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Updated: May 29, 2026

Chemiluminescence-based Assays for Detection of Nitric Oxide and its Derivatives from Autoxidation and Nitrosated Compounds
Published on: February 16, 2022
Methods of nitric oxide detection in plants: a commentary
Luis A J Mur1, Julien Mandon, Simona M Cristescu
1University of Wales, Aberystwyth, Institute of Biological Sciences, Aberystwyth, Wales, UK. lum@aber.ac.uk
Nitric oxide (NO) plays a role in plants, but its production is debated. This review clarifies methods for detecting NO in plants, addressing dye specificity and scavenger use for accurate results.
Area of Science:
- Plant Physiology
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Nitric oxide (NO) is recognized for its roles in plant processes.
- However, the precise occurrence and sites of NO production in plants remain controversial.
- Existing detection methods face challenges regarding specificity and interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and critically evaluate common methods for NO detection in plants.
- To reconcile conflicting results from different laboratories regarding NO production.
- To propose standardized approaches for unequivocal NO detection in plants.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of commonly employed techniques for NO measurement in plant tissues.
- Analysis of the specificity and limitations of fluorescent dyes like DAF-2DA and DAF-FM.
- Evaluation of the utility and caveats associated with NO scavengers such as cPTIO.
- Comparison of in planta assays with gas-phase NO sampling methods.
Main Results:
- Doubts persist regarding the specificity of DAF-2DA/DAF-FM dyes for NO detection.
- The absence of a cloned plant nitric oxide synthase (NOS) complicates the use of mammalian NOS inhibitors.
- The NO scavenger cPTIO requires careful application due to potential artifacts.
- Discrepancies exist between different NO assay methodologies.
Conclusions:
- Standardization of NO detection methods in plants is crucial.
- Careful consideration of dye specificity, inhibitor validity, and scavenger limitations is necessary.
- Further research is needed to establish robust protocols for unequivocally demonstrating NO production in plants.
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