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SNAREs--molecular governors in signalling and development
Christopher Grefen1, Michael R Blatt
1Laboratory of Plant Physiology and Biophysics, IBLS-Plant Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ UK.
Current Opinion in Plant Biology
|October 24, 2008
Summary
Soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor protein attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) are vital for membrane fusion and cellular processes. New evidence suggests plant SNAREs also act as scaffolds and molecular governors, coordinating growth and transport.
Area of Science:
- Plant cell biology
- Molecular and cell biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor protein attachment protein receptors (SNAREs) are crucial for membrane fusion, protein targeting, and delivery in eukaryotic cells.
- In plants, SNAREs are essential for cell growth, development, hormone signaling, and pathogen defense.
- Emerging evidence indicates SNAREs interact with membrane proteins and ion channels, suggesting additional physiological roles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the physiological significance of SNAREs beyond their canonical role in membrane fusion.
- To investigate the potential functions of plant SNAREs as scaffolds for protein signaling and as regulators of cellular processes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing research on SNARE protein functions.
- Exploration of proposed roles based on structural and functional evidence.
Main Results:
- SNAREs may function as scaffolds, facilitating effective signal transmission between proteins.
- Plant SNAREs might act as 'molecular governors,' coordinating solute transport with cell expansion and growth, analogous to mechanical governors.
Conclusions:
- Plant SNAREs possess multifaceted roles extending beyond membrane fusion.
- These proteins likely play critical roles in integrating cellular signaling and growth processes through scaffolding and regulatory functions.
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