Defensin c-thionin from Capsicum chinense improves butyrate cytotoxicity on human colon adenocarcinoma cell line Caco-2

BACKGROUND: Butyrate is a histone deacetylase inhibitor that induces apoptosis and inhibits cell proliferation of colorectal cancer cells. To improve its anticancer activity, butyrate has been evaluated mixed with drugs and different molecules. Plant antimicrobial peptides are attractive anticancer alternative molecules because they show selective cytotoxic activity against different cancer cell lines. In this work, we explore if the plant defensin c-thionin (Capsicum chinense) can improve butyrate activity on Caco-2 cell line and we also determined the mechanism of death activated. RESULTS: The combined treatment of c-thionin (3.5 mM) and butyrate (50 mM) showed higher cytotoxicity on Caco-2 cells with respect to single treatments. Also, the combined treatment reduced cell proliferation and exhibited a higher rate of apoptosis than single treatments. Combined treatment induced caspases 8 and 9 activation to an extent comparable with that of butyrate while c-thionin did not activate caspases. Additionally, reactive oxygen species generation preceded the onset of apoptosis, and superoxide anion production was higher in cells treated with the combined treatment. CONCLUSIONS: The c-thionin from Habanero chili pepper improved the butyrate cytotoxicity on Caco-2 cells. This effect occurred through apoptosis induction associated with reactive oxygen species production. Therefore, the combination of butyrate with cytotoxic antimicrobial peptides could be an attractive strategy for cancer therapy.

Gas exchanges and chlorophyll content in green pepper plants under bio-fertilization and times of application

This study aimed to determine the gas exchange and the chlorophyll content of green pepper plants under doses and times of application of bio-fertilizers based on manure and enriched organic compost. Two experiments were carried out simultaneously with applications of bio-fertilizers prepared from manure and enriched organic compost, one using cattle manure (CBF) and the other sheep manure (SBF). For these, four doses of biological fertilizers (100, 200, 300 and 400 dm³ ha-1), three application times (0, 30 and 60 days after transplantation - DAT) and absolute control, referring to the absence of fertilization, were used. treatments. were arranged in a randomized block design, totaling 13 treatments. The variables evaluated were: the relative chlorophyll a, b and total content; liquid photosynthesis (A); stomatal conductance (gs); internal CO2 concentration (Ci); instant carboxylation efficiency (iCE - A/Ci); transpiration rate (T); intrinsic water use efficiency (iWUE - A/gs); and water use efficiency (WUE - A/E). Gs, A and T, showed significant effect at 60 DAT with the application of SBF and Ci at 30 DAT with CBF. The dose of 400 dm³ ha-1 of SBF provided greater gas results, and the doses of 200 and 300 dm³ ha-1 of CBF promoted a greater Ci, greater stomatal conductance, greater liquid photosynthesis and better water use efficiency, which results in a greater plant fresh weight at the time of flowering induction.

Avaliação in vitro da atividade antimicrobiana dos extratos de Calendula officinalis, Capsicum annuum L e Hamamelis virginiana L. sobre cepas clínicas multirresistentes de Klebsiella pneumoniae e Pseudomonas aeruginosa / In vitro Evaluation of antimicrobial activity of extracts from Calendula officinalis, Capsicum annuum L and Hamamelis virginiana L. on multiresistant clinical straines of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa

