Abstract Dry leaves and twigs of yerba mate are widely infusion-consumed in southern Southamerica. Endemic and adapted to the Atlantic Forest, its extensive full-sun monoculture links to diverse biotic (pest, pathogens) and abiotic stresses (solar radiation, drought), impacting its productivity, ecology and socioeconomic niche. We focused in comprehensively characterize the DNAJ gene family in yerba mate to predict its possible roles on development and diverse stress responses to further assist crop manage. Our results suggest that yerba mate DNAJ proteins account 140 diverse members of six structural types displaying potential variable roles in protein homeostasis control. We were able to classify them into 51 distinct orthology groups, in agreement to Arabidopsis, and performed translational genomics of function, localization, expression and stress responsiveness data. Genome mapping and expression analysis indicated that yerba mate DNAJ genes differ in expression, nucleotide composition, length and exon-intron structure. Intronless or few introns genes -linked to rapid stress response- accounted 85 DNAJs. Promoters of DNAJ genes harbored a 73.2% of cis-acting regulatory elements involved in response to diverse stresses, hormones and light, simultaneously. We hypothesize that yerba mate DNAJs assist to plant survival during multiple stresses linked to current dominant agroecosystem but promote its growth under shade.

Resumen Las hojas y ramitas secas de yerba mate son ampliamente consumidas como infusión en el sur de Sudamérica. Endémica y adaptada a la Mata Atlántica, el monocultivo extensivo de esta planta a pleno sol se vincula a diversos estreses bióticos (pestes, patógenos) y abióticos (radiación solar, sequía) que impactan en su productividad, ecología y nicho socioeconómico. El objetivo de este trabajo fue caracterizar exhaustivamente la familia de genes DNAJ en yerba mate a fin de predecir sus posibles roles en el desarrollo y en las respuestas a diversos estreses para así contribuir al manejo del cultivo. Nuestros resultados sugieren que las proteínas DNAJ de yerba mate contabilizan 140 miembros diversos de seis tipos estructurales, con diferentes roles potenciales en el control de la homeostasis proteica. Asimismo, fueron clasificadas en 51 grupos ortólogos distintos, de acuerdo con Arabidopsis, y se realizó la genómica traslativa de datos de función, localización, expresión y respuesta a estrés. El mapeo genómico y los análisis de expresión indicaron que los genes DNAJ de yerba mate difieren en expresión, composición nucleotídica, longitud y estructura exón-intrón. Se encontró que 85 genes DNAJ no presentan o poseen pocos intrones -ligados a una rápida respuesta a estrés-. Los promotores de genes DNAJ albergan un 73,2 % de elementos reguladores en cis involucrados en respuesta a diversos estreses, hormonas y luz, simultáneamente. Así, proponemos que las DNAJs de yerba mate asisten a la planta en su supervivencia durante múltiples estreses ligados al actual agroecosistema dominante, mientras que bajo sombra promueven su crecimiento.

Abstract: Here we report the current gene impact of the Au family of SINEs in tomato. The genome of Solanum lycopersicum ‘Heinz 1706’ SL3.0 -NCBI annotation release 103- was reference searched and the Au profile was characterized in-depth. Tomato genome comprises ca. 670 Au copies, of entire length-18.5%- or truncated, randomly inserted and eroded, forming three well supported (>80%) super clusters which disperse along the 12 chromosomes mirroring the subtelomeric gene distribution bias of the species. In tomato, the Au clade is largely localized at protein coding genes-69.5% introns, 7.8% 3UTRs, 2.1% 5UTRs, 1.2% CDSs- followed by genomic copies-18.3%-, long non coding RNA genes-1.4%- and pseudogenes-0.8%-. The 419 tomato genes harboring intronic Au are diverse, weakly associated considering biological processes and molecular functions, but include important traits such as stress response, hormone response or phenotype plasticity. Au was found to be transcribed inside circular RNAs derived from 12 genic loci. Exonic Au affect the transcriptional and/or translational profiles of 67 tomato genes, including biological/agronomical important ones, contributing to UTR length and composition, UTR transcript variants, CDS boundary definitions, protein domains and variants. We propose that biased survival of Au in tomato genes is an adaptive feature.

