low heritability. Main factors affecting breeding efficiency in GS were further discussed, including selection intensity, accuracy and the cost of SNP genotyping. Our finding provided references for future designing and implementing GS in Chinese dairy population.
    Delivery of CatSper2 siRNA into Rat Sperms by Electroporation Repressed Ca2+ Influx During Sperm Hyperactivation
    ZHANG Zhen, ZHOU Xuan, LI Hui-xia, CUI Qun-wei, YU Jing , WANG Gen-lin
    2011, 10(12): 1958-1967.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60197-1
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    CatSper is a unique Ca2+ channel-like protein family exclusively expressed in the testis and sperm, and plays important roles in sperm motility, capacitation, acrosome reaction and sperm-egg interactions. Here we studied the mechanism of regulation of CatSper2-dependent Ca2+ influx, extracellular and intracellular Ca2+ on sperm hyperactivated motility. The siRNA duplexes were transfected into the sperm cells by electroporation (EP) to silence the expression of CatSper2. The results for targeted disruption of CatSper2 showed the highest silence efficiency 77.7% (P<0.05), the hyperactivated sperm rate calculated by computer-assisted semen analysis (CASA) analysis of interferenced sperm was significantly lower 11.1% than the control 99.2%. Flow cytometry (FCM) detection of the intracellular Ca2+ concentration of interferenced sperm was 50 nmol L-1 higher than the normal. It was remarkably lower than hyperactivated sperm with 200-1 000 nmol L-1 (P<0.05). It was not sufficient to evoke hyperactivation. To trigger hyperactivation, the sperm were incubated in 50 μmol L-1 thimerosal or 5 mmol L-1 procaine, it sharply increased the intracellular Ca2+ via two different channels. CASA and FCM detection indicated that intracellular Ca2+ is required for initiating hyperactivation while extracellular Ca2+ is essential to maintain the process. We concluded that to mediate sperm hyperactivation, it is essential to inhibit Ca2+ peak present with targeted disruption of CatSper2 expression. This provides important prospective for further exploration of signal channel of sperm hyperactivated motility, potential factors for male infertility and provide further reference to the exploration of male contraceptive drug targets of male reproduction.
    Pharmacokinetics of Mequindox and Its Metabolites in Swine
    LIU Yi-ming, LIU Ying-chun, DING Huan-zhong, FANG Bing-hu, YANG Fan, SHAN Qi , ZENGZhen-ling
    2011, 10(12): 1968-1976.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60198-3
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    The present study was carried out to investigate the pharmacokinetics of mequindox (MEQ), a new synthetic quinoxaline 1,4-dioxide derivative and its two main metabolites M1 [2-isoethanol mequinoox], M2 [2-isoethanol 1-desoxymequindox] in healthy swine. MEQ (10 mg kg-1 body weight) was administered to nine healthy cross-bread swine via oral, intramuscular, and intravenous routes in a randomized 3×3 crossover design with a 1-wk washout period. A sensitive high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) method was used for the determination of plasma concentrations of MEQ and its metabolites M1 and M2. Plasma concentration versus time profiles of MEQ and its metabolites, M1 and M2, were analyzed by noncompartmental analysis using WinNonlin 5.2 software. The mean maximum concentrations (Cmax) of M1 and M2 after intravenous administration of MEQ were (5.27±1.59) μg mL-1 at 1.78 h and (1.01±0.29) μg mL-1 at 0.92 h, respectively. The mean maximum concentrations (Cmax) of MEQ, M1, and M2 were found to be (6.96±3.23), (6.61±1.56), and (0.78 ±0.25) μg mL-1, respectively at 0.15, 1.61, and 1.30 h after intramuscular administration of MEQ, respectively and (0.75±0.45), (6.90±1.52), and (0.62±0.21) μg mL-1, respectively at 0.40, 1.57, and 2.00 h, respectively after oral administration of MEQ. The apparent elimination half-lives (t1/2) of MEQ, M1, and M2 were (0.84±0.35), (7.57±3.93), and (9.56±6.00) h, respectively after intravenous administration of MEQ; (0.50±0.25), (6.30±3.00), and (5.94±2.54) h, respectively after intramuscular administration of MEQ; and (1.64±1.17), (5.59±1.93), and (16.25±10.27) h , respectively after oral administration of MEQ. The mean areas under the plasma concentration-time curve (AUC0- ) of MEQ, M1, and M2 were (4.88±1.54), (36.93±17.50), and (5.16±1.94) μg h mL-1, respectively after intravenous administration of MEQ; (4.18±0.76), (48.25±20.82), and (4.88±2.21) μg h mL-1 , respectively after intramuscular administration of MEQ; and (1.01±0.40), (48.83±20.71), and (5.54±2.23) μg h mL-1, respectively after oral administration of MEQ. MEQ was rapidly absorbed and metabolized in swine after oral, intramuscular, and intravenous administration. Further studies are required to investigate the double-peak phenomenon observed in the plasma concentration-time profile after oral administration and the pharmacokinetics of other metabolites of MEQ.
