Calcium-regulated transcription in plants

PRR2, a pseudo-response regulator, promotes salicylic acid and camalexin accumulation during plant immunity

Calcium signalling mediated by Calmodulin (CaM) and calmodulin-like (CML) proteins is critical to plant immunity. CaM and CML regulate a wide range of target proteins and cellular responses. While many CaM-binding proteins have been identified, few have been characterized for their specific role in plant immunity. Here, we report new data on the biological function of a CML-interacting partner, PRR2 (PSEUDO-RESPONSE REGULATOR 2), a plant specific transcription factor. Until now, the physiological relevance of PRR2 remained largely unknown. Using a reverse genetic strategy in A. thaliana, we identified PRR2 as a positive regulator of plant immunity. We propose that PRR2 contributes to salicylic acid (SA)-dependent responses when challenged with the phytopathogenic bacterium Pseudomonas syringae. PRR2 is transcriptionally upregulated by SA and P. syringae, enhances SA biosynthesis and SA signalling responses; e.g. in response to P. syringae, PRR2 induces the production of SA and the accumulation of the defence-related protein PR1. Moreover, PRR2 overexpressing lines exhibit an enhanced production of camalexin, a phytoalexin that confers enhanced resistance against pathogens. Together, these data reveal the importance of PRR2 in plant immune responses against P. syringae and suggest a novel function for this particular plant specific transcription factor in plant physiology.

CBL-interacting protein kinase 6 negatively regulates immune response to Pseudomonas syringae in Arabidopsis

Cytosolic calcium ion (Ca2+) is an essential mediator of the plant innate immune response. Here, we report that a calcium-regulated protein kinase Calcineurin B-like protein (CBL)-interacting protein kinase 6 (CIPK6) functions as a negative regulator of immunity against the bacterial pathogen Pseudomonas syringae in Arabidopsis thaliana. Arabidopsis lines with compromised expression of CIPK6 exhibited enhanced disease resistance to the bacterial pathogen and to P. syringae harboring certain but not all avirulent effectors, while restoration of CIPK6 expression resulted in abolition of resistance. Plants overexpressing CIPK6 were more susceptible to P. syringae. Enhanced resistance in the absence of CIPK6 was accompanied by increased accumulation of salicylic acid and elevated expression of defense marker genes. Salicylic acid accumulation was essential for improved immunity in the absence of CIPK6. CIPK6 negatively regulated the oxidative burst associated with perception of pathogen-associated microbial patterns (PAMPs) and bacterial effectors. Accelerated and enhanced activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase cascade in response to bacterial and fungal elicitors was observed in the absence of CIPK6. The results of this study suggested that CIPK6 negatively regulates effector-triggered and PAMP-triggered immunity in Arabidopsis.

Characterization and Functional Analysis of Calmodulin and Calmodulin-Like Genes in Fragaria vesca

Calcium is a universal messenger that is involved in the modulation of diverse developmental and adaptive processes in response to various stimuli. Calmodulin (CaM) and calmodulin-like (CML) proteins are major calcium sensors in all eukaryotes, and they have been extensively investigated for many years in plants and animals. However, little is known about CaMs and CMLs in woodland strawberry (Fragaria vesca). In this study, we performed a genome-wide analysis of the strawberry genome and identified 4 CaM and 36 CML genes. Bioinformatics analyses, including gene structure, phylogenetic tree, synteny and three-dimensional model assessments, revealed the conservation and divergence of FvCaMs and FvCMLs, thus providing insight regarding their functions. In addition, the transcript abundance of four FvCaM genes and the four most related FvCML genes were examined in different tissues and in response to multiple stress and hormone treatments. Moreover, we investigated the subcellular localization of several FvCaMs and FvCMLs, revealing their potential interactions based on the localizations and potential functions. Furthermore, overexpression of five FvCaM and FvCML genes could not induce a hypersensitive response, but four of the five genes could increase resistance to Agrobacterium tumefaciens in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves. This study provides evidence for the biological roles of FvCaM and CML genes, and the results lay the foundation for future functional studies of these genes.

De novo transcriptome sequencing and gene expression profiling of Elymus nutans under cold stress

BACKGROUND

Elymus nutans Griseb., is an important alpine perennial forage of Pooideae subfamily with strong inherited cold tolerance. To get a deeper insight into its molecular mechanisms of cold tolerance, we compared the transcriptome profiling by RNA-Seq in two genotypes of Elymus nutans Griseb. the tolerant Damxung (DX) and the sensitive Gannan (GN) under cold stress.

RESULTS

The new E. nutans transcriptomes were assembled and comprised 200,520 and 181,331 transcripts in DX and GN, respectively. Among them, 5436 and 4323 genes were differentially expressed in DX and GN, with 170 genes commonly expressed over time. Early cold responses involved numerous genes encoding transcription factors and signal transduction in both genotypes. The AP2/EREBP famliy of transcription factors was predominantly expressed in both genotypes. The most significant transcriptomic changes in the later phases of cold stress are associated with oxidative stress, primary and secondary metabolism, and photosynthesis. Higher fold expressions of fructan, trehalose, and alpha-linolenic acid metabolism-related genes were detected in DX. The DX-specific dehydrins may be promising candidates to improve cold tolerance. Twenty-six hub genes played a central role in both genotypes under cold stress. qRT-PCR analysis of 26 genes confirmed the RNA-Seq results.

CONCLUSIONS

The stronger transcriptional differentiation during cold stress in DX explains its better cold tolerance compared to GN. The identified fructan biosynthesis, alpha-linolenic acid metabolism, and DX-specific dehydrin-related genes may provide genetic resources for the improvement of cold-tolerant characters in DX. Our findings provide important clues for further studies of the molecular mechanisms underlying cold stress responses in plants.

Light inhibition of fumarase in Arabidopsis leaves is phytochrome A-dependent and mediated by calcium

Inhibition of fumarase activity in the light has been studied in Arabidopsis in relation to the involvement of phytochrome. Using knockout phytochrome mutants, we observed that the main regulator of FUM1 gene transcription, encoding the mitochondrial form of fumarase, is phytochrome A. The active form of phytochrome A suppressed FUM1 expression, while the expression of the FUM2 gene encoding the cytosolic form of fumarase was unaffected both in darkness and in light. The nuclear concentration of Ca(2+) was modulated by red and far-red light. We suggest that the signal transduction mechanism operates via Ca(2+) activation of expression of the gene encoding the transcription factor PIF3, which binds to promoters of phytochrome-regulated genes and inhibits FUM1 expression.