Abstract Capsicum pubescens is a cultivated hot chili pepper, consumed in Latin American cuisine as a distinctive ingredient, and popularly known as “locoto” or “rocoto”. This taxon is also an outstanding source of resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses as well as other valuable fruit traits for breeding of the worldwidely cultivated C. annuum and related species. In this study, the chromosome complement of C. pubescens cv. “locoto” (2n = 24) was deeply characterized through a sequential combination of conventional and molecular cytogenetics approaches comprising: Ag-NOR staining, heterochromatic fluorescent C-DAPI, DAPI/AMD-CMA/DA bandings, fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) of Capsicum-derived probes of the 5S and 18S-25S rRNA genes and different regions of spacers of the ribosomal unit, as well as telomeric probe. The markers identified were systematically combined with morphological karyotype parameters - number, size, centromeres, satellites - to produce a physical map which allowed the identification of several landmarks in each individual chromosome. The reference chromosomal map of C. pubescens here presented is the most comprehensively developed in Capsicum so far. It is envisioned that this chromosomal map will serve as a reference framework for the upcoming sequencing projects and as starting point to assist future genetic mapping of important agronomic traits.

Resumen Capsicum pubescens es un ají picante cultivado, consumido en Latinoamérica como ingrediente distintivo y conocido como “locoto” o “rocoto”. Este taxón es un recurso sobresaliente por sus características de resistencia y tolerancia a estrés biótico/abiótico, y del fruto, que pueden ser introgresadas en programas de mejoramiento de C. annuum y especies relacionadas. En este estudio, se caracterizó detalladamente el complemento cromosómico de C. pubescens cv. “locoto” (2n = 24) a través de una combinación secuencial de herramientas citogenéticas convencionales y moleculares que incluyeron: tinción Ag-NOR, bandeos heterocromáticos fluorescentes C-DAPI, DAPI/AMD-CMA/DA, e hibridación in situ fluorescente (FISH) con sondas de genes de rRNA 5S y 18S-25S y diferentes regiones espaciadoras de la unidad ribosomal derivadas de Capsicum, y sonda telomérica. Los marcadores identificados se combinaron sistemáticamente con parámetros morfométricos del cariotipo - número, tamaño, centrómeros, satélites - para producir un mapa físico que permitió la identificación de varios caracteres de referencia en cada cromosoma individual. El mapa cromosómico de referencia de C. pubescens aquí presentado es el más completo hasta ahora desarrollado en Capsicum. Se prevé que este mapa cromosómico sirva de referencia para próximos proyectos de secuenciación y como punto de partida para asistir al mapeo genético de caracteres agronómicos importantes.

Abstract Capsicum includes ca. 41 species of chili peppers. In this original report we PCR amplified, cloned, sequenced and characterized the 5S rDNA non-transcribed spacer -NTS- in 23 taxa of nine clades of Capsicum, divergent at geographical origin and fruit and chromosome traits, and compared the NTS features throughout Solanaceae. According to GC content, inner variability and regulatory elements, the NTS organizes into three distinct structural regions; genetic variability at the NTS in Capsicum and related genus clusters into defined taxa hierarchies. Based on the reconstruction of a maximum-likelihood phylogenetic tree and phylogenetic networks, NTS sequences of Capsicum and related taxa grouped into well recognized categories -genus, section, clade, species, variety-. An evolutionary scenario arose from combined genetic and phylogenetic NTS data, in which monophyly and lineage diversification over time of Capsicum are addressed. Our analysis is original to include all domesticated species of Capsicum prevailing in germplasm collections and breeding programs, together with a large group of wild taxa that demanded further genetic characterization. The NTS set up as a double purpose marker in Capsicum, to directly evaluate genetic variability and reconstruct phylogenetic relationships to a broad extent, and constitutes a valuable tool for germplasm characterization and evolutionary studies within Solanaceae.