O conhecimento dos efeitos dos extratos naturais de plantas vem cada vez mais se mostrando um campo promissor. Extratos de Calendula officinalis, Capsicum annuum e Hamamelis virginiana apresentam propriedades analgésicas, anti-inflamatórias, antioxidantes e potencial antimicrobiano que deve ser aprofundado. Assim, o objetivo foi avaliar ação antimicrobiana dos extratos glicólicos em culturas planctônicas e biofilmes de cepas padrão e clínicas de Klebsiella pneumoniae e Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Foi realizado o teste de microdiluição em caldo segundo Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, para determinação da Concentração Inibitória Mínima (CIM) e Concentração Microbicida Mínima (CMM) dos extratos. Foram realizados biofilmes monotípicos, nos tempos de contato de 5 min e 24 h, utilizando o teste de MTT. A CIM e CMM variaram de 1,56 a 50 mg/mL para todas as cepas avaliadas. C. annuum (50 mg/mL) apresentou redução de 0,25% entre 8,60% para cepa ATCC de P. aeruginosa (5 min) e em 24 h redução de 99,89% entre 99,99%, destacando-se os extratos de C. annuum (100 mg/mL) e os de C. officinalis. C. annuum (200 mg/mL) apresentou redução de 18% de K. pneumoniae (ATCC 4352). Em 24 h houve redução de 8,86%-75,74%, para o extrato de C. annuum (100 mg/mL). Os extratos apresentaram resultados mais satisfatórios quando expostos aos tratamentos de 24 horas. As cepas clínicas K1, K2 e K3 responderam ao tratamento de C. annuum (50 e 100 mg/mL) (p>0,05%). Para cepa clínica K4, os extratos de C. annuum (50 e 100 mg/mL) e C. officinalis (12,5 mg/mL) promoveram redução de viabilidade semelhante a clorexidina 2% (p>0,05%). O extrato de C. annuum (50 e 100 mg/mL), promoveu a redução de viabilidade de P1 e P2, enquanto o extrato de C. officinalis (25 e 50 mg/mL), reduziu P1 (p>0,05%). Para as cepas P3 e P4 o extrato de 50 e 100 mg/mL de C. annuum, apresentaram resultados semelhantes a clorexidina. Conclui-se que todos os extratos apresentaram ação antimicrobiana em cultura planctônica, no entanto, o extrato de C. annuum foi o que apresentou importante ação antibiofilme (24 h) sobre cepas clínicas multirresistentes de K. pneumoniae e P. aeruginosa, podendo ser considerado um potencial agente antimicrobiano.

Empirical knowledge of natural plant extracts is increasingly proving to be a promising field. Extracts of Calendula officinalis, Capsicum annuum and Hamamelis virginiana have analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial potential that should be further developed. This research objective was to evaluate the antimicrobial action of glycolic extracts in planktonic cultures and biofilms of standard and clinical strains of Klebsiella pneumoniae and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. The broth microdilution test was performed according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute, to determine the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and Minimum Microbicide Concentration (MMC) of the extracts. Tests were performed on monotypic biofilms, at contact times of 5 min and 24 h, using the MTT test. The MIC and CMM of the extracts ranged from 1.56 to 50 mg/mL for all strains evaluated. C. annuum (50 mg/mL) showed a reduction of 0.25% between 8.60% for the ATCC strain of P. aeruginosa (5 min) and in 24 h a reduction of 99.89% between 99.99%, highlighting extracts from C. annuum (100 mg/mL) and from C. officinalis. C. annuum (200 mg/mL) showed an 18% reduction in K. pneumoniae (ATCC 4352). In 24 h there was a reduction of 8.86% between 75.74% for the extract of C. annuum (100 mg/mL). The extracts showed more satisfactory results when exposed to 24-hour treatments. Clinical strains K1, K2 and K3 responded to the treatment of C. annuum (50 and 100 mg/mL) (p>0.05%). For clinical strain K4, extracts of C. annuum (50 and 100 mg/mL) and C. officinalis (12.5 mg/mL) promoted a reduction in viability similar to chlorhexidine 2% (p>0.05%). The extract of C. annuum (50 and 100 mg/mL), reduced the viability of P1 and P2, while the extract of C. officinalis (25 and 50 mg/mL), reduced P1 (p>0.05% ). For strains P3 and P4, the extract of 50 and 100 mg/mL of C. annuum showed similar results to chlorhexidine. It is concluded that all extracts showed antimicrobial action in planktonic cultures, however, the extract of C. annuum was the one that showed an important antibiofilm action (24 h) on multiresistant clinical strains of K. pneumoniae and P. aeruginosa and can be considered a potential antimicrobial agent

Maturation and Resting of Sweet Pepper Fruits on Physiological Quality and Biochemical Response of Seeds