Brassica napus Genome Possesses Extraordinary High Number of CAMTA Genes and CAMTA3 Contributes to PAMP Triggered Immunity and Resistance to Sclerotinia sclerotiorum

Calmodulin-binding transcription activators (CAMTAs) play important roles in various plant biological processes including disease resistance and abiotic stress tolerance. Oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) is one of the most important oil-producing crops worldwide. To date, compositon of CAMTAs in genomes of Brassica species and role of CAMTAs in resistance to the devastating necrotrophic fungal pathogen Sclerotinia sclerotiorum are still unknown. In this study, 18 CAMTA genes were identified in oilseed rape genome through bioinformatics analyses, which were inherited from the nine copies each in its progenitors Brassica rapa and Brassica oleracea and represented the highest number of CAMTAs in a given plant species identified so far. Gene structure, protein domain organization and phylogentic analyses showed that the oilseed rape CAMTAs were structurally similar and clustered into three major groups as other plant CAMTAs, but had expanded subgroups CAMTA3 and CAMTA4 genes uniquely in rosids species occurring before formation of oilseed rape. A large number of stress response-related cis-elements existed in the 1.5 kb promoter regions of the BnCAMTA genes. BnCAMTA genes were expressed differentially in various organs and in response to treatments with plant hormones and the toxin oxalic acid (OA) secreted by S. sclerotiorum as well as the pathogen inoculation. Remarkably, the expression of BnCAMTA3A1 and BnCAMTA3C1 was drastically induced in early phase of S. sclerotiorum infection, indicating their potential role in the interactions between oilseed rape and S. sclerotiorum. Furthermore, inoculation analyses using Arabidopsis camta mutants demonstrated that Atcamta3 mutant plants exhibited significantly smaller disease lesions than wild-type and other Atcamta mutant plants. In addition, compared with wild-type plants, Atcamta3 plants accumulated obviously more hydrogen peroxide in response to the PAMP chitin and exhibited much higher expression of the CGCG-box-containing genes BAK1 and JIN1, which are essential to the PAMP triggered immunity (PTI) and/or plant resistance to pathogens including S. sclerotiorum. Our results revealed that CAMTA3 negatively regulated PTI probably by directly targeting BAK1 and it also negatively regulated plant defense through suppressing JA signaling pathway probably via directly targeting JIN1.

Calmodulin-binding transcription activators and perspectives for applications in biotechnology

In recent years, a novel family of calmodulin-binding transcription activators (CAMTAs) has been reported in various species. The CAMTAs share a conserved domain organization, with a CG-1 DNA-binding domain, a transcription factor immunoglobulin domain, several ankyrin repeats, a calmodulin-binding domain, and a varying number of IQ motifs. CAMTAs participate in transcriptional regulation by recognizing and binding to a specific cis-element: (G/A/C)CGCG(C/G/T). Plants suffer from the environmental challenges, including abiotic and biotic stresses. Investigations in various plant species indicate a broad range of CAMTA functions involved in developmental regulation, environmental stress response, and hormone cross talk. In this review, we focus on the expression patterns and biological functions of CAMTAs to explore their probable applications in biotechnology. Furthermore, the identification and phylogenetic analysis of CAMTAs in crops could open new perspectives for enhancing stress tolerance, which could lead to improved crop production.

A transcriptomic approach to identify regulatory genes involved in fruit set of wild-type and parthenocarpic tomato genotypes

The tomato parthenocarpic fruit (pat) mutation associates a strong competence for parthenocarpy with homeotic transformation of anthers and aberrancy of ovules. To dissect this complex floral phenotype, genes involved in the pollination-independent fruit set of the pat mutant were investigated by microarray analysis using wild-type and mutant ovaries. Normalized expression data were subjected to one-way ANOVA and 2499 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) displaying a >1.5 log-fold change in at least one of the pairwise comparisons analyzed were detected. DEGs were categorized into 20 clusters and clusters classified into five groups representing transcripts with similar expression dynamics. The "regulatory function" group (685 DEGs) contained putative negative or positive fruit set regulators, "pollination-dependent" (411 DEGs) included genes activated by pollination, "fruit growth-related" (815 DEGs) genes activated at early fruit growth. The last groups listed genes with different or similar expression pattern at all stages in the two genotypes. qRT-PCR validation of 20 DEGs plus other four selected genes assessed the high reliability of microarray expression data; the average correlation coefficient for the 20 DEGs was 0.90. In all the groups were evidenced relevant transcription factors encoding proteins regulating meristem differentiation and floral organ development, genes involved in metabolism, transport and response of hormones, genes involved in cell division and in primary and secondary metabolism. Among pathways related to secondary metabolites emerged genes related to the synthesis of flavonoids, supporting the recent evidence that these compounds are important at the fruit set phase. Selected genes showing a de-regulated expression pattern in pat were studied in other four parthenocarpic genotypes either genetically anonymous or carrying lesions in known gene sequences. This comparative approach offered novel insights for improving the present molecular understanding of fruit set and parthenocarpy in tomato.

Combining modelling and experimental approaches to explain how calcium signatures are decoded by calmodulin-binding transcription activators (CAMTAs) to produce specific gene expression responses

Experimental data show that Arabidopsis thaliana is able to decode different calcium signatures to produce specific gene expression responses. It is also known that calmodulin-binding transcription activators (CAMTAs) have calmodulin (CaM)-binding domains. Therefore, the gene expression responses regulated by CAMTAs respond to calcium signals. However, little is known about how different calcium signatures are decoded by CAMTAs to produce specific gene expression responses. A dynamic model of Ca(2+) -CaM-CAMTA binding and gene expression responses is developed following thermodynamic and kinetic principles. The model is parameterized using experimental data. Then it is used to analyse how different calcium signatures are decoded by CAMTAs to produce specific gene expression responses. Modelling analysis reveals that: calcium signals in the form of cytosolic calcium concentration elevations are nonlinearly amplified by binding of Ca(2+) , CaM and CAMTAs; amplification of Ca(2+) signals enables calcium signatures to be decoded to give specific CAMTA-regulated gene expression responses; gene expression responses to a calcium signature depend upon its history and accumulate all the information during the lifetime of the calcium signature. Information flow from calcium signatures to CAMTA-regulated gene expression responses has been established by combining experimental data with mathematical modelling.

Shared and unique responses of plants to multiple individual stresses and stress combinations: physiological and molecular mechanisms

In field conditions, plants are often simultaneously exposed to multiple biotic and abiotic stresses resulting in substantial yield loss. Plants have evolved various physiological and molecular adaptations to protect themselves under stress combinations. Emerging evidences suggest that plant responses to a combination of stresses are unique from individual stress responses. In addition, plants exhibit shared responses which are common to individual stresses and stress combination. In this review, we provide an update on the current understanding of both unique and shared responses. Specific focus of this review is on heat-drought stress as a major abiotic stress combination and, drought-pathogen and heat-pathogen as examples of abiotic-biotic stress combinations. We also comprehend the current understanding of molecular mechanisms of cross talk in relation to shared and unique molecular responses for plant survival under stress combinations. Thus, the knowledge of shared responses of plants from individual stress studies and stress combinations can be utilized to develop varieties with broad spectrum stress tolerance.

