Protein nitration during defense response in Arabidopsis thaliana

Measurement of Reactive Oxygen Species and Nitric Oxide from Tomato Plants in Response to Abiotic and Biotic Stresses

Nitric oxide (NO) is a free radical molecule that has been known to influence several cellular processes such as plant growth, development, and stress responses. NO together with reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a role in signaling process. Due to extremely low half-life of these radicals in cellular environment, it is often difficult to precisely monitor them. Each method has some advantages and disadvantages; hence, it is important to measure using multiple methods. To interpret the role of each signaling molecule in numerous biological processes, sensitive and focused methods must be used. In addition to this complexity, these Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) and NO react with each other leads to nitro-oxidative stress in plants. Using tomato as a model system here, we demonstrate stepwise protocols for measurement of NO by chemiluminescence, DAF fluorescence, nitrosative stress by western blot, and ROS measurement by NBT and DAB under stress conditions such as osmotic stress and Botrytis infection. While describing methods, we also emphasized on benefits, drawbacks, and broader applications of these methods.

Protein Tyrosine Nitration in Plant Nitric Oxide Signaling

Nitric oxide (NO), which is ubiquitously present in living organisms, regulates many developmental and stress-activated processes in plants. Regulatory effects exerted by NO lies mostly in its chemical reactivity as a free radical. Proteins are main targets of NO action as several amino acids can undergo NO-related post-translational modifications (PTMs) that include mainly S-nitrosylation of cysteine, and nitration of tyrosine and tryptophan. This review is focused on the role of protein tyrosine nitration on NO signaling, making emphasis on the production of NO and peroxynitrite, which is the main physiological nitrating agent; the main metabolic and signaling pathways targeted by protein nitration; and the past, present, and future of methodological and strategic approaches to study this PTM. Available information on identification of nitrated plant proteins, the corresponding nitration sites, and the functional effects on the modified proteins will be summarized. However, due to the low proportion of in vivo nitrated peptides and their inherent instability, the identification of nitration sites by proteomic analyses is a difficult task. Artificial nitration procedures are likely not the best strategy for nitration site identification due to the lack of specificity. An alternative to get artificial site-specific nitration comes from the application of genetic code expansion technologies based on the use of orthogonal aminoacyl-tRNA synthetase/tRNA pairs engineered for specific noncanonical amino acids. This strategy permits the programmable site-specific installation of genetically encoded 3-nitrotyrosine sites in proteins expressed in Escherichia coli, thus allowing the study of the effects of specific site nitration on protein structure and function.

Computational prediction of NO-dependent posttranslational modifications in plants: Current status and perspectives

The perception and transduction of nitric oxide (NO) signal is achieved by NO-dependent posttranslational modifications (PTMs) among which S-nitrosation and tyrosine nitration has biological significance. In plants, 100-1000 S-nitrosated and tyrosine nitrated proteins have been identified so far by mass spectrometry. The determination of NO-modified protein targets/amino acid residues is often methodologically challenging. In the past decade, the growing demand for the knowledge of S-nitrosated or tyrosine nitrated sites has motivated the introduction of bioinformatics tools. For predicting S-nitrosation seven computational tools have been developed (GPS-SNO, SNOSite, iSNO-PseACC, iSNO-AAPAir, PSNO, PreSNO, RecSNO). Four predictors have been developed for indicating tyrosine nitration sites (GPS-YNO2, iNitro-Tyr, PredNTS, iNitroY-Deep), and one tool (DeepNitro) predicts both NO-dependent PTMs. The advantage of these computational tools is the fast provision of large amount of information. In this review, the available software tools have been tested on plant proteins in which S-nitrosated or tyrosine nitrated sites have been experimentally identified. The predictors showed distinct performance and there were differences from the experimental results partly due to the fact that the three-dimensional protein structure is not taken into account by the computational tools. Nevertheless, the predictors excellently establish experiments, and it is suggested to apply all available tools on target proteins and compare their results. In the future, computational prediction must be developed further to improve the precision with which S-nitrosation/tyrosine nitration-sites are identified.