Abstract The post-harvest resting of the fruits can improve seed physiological quality ,once it allows the seed to complete the maturation process, so it has been a common practice in vegetable seed companies, however, there are a few studies of this technique in sweet pepper. The objective of this research was to evaluate physiological quality, and biochemical response of sweet's peppers in regarding on the stage of maturation and the post-harvest rest of the fruits. The experimental was conducted in a 4x2 factorial, being the first factor comprised four maturation stages (35, 50, 65 and 80 days after anthesis) and, the second the post-harvest management of fruits, with and without a temporary storage of seven days. Seeds were evaluated for water content, weight of thousand seeds, germination, vigor, superoxide dismutase, catalase and peroxidase activities, lipid peroxidation and hydrogen peroxide content. Fruit harvest time indicated is 80 days after anthesis (fruits 100% yellow) when seeds showed maximum germination and vigor. The post-harvest resting of the fruits was beneficial to seed physiological quality, weight of one thousand seeds and to reduce hydrogen peroxide content. Seeds of higher physiological quality showed lower superoxide dismutase and catalase enzyme activity, so they can be used as a marker of physiological quality in sweet pepper seeds.

Capsicum anum L. Derived Phytochemicals against Haemophilus influenzae Causing Bronchitis

Phytochemicals from Capsicum anum L. plant extract are traditionally used to cure bronchitis. Bronchitis is caused by Haemophilus influenzae. Molecular docking method applied using “Biovia Discovery Studio”. “High positive values of -CDOCKER energy and -CDOCKER interaction energy” suggested that myrcetin and quercetin can effectively deactivate the Palmitoyl-CoA hydrolase enzyme thereby interrupting the life cycle of aemophilus influenza

Capsicum Derived Phytochemicals against Shikimate Dehydrogenase of Haemophilus influenza causing Bronchitis

Phytochemicals from Capsicum plant extract are traditionally used to cure Bronchitis. It is caused by Haemophilus influenzae. Molecular docking method applied using “Biovia Discovery Studio”. “High positive values of -CDOCKER energy and -CDOCKER interaction energy” suggested that Apigenin can effectively deactivate the Shikimate dehydrogenase enzyme thereby interrupting the life cycle of the organism

Assessment of genetic variability of chilli in Western Himalayan Region

Aim: The present study was conducted with the aim to collect and evaluate the available genetic diversity of chilli (Capsicum annuum L.) in order to identify promising accessions for cultivation as well as use in crop improvement. Methodology: A total 78 accessions of chilli were collected from Western himalayan region, i.e., Kashmir valley of India. Collected germplasm was evaluated at one location for fifteen quantitative traits of horticultural importance. Results: With ample diversity in these traits, a high coefficient of variation was found. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that first five principal components possessed eigen value > 1, cumulatively contributed > 65.2 percent of total variability. All the genotypes were grouped into five clusters showing non parallelism between geographic and genetic diversity. Interpretation: The genotypes grouped in different clusters may be utilized for hybridization programme to produce more heterotic recombinants.

Variability in Colletotrichum infecting chilli plants of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, India

Aim: The aim of the present study was to understand the basic pathogen dynamics of Colletotrichum species infecting chilli crop in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands for disease management practices. Methodology: Twenty fungal isolates associated with chilli (Capsicum annuum) anthracnose disease from diverse locations of tropical Andaman, India were characterized using polyphasic approaches. Results: Upon morphological studies, out of twenty isolates, fourteen isolates were found chromogenic and eleven showed concentric ring pattern of mycelial growth. Based on conidial morphology, the isolates were grouped into two species (C. capsici and C. gloesporioides). The pathogenicity tests on three chilli varieties revealed difference in the pathogenic potential among the collected isolates. The sequence analysis using internal transcriber spacer (ITS) region revealed the presence of two other species C. siamense and C. plurivorum, in addition to C. gloesporioides and C. capsici. Interpretation: The present study revealed the presence of high level of genetic and pathogenic variability among the Colletotrichum isolates infecting chilli in Andaman Islands.

Mejoramiento de la extracción de carotenoides y capsaicinoides del ají nativo (Capsicum baccatum), asistido con enzimas celulolíticas

Se realizó la producción de celulasas de Aspergillus niger ATCC 10864 mediante fermentación en biopelículas (FB). Los extractos de celulasas se usaron para hidrolizar la celulosa del fruto de Capsicum baccatum "ají escabeche", para ello los frutos de ají fueron deshidratados y molidos a un tamaño de partícula menor a 0.425 mm. Luego se mezcló ají seco: celulasas y se hidrolizó en condiciones de agitación, tiempo y temperatura controlada. Se filtró el medio y se separó el sobrenadante de la torta de ají hidrolizado, este último se secó a 10% de humedad y se lixivió con una mezcla de hexano:acetona:etanol para extraer los carotenoides y capsaicinoides, los cuales fueron cuantificados por HPLC. El rendimiento de oleorresina extraída era cinco veces mayor comparado al método convencional; así mismo en los tratamientos T2 y T5, se logró mayor extracción de carotenoides y capsaicinoides totales, respectivamente, comparado a los otros tratamientos. La acción hidrolítica de las celulasas, sobre las estructuras moleculares de la celulosa del fruto ají escabeche, favorecieron mayor liberación de los carotenoides y capsaicinoides totales comparado a los métodos convencionales.