Characterization of a Calmodulin-binding Transcription Factor from Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa)

Calmodulin-binding transcription activator (CAMTA) is a calmodulin-binding transcription factor that has a broad range of functions from sensory mechanisms to regulating many growth and developmental processes. In this study, we isolated four strawberry CAMTA (FaCAMTA) genes using HMMER and BLAST analysis. The chromosome scaffold locations of these CAMTA genes in the strawberry genome were determined and the protein domain and motif organization [CG-1, transcription factor immunoglobulin, ankyrin (ANK) repeats, calmodulin-binding IQ motif) of FaCAMTAs were also assessed. All FaCAMTAs were predicted to be Ca- and calmodulin-binding proteins. The expression profiles of FaCAMTA genes were measured in different tissues and revealed distinct FaCAMTA gene expression patterns under heat, cold, and salt stress. These data not only contribute to a better understanding of the complex regulation of the FaCAMTA gene family but also provide evidence supporting the role of CAMTAs in multiple signaling pathways involved in stress responses. This investigation can provide useful information for further study.

NaCl-elicited, vacuolar Ca(2+) release facilitates prolonged cytosolic Ca(2+) signaling in the salt response of Populus euphratica cells

High environmental salt elicits an increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+)]cyt) in plants, which is generated by extracellular Ca(2+) influx and Ca(2+) release from intracellular stores, such as vacuole and endoplasmic reticulum. This study aimed to determine the physiological mechanisms underlying Ca(2+) release from vacuoles and its role in ionic homeostasis in Populus euphratica. In vivo Ca(2+) imaging showed that NaCl treatment induced a rapid elevation in [Ca(2+)]cyt, which was accompanied by a subsequent release of vacuolar Ca(2+). In cell cultures, NaCl-altered intracellular Ca(2+) mobilization was abolished by antagonists of inositol (1, 4, 5) trisphosphate (IP3) and cyclic adenosine diphosphate ribose (cADPR) signaling pathways, but not by slow vacuolar (SV) channel blockers. Furthermore, the NaCl-induced vacuolar Ca(2+) release was dependent on extracellular ATP, extracellular Ca(2+) influx, H2O2, and NO. In vitro Ca(2+) flux recordings confirmed that IP3, cADPR, and Ca(2+) induced substantial Ca(2+) efflux from intact vacuoles, but this vacuolar Ca(2+) flux did not directly respond to ATP, H2O2, or NO. Moreover, the IP3/cADPR-mediated vacuolar Ca(2+) release enhanced the expression of salt-responsive genes that regulated a wide range of cellular processes required for ion homeostasis, including cytosolic K(+) maintenance, Na(+) and Cl(-) exclusion across the plasma membrane, and Na(+)/H(+) and Cl(-)/H(+) exchanges across the vacuolar membrane.

Arabidopsis transcriptional response to extracellular Ca2+ depletion involves a transient rise in cytosolic Ca2+

Ecological evidence indicates a worldwide trend of dramatically decreased soil Ca(2+) levels caused by increased acid deposition and massive timber harvesting. Little is known about the genetic and cellular mechanism of plants' responses to Ca(2+) depletion. In this study, transcriptional profiling analysis helped identify multiple extracellular Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+) ]ext ) depletion-responsive genes in Arabidopsis thaliana L., many of which are involved in response to other environmental stresses. Interestingly, a group of genes encoding putative cytosolic Ca(2+) ([Ca(2+) ]cyt ) sensors were significantly upregulated, implying that [Ca(2+) ]cyt has a role in sensing [Ca(2+) ]ext depletion. Consistent with this observation, [Ca(2+) ]ext depletion stimulated a transient rise in [Ca(2+) ]cyt that was negatively influenced by [K(+) ]ext , suggesting the involvement of a membrane potential-sensitive component. The [Ca(2+) ]cyt response to [Ca(2+) ]ext depletion was significantly desensitized after the initial treatment, which is typical of a receptor-mediated signaling event. The response was insensitive to an animal Ca(2+) sensor antagonist, but was suppressed by neomycin, an inhibitor of phospholipase C. Gd(3+) , an inhibitor of Ca(2+) channels, suppressed the [Ca(2+) ]ext -triggered rise in [Ca(2+) ]cyt and downstream changes in gene expression. Taken together, this study demonstrates that [Ca(2+) ]cyt plays an important role in the putative receptor-mediated cellular and transcriptional response to [Ca(2+) ]ext depletion of plant cells.

Use of lanthanides to alleviate the effects of metal ion-deficiency in Desmodesmus quadricauda (Sphaeropleales, Chlorophyta)

Lanthanides are biologically non-essential elements with wide applications in technology and industry. Their concentration as environmental contaminants is, therefore, increasing. Although non-essential, lanthanides have been proposed (and even used) to produce beneficial effects in plants, even though their mechanisms of action are unclear. Recently, it was suggested that they may replace essential elements. We tested the effect of low concentrations of lanthanides on the common freshwater microalga Desmodesmus quadricauda, grown under conditions of metal ion-deficiency (lower calcium or manganese concentrations). Our goal was to test if lanthanides can replace essential metals in their functions. Physiological stress was recorded by studying growth and photosynthetic activity using a pulse amplitude modulation (PAM) fluorimeter. We found that nutrient stress reduced parameters of growth and photosynthesis, such as maximal quantum yield, relative electron transport rate, photon capturing efficiency and light saturation irradiance. After adding low concentrations of five lanthanides, we confirmed that they can produce a stimulatory effect on microalgae, depending on the nutrient (metal) deprivation. In the case of a calcium deficit, the addition of lanthanides partly alleviated the adverse effects, probably by a partial substitution of the element. In contrast, with manganese deprivation (and at even lower concentrations), lanthanides enhanced the deleterious effect on cellular growth and photosynthetic competence. These results show that lanthanides can replace essential elements, but their effects on microalgae depend on stress and the nutritional state of the microalgae, raising the possibility of environmental impacts at even low concentrations.

Genome-wide identification of CAMTA gene family members in Medicago truncatula and their expression during root nodule symbiosis and hormone treatments

Calmodulin-binding transcription activators (CAMTAs) are well-characterized calmodulin-binding transcription factors in the plant kingdom. Previous work shows that CAMTAs play important roles in various biological processes including disease resistance, herbivore attack response, and abiotic stress tolerance. However, studies that address the function of CAMTAs during the establishment of symbiosis between legumes and rhizobia are still lacking. This study undertook comprehensive identification and analysis of CAMTA genes using the latest updated M. truncatula genome. All the MtCAMTA genes were expressed in a tissues-specific manner and were responsive to environmental stress-related hormones. The expression profiling of MtCAMTA genes during the early phase of Sinorhizobium meliloti infection was also analyzed. Our data showed that the expression of most MtCAMTA genes was suppressed in roots by S. meliloti infection. The responsiveness of MtCAMTAs to S. meliloti infection indicated that they may function as calcium-regulated transcription factors in the early nodulation signaling pathway. In addition, bioinformatics analysis showed that CAMTA binding sites existed in the promoter regions of various early rhizobial infection response genes, suggesting possible MtCAMTAs-regulated downstream candidate genes during the early phase of S. meliloti infection. Taken together, these results provide basic information about MtCAMTAs in the model legume M. truncatula, and the involvement of MtCAMTAs in nodule organogenesis. This information furthers our understanding of MtCAMTA protein functions in M. truncatula and opens new avenues for continued research.

