Eschscholzia californica Cham. (California poppy, Papaveraceae) is a plant native to North America. Although it is primarily an ornamental plant, it also has potential applications in herbal medicine. Extracts of E. californica are used for its sedative and sleep-inducing properties. One way to increase the pro-health and nutritional value of plants, as well as accelerating their growth, is enriched fertilization. This practice is known as biofortification. Of particular interest is the iodine enrichment of crops, which serves to introduce this element into the human diet. It is an alternative to the iodisation of table salt, the excessive use of which poses risks to human health. E. californica plants were grown hydroponically in a greenhouse. The plants were watered with a standard nutrient solution enriched with the following: 1) potassium iodide (KI), 2) 5-iodosalicylic acid (5I-SA), and 3) 3,5-diiodosalicylic acid (3,5-diISA). The control group was watered with a nutrient solution that did not contain iodine compounds. The concentrations of vitamins and sugars in plants from the experimental groups were compared to those in the control one. Cultivation with KI and 5I-SA resulted in higher mean fresh shoot weights. Plants fertilized with KI and 3,5-diISA showed an increase in the mean total sugar concentration. Importantly, increases in the mean concentrations of vitamins B2 and B7 were noted in the KI group, whereas an increase in vitamin B1 was observed in the 5I-SA and 3,5-diISA combinations. These results demonstrate that iodine compounds can have a beneficial effect on nutritional and health-promoting properties of E. californica plants as well as on accelerating its growth.

„This research was funded in whole by the National Science Centre, Poland (grant no. UMO-2024/53/B/NZ9/00614), “Determination of the effect of biofortification in iodine and selenium and the application of salicylic acid on the health-promoting quality of selected herbal plant species including post-harvest processing”.

One of the greatest challenges facing global health policy is the burden of chronic non-communicable diseases caused by nutrient deficiencies. Plants' biofortification has been proposed as a method of introducing essential nutrients into the human diet. An increased level of one element can affect the content of others in the plant and, thus, the health-promoting properties of plant materials.

The study aimed to determine the effect of biofortification with mineral (KI) and organic forms of iodine: 5-iodosalicylic acid (5-ISA) and 3,5-diiodosalicylic acid (3,5-diISA) on the mineral composition of Eschscholzia californica plants grown in a hydroponic system. The following combinations were tested: (1) Control; (2) KI; (3) 5-ISA; (4) 3,5-diISA.

To determine the content of macro- and microelements (P, K, Ca, Mg, S, Al, Ba, B, Be, Bi, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, Li, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, Zn) using an ICP-OES spectrometer, plant samples were digested in HNO₃.

Control plants had the highest macronutrient accumulation. Particularly significant decreases were observed for K and Mg. The use of 5-ISA and 3,5-diISA resulted in a greater decrease in macronutrient content than KI, especially for P, K, and Mg. The concentrations of Be, Cr, and Fe did not differ significantly from those of the control group. The lowest concentrations of B, Ba, Li, Na, Al, Bi, Co, and Cu were observed after the use of mineral iodine. The content of most micronutrients was higher after the use of 5-ISA than after the use of 3,5-diISA. For Ni, all enrichment treatments increased the concentration of this element in the series 3,5-diISA > 5-ISA > KI, whereas KI and 5-ISA increased Zn concentration. The use of 5-ISA increased Al levels in the plant compared to the control group.

Iodine is a trace element whose deficiency impacts human health. Iodine's function is participation in the synthesis of thyroid hormones. It also has therapeutic potential to counteract oxidative stress by increasing antioxidant capacity. Biofortification is one of the most promising methods for enriching plants with this element.

The study aimed to determine the effect of biofortification with mineral (KI) and organic forms of iodine: 5-iodosalicylic acid (5-ISA) and 3,5-diiodosalicylic acid (3,5-diISA) on the antioxidant properties of Eschscholzia californica grown in a hydroponic system. The following combinations were tested: (1) Control; (2) KI; (3) 5-ISA; (4) 3,5-diISA.