The production of cellulases of Aspergillus niger ATCC 10864 was carried out by fermentation in biofilms (FB). The extracts of cellulases were used to hydrolyze the cellulose of Capsicum baccatum "escabeche chili" fruit, for this the chili fruits were dehydrated and ground to a particle size < 0.045 mm. Then dry chili: cellulase was mixed and hydrolyzed under conditions of agitation, controlled time and temperature. The medium was filtered and the supernatant of the hydrolyzed chili cake was separated, the latter was dried at 10% humidity and leached with a mixture of hexane:acetone:ethanol to extract the carotenoids and capsaicinoids, which were quantified by HPLC. The extraction yield of oleoresin was five times higher compared to the conventional method; likewise in the T8 and T5 treatments, greater extraction of carotenoids and total capsaicinoids was achieved compared to the other treatments. The hydrolytic action of the cellulases, on the molecular structures of the cellulose of the red drop chili fruit, favored greater release of the carotenoids and total capsaicinoids compared to conventional methods.

Production of biquinho pepper in different growing seasons characterized by the logistic model and its critical points / Produção de pimenta biquinho em diferentes épocas de cultivo caracterizadas pelo modelo logístico e seus pontos críticos

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to characterize the production of biquinho pepper through the interpretation of parameter estimates from the logistic model and its critical points obtained by the partial derivatives of the function, and to indicate the best cultivar and growing season for subtropical climate sites. For this, a 2x3 factorial experiment was conducted with two cultivars of biquinho pepper (BRS Moema and Airetama biquinho) in three growing seasons (E1: October 2015, E2: November 2015, E3: January 2016). The logistic non-linear model for fruit mass was specified as a function of the accumulated thermal sum, and the critical points were calculated through the partial derivatives of the model, in order to characterize the productive performance of the crop by the biological interpretation of the estimates of the three set parameters. In E3, temperatures close to 0 ºC during the experiment were lethal to the plants, and a linear regression model was used in this case. The production of the cultivars in E1 and E2 were well characterized by the estimated logistic models, and the most productive cultivar was Airetama biquinho in all evaluated seasons. This cultivar also presented higher concentration of production. The two cultivars did not differ significantly with regards to productive precocity. For E3, it was not possible to interpret the parameters in the same way as for E1 and E2, since the use of the linear model did not allow the same interpretations performed for the nonlinear model, reaffirming its applicability horticultural crops of multiple harvests.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar a produção de pimenta biquinho através da interpretação dos parâmetros do modelo Logístico e seus pontos críticos obtidos pelas derivadas parciais da função, bem como indicar qual a melhor cultivar e a melhor época de cultivo para locais de clima subtropical. Conduziu-se um experimento em esquema fatorial 2x3 sendo duas cultivares de pimenta biquinho (BRS Moema e Airetama biquinho), em três épocas de cultivo (E1: outubro de 2015, E2: 01 de novembro 2015 e E3: janeiro de 2016). Ajustou-se o modelo logístico para massa de frutos em função da soma térmica acumulada, e calculou-se os pontos críticos através das derivadas parciais do modelo com a finalidade de caracterizar o desempenho produtivo da cultura através da interpretação biológica destes parâmetros. Temperaturas próximas a 0 ºC durante o experimento foram letais às plantas, e por isso, para a época 3, ajustou-se um modelo de regressão linear. A interpretação dos parâmetros do modelo Logístico e seus pontos críticos permitiram que a produção das cultivares nas épocas 1 e 2 fossem caracterizadas, sendo que a cultivar mais produtiva é Airetama biquinho em todas as épocas de transplante. Essa cultivar também apresenta maior concentração de produção no período. Quanto a precocidade produtiva as duas cultivares não diferiram significativamente. Sobre a época 3, não foi possível interpretar da mesma forma, pois o ajuste do modelo linear não permite as mesmas interpretações realizadas para o modelo não linear, reafirmando a sua aplicabilidade em cultura olerícolas de múltiplas colheitas.

