Phylogenomic challenges in polyploid-rich lineages: Insights from paralog processing and reticulation methods using the complex genus Packera (Asteraceae: Senecioneae)
Authors: Moore-Pollard, E. R., Ellestad, P., Mandel, J.
The study examined how polyploidy, hybridization, and incomplete lineage sorting affect phylogenetic reconstructions in the genus Packera, evaluating several published paralog‑processing pipelines. Results showed that the choice of orthology and paralog handling methods markedly altered tree topology, time‑calibrated phylogenies, biogeographic histories, and detection of ancient reticulation, underscoring the need for careful methodological selection alongside comprehensive taxon sampling.
Clathrin-coated vesicles are targeted for selective autophagy during osmotic stress.
Authors: dragwidge, j., Buridan, M., Kraus, J., Kosuth, T., Chambaud, C., Brocard, L., Yperman, K., Mylle, E., Vandorpe, M., Eeckhout, D., De Jaeger, G., Pleskot, R., Bernard, A., Van Damme, D.
The study identifies an autophagy pathway that degrades plasma membrane-derived clathrin-coated vesicles (CCVs) during hyperosmotic stress, helping maintain membrane tension as cell volume decreases. Using live imaging and correlative microscopy, the authors show that the TPLATE complex subunits AtEH1/Pan1 and AtEH2/Pan1 act as selective autophagy receptors by directly binding ATG8, thereby removing excess membrane under drought or salt conditions.
The study identified a major QTL (qDTH3) on chromosome 3 responsible for a 7‑10‑day earlier heading phenotype in the rice line SM93, using QTL‑seq, KASP genotyping, association mapping, and transcriptomic analysis to fine‑map the locus to a 2.53 Mb region and pinpoint candidate genes. SNP markers linked to these genes were proposed as tools for breeding early‑maturing, climate‑resilient rice varieties.
The study demonstrates that the GIGANTEA (GI) protein is a core component of the wheat circadian clock, required for robust oscillations in chlorophyll fluorescence and clock gene expression. Loss of functional GI leads to delayed heading under both long and short photoperiods, indicating a photoperiod‑1‑dependent pathway distinct from Arabidopsis. These findings provide insight into photoperiodic regulation of flowering in wheat, informing breeding strategies for high‑yield cultivars.