    Creatine Pyruvate Enhances Lipolysis and Protein Synthesis in Broiler Chicken
    CHEN Juan, MA Hai-tian, WANG Man, KONG Yi-li , ZOU Si-xiang
    2011, 10(12): 1977-1985.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60199-5
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    To assess the effects of creatine pyruvate (Cr-Pyr) on lipid and protein metabolism in broiler chickens, a total of 400 1-day-old male birds (Aconred) were randomly allocated to four groups, with each group replicating four times and each replicate involving 25 birds. The broilers were provided with a commercial diet supplemented with Cr-Pyr at 0, 1, 5, or 10% of the diet, respectively, for a period of 3 wk ad libitum (from 22 to 42 d). In the present study, body weight (BW) and average daily gain (ADG) of broilers decreased in 10% Cr-Pyr group (P<0.01), whereas the relative leg and pectoral muscle weights were significantly higher than they were in the control group (P<0.05). 5 or 10% Cr-Pyr of diets decreased the abdominal fat rate (AFR, abdominal fat/live weight) of the broilers. The serum or hepatic triglyceride (TG) concentrations were significantly lower in the 5 and 10% groups (P<0.01). In contrast, Cr-Pyr caused a marked increase in the serum nonesterified fatty acid (NEFA), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and creatine kinase (CK) concentrations (P<0.01). Supplementation with Cr-Pyr (5 and 10%) in the diet also increased glucagons (GLU), insulin (INS) or leptin (LEP) contents (P<0.01). The expression of hepatic peroxisomal proliferators-activated receptor α (PPAR-α) and carnitine palmitoyl transferase-I (CPT-I), muscle insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I) were significantly elevated and myostatin mRNA level was reduced in the 5 and 10% groups (P<0.05). It was found that supplementation with 5% Cr-Pyr improves both lipid and protein metabolism by regulating various metabolic parameters of broilers, while not adversely affects growth performance in broiler chickens.
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    Application of Near-Infrared Reflectance Spectroscopy to the Evaluation of D-chiro-Inositol, Vitexin, and Isovitexin Contents in Mung Bean
    YAO Yang, CHENG Xu-zhen , REN Gui-xing
    2011, 10(12): 1986-1991.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60200-9
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    Mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) is rich in D-chiro-inositol (DCI), vitexin, and isovitexin, which has beneficial effects on antidiabetic and inhibits the formation of advanced glycation end-products. In this study, near-infrared reflectance spectroscopy (NIRS) was used to predict the contents of DCI, vitexin, and isovitexin in mung bean. The spectra data were linearized with those determined by high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). The models for predicting the DCI, vitexin, and isovitexin contents in mung bean were developed using partial least-squares (PLS) algorithm. Cross-validation procedures indicated good correlations between HPLC data and NIRS predictions (R2=0.90 for DCI, R2=0.81 for vitexin, and R2=0.90 for isovitexin). The predictive contents of DCI, vitexin, and isovitexin ranged from 2.082 to 3.084%, 1.277 to 1.307%, and 0.5998 to 0.6286%, respectively. The results showed that NIRS, a well-established and widely applied technique, could be applied to rapid detection of DCI, vitexin, and isovitexin contents in mung bean.
    Thermal Degradation Kinetics of Anthocyanins and Visual Color of Blood Orange Juice
    CAO Shao-qian, LIU Liang , PAN Si-yi
    2011, 10(12): 1992-1997.  DOI: 10.1016/S1671-2927(11)60201-0
    Abstract ( )   PDF in ScienceDirect  
    Thermal degradation kinetics of anthocyanins and visual color (Hunter a* value) of blood orange juice were studied at selected temperatures (70-90°C). Results indicated that both the thermal degradation of anthocyanin and visual color all followed first-order reaction kinetics, and they could be expressed by Arrhenius equation. The activation energy values for the anthocyanins degradation and visual color degradation were 55.81 and 47.51 kJ mol-1, respectively. The linear relationship between visual color and anthocyanin content was obtained. Furthermore, during thermal processing of blood orange juice, the formulas about the linear relationships showed no significant difference at selected temperatures. So, the relationships between visual color and anthocyanins content during thermal processing at selected temperatures could be described by the same equation: a*/a0 *=0.559(C/C0)+0.43. It might be inferred that visual color measured instantaneously by tristimulus colorimeters for on-line quality control, could be used to predict the anthocyanins degradation during thermal processing of blood orange juice.