Capsaicin: Current Understanding in Therapeutic Effects, Drug Interaction, and Bioavailability

@#Capsaicin (N-vanillyl-8-methyl-6-(E)-none amide) is a unique and significant compound from group component of capsaicinoids. This component can only be found in the plants from the Capsicum genus. It is the primary source of pungency or spiciness of chilli pepper. Traditionally, capsaicin has been used to alleviate pain. Recently, some studies showed significant therapeutic effects of capsaicin in many diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cancer and obesity. Determination of the most effective dosage used and underlying working mechanism of capsaicin are still in progress. Currently, capsaicin research, especially in drug interaction and encapsulation technologies, has not been reviewed. We aim to report current experimental evidence of capsaicin research focusing on its pharmacological properties, interaction with drugs and ways to improve the bioavailability of capsaicin. It is essential to provide a general orientation for further investigation that can discover more potency of capsaicin usage as a medicinal supplement to treat various diseases.

Hydrogel applications for yield improvement of capsicum with deficit irrigation at cold desert Ladakh region

Aim: The study aimed to evaluate the effects of hydrogel application on growth, physiological responses and yield of capsicum under high altitude cold desert conditions with deficit irrigation of Ladakh region. Methodology: Field experiment was conducted with five levels of hydrogel treatment (viz. 0, 5, 10, 15 and 20 kg ha-1) at cold desert Ladakh region with two irrigation intervals (7 and 11 days) during 2014-15 cropping season. Plant growth characters, root morphology, physiological parameters and capsicum yield were analyzed according to standard methods during the experiments. Results: Hydrogel application in deficit irrigation improved physiological parameters viz. leaf chlorophyll content, relative water content, membrane stability index and significant reduction in electrolyte leakage in capsicum plant. Significant improvement in root morphology was also recorded when hydrogel was applied @ 15 and 20 kg ha-1. Improvement of yield attributing characters as influenced by hydrogel application @ 15 and 20 kg ha-1 resulted in significant increase in capsicum yield with reduced water requirement. Interpretation: Hydrogel has potential for growth of capsicum crop through improved root morphology and physiology of plant in deficit irrigation under arid and semi-arid regions where availability of water for irrigation is scarce or average rainfall is quite low.

Evaluation of the Bio-insecticidal Effects of Three Extracts on the Larvae of the Green Lacewing Chrysoperla carnea (Stephen) under the Laboratory Conditions

Aims: To control aphids without the misdeeds of the chemical insecticides. To make sure of the harmlessness of three bio-aphicides. Study Design: Experimental device in complete random block with three replications. Place and Duration of Study: Laboratory of bio-insecticidal entomology, Regional Center of Agricultural Research of Kenitra, INRA- Morocco and the Biodiversity and Natural Resources Laboratory of Sciences Faculty, Ibn Tofail kenitra, morocco. The experiments were done between March and December 2017. Methodology: The present study highlighted the lethal and sublethal effects of three bio-aphicides plants collected from the Gharb region of morocco: Capsicum frutescens, Nerium oleander and Melia azedarach, tested in five concentrations of their plant material against Chrysoperla carnea larvaes. Adding to these concentrations, two controls were used: one without any treatment (blanc) and another treated with a chemical insecticide (Deltamethrine). Results: The obtained results indicated that the aqueous extract of the Nerium oleander was harmful to the larvae of the Chrysoperla carnea. Indeed, the insecticidal activity of different concentrations increased with the exposure time, reaching about 10; 16 and 20% of mortality, respectively by applying 10; 15 and 20 g/20 ml after three days of exposure. However, low concentrations of 2 and 5 g/20 ml caused no effect whatever the duration of exposure. Also, the corrected mortality rate caused by the aqueous extract of Nerium oleander, at the concentrations tested is much lower than that caused by the insecticide Deltamethrin. Conclusion: Nerium oleander plant is harmful to the larvae of the Chrysoperla carnea at concentrations of 10; 16 and 20%. At these concentrations, the aqueous extracts of hot pepper and melia are not haurmful to the larvae of the green lacewing, so they can be recommended as a biological insecticide. Moreover, other works on these two extracts are outstanding in our laboratory.

