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Updated: Jul 9, 2026
08:32
Application of Genetically Encoded Fluorescent Nitric Oxide (NO•) Probes, the geNOps, for Real-time Imaging of NO• Signals in Single Cells
Published on: March 16, 2017
Nitric oxide synthesis and signalling in plants
Ian D Wilson1, Steven J Neill, John T Hancock
1Centre for Research in Plant Science, Faculty of Health and Life Sciences, University of the West of England, Coldharbour Lane, Bristol, BS16 1QY, UK.
Plant, Cell & Environment
|November 24, 2007
Summary
Plants utilize nitric oxide (NO) for survival and development, but the exact mechanisms of its production and signaling pathways remain unclear. This review explores current knowledge on NO synthesis, removal, and action in plants, highlighting key research questions.
Area of Science:
- Plant Physiology
- Molecular Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Plants, like all organisms, must respond to environmental and internal signals for survival and thriving.
- Nitric oxide (NO) is recognized as a crucial signaling molecule in plants, involved in development and physiological responses.
- Despite advances in animal NO research, fundamental questions persist regarding NO production and signaling in plants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current understanding of nitric oxide (NO) production in plants.
- To explore the mechanisms by which NO signals are perceived and acted upon in plant cells.
- To discuss the removal of NO signals and its interplay with other cellular components like reactive oxygen species (ROS).
Main Methods:
- Literature review of experimental data and published studies on nitric oxide in plants.
- Analysis of proposed NO-generating enzymes, including NOS-like enzymes and nitrate reductase (NR).
- Examination of NO signaling pathways, including cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and its downstream effects.
Main Results:
- The precise enzymes responsible for NO synthesis in plants are not definitively identified, with evidence supporting multiple candidates.
- While NO's role in increasing cGMP, altering ion channels, and affecting gene expression is suggested, the exact mechanisms are unclear.
- The reactive nature of NO and its interaction with reactive oxygen species (ROS) complicate the study of its accumulation and function.
Conclusions:
- Significant gaps exist in understanding plant nitric oxide (NO) synthesis, with no clear homolog for animal nitric oxide synthase (NOS) identified.
- Further research is needed to elucidate how plants produce, perceive, and signal with NO, and how these processes are regulated.
- Investigating NO's role alongside ROS is critical for a comprehensive understanding of plant signaling and physiological responses.
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