Nitric oxide molecular targets: reprogramming plant development upon stress

Plants are sessile organisms that need to complete their life cycle by the integration of different abiotic and biotic environmental signals, tailoring developmental cues and defense concomitantly. Commonly, stress responses are detrimental to plant growth and, despite the fact that intensive efforts have been made to understand both plant development and defense separately, most of the molecular basis of this trade-off remains elusive. To cope with such a diverse range of processes, plants have developed several strategies including the precise balance of key plant growth and stress regulators [i.e. phytohormones, reactive nitrogen species (RNS), and reactive oxygen species (ROS)]. Among RNS, nitric oxide (NO) is a ubiquitous gasotransmitter involved in redox homeostasis that regulates specific checkpoints to control the switch between development and stress, mainly by post-translational protein modifications comprising S-nitrosation of cysteine residues and metals, and nitration of tyrosine residues. In this review, we have sought to compile those known NO molecular targets able to balance the crossroads between plant development and stress, with special emphasis on the metabolism, perception, and signaling of the phytohormones abscisic acid and salicylic acid during abiotic and biotic stress responses.

Nitric oxide in plant-fungal interactions

Whilst many interactions with fungi are detrimental for plants, others are beneficial and result in improved growth and stress tolerance. Thus, plants have evolved sophisticated mechanisms to restrict pathogenic interactions while promoting mutualistic relationships. Numerous studies have demonstrated the importance of nitric oxide (NO) in the regulation of plant defence against fungal pathogens. NO triggers a reprograming of defence-related gene expression, the production of secondary metabolites with antimicrobial properties, and the hypersensitive response. More recent studies have shown a regulatory role of NO during the establishment of plant-fungal mutualistic associations from the early stages of the interaction. Indeed, NO has been recently shown to be produced by the plant after the recognition of root fungal symbionts, and to be required for the optimal control of mycorrhizal symbiosis. Although studies dealing with the function of NO in plant-fungal mutualistic associations are still scarce, experimental data indicate that different regulation patterns and functions for NO exist between plant interactions with pathogenic and mutualistic fungi. Here, we review recent progress in determining the functions of NO in plant-fungal interactions, and try to identify common and differential patterns related to pathogenic and mutualistic associations, and their impacts on plant health.

Nitrogen Dioxide at Ambient Concentrations Induces Nitration and Degradation of PYR/PYL/RCAR Receptors to Stimulate Plant Growth: A Hypothetical Model

Exposing Arabidopsis thaliana (Arabidopsis) seedlings fed with soil nitrogen to 10-50 ppb nitrogen dioxide (NO₂) for several weeks stimulated the uptake of major elements, photosynthesis, and cellular metabolisms to more than double the biomass of shoot, total leaf area and contents of N, C P, K, S, Ca and Mg per shoot relative to non-exposed control seedlings. The ¹⁵N/¹⁴N ratio analysis by mass spectrometry revealed that N derived from NO₂ (NO₂-N) comprised < 5% of the total plant N, showing that the contribution of NO₂-N as N source was minor. Moreover, histological analysis showed that leaf size and biomass were increased upon NO₂ treatment, and that these increases were attributable to leaf age-dependent enhancement of cell proliferation and enlargement. Thus, NO₂ may act as a plant growth signal rather than an N source. Exposure of Arabidopsis leaves to 40 ppm NO₂ induced virtually exclusive nitration of PsbO and PsbP proteins (a high concentration of NO₂ was used). The PMF analysis identified the ninth tyrosine residue of PsbO1 (⁹Tyr) as a nitration site. ⁹Tyr of PsbO1 was exclusively nitrated after incubation of the thylakoid membranes with a buffer containing NO₂ and NO₂^- or a buffer containing NO₂^- alone. Nitration was catalyzed by illumination and repressed by photosystem II (PSII) electron transport inhibitors, and decreased oxygen evolution. Thus, protein tyrosine nitration altered (downregulated) the physiological function of cellular proteins of Arabidopsis leaves. This indicates that NO₂-induced protein tyrosine nitration may stimulate plant growth. We hypothesized that atmospheric NO₂ at ambient concentrations may induce tyrosine nitration of PYR/PYL/RCAR receptors in Arabidopsis leaves, followed by degradation of PYR/PYL/RCAR, upregulation of target of rapamycin (TOR) regulatory complexes, and stimulation of plant growth.