For the determination of antioxidant activity, ethanol extracts (80% v/v) of California poppy plants were prepared. These parameters were determined using the DPPH radical, ABTS radical, FRAP, and CUPRAC methods. Absorbance was measured 10 minutes after the addition of solutions at 516, 734, 595, and 450 nm, respectively.

No significant differences were observed using the DPPH, ABTS, or CUPRAC methods. The only statistically significant differences between the combinations were observed with the FRAP method. The greatest increase in potential was observed after use of 5-ISA (approx. 17.5%), while a lower increase was observed for KI (approx. 9.0%). The increase in activity after the use of 3,5-diISA was not statistically significant.

In this study, the lack of an increase in oxidative potential in response to the treatments applied can be attributed to the lack of stress, which potentially could be induced in plants by poorly selected concentrations of iodine compounds.

Modern agriculture faces mounting challenges from climate change, soil degradation, and the overuse of synthetic agrochemicals, which contribute to environmental pollution, biodiversity loss, and the emergence of more resistant pests and diseases. Plant-derived biostimulants have emerged as sustainable tools to improve crop productivity while mitigating ecological impacts. Unlike conventional fertilizers that primarily supply nutrients, biostimulants act through diverse physiological and molecular mechanisms, including phytohormone regulation (e.g., auxin-like activity), activation of antioxidant defenses, and modulation of the soil microbiome. These actions enhance nutrient use efficiency, strengthen tolerance to abiotic stresses such as drought and salinity, and improve crop quality traits. Plant extracts rich in bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols and signaling compounds, have demonstrated strong potential to stimulate root development, increase photosynthetic activity in crops like tomato and wheat, and promote soil health. Despite these benefits, several barriers hinder their large-scale adoption, including the need for standardized extracts, consistent field performance across diverse conditions, and harmonized regulatory frameworks. This review highlights successful applications of plant-based biostimulants in major food crops and explores recent innovations in their production from agri-food by-products, with particular focus on advanced extraction methods (intensified by enzymes, microwaves, and ultrasound) and formulation strategies (such as emulsification). Ultimately, this work underscores the role of plant-derived biostimulants in fostering more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems, aligning with global food security and safety goals.

Plant extracts offer a promising, eco-friendly solution for sustainable agriculture, acting as both biostimulants and bioprotectants. Their rich array of bioactive compounds enhances crop growth, improves resilience to environmental stressors like drought and heat, and provides natural protection against pests and diseases.

Recent research highlights the dual functionality of these extracts. A study on rice (Oryza sativa) showed that aqueous extracts from guava, aloe vera, garlic, and alfalfa, applied through soil irrigation and transplanting, significantly promoted growth. Specifically, low concentrations (0.1% and 0.5%) boosted shoot and root growth by 40–70%. This benefit was linked to enhanced photosynthesis and antioxidant activity.

Another study investigated the antifungal properties of various aqueous plant extracts against soybean pathogens. Hot water extractions, such as infusions and decoctions from plants like flaxseed and marigold roots, demonstrated strong inhibitory effects on fungal growth in vitro. This suggests that these biodegradable extracts could serve as a viable alternative to synthetic fungicides.

The effectiveness of plant extracts lies in the synergistic interactions of their components, which makes it difficult for pests to develop resistance. These extracts represent a cost-effective and low-tech option for farmers. However, further research is necessary to standardize extraction methods, fully understand their molecular mechanisms, and validate their efficacy in real-world field conditions to facilitate their widespread adoption in sustainable farming practices.

Introduction:
Climate change is intensifying abiotic and biotic stresses such as drought, salinity, heat waves, and emerging pathogens, threatening global food security. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have emerged as central regulators of plant adaptation to these stresses. While uncontrolled ROS accumulation induces oxidative damage, controlled ROS signaling modulates growth, defense, and survival under adverse conditions. Deciphering ROS homeostasis is, therefore, crucial for developing climate-smart crop improvement strategies.

