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Understanding patterns of phytochemical variation in wild berries

Project Abstract: 
Phytochemical variation influences diet quality and plays a key role in mediating ecological interactions among plants and the animals that feed on them (Jamieson et al. 2019). Intra and interspecific differences in plant chemistry can shape ecological communities and their dynamics. For example, anthocyanins mediate plant-animal interactions, attracting pollinators and frugivores to aid in reproduction and seed dispersal (Landi et al. 2015). In some cases, anthocyanins can protect plants from herbivore and pathogen damage (Lev-Yadun and Gould 2008). Moreover, these polyphenolic compounds function as photo-protectants and antioxidants that benefit plant health (Gould et al. 2009). Research also shows that due to their potent antioxidant properties, anthocyanins may aid in the prevention of cancer, inflammation, and chronic diseases (Khoo et al. 2017). The proposed study will evaluate how genotype and environmental conditions contribute to quantitative variation in strawberry (Fragaria virginiana) anthocyanin profiles. In addition to work on anthocyanins in strawberries, I propose to conduct exploratory analyses characterizing the broader phytochemical profile of strawberry pollen and fruit, with a focus on phenolic and terpenoid analyses. Furthermore, I plan to collect and analyze samples of other wild berry plants, in particular species of medicinal and cultural significance to indigenous communities as well as to agriculture in the region. This exploratory study aims to provide a better understanding of how genotypic and environmental variation in phytochemistry influences strawberry ecological interactions with foraging animals, including pollinators and herbivores as well as humans.
Investigators: 
Status of Research Project: 
Years Active: 
2024 to 2025
Methods: 
Strawberry samples will be collected at peak ripeness in early to mid-June from ~15 populations/habitats located across UMBS properties. We will collect ~4 fruits from each of the 15 spatially distinct populations. Fruits will be weighed fresh, and then half of the fruits will be prepared for chemical analyses, while the other half will be dried to constant mass and re-weight to establish wet-to-dry weight conversion factors. Strawberry tissues will be homogenized; a 500 mg sample will be extracted with 1ml of acidified methanol (.01 V/V formic acid) by sonication for 10 min in an ice bath. After centrifugation (10,000 rpm for 15 min at 4 °C), the supernatant will be collected (200 μL) and placed in an LC vial. The extracts will be stored at -20 °C until further analysis via liquid chromatography (HPLC). We will measure plant morphological and physiological traits in addition to environmental conditions such as soil moisture, % herbivory, and plant community metrics. For exploratory berry phytochemical analyses, I propose to collect a small subsample (N=10 fruits) of wild berries from three populations (N=10 fruits x 3 species x 3 populations). Ultimately, the goal of these analyses will be to examine bidirectional relationships between fruit chemistry and microbial communities.
Funding agency: 
None