Caracterización fenotípica y genotípica de cultivares de cacao (Theobroma cacao L.) de Dibulla, La Guajira, Colombia

In Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta, cacao plantations are comprised of commercial hybrid cultivars, and although native cacaos are found, they are not widely cultivated. Given the need to verify if these cacao varieties found in the Sierra region belong to the Criollo type genetic group, a phenotypic and genotypic characterization of cacao from the municipality Dibulla, La Guajira was carried out. For this, 11 cultivars were sampled in Mingueo. Phenotypic traits were evaluated using UPOV descriptors for cacao. The qualitative and quantitative parameters were compared through cluster and principal component analyses (PCA), and the quantitative variables through the non-parametric Mann-Whitney test. Molecular biology protocols were standardized, and the ITS region was sequenced to assess genetic relationships. From the sequences, groupings were carried out utilizing distance and phylogenetic methods. Finally, significant differences were found among the seeds (p = 0.01), and the white coloration of the cotyledon of the criollos or native stands out in contrast to the dark purple coloration of the hybrids. The cluster analysis, PCA, and sequence analysis groupings, showed differences between the group of native cacaos and commercial hybrids cultivated; in addition, native cacaos are related to the Criollo type group.En la Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta los cultivos de cacao están conformados mayoritariamente por cultivares híbridos comerciales y, aunque se encuentran cacaos nativos, estos son poco cultivados. Dada la necesidad de verificar si estos cultivares de cacao encontrados en la Sierra pertenecen al grupo genético tipo Criollo, se realizó una caracterización fenotípica y genotípica de cacaos del municipio Dibulla, La Guajira. Para esto, se muestrearon 11 cultivares en Mingueo. Los rasgos fenotípicos se evaluaron empleando descriptores UPOV para cacao. Los parámetros cualitativos y cuantitativos se cotejaron por análisis de conglomerado y análisis de componentes principales (ACP), y las variables cuantitativas se compararon a través de la prueba no paramétrica test de Mann-Whitney. Para evaluar las relaciones genéticas, se estandarizaron protocolos de biología molecular y se secuenció la región ITS. A partir de las secuencias, se realizaron agrupamientos por métodos de distancia y filogenéticos. Finalmente, se encontraron diferencias significativas entre las semillas (p = 0,01), y resalta la coloración blanca del cotiledón de los criollos en contraste con la coloración púrpura oscura de los híbridos. Asimismo, los análisis de conglomerados, ACP y los análisis de secuencias demostraron diferencias entre el grupo de los cacaos nativos y los híbridos comerciales cultivados; además, los cacaos nativos se emparentan con el grupo de cacao tipo Criollo

Principales herramientas moleculares empleadas en la ciencia animal

The animal domestication and livestock activities are developed by man since about 10,000 years ago, which has led to a staggering number of animal breeds and attributes, which have covered part of the need food, cultural and utility of man. With development of genetics and molecular biology in the XX century, has been made to optimized many of these ancient practices. The progress of techniques such as PCR, detection of molecular markers, sequencing of DNA, RNA and proteins, and bioinformatics tools, have allowed to know the constitution and organization of the genome of many species, its variation, genotype-phenotype relationship, gene expression and metabolism. In addition, these advances have perfected techniques in animal science, such as diagnosis of diseases and zoonoses, assisted selection, breeding, reproduction, the study of genetic diversity, animal nutrition and the development of production technologies. Although many of the methods of management and traditional breeding may not be replaced, it is necessary to include new molecular techniques, therefore the present review describes the main technologies applied in this area, demonstrating how the use of molecular tools is increasingly more necessary in technical and economic terms.La domesticación animal y la ganadería son actividades desarrolladas por el hombre desde hace unos 10000 años, que ha permitido obtener una asombrosa cantidad de razas y atributos en especies animales, que han cubierto parte de las necesidades alimentarias, utilitarias y culturales del hombre. Con el desarrollo de la genética y la biología molecular durante el siglo XX, se han logrado optimizar muchas de esas prácticas milenarias. El progreso de técnicas como la PCR, la detección de marcadores moleculares, la secuenciación de DNA, RNA y proteínas, así como las herramientas bioinformáticas, han permitido conocer la constitución y organización del genoma de numerosas especies, su variación, la relación fenotipo-genotipo, la expresión genética y el metabolismo. Asimismo, con estos avances se han perfeccionado técnicas en las ciencias pecuarias, como el diagnóstico de enfermedades y zoonosis, la selección asistida, el mejoramiento genético, la reproducción, el estudio de diversidad genética y nutrición animal y el desarrollo de tecnologías de producción. Aun cuando muchas de los métodos de manejo y mejoramiento tradicionales no podrán ser reemplazadas, es necesaria la inclusión de nuevas técnicas moleculares, por lo tanto la presente revisión describe las principales tecnologías aplicadas en esta área, demostrando como el uso de herramientas moleculares es cada vez más necesario en términos técnicos y económicos