Closing the loop on the GABA shunt in plants: are GABA metabolism and signaling entwined?

γ-Aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a non-proteinogenic amino acid that is found in uni- and multi-cellular organisms and is involved in many aspects of plant life cycle. GABA metabolism occurs by the action of evolutionary conserved enzymes that constitute the GABA shunt, bypassing two steps of the TCA cycle. The central position of GABA in the interface between plant carbon and nitrogen metabolism is well established. In parallel, there is evidence to support a role for GABA as a signaling molecule in plants. Here we cover some of the recent findings on GABA metabolism and signaling in plants and further suggest that the metabolic and signaling aspects of GABA may actually be inseparable.

Identification and expression profiling analysis of calmodulin-binding transcription activator genes in maize (Zea mays L.) under abiotic and biotic stresses

The calmodulin-binding transcription activators (CAMTA) play critical roles in plant growth and responses to environmental stimuli. However, how CAMTAs function in responses to abiotic and biotic stresses in maize (Zea mays L.) is largely unknown. In this study, we first identified all the CAMTA homologous genes in the whole genome of maize. The results showed that nine ZmCAMTA genes showed highly diversified gene structures and tissue-specific expression patterns. Many ZmCAMTA genes displayed high expression levels in the roots. We then surveyed the distribution of stress-related cis-regulatory elements in the -1.5 kb promoter regions of ZmCAMTA genes. Notably, a large number of stress-related elements present in the promoter regions of some ZmCAMTA genes, indicating a genetic basis of stress expression regulation of these genes. Quantitative real-time PCR was used to test the expression of ZmCAMTA genes under several abiotic stresses (drought, salt, and cold), various stress-related hormones [abscisic acid, auxin, salicylic acid (SA), and jasmonic acid] and biotic stress [rice black-streaked dwarf virus (RBSDV) infection]. Furthermore, the expression pattern of ZmCAMTA genes under RBSDV infection was analyzed to investigate their potential roles in responses of different maize cultivated varieties to RBSDV. The expression of most ZmCAMTA genes responded to both abiotic and biotic stresses. The data will help us to understand the roles of CAMTA-mediated Ca(2+) signaling in maize tolerance to environmental stresses.

A key general stress response motif is regulated non-uniformly by CAMTA transcription factors

Plants cope with environmental challenges by rapidly triggering and synchronizing mechanisms governing stress-specific and general stress response (GSR) networks. The GSR acts rapidly and transiently in response to various stresses, but the underpinning mechanisms have remained elusive. To define GSR regulatory components we have exploited the Rapid Stress Response Element (RSRE), a previously established functional GSR motif, using Arabidopsis plants expressing a 4xRSRE::Luciferase (RSRE::LUC) reporter. Initially, we searched public microarray datasets and found an enrichment of RSRE in promoter sequences of stress genes. Next, we treated RSRE::LUC plants with wounding and a range of rapidly stress-inducible hormones and detected a robust LUC activity solely in response to wounding. Application of two Ca(2+) burst inducers, flagellin22 (flg22) and oligogalacturonic acid, activated RSRE strongly and systemically, while the Ca(2+) chelator ethylene glycol tetraacetic acid (EGTA) significantly reduced wound induction of RSRE::LUC. In line with the signaling function of Ca(2+) in transduction events leading to activation of RSRE, we examined the role of CALMODULIN-BINDING TRANSCRIPTIONAL ACTIVATORs (CAMTAs) in RSRE induction. Transient expression assays displayed CAMTA3 induction of RSRE and not that of the mutated element mRSRE. Treatment of selected camta mutant lines integrated into RSRE::LUC parent plant, with wounding, flg22, and freezing, established a differential function of these CAMTAs in potentiating the activity of RSRE. Wound response studies using camta double mutants revealed a cooperative function of CAMTAs2 and 4 with CAMTA 3 in the RSRE regulation. These studies provide insights into governing components of transduction events and reveal transcriptional modules that tune the expression of a key GSR motif.

Transcriptional expression analysis of genes involved in regulation of calcium translocation and storage in finger millet (Eleusine coracana L. Gartn.)

Finger millet (Eleusine coracana) variably accumulates calcium in different tissues, due to differential expression of genes involved in uptake, translocation and accumulation of calcium. Ca(2+)/H(+) antiporter (CAX1), two pore channel (TPC1), CaM-stimulated type IIB Ca(2+) ATPase and two CaM dependent protein kinase (CaMK1 and 2) homologs were studied in finger millet. Two genotypes GP-45 and GP-1 (high and low calcium accumulating, respectively) were used to understand the role of these genes in differential calcium accumulation. For most of the genes higher expression was found in the high calcium accumulating genotype. CAX1 was strongly expressed in the late stages of spike development and could be responsible for accumulating high concentrations of calcium in seeds. TPC1 and Ca(2+) ATPase homologs recorded strong expression in the root, stem and developing spike and signify their role in calcium uptake and translocation, respectively. Calmodulin showed strong expression and a similar expression pattern to the type IIB ATPase in the developing spike only and indicating developing spike or even seed specific isoform of CaM affecting the activity of downstream target of calcium transportation. Interestingly, CaMK1 and CaMK2 had expression patterns similar to ATPase and TPC1 in various tissues raising a possibility of their respective regulation via CaM kinase. Expression pattern of 14-3-3 gene was observed to be similar to CAX1 gene in leaf and developing spike inferring a surprising possibility of CAX1 regulation through 14-3-3 protein. Our results provide a molecular insight for explaining the mechanism of calcium accumulation in finger millet.

The interplay of transcription factors in suppression of UV-B induced flavonol accumulation by flg22

Biotic stress can be mimicked by application of elicitors, which comprise of microbe-associated molecular patterns (MAMPs). Treatment of plant cell cultures with MAMPs such as flg22 suppressed the expression of UV-B-induced flavonol pathway genes (FPGs) in parsley, carrot and Arabidopsis. This is thought to allow the plant focusing its secondary metabolism on the pathogen defense during MAMP-triggered immunity (MTI). Recently we reported that this suppression also depends on prevention of histone 3 acetylation at lysine 9 (H3K9ac), a hallmark for gene activation. Here we describe a possible regulation between UV-B and flg22 signaling cascades, and the interplay of MYB and WRKY transcription factors in regulating the expression of the FPGs.

