Article Archive: Volume 4 Issue 1 2025

Microbial transformation of steroids, an old and novel drug opportunity strategy: a review

  • Samira Meza-Ruiz
  • Juan Manuel Sánchez-Yáñez

Introduction Steroids comprise a wide range of naturally common compoundsdistributed in all the animal and plant kingdoms, with huge physiologically active derivatives that play crucial roles in biological systems[1-4].Steroids are key components of cell membranes, for stability and growth in cellularand development. Steroidsare precursors to bile acids and steroid hormones[5-8].Steroids have base structure consisting of 17 carbon atoms in a tetracyclic ring system well known as cyclopentanoperhydrophenanthrene, now as gonane and estrane[3-6].Steroid products are found indiversityof living species, ecdysteroids in insects, phytosterols and diosgenin in plants, cholesterol and corticosteroids: glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids as well as sex hormones, bile acids, and vitamin D; neurosteroids, in vertebrates, and in yeasts and fungi are ergosterol and ergosteroids as part of its membrane cells [7,8,10].Steroids and its diversity areessential in medical practice, functioning as scaffolds for synthesizing new pharmacologically potent compounds [5,11,13,14].Steroids control a cascade of physiological activities at target sites and play key roles in cancer research [5,8,11,12].The physiological activity of steroids is closely associated to their molecular structure, as well as, the number, spatial orientation, and reactivity of functional groups in the steroid nucleus, as well as the oxidation state of the rings [1,4,13,15-17].For example, the presence of an oxygenated group at C-11β is essential for anti-inflammatory activity, besides a hydroxyl group at C-17β determines androgenic properties [3,5,8,19,20]. Aromatization of steroids at the A-ring affects estrogenic activity, and corticosteroids feature a 3-keto-5-ene group or a pregnane side chain at C-17 [2,11,14,21,22].In steroids functional modifications involve simple, chemically defined reactions catalyzed by microbial enzymes [1,4,13,15].Genetic MIT ability provides these enzymes to facilitate the transformation reactions, enhancing the efficiency and specificity of steroidsby MIT[6,7,9,23,24].The chemical modification of steroids, which requires high temperatures, pH, expensive reagents, and protective groups for reactive centers, has been a chemical method to obtain valuable new or improved drugs [3,8,16,17,25]. However, MIT offers an alternative approach that enables the production of biologically active steroid derivatives with high regio- and stereoselectivity under mild, environmentally friendly conditions [17-19,27-31].The aim of this short review is to analyze the potential of microbial biotransformation of steroidal compounds of value in the pharmaceutical industry and its connection with other related industries. Microbial transformation of steroids There are currently around 300 known steroidal drugs, used for several aims: immunosuppression, anti-inflammation, and contraception. Steroid applications have expanded to treating cancers, osteoporosis, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)Infections or Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromeor AIDS[3-5,7,8,32]. The therapeutic effects of certain steroid hormones are related to its interaction to intracellular receptors that regulate gene expression as transcription proprieties[13,20-22].Some steroids, as well as dehydroepiandrosterone, progesterone, pregnenolone, and itsproducts, like 17β-estradiol and allopregnanolone, are classified as neurosteroids due to steroidsactivity on the central nervous system[1,2,14].The MIT of exogenous steroid compounds is commonly by wide groups of bacteria and fungi, to enhancepharmacological activityand efficiency[27,30,33,34]. Several types of MIT reactions, as well as hydroxylation, dehydrogenation, side-chain degradation, ring A aromatization, reduction and esterification are used to achieve specific modifications [16-19, 22,23].MIT techniques diverse processes in culture media with microorganisms, free