Aislamiento, selección y caracterización de cepas del género lactobacillus aisladas de líquido ruminal vacuno en la zona Sur del Lago, Venezuela

Lactic acid bacteria of Lactobacillus genus were isolated from cattle rumen fluid in the Colon, was carried out by sampling animals post-mortem at the at slaughter and distribution service meat “FIBASA”. These samples were diluted to different concentrations ranging from 10-1 - 10-7 and plated on, thereby obtaining bacterial colonies, which were evaluated in vitro with growth tests, shape, color, size, mobility, presence of spores, lactic acid production, fermentation of carbohydrates, acid resistance (2.5 to 6.5) and temperature profiles from (4 °C - 50 °C). This was achieved characterize two strains (L1 and L2), whose biochemical and morphological analysis places them within the genus Lactobacillus, These strains have high antagonistic activity against pathogenic bacteria which makes them a probiotic potential, for animal feed.  La caracterización de bacterias ácido lácticas del género Lactobacillus aisladas y seleccionadas de líquido ruminal vacuno en el Municipio Colon del estado Zulia, se llevó a cabo mediante el muestreo de animales post-morten en el centro de matanza y servicio de distribución de carnes “FIBASA”. Dichas muestras fueron diluidas a diferentes concentraciones desde 10-1 – 10-7 y sembradas en placas, obteniendo con ello colonias bacterianas, las cuales fueron evaluadas in-vitro con pruebas de crecimiento, forma, color, tamaño, movilidad, presencia de esporas, producción de ácido láctico, fermentación de carbohidratos, resistencia a ácidos (2,5 – 6,5) y perfiles térmicos desde (4°C – 50°C). Con ello se logró caracterizar dos cepas (L1 y L2), cuyo análisis bioquímico y morfológico las ubica dentro del género Lactobacillus, estas cepas presentaron una alta actividad antagónica contra bacterias patógenas, los que las convierte en un potencial probiótico para la alimentación animal

Filogenia del reino Chromista

The classification of living organisms has modified numerous times, because some groups have been difficult to catalog. Currently, seven kingdoms are recognized: Animalia, Plantea, Protozoa, Fungí, Archaea, Bacteria and Chromista. The latter is a polyphiletic group, very morphologically variable, important in marine ecosystems. Molecular phylogeny allow classification according to kinship relationships. In this study, the ITS region was analyzed to verify the relationships between different edges of the Chromista kingdom. 46 DNA sequences of different species from the databases were selected, processed, and analyzed using bioinformatic methods of distance and phylogeny. All dendrograms showed a distribution of species according to the current classification, showing that the Chromistas form a different lineage of the Protozoa. Finally, more studies are needed to better decipher evolution, physiology, and ecology; and thus, develop conservation, management and biotechnology strategies.La clasificación de los organismos vivos ha sido modificada numerosas veces, debido a que algunos grupos han sido difíciles de catalogar. Actualmente se reconocen siete reinos: Animalia, Plantea, Protozoa, Fungí, Archaea, Bacteria y Chromista. Este último es un grupo polifilético, muy variable morfológicamente, importante en ecosistemas marinos. La filogénia molecular permite clasificar de acuerdo con relaciones de parentesco. En este estudio se analizó la región ITS para verificar las relaciones entre diferentes filos del reino Chromista. Se seleccionaron 46 secuencias de ADN de especies diferentes de las bases de datos, se procesaron y analizaron, empleando métodos bioinformáticos de distancia y filogenia. Todos los dendrogramas mostraron una distribución de especies de acuerdo con la clasificación vigente, evidenciando que los chromistas forman un linaje diferente de los protozoos. Finalmente, es necesario realizar más estudios para descifrar mejor la evolución, fisiología y ecología; y así desarrollar estrategias de conservación, manejo y biotecnologías

Docking and Molecular Dynamic of Microalgae Compounds as Potential Inhibitors of Beta-Lactamase