Somatic embryogenesis: life and death processes during apical-basal patterning

Somatic embryogenesis (SE) is a process of differentiation of cells into a plant bypassing the fusion of gametes. As such, it represents a very powerful tool in biotechnology for propagation of species with a long reproductive cycle or low seed set and production of genetically modified plants with improved traits. SE is also a versatile model to study cellular and molecular mechanisms of plant embryo patterning. The morphology and molecular regulation of SE resemble those of zygotic embryogenesis and begin with establishment of apical-basal asymmetry. The apical domain, the embryo proper, proliferates and eventually gives rise to the plantlet, while the basal part, the embryo suspensor, is terminally differentiated and gradually removed via vacuolar programmed cell death (PCD). This PCD is essential for normal development of the apical domain. Emerging evidence demonstrates that signalling events in the apical and basal domains share homologous components. Here we provide an overview of the main pathways controlling the life and death events during SE.

Genome wide transcriptome analysis reveals ABA mediated response in Arabidopsis during gold (AuCl(-) 4) treatment

The unique physico-chemical properties of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) find manifold applications in diagnostics, medicine and catalysis. Chemical synthesis produces reactive AuNPs and generates hazardous by-products. Alternatively, plants can be utilized to produce AuNPs in an eco-friendly manner. To better control the biosynthesis of AuNPs, we need to first understand the detailed molecular response induced by AuCl(-) 4 In this study, we carried out global transcriptome analysis in root tissue of Arabidopsis grown for 12- h in presence of gold solution (HAuCl4) using the novel unbiased Affymetrix exon array. Transcriptomics analysis revealed differential regulation of a total of 704 genes and 4900 exons. Of these, 492 and 212 genes were up- and downregulated, respectively. The validation of the expressed key genes, such as glutathione-S-transferases, auxin responsive genes, cytochrome P450 82C2, methyl transferases, transducin (G protein beta subunit), ERF transcription factor, ABC, and MATE transporters, was carried out through quantitative RT-PCR. These key genes demonstrated specific induction under AuCl4(-) treatment relative to other heavy metals, suggesting a unique plant-gold interaction. GO enrichment analysis reveals the upregulation of processes like oxidative stress, glutathione binding, metal binding, transport, and plant hormonal responses. Changes predicted in biochemical pathways indicated major modulation in glutathione mediated detoxification, flavones and derivatives, and plant hormone biosynthesis. Motif search analysis identified a highly significant enriched motif, ACGT, which is an abscisic acid responsive core element (ABRE), suggesting the possibility of ABA- mediated signaling. Identification of abscisic acid response element (ABRE) points to the operation of a predominant signaling mechanism in response to AuCl(-) 4 exposure. Overall, this study presents a useful picture of plant-gold interaction with an identification of candidate genes involved in nanogold synthesis.

Rice WRKY13 regulates cross talk between abiotic and biotic stress signaling pathways by selective binding to different cis-elements

Plants use a complex signal transduction network to regulate their adaptation to the ever-changing environment. Rice (Oryza sativa) WRKY13 plays a vital role in the cross talk between abiotic and biotic stress signaling pathways by suppressing abiotic stress resistance and activating disease resistance. However, it is not clear how WRKY13 directly regulates this cross talk. Here, we show that WRKY13 is a transcriptional repressor. During the rice responses to drought stress and bacterial infection, WRKY13 selectively bound to certain site- and sequence-specific cis-elements on the promoters of SNAC1 (for STRESS RESPONSIVE NO APICAL MERISTEM, ARABIDOPSIS TRANSCRIPTION ACTIVATION FACTOR1/2, CUP-SHAPED COTYLEDON), the overexpression of which increases drought resistance, and WRKY45-1, the knockout of which increases both bacterial disease and drought resistance. WRKY13 also bound to two cis-elements of its native promoter to autoregulate the balance of its gene expression in different physiological activities. WRKY13 was induced in leaf vascular tissue, where bacteria proliferate, during infection, and in guard cells, where the transcriptional factor SNAC1 enhances drought resistance, during both bacterial infection and drought stress. These results suggest that WRKY13 regulates the antagonistic cross talk between drought and disease resistance pathways by directly suppressing SNAC1 and WRKY45-1 and autoregulating its own expression via site- and sequence-specific cis-elements on the promoters of these genes in vascular tissue where bacteria proliferate and guard cells where the transcriptional factor SNAC1 mediates drought resistance by promoting stomatal closure.

How the nucleus and mitochondria communicate in energy production during stress: nuclear MtATP6, an early-stress responsive gene, regulates the mitochondrial F₁F₀-ATP synthase complex

A small number of stress-responsive genes, such as those of the mitochondrial F1F0-ATP synthase complex, are encoded by both the nucleus and mitochondria. The regulatory mechanism of these joint products is mysterious. The expression of 6-kDa subunit (MtATP6), a relatively uncharacterized nucleus-encoded subunit of F0 part, was measured during salinity stress in salt-tolerant and salt-sensitive cultivated wheat genotypes, as well as in the wild wheat genotypes, Triticum and Aegilops using qRT-PCR. The MtATP6 expression was suddenly induced 3 h after NaCl treatment in all genotypes, indicating an early inducible stress-responsive behavior. Promoter analysis showed that the MtATP6 promoter includes cis-acting elements such as ABRE, MYC, MYB, GTLs, and W-boxes, suggesting a role for this gene in abscisic acid-mediated signaling, energy metabolism, and stress response. It seems that 6-kDa subunit, as an early response gene and nuclear regulatory factor, translocates to mitochondria and completes the F1F0-ATP synthase complex to enhance ATP production and maintain ion homeostasis under stress conditions. These communications between nucleus and mitochondria are required for inducing mitochondrial responses to stress pathways. Dual targeting of 6-kDa subunit may comprise as a mean of inter-organelle communication and save energy for the cell. Interestingly, MtATP6 showed higher and longer expression in the salt-tolerant wheat and the wild genotypes compared to the salt-sensitive genotype. Apparently, salt-sensitive genotypes have lower ATP production efficiency and weaker energy management than wild genotypes; a stress tolerance mechanism that has not been transferred to cultivated genotypes.

Calcium supply effects on wheat cultivars differing in salt resistance with special reference to leaf cytosol ion homeostasis

Salinity causes changes in cytosolic Ca(2+), [Ca(2+)]cyt, Na(+), [Na(+)]cyt and pH, pH cyt , which induce specific reactions and signals. Reactions causing a rebalancing of the physiological homeostasis of the cytosol could result in plant resistance and growth. Two wheat cultivars, Triticum aestivum, Seds1 and Vinjett, were grown in nutrient solution for 7 days under moderate salinity (0 and 50 mM NaCl) with and without extra addition of 5 mM CaSO4 to investigate the seedling-ion homeostasis under salinity. In the leaf protoplasts [Ca(2+) ]cyt, [Na(+)]cyt and pH cyt were detected using acetoxymethyl esters of the ion-specific dyes, Fura 2, SBFI and BCECF, respectively, and fluorescence microscopy. In addition, both cultivars were grown for 3 weeks at 0, 50 and 125 mM NaCl with, or without, extra addition of 5 mM CaSO4 to detect overall Na(+) and Ca(2+) concentrations in leaves and salinity effects on dry weights. In both cultivars, salinity decreased [Ca(2+)]cyt, while at extra Ca(2+) supplied, [Ca(2+)]cyt increased. The [Ca(2+) ]cyt increase was accompanied by increase in the overall Ca(2+) concentrations in leaves and decrease in the overall Na(+) concentration. Moreover, irrespective of Ca(2+) treatment under salinity, the cultivars reacted in different ways; [Na(+) ]cyt significantly increased only in cv. Vinjett, while pH cyt increased only in cv. Seds1. Even at rather high total Na(+) concentrations, the cytosolic concentrations were kept low in both cultivars. It is discussed whether the increase of [Ca(2+)]cyt and pH cyt can contribute to salt tolerance and if the cytosolic changes are due to changes in overall Ca(2+) and Na(+) concentrations.