enzymes, biphasic systems, liposomes, microemulsions, methods altering cell wall permeability and the use of immobilized cells and enzymes [1,6,15,17,24].The spectrum of steroids that can be transformed by microbial cells is wide [4,7,9,18,25].Most advances in steroid happenedin 1950 at that time researchers had not clear idea about the pharmacological properties of cortisol and progesterone [8,14,16,30]. Researchers also discovered that genus fungi as well-knownspecies, could biotransform11α-hydroxylation, a critical reaction essential for synthesizing biologically active steroids [11,25,34,36,]; includingfungal transformation of Azorellane and Aqulinanetypes diterpenoids have unique tricyclic fused 5-, 6-, and 7-membered systems and a wide spectrum of biological properties: antimicrobial, antiprotozoal, spermicidal, gastroprotective [3,8,9,17,26].These discoveries marked the onset of a basic of development of steroids as a pharmaceutical, and the main point potential of microbial systems in the synthesis of valuable steroid compounds[10,11,13,32].Currently, the main objectives in steroid pharmaceutical research and development in target on identifying, and isolating microbial strains with unique activities or improving transformation capabilities [33-35, 37-39]. Genetic engineering and metabolic engineering of bacteria, fungi, and plants play a keyrole in these tasks[15,22,24,28,40]. Industrially, microbial hydroxylation activities, like are:  C-11α, C-11β, C-15α, and C-16α, are performed with high yields and enantioselectivity [2,9,13,14, 22,27]. Since steroids have hydrophobicity, which caused steroids to be tolerant to biodegradation, the mechanisms of steroid metabolism by both aerobic and anaerobic microorganisms have been investigated [18,23,26,28-30].For effective MIT, precursor steroids are required, that are then converted into valuable intermediates and final products [7,11,17,25,31].MIT are:  regiospecific and stereospecific, allowing the modification of compounds into suitable isomers through simple, chemically defined reactions catalyzed by microbial enzymes [1,3,15,32-33]. These enzymes act on compounds to design highly selective reactions, with easy techniques of isolation and purification of the new target compounds [3,6,17,19,22,27]. Besides, MITare is easy to use with necessary sterility conditions and allows for repeated working withthese enzymes [15,31,34].  SteroidMITare possible under several conditions of pressure and temperature, which is a viable alternative to chemical and ecological synthesis [2,23,24,40,41]. Although challenges such as productivity and chemical purity of steroids released, have non risk of contamination, microbial cells are systems can optimize and reduce costs by eliminating the need for isolating, purifying, and stabilizing pure enzymes [1,7,9,25]. Microbes naturally secrete all necessary cofactors and provide a stable environment for the enzymes, preventing protein structural changes and maintaining enzyme reactivity for many repeated processingto optimize steroid transformation[26,30,34,].Oxidation of steroid[6,12,35,].Common steroid precursors including cholesterol, steroidal alkaloids, steroidal sapogenins, and phytosterols, are readily available for MIT processes [16,18,19]. Types of steroids Cholesterols and corticosteroid Figure 1 illustrates the classification of steroids according to their biological functions or activities, including: bile acids, steroid hormones, cardioactive glycosides, aglycones, and steroid saponins[2,6,25]. Steroid hormones Estrogens and androgens play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and regulating development [34,36,40]. The gut microbiota significantly influences systemic sex hormone levels by metabolizing these hormones into various derivatives [24,27,32,37]. Under normal physiological conditions, estrogens undergo rapid deactivation in the liver through processes such as glycosylation, sulfation, or methylation, followed by their elimination via urine and feces [30,31,37,38]. Gut microbes can alter this process by enzymatically reactivating estrogens, … Read more