Cloning and molecular characterization of a putative habanero pepper SERK1 cDNA expressed during somatic and zygotic embryogenesis

Background: Plant gene homologs that control cell differentiation can be used as biotechnological tools to study the in vitro cell proliferation competence of tissue culture-recalcitrant species such as peppers. It has been demonstrated that SERK1 homologs enhance embryogenic competence when overexpressed in transformed tissues; therefore, cloning of a pepper SERK1 homolog was performed to further evaluate its biotechnological potential. Results: A Capsicum chinense SERK full-length cDNA (CchSERK1) was cloned and characterized at the molecular level. Its deduced amino acid sequence exhibits high identity with sequences annotated as SERK1 and predicted-SERK2 homologs in the genomes of the Capsicum annuum CM-334 and Zunla-1 varieties, respectively, and with SERK1 homologs from members of the Solanaceae family. Transcription of CchSERK1 in plant tissues, measured by quantitative RT-PCR, was higher in stems, flowers, and roots but lower in leaves and floral primordia. During seed development, CchSERK1 was transcribed in all zygotic stages, with higher expression at 14 days post anthesis. During somatic embryogenesis, CchSERK1 was transcribed at all differentiation stages, with a high increment in the heart stage and lower levels at the torpedo/cotyledonal stages. Conclusion: DNA sequence alignments and gene expression patterns suggest that CchSERK1 is the C. chinense SERK1 homolog. Significant levels of CchSERK1 transcripts were found in tissues with cell differentiation activities such as vascular axes and during the development of zygotic and somatic embryos. These results suggest that CchSERK1 might have regulatory functions in cell differentiation and could be used as a biotechnological tool to study the recalcitrance of peppers to proliferate in vitro.

Translation initiation codon (ATG) or SCoT markers-based polymorphism study within and across various Capsicum accessions: insight from their amplification, cross-transferability and genetic diversity

Being an economical and nutritional crop, Capsicum appeases people’s peppery taste and is found to bewidely distributed all over the world having vast diversity. In the present study, genetic polymorphism, cross transferability (CT) and genetic diversity were examined among the 54 different accessions of Capsicum species including 49 of Capsicum annuum, three of C. baccatum and two of C. frutescens, using a set of 36 start codon targeted (SCoT) primers. Of the total, 35 SCoT markers showed successful amplification profile among chilli germplasms and an average primer polymorphism was reported as 81.52% which ranged from 50% (SCoT-6) to 100% (SCoT-11). A total of 365 amplicons were obtained with an average of 10.43 bands per primer and the length of the bands ranged from 150 bp to 1.2 kb. Further, polymorphic information content value of SCoT markers ranged from 0.42 (for SCoT-25) to 0.86 (SCoT-27) with an average of 0.78. The average value of CT of SCoT markers was 44.08% ranged from 14.25% to 57.26% among different chilli accessions. A dendrogram was constructed and established genetic relationship among 54 capsicum species, with the help of translation initiation codon polymorphisms or SCoT primer amplification. This study suggests the effectiveness of SCoT marker system for characterizing and assessing genetic diversity of Capsicum germplasm, which can be used for evolutionary studies and to identify agronomically important traits.

Heavy Metals and 2, 4-Dinitrophenol Impact on Some Physiological and Biochemical Parameters in Capsicum Species

Abstract The accumulation of heavy metals and of pesticides in the soil have a negative impact on Capsicum chinense var. Aji Mochero and Capsicum baccatum var. pendulum Bishop's Crown species, the present work highlighting the exerted influence on the superoxid-dismutase activity, catalase and peroxidase - as enzymes implied in the removal of H2O2, of O2- radical and of ion HO- that have devastating effects on the vegetable cell, on the Krebs cycle's dehydrogenases - as main way to produce energy, respectively of the chlorophyll a, b and carotenes - as photoassimilatory pigments, but also as biologic antioxidants.