Transcription factors as potential participants in the signal transduction pathway of boron deficiency

Boron (B) plays a well-known structural role in the cell wall, however the way of perceiving B deficiency by roots and transmitting this environmental signal to the nucleus to elicit a response is not well established. It is known that the direct interaction between Ca2+ sensors and transcription factors (TFs) is a necessary step to regulate the expression of downstream target genes in some signaling pathways. Interestingly, B deprivation affected gene expressions of several TFs belonging to MYB, WRKY, and bZIP families, as well as expressions of Ca2+ -related genes such as several CML (calmodulin-like protein) and CPK (Ca2+ -dependent protein kinase) genes. Taken together, these results suggest that B deficiency could affect the expression of downstream target genes by alteration of a calcium signaling pathway in which the interaction between CMLs and/or CPKs with TFs (activator or repressor) would be a crucial step, which would explain why some genes are upregulated whereas others are repressed upon B deprivation.

Ca²⁺ is involved in phytochrome A-dependent regulation of the succinate dehydrogenase gene sdh1-2 in Arabidopsis

The mechanism of transduction of the phytochrome signal regulating the expression of succinate dehydrogenase in Arabidopsis has been investigated. Using the phytochrome mutants of Arabidopsis, it is demonstrated that the inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase in the light may result from the phytochrome A-dependent modulation of Ca²⁺ amount in the nuclear fraction of leaves. This leads to the activation of expression of the gene pif3 encoding the phytochrome-interacting factor PIF3, which binds to the promoter of the gene sdh1-2 encoding the SDHA subunit of succinate dehydrogenase and suppresses its expression. It is concluded that Ca²⁺ ions are involved in the phytochrome A-mediated inhibition of succinate dehydrogenase activity in the light.

Nuclear calcium signaling in plants

Plant cell nuclei can generate calcium responses to a variety of inputs, tantamount among them the response to signaling molecules from symbiotic microorganisms .

Recent advances in calcium/calmodulin-mediated signaling with an emphasis on plant-microbe interactions

Calcium/calmodulin-mediated signaling contributes in diverse roles in plant growth, development, and response to environmental stimuli .

Roles of CAMTA transcription factors and salicylic acid in configuring the low-temperature transcriptome and freezing tolerance of Arabidopsis

Previous studies in Arabidopsis thaliana established roles for CALMODULIN BINDING TRANSCRIPTION ACTIVATOR 3 (CAMTA3) in the rapid cold induction of CRT/DRE BINDING FACTOR (CBF) genes CBF1 and CBF2, and the repression of salicylic acid (SA) biosynthesis at warm temperature. Here we show that CAMTA1 and CAMTA2 work in concert with CAMTA3 at low temperature (4°C) to induce peak transcript levels of CBF1, CBF2 and CBF3 at 2 h, contribute to up-regulation of approximately 15% of the genes induced at 24 h, most of which fall outside the CBF pathway, and increase plant freezing tolerance. In addition, CAMTA1, CAMTA2 and CAMTA3 function together to inhibit SA biosynthesis at warm temperature (22°C). However, SA levels increase in Arabidopsis plants that are exposed to low temperature for more than 1 week. We show that this chilling-induced SA biosynthesis proceeds through the isochorismate synthase (ICS) pathway, with cold induction of ICS1 (which encodes ICS), and two genes encoding transcription factors that positively regulate ICS1 - CBP60g and SARD1 -, paralleling SA accumulation. The three CAMTA proteins effectively repress the accumulation of ICS1, CBP60g and SARD1 transcripts at warm temperature but not at low temperature. This impairment of CAMTA function may involve post-transcriptional regulation, as CAMTA transcript levels did not decrease at low temperature. Salicylic acid biosynthesis at low temperature did not contribute to freezing tolerance, but had a major role in configuring the transcriptome, including the induction of 'defense response' genes, suggesting the possible existence of a pre-emptive defense strategy programmed by prolonged chilling temperatures.

Genome-wide identification and functional analyses of calmodulin genes in Solanaceous species

BACKGROUND

Calmodulin (CaM) is a major calcium sensor in all eukaryotes. It binds calcium and modulates the activity of a wide range of downstream proteins in response to calcium signals. However, little is known about the CaM gene family in Solanaceous species, including the economically important species, tomato (Solanum lycopersicum), and the gene silencing model plant, Nicotiana benthamiana. Moreover, the potential function of CaM in plant disease resistance remains largely unclear.

RESULTS

We performed genome-wide identification of CaM gene families in Solanaceous species. Employing bioinformatics approaches, multiple full-length CaM genes were identified from tomato, N. benthamiana and potato (S. tuberosum) genomes, with tomato having 6 CaM genes, N. benthamiana having 7 CaM genes, and potato having 4 CaM genes. Sequence comparison analyses showed that three tomato genes, SlCaM3/4/5, two potato genes StCaM2/3, and two sets of N. benthamiana genes, NbCaM1/2/3/4 and NbCaM5/6, encode identical CaM proteins, yet the genes contain different intron/exon organization and are located on different chromosomes. Further sequence comparisons and gene structural and phylogenetic analyses reveal that Solanaceous species gained a new group of CaM genes during evolution. These new CaM genes are unusual in that they contain three introns in contrast to only a single intron typical of known CaM genes in plants. The tomato CaM (SlCaM) genes were found to be expressed in all organs. Prediction of cis-acting elements in 5' upstream sequences and expression analyses demonstrated that SlCaM genes have potential to be highly responsive to a variety of biotic and abiotic stimuli. Additionally, silencing of SlCaM2 and SlCaM6 altered expression of a set of signaling and defense-related genes and resulted in significantly lower resistance to Tobacco rattle virus and the oomycete pathogen, Pythium aphanidermatum.

CONCLUSIONS

The CaM gene families in the Solanaceous species tomato, N. benthamiana and potato were identified through a genome-wide analysis. All three plant species harbor a small set of genes that encode identical CaM proteins, which may manifest a strategy of plants to retain redundancy or enhanced quantitative gene function. In addition, Solanaceous species have evolved one new group of CaM genes during evolution. CaM genes play important roles in plant disease resistance to a variety of pathogens.