Allelopathic Effects of Lepidium sativum Aqueous Extract on Germination and Seedling Growth of Phalaris minor: A Dose-Response Study

  • Rizwan Maqbool1
  • Iqra Anwar2
  • Burhan Khalid1&3
  • Muhammad Atiq Ashraf4
  • Talha Riaz5
  • Muhammad Ather Nadeem6

1. Introduction Allelopathy the chemical interaction between plants, is another process that has attracted widespread attention as a potential for sustainable agriculture[28]. It is defined as ‘an experiential process in which plants compete or cooperate by releasing allelochemicals, secondary metabolites into the environment that alter growth, survival or reproduction of neighboring plants [5, 26]. In general, allelopathy provides promising applications in weed management, crop protection, and also soil health improvement [2, 26]. Production and efficacy of allelochemicals are affected by different abiotic and biotic factors, including light, temperature, water availability, soil characteristics, and plant species [29]. Allelopathy provides an alternative strategy to reduce its use for environmental sustainability in agriculture [5, 26].             Allelochemicals are naturally released secondary metabolites (having a chemical composition different from primary metabolites) synthesized by organisms that possess ecological roles beyond primary metabolism [18, 20]. They are released into the surrounding environment through a variety of mechanisms and aid in plant defense, interference, and nutrient dynamics [20]. As a biochemical interaction between plants mediated by these chemicals, it can be stimulatory, inhibitory, or both [23]. Working in symbiosis with the crop, allelopathy in a crop production system can influence production from other crops, suppress plantings after a mono-crop, and likely lead to weed suppression as well [9].             Lepidium sativum, or garden cress, is a fast-germinating edible herb, [30].Lepidium sativum (cress) has significant allelopathic effects on surrounding plants. Its seed exudates have highly active allelochemicals and affect cell growth and organ morphology in receiver plants, especially by regulating cell expansion [19]. Lepidimoide, a major allelochemical of cress seed mucilage, was isolated which induced shoot expansion and root inhibition of some plant species (e.g.Lolium multiflorum, Maize and Tall Wheatgrass) [16]. Lepidium sativum itself is also affected by allelopathic effects from other plants. The germination and seedling growth of L. sativum were significantly inhibited by Lantana camara leaf extracts [15].  These results highlight the complex allelopathic interactions of L. sativum and its potential as a useful plant in agriculture.             Phalaris minor is a yield-reducing competitive weed in wheat crops, and its control is greatly affected by the extensive use of herbicides in weed management [6, 32]. Weeds like P.minor generally suffer highly competitive exclusions through the globalization of trade and international travel because, without a doubt, through competition and predation, they lose their habitat [17]. Most weeds are still managed extensively using herbicides as a tool, especially since weeds like P. minor are already showing resistance to multiple herbicide classes including ALS inhibitors, ACCase inhibitors, and Photosystem II inhibitors [27]. Now that populations have already evolved to some level of resistance, allelopathic management using plant-derived extracts has shown a potential to control its growth [19]. Such wide-ranging approaches may help us to control such species but, at the same time, reduce future evolution to resistance.             