Resumen Capsicum incluye ca. 41 especies de ajíes. En este trabajo original, el espaciador no-transcrito (NTS) del ADNr 5S fue PCR-amplificado, clonado, secuenciado y caracterizado en 23 taxones de nueve clados de Capsicum, divergentes en origen, fruto y cromosomas, y comparado a lo largo de Solanaceae. El NTS se organiza en tres regiones estructurales distintas de acuerdo a contenido GC, variabilidad y elementos reguladores; la variabilidad genética del NTS en Capsicum y géneros relacionados se agrupó en categorías taxonómicas definidas. Las secuencias NTS de Capsicum y taxa relacionados también se agruparon en categorías reconocidas -género, sección, clado, especie, variedad- durante la reconstrucción de un árbol filogenético de máxima-verosimilitud y diversas redes filogenéticas. De la combinación de datos genéticos y filogenéticos del NTS surge un escenario evolutivo que considera monofilia y diversificación de Capsicum a lo largo del tiempo. Nuestro análisis es original al incluir todas las especies domesticadas de Capsicum, mayoritarias en colecciones y programas, además de un amplio número de ajíes silvestres que demandaban mayor caracterización genética. El NTS constituye un marcador de doble propósito en Capsicum, al evaluar directamente variabilidad genética y reconstruir relaciones filogenéticas extensas, además de ser útil a la caracterización de germoplasma y estudios evolutivos en Solanaceae.

RESUMO Neste trabalho, apresentamos o mapeamento físico do locus 5S rDNA em seis taxa silvestres e cinco cultivados de Capsicum, obtido através do uso de uma sonda FISH gênero-específica. Em todos os taxa, um único locus 5S por genoma haplóide foi persistentemente mapeado no braço curto de um único par de cromossomos metacêntricos na posição intercalar, e foram observados sinais 5S de FISH de tamanho e intensidade de brilho quase semelhantes. Esta é a primeira caracterização citológica dos 5S nos taxa silvestres de Capsicum usando uma sonda gênero-específica e o estudo sobre o grupo das pimentas mais exaustivo e abrangente realizado até ao momento. A informação aqui fornecida irá ajudar a caracterização citomolecular do germoplasma das pimentas, permitindo avaliar a sua variabilidade e podendo ser usada para integrar mapas físicos, genéticos e genômicos já realizados no gênero.

ABSTRACT We present here the physical mapping of the 5S rDNA locus in six wild and five cultivated taxa of Capsicum by means of a genus-specific FISH probe. In all taxa, a single 5S locus per haploid genome that persistently mapped onto the short arm of a unique metacentric chromosome pair at intercalar position, was found. 5S FISH signals of almost the same size and brightness intensity were observed in all the analyzed taxa. This is the first cytological characterization of the 5S in wild taxa of Capsicum by using a genus-derived probe, and the most exhaustive and comprehensive in the chili peppers up to now. The information provided here will aid the cytomolecular characterization of pepper germplasm to evaluate variability and can be instrumental to integrate physical, genetic and genomic maps already generated in the genus.

The center of diversity of Argentinean orchids is in the northeast region of the country. Chromosome numbers and karyotype features of 43 species belonging to 28 genera are presented here. Five chromosome records are the first ones at the genus level; these taxa are Aspidogyne kuckzinskii (2n = 42), Eurystyles actinosophila (2n = 56), Skeptrostachys paraguayensis (2n = 46), Stigmatosema polyaden (2n = 40) and Zygostates alleniana (2n = 54). In addition, a chromosome number is presented for the first time for 15 species: Corymborkis flava (2n = 56), Cyclopogon callophyllus (2n = 28), C. oliganthus (2n = 64), Cyrtopodium hatschbachii (2n = 46), C. palmifrons (2n = 46), Galeandra beyrichii (2n = 54), Habenaria bractescens (2n = 44), Oncidium edwallii (2n = 42), O. fimbriatum (2n = 56), O. pubes (2n = 84), O. riograndense (2n = 56), Pelexia ekmanii (2n = 46), P. lindmanii (2n = 46) and Warrea warreana (2n = 48). For Oncidium longicornu (2n = 42), O. divaricatum (2n = 56) and Sarcoglottis fasciculata (2n = 46+1B?, 46+3B?), a new cytotype was found. Chromosome data support phylogenetic relationships proposed by previous cytological, morphologic and molecular analyses, and in all the cases cover some gaps in the South American literature on orchid chromosomes.