A novel role for PsbO1 in photosynthetic electron transport as suggested by its light-triggered selective nitration in Arabidopsis thaliana

Exposure of Arabidopsis leaves to nitrogen dioxide (NO2) results in the selective nitration of specific proteins, such as PsbO1. The 9th tyrosine residue (9Tyr) of PsbO1 has been identified as the nitration site. This nitration is triggered by light and inhibited by photosynthetic electron transport inhibitors. During protein nitration, tyrosyl and NO2 radicals are formed concurrently and combine rapidly to form 3-nitrotyrosine. A selective oxidation mechanism for 9Tyr of PsbO1 is required. We postulated that, similar to 161Tyr of D1, 9Tyr of PsbO1 is selectively photo-oxidized by photosynthetic electron transport in response to illumination to a tyrosyl radical. In corroboration, after reappraising our oxygen evolution analysis, the nitration of PsbO1 proved responsible for decreased oxygen evolution from the thylakoid membranes. NO2 is reportedly taken into cells as nitrous acid, which dissociates to form NO2-. NO2- may be oxidized into NO2 by the oxygen-evolving complex. Light may synchronize this reaction with tyrosyl radical formation. These findings suggest a novel role for PsbO1 in photosynthetic electron transport.

Top-down and bottom-up characterization of nitrated birch pollen allergen Bet v 1a with CZE hyphenated to an Orbitrap mass spectrometer

Tyrosine (Tyr) residues of the major pollen allergen of birch Betula verrucosa, Bet v 1a, were nitrated by peroxynitrite. This modification enhances the allergenicity. Modified tyrosines were identified by analyzing intact allergen variants in combination with top‐down and bottom‐up approaches. Therefore, a laboratory‐built sheath‐liquid assisted ESI interface was applied for hyphenation of CE to an Orbitrap mass spectrometer to localize individual nitration sites. The major focus was on identification of primary nitration sites. The top‐down approach unambiguously identified Tyr 5 as the most prominent modification site. Fragments from the allergen core and the C‐terminal part carried up to three potential nitration sites, respectively. Thus, a bottom‐up approach with tryptic digest was used as a complementary strategy which allowed for the unambiguous localization of nitration sites within the respective peptides. Nitration propensity for individual Tyr residues was addressed by comparison of MS signals of nitrated peptides relative to all cognates of homolog primary sequence. Combined data identified surface exposed Tyr 5 and Tyr 66 as major nitration sites followed by less accessible Tyr 158 whereas Tyr 81, 83 and 150 possess a lower nitration tendency and are apparently modified in variants with higher nitration levels.

Molecular mechanisms accompanying nitric oxide signalling through tyrosine nitration and S-nitrosylation of proteins in plants

Nitric oxide (NO) signalling in plants is responsible for modulation of a variety of plant developmental processes. Depending on the tissue system, the signalling of NO-modulated biochemical responses majorly involves the processes of tyrosine nitration or S-nitrosylation of specific proteins/enzymes. It has further been observed that there is a significant impact of various biotic/abiotic stress conditions on the extent of tyrosine nitration and S-nitrosylation of various metabolic enzymes, which may act as a positive or negative modulator of the specific routes associated with adaptive mechanisms employed by plants under the said stress conditions. In addition to recent findings on the modulation of enzymes of primary metabolism by NO through these two biochemical mechanisms, a major mechanism for regulating the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) under stress conditions has also been found to be through tyrosine nitration or S-nitrosylation of ROS-scavenging enzymes. Recent investigations have further highlighted the differential manner in which the ROS-scavenging enzymes may be S-nitrosylated and tyrosine nitrated, with reference to their tissue distribution. Keeping in mind the very recent findings on these aspects, the present review has been prepared to provide an analytical view on the significance of protein tyrosine nitration and S-nitrosylation in plant development.

RNA and mRNA Nitration as a Novel Metabolic Link in Potato Immune Response to Phytophthora infestans

Peroxynitrite (ONOO^-) exhibits a well-documented nitration activity in relation to proteins and lipids; however, the interaction of ONOO^- with nucleic acids remains unknown in plants. The study uncovers RNA and mRNA nitration as an integral event in plant metabolism intensified during immune response. Using potato-avr/vr Phytophthora infestans systems and immunoassays we documented that potato immunity is accompanied by two waves of boosted ONOO^- formation affecting guanine nucleotides embedded in RNA/mRNA and protein tyrosine residues. The early ONOO^- generation was orchestrated with an elevated level of protein nitration and a huge accumulation of 8-nitroguanine (8-NO₂-G) in RNA and mRNA pools confirmed as a biomarker of nucleic acid nitration. Importantly, potato cells lacking ONOO^- due to scavenger treatment and attacked by the avr pathogen exhibited a low level of 8-NO₂-G in the mRNA pool correlated with reduced symptoms of programmed cell death (PCD). The second burst of ONOO^- coincided both with an enhanced level of tyrosine-nitrated proteins identified as subtilisine-like proteases and diminished protease activity in cells surrounding the PCD zone. Nitration of both RNA/mRNA and proteins via NO/ONOO^- may constitute a new metabolic switch in redox regulation of PCD, potentially limiting its range in potato immunity to avr P. infestans.