Methods:
A comprehensive synthesis of experimental evidence was undertaken, covering ROS generation sites (chloroplasts, mitochondria, peroxisomes, and plasma membrane NADPH oxidases), their quantification under stress, and their interplay with enzymatic (SOD, CAT, APX, and GPX) and non-enzymatic (ascorbate, glutathione, and phenolics) antioxidants. Recent omics-based studies, mutant analyses, and transgenic approaches were reviewed to highlight advances in understanding ROS-mediated stress regulation.

Results:
Evidence indicates that moderate ROS bursts act as critical secondary messengers, activating MAPK cascades, transcription factors (NAC, WRKY, and MYB), and stress-responsive genes. ROS interact synergistically with phytohormones (ABA, ethylene, and salicylic acid) and redox regulators to orchestrate adaptive responses, including stomatal regulation, osmolyte accumulation, and improved water-use efficiency. Climate-resilient genotypes and genetically engineered lines with enhanced antioxidant capacity show superior tolerance to combined stresses, validating ROS management as a breeding target.

Conclusions:
ROS act as pivotal modulators of plant stress responses, mediating a fine balance between oxidative damage and adaptive signaling. Precise regulation of ROS production and scavenging is essential for sustaining cellular homeostasis under drought, salinity, and temperature extremes. Advances in CRISPR/Cas-mediated editing of ROS-related genes, overexpression of antioxidant enzymes (e.g., SOD, APX, and CAT), and application of redox-active biostimulants have demonstrated significant improvements in plant resilience and yield stability under combined stresses. Future climate-smart breeding programs should integrate ROS-signaling markers, antioxidant enzyme profiles, and redox transcriptomic data to accelerate the development of stress-tolerant cultivars tailored for variable environments.

Grapevine gall mite (Eriophyes vitis) is an eriophyid mite that induces characteristic galls and deformities on the leaves and young shoots of Vitis vinifera cultivars. The present study aims to describe the symptomatic manifestations of infestation and to document key biological features of the mite. Observations were conducted in vineyards in eastern Romania during the active vegetative growth period, encompassing multiple cultivars and various growth stages. Symptoms were systematically recorded through visual inspections and high-resolution photography, revealing leaf galls, curling, and distortions on young shoots, which varied in intensity depending on cultivar and plant age. Microscopic examinations confirmed the presence of mites within the galls. They allowed detailed observation of their morphology, spatial distribution, and population density, providing additional insight into their development and colonization patterns. Differences in symptom severity were noted among grapevine cultivars, indicating variability in the extent of damage caused by infestation. The study emphasizes the importance of accurate visual and microscopic identification of gall mite symptoms, which is essential for monitoring, early detection, and documentation of mite presence in vineyards. By documenting both macroscopic and microscopic features in a detailed, systematic manner, this study provides comprehensive descriptive information on the biology and symptomatic expression of E. vitis, offering a solid foundation for applied research in viticulture and for future studies on cultivar susceptibility, damage assessment, and preventive measures.

The growing need for sustainable viticultural strategies has led to increased interest in the use of biostimulants. In this study, we evaluated the effects of foliar application of an amino acid-based biostimulant (Naturamin®) at two doses (500 and 1,000 g/ha) on yield components and grape quality in Vitis vinifera L. cv. Tempranillo under rainfed conditions in La Rioja, Spain. While no significant effects on yield parameters were observed, the highest dose of Naturamin® significantly increased the concentration of several free amino acids in the grape must. These changes could enhance yeast nutrition and fermentation kinetics, while also contributing to the formation of aroma-active compounds and improving the sensory profile of wines. Additionally, a significant increase in hydroxycinnamic acid levels was detected, which may influence wine color stability and aromatic complexity. Interestingly, treated grapes reached phenolic maturity at lower sugar levels, which may be advantageous for producing balanced, lower-alcohol wines in the context of climate change. These results highlight the potential of amino acid-enriched biostimulants as a sustainable tool to improve grape composition without compromising yield. For the first time, we report a comprehensive evaluation of the effects of foliar application of the amino acid-based biostimulant Naturamin® on grapevines under rainfed conditions.

