subtilis was associated with a decrease in plant P content, nodulation and the subsequent plant growth. Such a competitive effect of B. subtilis BGJ398 ic50 on P acquisition from phytate in symbiotic nitrogen fixation might be circumvented if the rate of inoculation were reasoned in order to avoid the inhibition of nodulation by excess

B. subtilis proliferation. It is concluded that B. subtilis BPP gene is expressed in P. vulgaris rhizosphere.”
“Background: We have recently found that Wnt-5a regulates the synaptic structure and function in hippocampal neurons. This ligand is expressed in the hippocampus, stimulates dendritic spine morphogenesis and increases glutamatergic neurotransmission. Moreover, we have also shown that Wnt-5a induces the clustering of PSD-95. Objective: To explore the role of Wnt-5a in the formation of synaptic contacts. Methods: Primary rat hippocampal neurons were exposed to a formylated hexapeptide (Foxy-5) derived from the sequence of Wnt-5a to study synapse formation and function. Results: In short-term experiments, Wnt-5a only induced the clustering of PSD-95 but had no effect on the density of presynaptic puncta, while in long-term

experiments, it induced both pre- and postsynaptic protein clustering and the number of synaptic contacts, in agreement with electrophysiological studies. In long-term experiments, selleck chemicals Foxy-5 increased miniature excitatory postsynaptic current amplitude and frequency. Conclusion: Our findings indicate that Wnt-5a

induces synapse formation in hippocampal neurons. In addition, we discuss recent findings indicating a neuroprotective action of Wnt-5a against A beta neurotoxicity. Copyright (C) 2012 S. Karger AG, Basel”
“The amino acid sequence of APX4 is similar to other ascorbate peroxidases (APXs), a group of proteins that protect plants from oxidative damage by transferring electrons from ascorbate to detoxify peroxides. In this study, we characterized two apx4 mutant alleles. Selleck Small molecule library Translational fusions with GFP indicated APX4 localizes to chloroplasts. Both apx4 mutant alleles formed chlorotic cotyledons with significantly reduced chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b and lutein. Given the homology of APX to ROS-scavenging proteins, this result is consistent with APX4 protecting seedling photosystems from oxidation. The growth of apx4 seedlings was stunted early in seedling development. In addition, APX4 altered seed quality by affecting seed coat formation. While apx4 seed development appeared normal, the seed coat was darker and more permeable than the wild type. In addition, accelerated aging tests showed that apx4 seeds were more sensitive to environmental stress than the wild-type seeds. If APX4 affects seed pigment biosynthesis or reduction, the seed coat color and permeability phenotypes are explained. apx4 mutants had cotyledon chlorosis, increased H2O2 accumulation, and reduced soluble APX activity in seedlings.