CAMTA 1 regulates drought responses in Arabidopsis thaliana

BACKGROUND

Transcription factors (TF) play a crucial role in regulating gene expression and are fit to regulate diverse cellular processes by interacting with other proteins. A TF named calmodulin binding transcription activator (CAMTA) was identified in Arabidopsis thaliana (AtCAMTA1-6). To explore the role of CAMTA1 in drought response, the phenotypic differences and gene expression was studied between camta1 and Col-0 under drought condition.

RESULTS

In camta1, root development was abolished showing high-susceptibility to induced osmotic stress resulting in small wrinkled rosette leaves and stunted primary root. In camta1 under drought condition, we identified growth retardation, poor WUE, low photosystem II efficiency, decline in RWC and higher sensitivity to drought with reduced survivability. The microarray analysis of drought treated camta1 revealed that CAMTA1 regulates "drought recovery" as most indicative pathway along with other stress response, osmotic balance, apoptosis, DNA methylation and photosynthesis. Interestingly, majority of positively regulated genes were related to plasma membrane and chloroplast. Further, our analysis indicates that CAMTA1 regulates several stress responsive genes including RD26, ERD7, RAB18, LTPs, COR78, CBF1, HSPs etc. and promoter of these genes were enriched with CAMTA recognition cis-element. CAMTA1 probably regulate drought recovery by regulating expression of AP2-EREBP transcription factors and Abscisic acid response.

CONCLUSION

CAMTA1 rapidly changes broad spectrum of responsive genes of membrane integrity and photosynthetic machinery by generating ABA response for challenging drought stress. Our results demonstrate the important role of CAMTA1 in regulating drought response in Arabidopsis, thus could be genetically engineered for improving drought tolerance in crop.

Boron deficiency increases the levels of cytosolic Ca(2+) and expression of Ca(2+)-related genes in Arabidopsis thaliana roots

Boron (B) deficiency affects the expressions of genes involved in major physiological processes. However, signal transduction pathway through which plants are able to sense and transmit B-deprivation signal to the nucleus is unknown. The aim of this work was to research in Arabidopsis thaliana roots whether the short-term B deficiency affects cytosolic Ca(2+) levels ([Ca(2+)]cyt) as well as expression of genes involved in Ca(2+) signaling. To visualize in vivo changes in root [Ca(2+)]cyt, Arabidopsis seedlings expressing Yellow Cameleon (YC) 3.6 were grown in a nutrient solution supplemented with 2 μM B and then transferred to a B-free medium for 24 h. Root [Ca(2+)]cyt was clearly higher in B-deficient seedlings upon 6 and 24 h of B treatments when compared to controls. Transcriptome analyses showed that transcript levels of Ca(2+) signaling-related genes were affected by B deprivation. Interestingly, Ca(2+) channel (CNGC19, cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channel) gene was strongly upregulated as early as 6 h after B deficiency. Expression levels of Ca(2+) transporter (ACA, autoinhibited Ca(2+)-ATPase; CAX, cation exchanger) genes increased when seedlings were subjected to B deficiency. Gene expressions of calmodulin-like proteins (CMLs) and Ca(2+)-dependent protein kinases (CPKs) were also overexpressed upon exposure to B starvation. Our results suggest that B deficiency causes early responses in the expression of CNGC19 Ca(2+)-influx channel, ACA- and CAX-efflux, and Ca(2+) sensor genes to regulate Ca(2+) homeostasis. It is the first time that changes in the levels of in vivo cytosolic Ca(2+) and expression of Ca(2+) channel/transporter genes are related with short-term B deficiency in Arabidopsis roots.

Calcium/calmodulin-mediated regulation of plant immunity

Calcium is a universal messenger involved in the modulation of diverse developmental and adaptive processes in response to various physiological stimuli. Ca(2+) signals are represented by stimulus-specific Ca(2+) signatures that are sensed and translated into proper cellular responses by diverse Ca(2+) binding proteins and their downstream targets. Calmodulin (CaM) and calmodulin-like (CML) proteins are primary Ca(2+) sensors that control diverse cellular functions by regulating the activity of various target proteins. Recent advances in our understanding of Ca(2+)/CaM-mediated signalling in plants have emerged from investigations into plant defence responses against various pathogens. Here, we focus on significant progress made in the identification of CaM/CML-regulated components involved in the generation of Ca(2+) signals and Ca(2+)-dependent regulation of gene expression during plant immune responses. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: 12th European Symposium on Calcium.

Relationships between calcium and sphingolipid-dependent signalling pathways during the early steps of plant-pathogen interactions

An increase in cellular calcium ion (Ca(2+)) concentration is now acknowledged to be one of the earliest events occurring during the induction of plant defence responses to a wide variety of pathogens. Sphingoid long-chain bases (LCBs) have also been recently demonstrated to be important mediators of defence-related programmed cell death during pathogen attack. Here, we present recent data highlighting how Ca(2+) and LCBs may be interconnected to regulate cellular processes which lead either to plant susceptibility or to resistance mechanisms. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled: 12th European Symposium on Calcium.

Evolutionary adaptation of plant annexins has diversified their molecular structures, interactions and functional roles

Annexins are an homologous, structurally related superfamily of proteins known to associate with membrane lipid and cytoskeletal components. Their involvement in membrane organization, vesicle trafficking and signaling is fundamental to cellular processes such as growth, differentiation, secretion and repair. Annexins exist in some prokaryotes and all eukaryotic phyla within which plant annexins represent a monophyletic clade of homologs descended from green algae. Genomic, proteomic and transcriptomic approaches have provided data on the diversity, cellular localization and expression patterns of different plant annexins. The availability of 35 complete plant genomes has enabled systematic comparative analysis to determine phylogenetic relationships, characterize structures and observe functional specificity between and within individual subfamilies. Short amino termini and selective erosion of the canonical type 2 calcium coordinating sites in domains 2 and 3 are typical of plant annexins. The convergent evolution of alternate functional motifs such as 'KGD', redox-sensitive Cys and hydrophobic Trp/Phe residues argues for their functional relevance and contribution to mechanistic diversity in plant annexins. This review examines recent findings and advances in plant annexin research with special focus on their structural diversity, cellular and molecular interactions and their potential integrated functions in the broader context of physiological responses.

A stress-specific calcium signature regulating an ozone-responsive gene expression network in Arabidopsis

Changes in gene expression form a key component of the molecular mechanisms by which plants adapt and respond to environmental stresses. There is compelling evidence for the role of stimulus-specific Ca(2+) signatures in plant stress responses. However, our understanding of how they orchestrate the differential expression of stress-induced genes remains fragmentary. We have undertaken a global study of changes in the Arabidopsis transcriptome induced by the pollutant ozone in order to establish a robust transcriptional response against which to test the ability of Ca(2+) signatures to encode stimulus-specific transcriptional information. We show that the expression of a set of co-regulated ozone-induced genes is Ca(2+)-dependent and that abolition of the ozone-induced Ca(2+) signature inhibits the induction of these genes by ozone. No induction of this set of ozone-regulated genes was observed in response to H(2)O(2), one of the reactive oxygen species (ROS) generated by ozone, or cold stress, which also generates ROS, both of which stimulate changes in [Ca(2+)](cyt). These data establish unequivocally that the Ca(2+)-dependent changes in gene expression observed in response to ozone are not simply a consequence of an ROS-induced increase in [Ca(2+) ](cyt) per se. The magnitude and temporal dynamics of the ozone, H(2)O(2) , and cold Ca(2+) signatures all differ markedly. This finding is consistent with the hypothesis that stimulus-specific transcriptional information can be encoded in the spatiotemporal dynamics of complex Ca(2+) signals in plants.