Commelina benghalensis is a small herb native to tropical Africa and Asia but introduced elsewhere. In America it was found growing at open fields, border of woods and cultivated areas (south USA, Mexico, West Indies, French Guiana, Brazil, Bolivia, Paraguay) as a weed or invasive plant and its difficult manage causes economic damages in diverse agroecosystems all over the world. Commelina benghalensis was found at a border of Misiones' forest (Argentina, Misiones Province, Guaraní Departament, El Soberbio, 27°17'54.5"S; 54°12' 19"W) and classical cytogenetic techniques were applied in order to analyze its genetic system. Commelina benghalensis is a diploid with 2n = 2x = 22 median size chromosomes (4.05 - 6.60 um) and55.04 urn/genome. Itskaryotype, 8/w + 10í/w + 4ííisunimodal(A2=0.14/R= 1.63) and slightly asymmetrical (Aj = 0.44 / i = 34.75 / r>2 = 0.55) (3A Stebbins category). Chromosome pair No. 11 (si) has a terminal macrosatellite in the short arm and presumably carry the active NOR. Microsporogénesis is normal and produces viable polen grains (>80%). Meiotic behaviour is regular. In PMC at diakinecis / metaphase 1,11 bivalents were observed, mainly rings (92.7%) with distal chiasmata (96.7%) and an average of chiasmata / bivalent = 1.90. The meiotic system in conjuntion with a particular breeding system promotes a high genetic homogeneity, and suggests that this species has coadapted features with adaptative advantages allowing an invader behaviour.

Commelina benghalensis es una hierba pequeña, nativa de Africa y Asia tropical, aunque en la actualidad crece en casi todo el mundo. En América se la reporta creciendo en campo abierto, borde de bosques y áreas cultivadas (sur de USA, México, Antillas, Guyana Francesa, Brasil, Bolivia, Paraguay) como maleza o invasora y su difícil control causa pérdidas económicas importantes en diversos agroecosistemas de todo el mundo. Commelina benghalensis fue encontrada en un borde de selva misionera (Argentina, Provincia de Misiones, Departamento Guaraní, El Soberbio, 27°17'54,5"S; 54°12' 19"W), y se aplicaron técnicas citogenéticas tradicionales para analizar su sistema genético. Commelina benghalensis es diploide con 2n = 2x = 22 cromosomas de tamaño medio (4,05 - 6,60 um) y 55,04 um/genoma. Su cariotipo, 8/w +1 Qsm + 4st es unimodal (A2= 0,14 / R = 1,63) y levemente asimétrico (Al = 0,44 / i = 34,75 / r>2 = 0,55) (Categoría 3A de Stebbins). El par n° 11 (si) presenta un macrosatélite terminal y constricción secundaria en el brazo corto que posiblemente lleve los NOR activos. La microsporogénesis es normal y produce polen viable (>80%). El comportamiento meiótico es regular. En CMP en diacinesis / metafase I se observan 11 bivalentes, mayormente cerrados (92,7%) con quiasmas distales (96,7%) y un promedio de quiasmas / bivalente = 1,90. Su sistema meiótico junto con un particular sistema reproductivo promueven una alta homogeneidad genética y sugieren caracteres coadaptados que le confieren a esta especie ventajas adaptativas como colonizadora.