Phenolic compounds could play a remarkable role in seed germination and seedling growth, for instance, phenolic leaf-water extract of Plectranthusamboinicus and Ocimum basilicum could restrict the growth of common weeds Phalaris minor and Anagalis arvensis associated with Pisum sativum and significantly induce the growth and yield of the pea crop [13], however, aqueous extract of alfalfa showed allelopathic effects on Phalaris minor and gefarnate elicited substantially less germination of Lepidium sativum, but Glycyrrhiza glabra at lower concentration conferred relief for the germination of Lepidium sativum[11]. Moreover, the effect of phenolic herbicides on the germinability and morphological changes of the roots of Lepidium sativum was studied referring to this species as a good test species for toxicity assessment as it has a high germinability and good repeatability [4]. This highlights the diversity of plant-plant interactions[21], hence, the involvement of the phenolic compounds cannot be overlooked. However, phenolic effects on plant-plant interactions are dependent on the type of the compound, the concentration, and the target species. Therefore, further studies are needed to determine the mechanism and application of plant-derived phenolic compounds in plant-plant interactions.             The term hormesis was first used by Southam and Ehrlich in 1943: Exposure to toxins in small amounts causes beneficial stimulation whereas the same toxins in large amounts cause toxic inhibition-a biphasic dose-response phenomenon [25]. Hormesis is an adaptive, stress-responsive mechanism in diverse organisms, in the presence of different chemical and environmental stressors [8]. Hormetic responses are directly linked to acclimation, and phenotypic plasticity is linked to the evolution of organisms, in adapting to various environmental changes [8]. Therefore, the current study was planned to describe the effect of phenolic compounds of Lepediumsativam on Phalaris minor.             Although it is previously known that garden cress (Lepidium sativum) extracts are phytotoxic, few studies have been done on aqueous extracts, especially the impact on P. minor. We are exploring the potential to use Lepidium sativum (garden cress) as a natural alternative to the synthetic herbicide, controlling Phalaris minor through the application of its phytotoxic effects. The focus will be on exploring the phytotoxic effect of Lepidium sativum (garden cress aqueous extract) on the growth and germination of Phalaris minor and will be studied in this work. It is hypothesized that a higher concentration of L. sativum aqueous extract will induce a phytoxic effect on Phalaris minor.Current research was planned to explore the effect of Phenolic compounds of Lepediumsativam on the emergence and seedling growth of Phalaris minor as a bio-herbicide. 2. Material and Methods 2.1. Experimental site This study was conducted in the Weed Science Laboratory, Department of Agronomy, University of Agriculture Faisalabad in the CRD management study. The three replications were used. In the lab, the garden cress allelopathic potential on the winter vegetable phalaris minor (Dumbi sittee) was assessed. For separating dry samples these samples were cut into two-centimeter pieces. After separating the chopped sample put in different soaking tanks for allelopathic water extract. It calculates in a 1:80 ratio. After taken out it runs through the cotton fabrics to take out the water from the given sample which is divided into different parts. As per the therapy the extracts dilute with 0, 0.25, 0.5, 10, 20, … Read more

