With the advent of human civilization and anthropogenic activities in the shade of urbanization and global climate change, plants are exposed to a complex set of abiotic stresses. These stresses affect plants’ growth, development, and yield and cause enormous crop losses worldwide. In this alarming scenario of global climate conditions, plants respond to such stresses through a highly balanced and finely tuned interaction between signaling molecules. The abiotic stresses initiate the quick release of reactive oxygen species (ROS) as toxic by-products of altered aerobic metabolism during different stress conditions at the cellular level. ROS includes both free oxygen radicals {superoxide (O2•−) and hydroxyl (OH−)} as well as non-radicals [hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and singlet oxygen (1O2)]. ROS can be generated and scavenged in different cell organelles and cytoplasm depending on the type of stimulus. At high concentrations, ROS cause lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, protein oxidation, and necrosis, but at low to moderate concentrations, they play a crucial role as secondary messengers in intracellular signaling cascades. Because of their concentration-dependent dual role, a huge number of molecules tightly control the level of ROS in cells. The plants have evolved antioxidants and scavenging machinery equipped with different enzymes to maintain the equilibrium between the production and detoxification of ROS generated during stress. In this present article, we have focused on current insights on generation and scavenging of ROS during abiotic stresses. Moreover, the article will act as a knowledge base for new and pivotal studies on ROS generation and scavenging.
• Single-cell lipidomics offers deep insights into roles of lipids in cell function and clinical progression of disease. • Techniques in Advanced mass spectrometry like Orbitrap and FT-ICR enable ultra-sensitive lipid profiling at the single-cell level. • Spatial lipid heterogeneity within tissues can be studied using Mass spectrometry imaging (MALDI-MSI, SIMS) . • Alterations in lipids influence developmental processes, stem cell dynamics, and disease mechanisms. • Approaches combining proteomics and genomics with lipidomics are important for unravelling lipid-mediated regulation.
Light stress poses a significant threat to rice (Oryza sativa), one of the world’s most vital food crops, impacting its growth and yield. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as key regulators in plants, modulating gene expression in response to various environmental stresses, including fluctuations in light conditions. This review delves into the mechanisms by which miRNAs enhance light stress resilience in rice, focusing on their roles in post-transcriptional gene regulation. Light stress, characterized by changes in light intensity and quality, leads to oxidative damage and reduced photosynthetic efficiency, challenging rice productivity. We reviewed the intricate processes of miRNA biogenesis and regulation during light stress, highlighting specific miRNAs that play pivotal roles in light signaling pathways. Additionally, we explored the interaction between miRNAs and transcription factors (TFs), which orchestrate plant responses to light stress, as well as the crosstalk between miRNAs and hormonal pathways that facilitate adaptive responses. By understanding these regulatory networks, we aim to inform strategies for improving light stress tolerance in rice through genetic and breeding approaches. Ultimately, this review contributes valuable insights into the potential of miRNAs as targets for enhancing crop resilience, supporting sustainable agricultural practices and food security in the face of changing environmental conditions.
9 October 2025 in Bulletin of the National Research Centre
Background: Cancer treatments often pose significant risks to fertility, particularly among women diagnosed during their reproductive years. In vitro fertilization (IVF) and related assisted reproductive techniques have become essential strategies for fertility preservation in these patients. However, concerns persist regarding the potential cancer risks associated with fertility treatments, particularly hormonal stimulation, necessitating a balanced evaluation of the benefits and potential harms. Results: This review evaluates current IVF-based fertility preservation techniques, their efficacy, safety, and implications for cancer patients. Key fertility preservation strategies discussed include ovarian transposition, embryo cryopreservation, controlled ovarian stimulation protocols for cancer patients, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation. These methods allow preservation of reproductive potential without substantially delaying essential cancer therapies. Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence-driven embryo selection and personalized stimulation protocols are highlighted for their potential to enhance reproductive outcomes and reduce hormonal exposure, thereby mitigating theoretical risks associated with fertility medications. Nonetheless, the relationship between fertility treatments and cancer remains complex. While most extensive cohort studies suggest minimal or no significant increase in breast cancer risk following fertility treatment, certain subgroups, including women undergoing multiple hormonal stimulation cycles or those genetically predisposed to cancer, may experience slightly elevated risks. Additionally, there is growing evidence indicating an increased risk of specific cancers, particularly paediatric hepatic tumours, among children conceived through IVF procedures. These findings underscore the importance of ongoing research and cautious interpretation of fertility treatment-associated risks. Conclusion: IVF-based fertility preservation strategies offer critical reproductive options for women undergoing cancer treatment. Although generally safe, the nuanced relationship between fertility treatments and cancer risks emphasizes the importance of personalized, evidence-based approaches. Continued research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and comprehensive patient counselling are essential to optimize reproductive outcomes and safeguard the long-term health of cancer survivors and their offspring. Graphical