Protein tyrosine nitration in plants: Present knowledge, computational prediction and future perspectives

Nitric oxide (NO) and related molecules (reactive nitrogen species) regulate diverse physiological processes mainly through posttranslational modifications such as protein tyrosine nitration (PTN). PTN is a covalent and specific modification of tyrosine (Tyr) residues resulting in altered protein structure and function. In the last decade, great efforts have been made to reveal candidate proteins, target Tyr residues and functional consequences of nitration in plants. This review intends to evaluate the accumulated knowledge about the biochemical mechanism, the structural and functional consequences and the selectivity of plants' protein nitration and also about the decomposition or conversion of nitrated proteins. At the same time, this review emphasizes yet unanswered or uncertain questions such as the reversibility/irreversibility of tyrosine nitration, the involvement of proteasomes in the removal of nitrated proteins or the effect of nitration on Tyr phosphorylation. The different NO producing systems of algae and higher plants raise the possibility of diversely regulated protein nitration. Therefore studying PTN from an evolutionary point of view would enrich our present understanding with novel aspects. Plant proteomic research can be promoted by the application of computational prediction tools such as GPS-YNO₂ and iNitro-Tyr software. Using the reference Arabidopsis proteome, Authors performed in silico analysis of tyrosine nitration in order to characterize plant tyrosine nitroproteome. Nevertheless, based on the common results of the present prediction and previous experiments the most likely nitrated proteins were selected thus recommending candidates for detailed future research.

Post-translational Modifications in Regulation of Chloroplast Function: Recent Advances

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) of proteins enable fast modulation of protein function in response to metabolic and environmental changes. Phosphorylation is known to play a major role in regulating distribution of light energy between the Photosystems (PS) I and II (state transitions) and in PSII repair cycle. In addition, thioredoxin-mediated redox regulation of Calvin cycle enzymes has been shown to determine the efficiency of carbon assimilation. Besides these well characterized modifications, recent methodological progress has enabled identification of numerous other types of PTMs in various plant compartments, including chloroplasts. To date, at least N-terminal and Lys acetylation, Lys methylation, Tyr nitration and S-nitrosylation, glutathionylation, sumoylation and glycosylation of chloroplast proteins have been described. These modifications impact DNA replication, control transcriptional efficiency, regulate translational machinery and affect metabolic activities within the chloroplast. Moreover, light reactions of photosynthesis as well as carbon assimilation are regulated at multiple levels by a number of PTMs. It is likely that future studies will reveal new metabolic pathways to be regulated by PTMs as well as detailed molecular mechanisms of PTM-mediated regulation.

Nitrite is the driver, phytohormones are modulators while NO and H2O2 act as promoters of NO2-induced cell death

This study aimed to understand the molecular mechanisms of nitrogen dioxide (NO₂)-induced toxicity and cell death in plants. Exposure of Arabidopsis to high concentrations of NO₂ induced cell death in a dose-dependent manner. No leaf symptoms were visible after fumigation for 1 h with 10 parts per million (ppm) NO₂ However, 20 ppm NO₂ caused necrotic lesion formation and 30 ppm NO₂ complete leaf collapse, which had already started during the 1 h fumigation period. NO₂ fumigation resulted in a massive accumulation of nitrite and in protein modifications by S-nitrosylation and tyrosine nitration. Nitric oxide (NO) at 30 ppm did not trigger leaf damage or any of the effects observed after NO₂ fumigation. The onset of NO₂-induced cell death correlated with NO and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) signaling and a decrease in antioxidants. NO- and H₂O₂-accumulating mutants were more sensitive to NO₂ than wild-type plants. Accordingly, experiments with specific scavengers confirmed that NO and H₂O₂ are essential promoters of NO₂-induced cell death. Leaf injection of 100 mM nitrite caused an increase in S-nitrosylation, NO, H₂O₂, and cell death suggesting that nitrite functioned as a mediator of NO₂-induced effects. A targeted screening of phytohormone mutants revealed a protective role of salicylic acid (SA) signaling in response to NO₂ It was also shown that phytohormones were modulators rather than inducers of NO₂-induced cell death. The established experimental set-up is a suitable system to investigate NO₂ and cell death signaling in large-scale mutant screens.