Hydrangea Cultivation: Advances in Propagation, Soil Management, and Disease Control

  • Rupali Thakur1
  • Rajesh Thakur2
  • Choudhary Nandini Chandermohan2
  • Babita Kanwar2
  • Sourav Sharma1

Introduction Hydrangeas, often hailed as the “Queen of the Flowering Shrubs,” comprise a diverse genus of evergreen and deciduous shrubs, small trees, and even woody climbers. Belonging to the Saxifragaceae family, these captivating plants are renowned for their showy flower heads and are prized possessions in gardens across Europe, North America, and Asia [6]. Thriving in temperate climates with ample moisture, hydrangeas boast a global appeal, consistently ranking among the top ten flowering pot plants, particularly during festive seasons like Easter and Mother’s Day. Characterized by their large, vibrant flower heads, hydrangeas display a spectrum of colors, including white, red, purple, pink, and blue. Their foliage is equally enchanting, featuring beautiful oval to circular leaves with wavy edges and prominent veins. The star-shaped flowers, often sterile, are arranged in clusters known as corymbs or panicles. The genus encompasses approximately 25 hardy species, with prominent members including H. macrophylla, H. arborescens, H. serrata, H. paniculata, and H. quercifolia. A comprehensive taxonomic description of hydrangeas was provided by [16], identifying 23 species with a diverse geographical distribution across temperate and tropical regions of eastern Asia, eastern North America, and South America. While boasting a rich natural diversity, H. macrophylla cultivars exhibit limited genetic variation due to their restricted native range and the impact of breeding programs with overlapping objectives [9],[22]. Today’s cultivars largely descend from plants developed during the early 20th century through controlled crosses, open pollination, or the selection of unique branches (sports) from wild-collected germplasm. H. macrophylla stands as a particularly celebrated species, widely cultivated both as a vibrant potted plant for indoor enjoyment and as a stunning deciduous shrub that graces landscapes worldwide [3[,[6]. Beyond their ornamental value in gardens, hydrangeas have also gained significant popularity as cut flowers. Renowned for their vibrant hues, they boast the most intense color spectrum among hydrangea species, extending beyond the traditional pinks and blues [4]. Historically, hydrangea cultivation primarily focused on the spring pot plant market in established floriculture nations. However, cultivating hydrangeas has emerged as a highly profitable endeavor, mirroring the success of other prominent cut flower crops like roses, chrysanthemums, and carnations. As flowering pot plants, hydrangeas can be produced year-round, catering to consistent demand. The economic impact of hydrangea cultivation is substantial. In the United States alone, over 1,500 nurseries were involved in hydrangea production, with annual sales exceeding 10 million plants. This significant market share accounted for 13.5% of the total annual U.S. shrub sales, translating to a substantial economic value of $91.2 million within the broader $676.6 million shrub market [21]. H. macrophylla: Commonly known as Bigleaf, Garden, or Mophead hydrangeas, Hydrangea macrophylla is a beloved deciduous shrub renowned for its large, showy flower heads. These vibrant blooms typically grace gardens from May to early July, adding a burst of color to summer landscapes. While the initial flowering period may fade, some reblooming varieties offer a second wave of blooms in the fall. Mophead varieties feature rounded, globe-like clusters of flowers, while lace-cap varieties exhibit a more delicate appearance with a ring of larger, showy outer petals surrounding a central cluster of smaller flowers. Flower colors can range from vibrant blues and purples to soft pinks, reds, and whites. Soil pH plays a significant role in determining flower color in some varieties [1]. Popular Cultivars: H. panniculata: Commonly known as panicle hydrangeas, is a captivating deciduous shrub or small tree native to East Asia, gracing gardens with its stunning late-summer blooms. These elegant plants are prized for their large, cone-shaped flower panicles that emerge in shades of white and gradually mature into captivating hues of pink, red, or even burgundy as the season progresses [20].  The defining characteristic of H. paniculata is its impressive flower panicles, often reaching significant size and boasting a mix of fertile and sterile florets.   Popular Cultivars: H. quercifolia: Commonly known as the Oakleaf Hydrangea and as the name suggests, H. quercifolia boasts large, lobed leaves that resemble those of oak trees. These leaves often display vibrant fall colors, ranging from deep burgundy to vibrant crimson. The large, cone-shaped flower panicles typically emerge in shades of white or cream and gradually mature to shades of pink or even burgundy as the season progresses. The inflorescences feature a combination of showy, sterile florets and smaller, fertile flowers, creating a visually appealing display. It typically flowers later than many other hydrangea species, with blooms appearing in early to mid-summer and often lasting well into the fall. While preferring acidic soil, H. quercifolia is generally adaptable to various soil conditions and thrives in both full sun and partial shade. Popular Cultivars: Garden Uses: Hydrangea species are versatile garden plants. They can be used as: Climatic conditions: H. macrophylla is a well-known cultivar. Hydrangeas can thrive in a semi-shady environment. A chilly, damp temperature is thought to be beneficial to growth and development. In India, it is primarily produced as a pot plant or for cut flowers in mountainous locations such as Kashmir, Kalimpong, Darjeeling, Shillong, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and others [4]. From early spring through late October, the flowers can be produced. It is unable to withstand high temperatures. Warmer temperatures are required for species like H. arborescens cv. ‘Anabelle’ to acquire maximum aesthetic expression. Morning sun and afternoon shade are preferred by the bigleaf hydrangea. A temperature of 20⁰C promotes flower initiation and a temperature between 15-20⁰C is required for flower bud development. For the production of potted plants of H. macrophylla extra lighting and heating is necessary, it is profitable for very early market [18]. Adequate early development and bud initiation a minimum of 18⁰C night temperature with the short day length of 8 hours for at least 6 weeks is required. Soil: It can be grown on wide range of soil. H. macrophylla grow well in peat and peat/clay mixtures with pH 4.2 to 6.5. Hydrangea macrophylla’s flower color changes from deep blue to hot pink according on soil pH. When the soil pH is acidic (4.5-5.5), the hue will be … Read more