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br.) is a nutritionally rich and climate-resilient staple crop cultivated widely across the semi-arid tropics of India. Despite its adaptability, productivity is significantly hampered by downy mildew, a destructive disease caused by the obligate biotrophic pathogen Sclerospora graminicola, leading to yield losses of 20–40%. To elucidate molecular mechanisms underlying resistance, transcriptome sequencing was performed on resistant (P310-17) and susceptible (7042-S) genotypes under both inoculated and control conditions. Assembly using Trinity yielded 26,690 high-quality transcripts. SNP and indel discovery revealed 6,110 SNPs and 149 indels in the resistant genotype, and 6,718 SNPs and 1,626 indels in the susceptible genotype. Transition-to-transversion ratios were 1.83 and 1.88, respectively, with frequent substitutions including G/A and C/T transitions and C/G transversions. Functional annotation of SNP-containing transcripts showed strong homology with Zea mays and Setaria italica, highlighting conserved genomic regions. Gene Ontology analysis indicated enrichment in nucleotide binding, transport, and plastid-related functions. KEGG pathway classification revealed predominant roles in transferase (43%), hydrolase (28%), and oxidoreductase (15%) activities. From these, 20 SNP markers associated with putative disease resistance genes—such as transcription factors and pathogenesis-related proteins—were shortlisted. Validation across twelve diverse genotypes identified seven markers producing clear amplicons. Notably, three markers—ASP2 (beta-glucosidase 31-like), SNP14 (polyamine oxidase-like isoform x2), and SNP16 (SOBIR1-like receptor kinase)—were confirmed via sequencing to contain expected SNPs. These validated EST-derived SNP markers represent a valuable genomic resource for pearl millet, offering promising tools for marker-assisted selection (MAS) and the development of transcript-based genetic maps aimed at improving resistance to downy mildew. The findings contribute significantly to breeding strategies focused on enhancing disease resilience in this vital crop.

Postharvest deterioration of fruits remains a global challenge, leading to significant economic losses and reduced food security. Conventional synthetic packaging delays spoilage but raises environmental and health concerns. Edible coatings based on natural polymers offer a sustainable alternative. Gum Arabic, an exudate from Acacia species, possesses excellent film-forming capacity and is widely recognized for its safety and biodegradability. Its role can be further enhanced through incorporation of natural bioactive additives.

This study investigates gum Arabic coatings, applied alone and in combination with natural compounds such as essential oils, polyphenolic extracts, and waxes. Coating solutions were prepared at varying concentrations and applied to fruits by dipping or spraying. Physicochemical attributes (weight loss, firmness, color, and soluble solids), microbiological stability, and sensory qualities were monitored during storage. Encapsulation and hybrid polymer strategies were explored to stabilize volatile and sensitive additives.

Pure gum Arabic coatings reduced respiration rate, water loss, and microbial contamination, maintaining fruit firmness, color, and nutritional value. When enriched with essential oils, coatings displayed enhanced antimicrobial efficacy against common pathogens. Polyphenolic extracts provided antioxidant protection, delaying browning and oxidative damage, while wax incorporation improved resistance to moisture loss. These combined effects contributed to extended shelf life and better consumer acceptance.

Gum Arabic-based coatings represent a novel strategy, integrating both biostimulator—through delayed ripening and quality preservation—and biocontrol—through antimicrobial and antioxidant protection. Their multifunctionality highlights their potential as sustainable alternatives to synthetic packaging, supporting eco-friendly and efficient postharvest management systems.