Bacterial resistance is responsible for a wide variety of health problems, both in children and adults. The persistence of symptoms and infections are mainly treated with beta-lactam antibiotics. The increasing resistance to those antibiotics by bacterial pathogens generated the emergence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamases (ESBLs), an actual public health problem. This is due to rapid mutations of bacteria when exposed to antibiotics. In this case, beta-lactamases are enzymes used by bacteria to hydrolyze the beta-lactam rings present in the antibiotics. Therefore, it was necessary to explore novel molecules as potential beta-lactamases inhibitors to find antibacterial compounds against infection caused by ESBLs. A computational methodology based on molecular docking and molecular dynamic simulations was used to find new microalgae metabolites inhibitors of beta-lactamase. Six 3D beta-lactamase proteins were selected, and the molecular docking revealed that the metabolites belonging to the same structural families, such as phenylacridine (4-Ph), quercetin (Qn), and cryptophycin (Cryp), exhibit a better binding score and binding energy than commercial clinical medicine beta-lactamase inhibitors, such as clavulanic acid, sulbactam, and tazobactam. These results indicate that 4-Ph, Qn, and Cryp molecules, homologous from microalgae metabolites, could be used, likely as novel beta-lactamase inhibitors or as structural templates for new in-silico pharmaceutical designs, with the possibility of combatting beta-lactam resistanc

Identificación y Caracterización de Rizobacterias Nativas Fijadoras de Nitrógeno de Capsicum sp. de la Región Caribe Colombiana.

Contextualization: The use of biological inoculants or biofertilizers based on plant growth-promoting bacteria constitutes a sustainable biotechnological alternative to improve agricultural production. Knowledge gap: nevertheless, the environmental characteristics in agroecosystems could be a lot different between regions, this could produce an effect over the mentioned inoculants. Purpose: in the present study were isolated and characterized native microorganisms with plant growth-promoting activity that could be used in crops from the Caribbean region of Colombia. Methodology: For that reason, rhizospheric bacteria were isolated from Capsicum sp., they were molecularly identified with 16S, and their ability to fix nitrogen in Ashby medium and to solubilize phosphate in NBRIP medium was determined. Afterwards, identified inocula were applied to chilli plants, and their effect in the plant growth promotion was evaluated. Results and conclusions: the isolates were identified as: Achromobacter sp., Bacillus mycoides, Bacillus sp., and Paenibacillus dendritiformis, and their application enhanced plant growth, this was evidenced by the increment of at least one growth parameter, and in the nitrogen concentration of chilli plant tissues as well. Finally, Achromobacter sp. and B. mycoides were the inocula that generated the best results, indicating its potential to be used in regional agriculture.Contextualización del tema: El uso de inoculantes biológicos o biofertilizantes basados en bacterias promotoras del crecimiento constituye una alternativa biotecnológica sustentable para mejorar la producción agrícola. Vacío de información: sin embargo, las características ambientales de los agroecosistemas pueden ser muy diferentes entre regiones y estas pueden tener un efecto sobre dichos inoculantes. Propósito del estudio: en el presente estudio se aislaron y caracterizaron microorganismos nativos con capacidad promotora de crecimiento que puedan ser empleados en los cultivos de la región Caribe de Colombia. Metodología: Para ello se aislaron bacterias rizosféricas de Capsicum sp., se identificaron molecularmente por 16S y se determinó su capacidad de fijar nitrógeno en medio Ashby y de solubilizar fosfato en medio NBRIP. Luego se aplicaron inóculos de las bacterias identificadas a plantas de ají y se evaluó su efecto en la promoción del crecimiento vegetal. Resultados y conclusiones: Los aislados se identificaron como: Achromobacter sp., Bacillus mycoides, Bacillus sp., y Paenibacillus dendritiformis, y su aplicación favoreció el crecimiento vegetal, que se evidenció con el aumento de al menos un parámetro de crecimiento, así como la concentración de nitrógeno en los tejidos de las plantas de ají. Finalmente, Achromobacter sp. y B. mycoides fueron los inóculos que arrojaron mejores resultados, indicando su potencial para ser empleados en la agricultura de la región

Phycoremediation as a Strategy for the Recovery of Marsh and Wetland with Potential in Colombia