Chia Seed (Salvia hispanica L.) biology: A superfood cereal for healthy life – An overview

  • Kamrun Nahar

Introduction: Chia, a seed-bearing grain crop, scientific name Salvia hispanica, and a member of the Lamiaceae family. The seeds of the plant  are filled with large amounts of dietary fiber,  essential fatty acids -omega 3, and plenty of high-quality protein, essential vitamins, and minerals including antioxidantsThese important materials having a variety of benefits to boost the metabolism of human health, supporting teeth and bones health, improves digestive and cardiac health, reducing blood sugar and cholesterol  levels, improves the immune system and  boosting weight loss including reduction of inflammation of human body Besides having medicinal values/ properties, the seeds are used to prepare bread, cake, chips, Frankfurter, ice cream, and pudding including adding in drinks providing lot of energy to keep our body fit .The oil after extraction of seed could also be used as a nutritious addition in smoothies and other meals, and support brain health as the fatty acids have neuroprotective effects that lead to reduced risk of stork, depression and Alzheimer’s disease including care of skin, hair and anticancer medicinal drug-related activities. Agronomy: The chia seeds, oval-shaped about 2 millimeters wide, tiny with a combination of black, grey, brown and white (Fig 1) considered as superfood as packed up with nutritional value and gaining attention in now a dayall over the world. Chia seeds can germinate in different types of soil including different media as soilless cultures(Fig 2)and can be cultivated commercially from both seeds and seedlings. However, growing plantlets from seeds can be the best part of propagating as they can germinate and grow in any substratum/ media (Fig 3 &4). Just sprinkle the seeds over the media, watering and after 3 days it will be germinated. Leaves of the plant are oppositely arranged, green, and thick, and have serrated (toothed) margins containing long petioles with net venation (Fig 5). It grows well in temperatures between 20-36 degrees Celsius, however, at higher temperatures germination and also the growth and development rates are higher compared to lower (Fig 6). Nutritional values: Chia seeds have tremendous nutritional value.100 grams of Chia seeds contain about 485 calories,6% water, 31 grams of heart-healthy fats ( omega 3 fatty acids), 34 gm dietary fiber, 42 grams of carbohydrates, 0 g sugar, 16 g proteinincluding including important amino acids as lysine, leucine, isoleucine, methionine, threonine, tryptophan, phenylalanine, valine, and histidine . Sources and Important uses: Sources of Fiber, vitamins and minerals: Chia seeds contain insoluble fiber like cellulose a potential part of humans’ daily diet, which helps to regulate the digestive system and remove harmful chemicals and waste materials from the body. Vitamins are crucial micronutrients that keep the body’s cells functioning. Seeds of chia are also an important source of protein, soluble fats with vitamins like A, D, E, K including vitamins B complex like thiamine (B1), and riboflavin (B2). niacin(B3), biotin (B7), folic acid(B9) and cyanocobalamin (B12). Like vitamins, minerals are also essential inorganic components for healthy body functions growth of biological systems and building of strong bones. Besides, chia seeds are rich in iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, manganese, copper, selenium, etc as essential minerals. Sources of antioxidant and Omega 3: Antioxidants (polyphenols and carotenoids) and Omega 3 are very important components for the proper functioning of the human body. Antioxidants generally protect the body cells from damage by slowing down the process of oxidation. Thus, seeds of chia are considered as important source of antioxidants, benefit the heart and liver and protect from early aging and certain types of cancer  Besides, seeds containing high omega 3 fatty acids, these fats play an active and vital role in digestion, helping to reduce blood pressure, risk of obesity including overall body functioning (Fig 7). Hair: Chia seeds contain essential amino acids, zinc and copper, prevent thinning of hair and thus helping hair growth Nervous system: Chia seeds contain omega 3 fatty acids including B vitamins which support, and nourish the brain and help the nervous system to work efficiently Circulatory system: Components of chia seeds helps to reduce blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and platelet aggregation including improving the efficiency of oxidation work as a blood thinner and ultimately protecting from cardiovascular disease (CVD) Respiratory system: Chia seeds are a good source of omega 3. Fatty acids of omega 3, act as active inflammatory nutrients with protective effects in inflammatory diseases. Therefore, to maintain healthy lungs we should take chia. Digestive system: The soluble fiber of chia seeds helps to reduce the levels of LDL cholesterol, slow down the digestive process, including the prevention of blood sugar spikes after having a meal and provide a feeling of fullness. Besides, the fiber helps the stomach to produce good bacteria, keeping the digestive system to work properly. Urinary System: Good source of unsaturated fats help to offer bladder-supporting properties with anti-inflammatory benefits Reproductive system: Unsaturated Fatty acids of chia seeds, regulate hormones, promote ovulation and improve uterine and reproductive health In recent years, it has been used as a popular and nutritious ingredient in many food items all over the world to achieve potential health benefits Add in meals: To add in salad: Sprinkle chia seeds over the favorite and delicious salad every day to incorporate the nutritional benefits including reducing the urge to overeat, which helps reduce the weight  As oatmeal: As a cereal, chia seeds could be used as a nutritious and preferred oatmeal at breakfast, which help to keep the stomach full and reduce hunger for a longer time which ultimately slow down the digestion of carbohydrates. To prepare smoothies: Mixing chia seeds in drinks, especially in smoothies or other beverage recipes will help to boost fibers and nutrients in our body To prepare chia peanut butter:  To prepare a smooth paste to spread on toast or bread, could be prepared by chia seeds with peanut or any nut butter mixed in a blender until smooth to add in morning diet. To prepare baking goods: By adding chia seeds in dough of flour before baking to prepare tasty bread, cakes, … Read more

Evaluation of Improved Soybean Varieties (Glycine max) Under Rain Fed Condition for Traits of Yield and Yield component at Ari Zone, South Ethiopia