meta-Tyrosine induces modification of reactive nitrogen species level, protein nitration and nitrosoglutathione reductase in tomato roots

A non-protein amino acid (NPAA) - meta-Tyrosine (m-Tyr), is a harmful compound produced by fescue roots. Young (3-4 days old) tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) seedlings were supplemented for 24-72 h with m-Tyr (50 or 250 μM) inhibiting root growth by 50 or 100%, without lethal effect. Fluorescence of DAF-FM and APF derivatives was determined to show reactive nitrogen species (RNS) localization and level in roots of tomato plants. m-Tyr-induced restriction of root elongation growth was related to formation of nitrated proteins described as content of 3-nitrotyrosine. Supplementation with m-Tyr enhanced superoxide radicals generation in extracts of tomato roots and stimulated protein nitration. It correlated well to increase of fluorescence of DAF-FM derivatives, and transiently stimulated fluorescence of APF derivatives corresponding respectively to NO and ONOO^- formation. Alterations in RNS formation induced by m-Tyr were linked to metabolism of nitrosoglutathione (GSNO). Activity of nitrosoglutatione reductase (GSNOR), catalyzing degradation of GSNO was enhanced by long term plant supplementation with m-Tyr, similarly as protein abundance, while transcripts level were only slightly altered by tested NPAA. We conclude, that although in animal cells m-Tyr is considered as a marker of oxidative stress, its secondary mode of action in tomato plants involves perturbation in RNS formation, alteration in GSNO metabolism and modification of protein nitration level.

Atmospheric emission of nitric oxide and processes involved in its biogeochemical transformation in terrestrial environment

Nitric oxide (NO) is an intra- and intercellular gaseous signaling molecule with a broad spectrum of regulatory functions in biological system. Its emissions are produced by both natural and anthropogenic sources; however, soils are among the most important sources of NO. Nitric oxide plays a decisive role in environmental-atmospheric chemistry by controlling the tropospheric photochemical production of ozone and regulates formation of various oxidizing agents such as hydroxyl radical (OH), which contributes to the formation of acid of precipitates. Consequently, for developing strategies to overcome the deleterious impact of NO on terrestrial ecosystem, it is mandatory to have reliable information about the exact emission mechanism and processes involved in its transformation in soil-atmospheric system. Although the formation process of NO is a complex phenomenon and depends on many physicochemical characteristics, such as organic matter, soil pH, soil moisture, soil temperature, etc., this review provides comprehensive updates about the emission characteristics and biogeochemical transformation mechanism of NO. Moreover, this article will also be helpful to understand the processes involved in the consumption of NO in soils. Further studies describing the functions of NO in biological system are also discussed.

Proteomics analysis of compatibility and incompatibility in grafted cucumber seedlings

Graft compatibility between rootstock and scion is the most important factor influencing the survival of grafted plants. In this study, we used two-dimensional gel electrophoresis (2-DE) and matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization tandem time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF/TOF MS) to investigate differences in leaf proteomes of graft-compatible and graft-incompatible cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)/pumpkin (Cucurbita L.) combinations. Cucumber seedlings were used as the scions and two pumpkin cultivars with strongly contrasting grafting compatibilities were used as the rootstocks. Non-grafted and self-grafted cucumber seedlings served as control groups. An average of approximately 500 detectable spots were observed on each 2-DE gel. A total of 50 proteins were differentially expressed in response to self-grafting, compatible-rootstock grafting, and incompatible-rootstock grafting and were all successfully identified by MALDI-TOF/TOF MS. The regulation of Calvin cycle, photosynthetic apparatus, glycolytic pathway, energy metabolism, protein biosynthesis and degradation, and reactive oxygen metabolism will probably contribute to intensify the biomass and photosynthetic capacity in graft-compatible combinations. The improved physiological and growth characteristics of compatible-rootstock grafting plants are the result of the higher expressions of proteins involved in photosynthesis, carbohydrate and energy metabolism, and protein metabolism. At the same time, the compatible-rootstock grafting regulation of stress defense, amino acid metabolism, and other metabolic functions also plays important roles in improvement of plant growth.