Colombia is the country with the sixth highest amount of water reserves in the world, and 25% of its territory is covered by wetlands. However, approximately 50% of the country’s water is estimated to exhibit some type of contamination related to anthropic activities. An alternative for the treatment and the recovery of its bodies of water is the use of microalgae, unicellular, and mixotrophic microorganisms, as these bioreactors are highly adaptable to the environment, and their maintenance costs are minimal, because they feed on almost any substrate. In fact, different countries have already reported using microalgae as bioremediators for bodies of water. The use of these microphytes is efficient because they metabolize, degrade, or bioaccumulate heavy metals, pesticides, emerging pollutants, and antibiotics. In general, strategies relying on microalgae to eliminate pollutants are very similar to one another. For example, the first stage often includes a process of bioadsorption, consumption, degradation, and accumulation, wherein the microalgae use molecules generated from their own cellular metabolism. Some pilot studies focusing on the phycoremediation of marshes and other bodies of water have already been conducted in Colombia; however, more studies on process optimization, effectively leveraging the biodiversity of the existing microalgae, and better adapting microalgae to the region are still required

Genética molecular de Genlisea violacea A.St.-Hil. E Genlisea aurea A.St.-Hil. (Lentibulariaceae)

O gênero Genlisea forma parte da maior família de plantas carnívoras, as Lentibulariaceae. Das aproximadamente 30 espécies conhecidas do gênero, 17 encontram-se no Brasil e delas 10 são endêmicas. O gênero tem sido pouco estudado, sendo ainda escassos os estudos sobre aspectos genéticos e praticamente se desconhecem seu estado de conservação ou a fragilidade das populações naturais. Genlisea violacea A.St.-Hil. e G. aurea A.St.-Hil. são endêmicas e estão distribuídas nas formações de Cerrado e de Mata Atlântica, que são biomas muito frágeis. Neste trabalho foram estudadas a biologia reprodutiva e a polinização de G. violacea em duas populações naturais. Além disso, foram analisadas a estrutura genética e a dinâmica de populações de G. violacea e G. aurea. Para isso se desenvolveram microssatélites a partir de dados genômicos de G. aurea, transferíveis nas espécies congenéricas, incluindo G. violacea. Adicionalmente foi estudada a estrutura genética de algumas populações de G. violacea e G. aurea. Segundo as observações e análises realizadas, G. violacea é espécie alógama e autocompatível que oferece néctar aos visitantes, facilitando a autopolinização durante a antese e polinização cruzada durante todo o tempo de vida da flor, por meio de pelo menos duas espécies de abelhas. Mesmo assim, existem diferencias fenotípicas entre populações e incluso apresenta vario morfotipos dentro da mesma população. Ademais, foram desenvolvidos 12 marcadores microssatélites em G. aurea, que são transferíveis a espécies congenéricas. Nas populações das espécies estudadas observou-se variabilidade baixa e média, respectivamente para G. violacea e G. aurea, com maior variação dentro que entre populações, que refletem o sistema reprodutivo misto e uma polinização entomofílica. No caso de G. aurea, na estruturação genética se observou uma separação entre as populações da Bahia e do sul e centro oeste do país. As diversidades genéticas baixas destas duas espécies sugerem que devem ser vigiadas e protegidas para sua conservação.The Genlisea genus is part of the larger family of carnivorous plants, Lentibulariaceae. They are approximately 30 known species of the genus, 17 in Brazil and 10 of them are endemic. The genus has been understudied, yet there are few studies on genetic aspects and practically its conservation status and the fragility of the natural populations are unknown. Genlisea violacea A.St.Hil. and G. aurea A.St.Hil. are endemic and are distributed in the formations of the Cerrado and Atlantic Forest, which are very fragile biomes. In this study we analyzed the reproductive biology and pollination of G. violacea in two natural populations. In addition, we also analyzed the genetic structure and dynamics of G. violacea and G. aurea populations. For this we developed microsatellite from genomic data of G. aurea, and did cross-amplification in congeneric species including G. violacea. According to the observations and analyses, G. violacea is self-compatible and allogamous that offers nectar to visitors, facilitating self-pollination during anthesis and cross-pollination throughout the flower lifetime through at least two species of bees. Also, there are differences between populations and phenotypic features included morphotypes within the same population. In addition, 12 microsatellite markers were developed in G. aurea, which are transferable to congeneric species. The populations of both species have low variability and average, respectively for G. violacea and G. aurea, with high variation within than among populations, reflecting the mixed reproductive system and pollination by insects. In G. aurea was observed in genetic structure a separation between the populations from Bahia and the South and Center-West of the country. The low diversity of these two species is indicative of the importance of monitoring and protecting the natural populations