  • Temesgen Jerjero
  • Mihretu Muluneh

INTRODUCTION The soybean crop as one of the valuable economically  the most important oil and pulse crop  Ethiopia and in the world due to its lot of different purpose advantages as a source of livestock, aquaculture feed, protein, oil for the human diet, and biofuel besides producing grain yield [1]). The soyabean crop has the character of a primary low-cost source of protein for animal feed and most pre packaged meals, soy-vegetable oil is another valuable product of the processing.Soybeans can produce at least twice as much protein per acre than many other major vegetable or grain crops [2]. Soybean is  the most important  crops  as a source of protein (40%),35% carbohydrate, and 5% ash on a dry matter basis. Most developing countries are faced with extensive malnutrition and food insecurity, high oil content (20%), the best ingredient for industrial food complexes, and It also has a superior amino acid profile compared to other legumes  [3]. Soybean crop is well known as to in improving and amending soil properties through nitrogen fixation and enhanced moisture retention [4]. In Ethiopia food processing plc company has imported and used soybeans to prepare balanced food for infants and adults[5] knowdays the factory has been trying to improve the food values of other food types by mixing them with soybean flour, which indicates the importance of soybeans and its increment on the market[6].Soybean in Ethiopia, are cultivated over wider agroecologies that have moderate annual rainfall (500-1500mm [7] and  the crop grows  well in  between 1300 and 1800 m.a.s.l. and it requires temperature ranging from 23- 25oC and medium relative humidity for optimum yield production[8] ,[9] and grows best on well-drained loamy soils that are high in fertility. The crop does well in slightly acidic to neutral soils having a pH of about 5.7 to 6.2. The crop is a short-day plant and most varieties require about 12 hours of light, although some are less sensitive [10]. The crop  production and productivity in Sub-Saharan Africa counter results   increasing trends in the past ten years ago and are expected to increase in the later   [11]. In our countery  Ethiopia,  soyabean crop   has a total  land coverage  of 36,635.79 ha and  812,346.59 quintals of production in yield , and 22.17 quintals per hectare of production. In SNNPR a total of 209.28 ha of land was covered, 2,684.09 quintals of production, and 12.83 quintals per hectare of production were recorded [12]. Know days  soybean  crop is  important  and supported by government and non governmental organizations. At regional level, the yield of soyabean was limited in production   than the average potential  yield (12.83 quintals per hectare) under optimium crop management practice . [12]. In  the South Ethiopia and Central Ethiopia Regionis, the yield was limited because of  none adaptation and promotion of relased    varieties, lack of crop management   rainful distribution problem   soil fertility problem ,  different diseases and insect pests [13]. Know days   approximately 34 soybean varieties have been registerd for production  by different national and regional  research centers in Ethiopian  [14]. However, improved soyabean evaluation and its performance was not done and  recommended  in the past in the  Ari Zone . Soybean is  potential crop  in production in the  area of South Ethiopia   and Ari  Zone araeas. Therefore the experiment was done to evaluating   the performance of  recentely released  varieties that have high yielder  and recommend  for production and productivity in Ari Zone of South Ethiopia   and other similar  areas . MATERIALS AND METHODS  Reseach Area  Description The research trial was conducted at the Jinka Agricultural Research Center, located in Ari Zone, during the 2021/22 and 2022/23 main cropping seasons. Ari Zone is situated in the southern part of Ethiopia, with its administrative center, Jinka city, located approximately 729 km south of Addis Ababa. The geographical coordinates of Jinka are 36°33’–37°67″E and 5°46’–6°57″N, at an altitude of 1,450 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.). The study area receives an average annual rainfall of 1,307.3 mm, distributed over two distinct seasons, and experiences average temperatures ranging from 21.0°C to 28.0°C. The soil at the experimental site is classified as sandy loam with a pH of 6.41, making it suitable for various agricultural practices [15]. Treatments and Experimental Procedures Twelve (12) improved soybean varieties such as:-  Nyala, Hawasa -95, Hawasa-04, Clark 63K, Melko bonsa, Gishama, Gazelle, Nova, Pawe-3, Afgat, Pawe-2, Coker-240 were evaluated in appropriate mothod of   randomized complete block design (RCBD) on (3) three replications. The trial had aplot  area of 4m x 5m (20 m2) separated by a distance of 1meter between plots within a block and 1.5 meter  between blocks within the experiment.  40 centimeter  between rows and 10 centimeter  between plants was maintained in spacing  and a seed rate of 60-70 kg/ ha was used according to the seed size of the crop. Cultivation, leveling, weeding, and other agronomic activities were applied equally to all the entry treatments at their proper time of application. Data Collection and Data Analysis Data collection was performed on both a plant and plot basis. Grain yield and hundred seed weight were recorded at the plot level, while key plant-based data were collected from selected plants within the middle rows of each plot. For parameters such as plant height, the number of pods per plant, and the number of seeds per pod, the average values of five randomly selected plants per experimental plot were used for statistical analysis. Grain yield data were measured from the five central rows of each plot and subsequently converted to a per-hectare basis. Hundred seed weights were determined by randomly selecting 100 seeds harvested from the five central rows of each plot and weighing them using a sensitive balance. For data analysis, the collected data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) using SAS software after verifying the assumptions of ANOVA. Treatment means were separated using the least significant difference (LSD) test at a 5% probability level. RESULT AND DISCUSSIONS  Results of Analysis of Variance  Combined analysis of variance was done to identify  the effects of … Read more