Advanced lines of Jalapeño pepper with potential for mechanical harvesting / Linhagens avançadas de pimenta Jalapeño com potencial para a colheita mecanizada

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to evaluate the plant and fruit characteristics in advanced lines of Jalapeño pepper for mechanical harvesting. Thus, two experiments were carried out in the field. Experiment I (2015) was conducted as a randomized block design (three replications and eight plants per plot) and Experiment II (2016) in a completely randomized design (five replications and ten plants per plot). In 2015, lines CNPH 30,112, CNPH 30,118, CNPH 30,147, CNPH 30,159, CNPH 30,183, and CNPH 30,245 were evaluated, together with the control 'BRS Sarakura'. Significant differences were detected for fruit and plant characteristics (P<0.05). Lines CNPH 30,118, CNPH 30,147, CNPH 30,159, and CNPH 30,245 were selected based on plant height and height of the first bifurcation, earliness, and yield. They were evaluated again in 2016, together with 'BRS Sarakura' and 'Jalapeño Plus F1' as controls. In 2016, CNPH 30,159 and CNPH 30,118 were selected due to their potential for mechanical harvesting. They were evaluated for height of the first bifurcation (>10cm), large fruits (11 cm x 4 cm), high pulp firmness (11 N), wall thickness (about 5mm), and content of capsaicinoid substances (>50,000 SHU). Selected lines are undergoing additional field evaluation for mechanical harvesting with the Etgar Moses 1010 pepper harvester.

RESUMO: O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar as características de planta e fruto em linhagens avançadas de pimenta do tipo Jalapeño visando à colheita mecanizada. Assim, foram feitos dois experimentos em campo. O Experimento I (2015) foi conduzido em delineamento de blocos casualizados (três repetições e oito plantas por parcela) e o Experimento II (2016) em delineamento inteiramente casualizado (cinco repetições e dez plantas por parcela). Em 2015, foram avaliadas as linhagens CNPH 30,112, CNPH 30,118, CNPH 30,147, CNPH 30,159, CNPH 30,183 e CNPH 30,245, juntamente com o controle 'BRS Sarakura'. Foram detectadas diferenças significativas para as características de planta e fruto (P<0,05). As linhagens CNPH 30,118, CNPH 30,147, CNPH 30,159 e CNPH 30,245 foram selecionadas com base nas alturas da planta e da primeira bifurcação, precocidade e rendimento. Elas foram novamente avaliadas em 2016, juntamente com os controles 'BRS Sarakura' e 'Jalapeño Plus F1'. Em 2016, as linhagens CNPH 30,159 e CNPH 30,118 foram selecionadas com potencial para a colheita mecanizada. Elas foram avaliadas para altura da primeira bifurcação (>10cm), frutos grandes (11 cm x 4cm), polpa de elevada firmeza (11 N), espessura de parede (5mm) e teor de substâncias capsaicinóides (>50.000 SHU). As linhagens selecionadas estão passando por avaliação adicional em campo para colheita mecânica com a colhedora de pimentas Etgar Moses 1010.

Estimation of genetic merit of diallel hybrids of sweet pepper by mixed models / Estimação do mérito genético de híbridos dialélicos de pimentão sob cultivo hidropônico via modelos mistos

ABSTRACT: The use of mixed models for evaluating diallel crosses is a highly timely option to the reliable prediction of progeny genetic values. In the sweet pepper crop, hybrids are commercially explored on a large scale, mainly because of their characteristics of economic importance. This study aimed to assess the potential of hybrids obtained from a partial diallel among five sweet pepper lines developed for the hydroponic cultivation system and two simple hybrids, by applying mixed models. It was performed crosses in the partial diallel scheme among the (L1B, L6, L7, L18, and L19) lines and the simple hybrids 'Valdor' and 'Atlantis'. Plants were cultivated in hydroponic system with substrate and irrigated three times a day using nutrient solution. On the basis of mixed models, the following traits were assessed: mean fruit diameter (FD), mean fruit length (FL), mean fruit number per plant (FNP), mean fruit mass (FM), early yield (EYIELD), and mean fruit mass per plant (FMP). The L6 line was the one that showed the highest estimate of general combination capacity for FMP, FM, and EYIELD, proving to be promising for recommendation. The hybrid that provided the best specific combining ability for FD, FM, FMP, and EYIELD was L6 x 'Valdor'. Triple hybrids were efficient to maximize yield for the traits of interest by the use of the mixed model.