Calmodulin-binding protein CBP60g is a positive regulator of both disease resistance and drought tolerance in Arabidopsis

Calmodulin-binding proteins (CBPs) have been known to be involved in both biotic and abiotic stress responses. Recently, two closely related CBPs, Arabidopsis SAR Deficient 1 and CBP60g, were found to belong to a new family of transcription factors that regulate salicylic acid (SA) biosynthesis triggered by microbe-associated molecular patterns. In this study, we found that overexpression of CBP60g in Arabidopsis caused elevated SA accumulation, increased expression of the defense genes, and enhanced resistance to Pseudomonas syringae. In addition to the enhanced defense response, the CBP60g overexpression lines showed hypersensitivity to abscisic acid (ABA) and enhanced tolerance to drought stress. We also found that treatment with ABA and drought stress leads to a higher expression level of the ICS1 gene, which encodes isochorismate synthase, in the CBP60g overexpression lines than in the wild-type control plants. Our results suggest that CBP60g serves as a molecular link that positively regulates ABA- and SA-mediated pathways in plants.

KEY MESSAGE

Overexpression of CBP60g in Arabidopsis enhanced the defense response, hypersensitivity to abscisic acid and tolerance to drought stress.

Ca(2+) signals: the versatile decoders of environmental cues

Plants are often subjected to various environmental stresses that lead to deleterious effects on growth, production, sustainability, etc. The information of the incoming stress is read by the plants through the mechanism of signal transduction. The plant Ca(2+) serves as secondary messenger during adaptations to stressful conditions and developmental processes. A plethora of Ca(2+) sensors and decoders functions to bring about these changes. The cellular concentrations of Ca(2+), their subcellular localization, and the specific interaction affinities of Ca(2+) decoder proteins all work together to make this process a complex but synchronized signaling network. In this review, we focus on the versatility of these sensors and decoders in the model plant Arabidopsis as well as plants of economical importance. Here, we have also thrown light on the possible mechanism of action of these important components.

Transcriptome analysis of tobacco BY-2 cells elicited by cryptogein reveals new potential actors of calcium-dependent and calcium-independent plant defense pathways

Cryptogein is a proteinaceous elicitor secreted by the oomycete Phytophthora cryptogea, which induces a hypersensitive response in tobacco plants. We have previously reported that in tobacco BY-2 cells treated with cryptogein, most of the genes of the phenylpropanoid pathway were upregulated and cell wall-bound phenolics accumulated. Both events were Ca(2+) dependent. In this study, we designed a microarray covering a large proportion of the tobacco genome and monitored gene expression in cryptogein-elicited BY-2 cells to get a more complete view of the transcriptome changes and to assess their Ca(2+) dependence. The predominant functional gene categories affected by cryptogein included stress- and disease-related proteins, phenylpropanoid pathway, signaling components, transcription factors and cell wall reinforcement. Among the 3819 unigenes whose expression changed more than fourfold, 90% were Ca(2+) dependent, as determined by their sensitivity to lanthanum chloride. The most Ca(2+)-dependent transcripts upregulated by cryptogein were involved in defense responses or the oxylipin pathway. This genome-wide study strongly supports the importance of Ca(2+)-dependent transcriptional regulation of regulatory and defense-related genes contributing to cryptogein responses in tobacco.

Plant organellar calcium signalling: an emerging field

This review provides a comprehensive overview of the established and emerging roles that organelles play in calcium signalling. The function of calcium as a secondary messenger in signal transduction networks is well documented in all eukaryotic organisms, but so far existing reviews have hardly addressed the role of organelles in calcium signalling, except for the nucleus. Therefore, a brief overview on the main calcium stores in plants-the vacuole, the endoplasmic reticulum, and the apoplast-is provided and knowledge on the regulation of calcium concentrations in different cellular compartments is summarized. The main focus of the review will be the calcium handling properties of chloroplasts, mitochondria, and peroxisomes. Recently, it became clear that these organelles not only undergo calcium regulation themselves, but are able to influence the Ca(2+) signalling pathways of the cytoplasm and the entire cell. Furthermore, the relevance of recent discoveries in the animal field for the regulation of organellar calcium signals will be discussed and conclusions will be drawn regarding potential homologous mechanisms in plant cells. Finally, a short overview on bacterial calcium signalling is included to provide some ideas on the question where this typically eukaryotic signalling mechanism could have originated from during evolution.

Nuclear calcium signaling: an emerging topic in plants

The calcium ion is probably one of the most studied second messenger both in plant and animal fields. A large number of reviews have browsed the diversity of cytosolic calcium signatures and evaluated their pleiotropic roles in plant and animal cells. In the recent years, an increasing number of reviews has focused on nuclear calcium, especially on the possible roles of nuclear calcium concentration variations on nuclear activities. Experiments initially performed on animal cells gave conflicting results that brought about a controversy about the ability of the nucleus to generate its own calcium signals and to regulate its calcium level. But in plant cells, several converging scientific pieces of evidence support the hypothesis of nucleus autonomy. The present review briefly summarizes data supporting this hypothesis and tries to put forward some possible roles for these nucleus-generated calcium signals in controlling nuclear activity.

Transcriptomic analysis reveals calcium regulation of specific promoter motifs in Arabidopsis

Increases in intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](c)) mediate plant responses to stress by regulating the expression of genes encoding proteins that confer tolerance. Several plant stress genes have previously been shown to be calcium-regulated, and in one case, a specific promoter motif Abscisic Acid Responsive-Element (ABRE) has been found to be regulated by calcium. A comprehensive survey of the Arabidopsis thaliana transcriptome for calcium-regulated promoter motifs was performed by measuring the expression of genes in Arabidopsis seedlings responding to three calcium elevations of different characteristics, using full genome microarray analysis. This work revealed a total of 269 genes upregulated by [Ca(2+)](c) in Arabidopsis. Bioinformatic analysis strongly indicated that at least four promoter motifs were [Ca(2+)](c)-regulated in planta. We confirmed this finding by expressing in plants chimeric gene constructs controlled exclusively by these cis-elements and by testing the necessity and sufficiency of calcium for their expression. Our data reveal that the C-Repeat/Drought-Responsive Element, Site II, and CAM box (along with the previously identified ABRE) promoter motifs are calcium-regulated. The identification of these promoter elements targeted by the second messenger intracellular calcium has implications for plant signaling in response to a variety of stimuli, including cold, drought, and biotic stress.