RESUMO: A utilização de modelos mistos na avaliação de cruzamentos dialélicos é uma opção altamente oportuna para a fidedigna predição dos valores genéticos das progênies. Na cultura do pimentão, os híbridos são largamente explorados comercialmente, principalmente por suas características de importância econômica. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o potencial de híbridos resultantes de um dialelo parcial entre cinco linhagens de pimentão desenvolvidas para o sistema de cultivo hidropônico e dois híbridos simples, utilizando modelos mistos. Foram realizados cruzamentos no esquema de dialelo parcial entre as linhagens (L1B, L6, L7, L18 e L19) e os híbridos simples 'Valdor' e 'Atlantis'. As plantas foram cultivadas em sistema hidropônico com substrato e irrigadas três vezes ao dia com solução nutritiva. Com base em modelos mistos, foram avaliadas as características: diâmetro médio de frutos (DF); comprimento médio de frutos (CF); número médio de frutos por planta (NFP); massa média de frutos (MMF); produção precoce (PP) e massa média de frutos por planta (MFP). A linhagem L6 foi a que expressou maior estimativa de capacidade geral de combinação para MFP, MMF e PP, revelando-se promissora para recomendação. O híbrido triplo que apresentou melhor capacidade específica de combinação para DF, MMF, MFP e PP, foi L6 x 'Valdor'. Os híbridos triplos foram eficientes para incrementar a produtividade para as características de interesse com a aplicação da modelagem mista.

Establishment of HPLC Fingerprint ，Cluster Analysis and Principal Component Analysis of Capsicum annuum / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE： To establish HPLC fingerprint of Capsicum annuum，and to conduct cluster analysis and principal component analysis. METHODS： HPLC method was adopted. The determination was performed on Agilent C18 column with mobile phase consisted of methanol-0.2％ phosphoric acid solution （gradient elution） at the flow rate of 1.0 mL/min. The detection wavelength was set at 235 nm， and column temperature was 30 ℃. The sample size was 15 μL. Using capsaicin peak as reference， HPLC fingerprints of 15 batches of C. annuum from different production areas were determined. The similarity evaluation of common peaks was evaluated by using the TCM Chromatographic Fingerprint Similarity Evaluation System （2004 A edition） to confirm common peaks. Cluster analysis and principal component analysis were performed by using SPSS 19.0 software. RESULTS： The similarities were more than 0.95 in HPLC chromatograms of 15 batches of C. annuum. There were 12 common peaks. Its HPLC fingerprint was in good agreement with that of control fingerprint. 15 batches can be divided into three sub-categories as S1， S3-S5， S7， S9-S13 sub-categorie， S2， S14， S15 sub-categorie and S6， S8 sub-categorie. Through the principal component analysis， the cumulative contribution rate of 4 main component factors was 94.093， and comprehensive score of S5  was the highest with the best quality. CONCLUSIONS： Established HPLC fingerprints， cluster analysis and principal component analysis results can provide reference for the quality control of C. annuum.

Morphological Characteristics of Some Pepper Genotypes (Capsicum annuum L.) Grown in Conventional and Organic Agricultural Systems: Comparative Analysis

Long-term research in pepper organic production are scarce in Republic of Macedonia. Plant and fruit morphological traits of important pepper varieties organically produced were compared to pepper produced in conventional systems. Conceivably, this is the first morphological traits comparative study of locally important pepper genotypes (Capsicum annuum L.) in Republic of Macedonia in organic and conventional open-field production. The aim of the research is to determine the differences in pepper morphological traits when produced organically in comparison to conventional production. Eight plants and fruits were used for morphological traits determination of plant and fruit in six locally important pepper genotypes (Strumicka Kapija, Strumicka Vezena, Piran, Zupska Rana, Duga Bela and Kurtovska Kapija) grown in an organic and conventional production system. The traits number or branches per plant, fruit width and fruit index were significantly affected by the production manner resulting in less branches per plant, lower fruit width and lower fruit index in organic production. The traits fruit weight, pericarp thickness and fruit flesh percentage, which are the most important for pepper crop yield and utilisation of pepper fruits were not significantly affected by the production practice. Organic production has limited influence on pepper plant and fruit traits, but not in a manner to decrease the production, which generally is the main fear of conversion from conventional to organic production in vegetables. Appropriate selection of pepper varieties with application of suitable cultivation and management practices can contribute to successful organic production resulting in high quality pepper production.