Nitration is exclusive to defense-related PR-1, PR-3 and PR-5 proteins in tobacco leaves

Protein tyrosine nitration is an important post-translational modification. A variety of nitrated proteins are reported in Arabidopsis leaves and seedlings, sunflower hypocotyls, and pea roots. The identities of nitrated proteins are species-/organ-specific, and chloroplast proteins are most nitratable in leaves. However, precise mechanism is unclear. Here, we investigated nitroproteome in tobacco leaves following exposure to nitrogen dioxide. Proteins were extracted, electrophoresed and immunoblotted using an anti-3-nitrotyrosine antibody. Mass spectrometry and FASTA search identified for the first time an exclusive nitration of pathogenesis-related proteins, PR-1, PR-3 and PR-5, which are reportedly located in the apoplast or the vacuole. Furthermore, Tyr(36) of thaumatin-like protein E2 was identfied as a nitration site. The underlying mechanism and physiological relevance are discussed.

ABA Suppresses Botrytis cinerea Elicited NO Production in Tomato to Influence H2O2 Generation and Increase Host Susceptibility

Abscisic acid (ABA) production has emerged a susceptibility factor in plant-pathogen interactions. This work examined the interaction of ABA with nitric oxide (NO) in tomato following challenge with the ABA-synthesizing pathogen, Botrytis cinerea. Trace gas detection using a quantum cascade laser detected NO production within minutes of challenge with B. cinerea whilst photoacoustic laser detection detected ethylene production - an established mediator of defense against this pathogen - occurring after 6 h. Application of the NO generation inhibitor N-Nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) suppressed both NO and ethylene production and resistance against B. cinerea. The tomato mutant sitiens fails to accumulate ABA, shows increased resistance to B. cinerea and we noted exhibited elevated NO and ethylene production. Exogenous application of L-NAME or ABA reduced NO production in sitiens and reduced resistance to B. cinerea. Increased resistance to B. cinerea in sitiens have previously been linked to increased reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation but this was reduced in both L-NAME and ABA-treated sitiens. Taken together, our data suggests that ABA can decreases resistance to B. cinerea via reduction of NO production which also suppresses both ROS and ethylene production.

The arabidopsis cyclic nucleotide interactome

BACKGROUND

Cyclic nucleotides have been shown to play important signaling roles in many physiological processes in plants including photosynthesis and defence. Despite this, little is known about cyclic nucleotide-dependent signaling mechanisms in plants since the downstream target proteins remain unknown. This is largely due to the fact that bioinformatics searches fail to identify plant homologs of protein kinases and phosphodiesterases that are the main targets of cyclic nucleotides in animals.

METHODS

An affinity purification technique was used to identify cyclic nucleotide binding proteins in Arabidopsis thaliana. The identified proteins were subjected to a computational analysis that included a sequence, transcriptional co-expression and functional annotation analysis in order to assess their potential role in plant cyclic nucleotide signaling.

RESULTS

A total of twelve cyclic nucleotide binding proteins were identified experimentally including key enzymes in the Calvin cycle and photorespiration pathway. Importantly, eight of the twelve proteins were shown to contain putative cyclic nucleotide binding domains. Moreover, the identified proteins are post-translationally modified by nitric oxide, transcriptionally co-expressed and annotated to function in hydrogen peroxide signaling and the defence response. The activity of one of these proteins, GLYGOLATE OXIDASE 1, a photorespiratory enzyme that produces hydrogen peroxide in response to Pseudomonas, was shown to be repressed by a combination of cGMP and nitric oxide treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

We propose that the identified proteins function together as points of cross-talk between cyclic nucleotide, nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species signaling during the defence response.

Cross-Regulation between N Metabolism and Nitric Oxide (NO) Signaling during Plant Immunity

Plants are sessile organisms that have evolved a complex immune system which helps them cope with pathogen attacks. However, the capacity of a plant to mobilize different defense responses is strongly affected by its physiological status. Nitrogen (N) is a major nutrient that can play an important role in plant immunity by increasing or decreasing plant resistance to pathogens. Although no general rule can be drawn about the effect of N availability and quality on the fate of plant/pathogen interactions, plants' capacity to acquire, assimilate, allocate N, and maintain amino acid homeostasis appears to partly mediate the effects of N on plant defense. Nitric oxide (NO), one of the products of N metabolism, plays an important role in plant immunity signaling. NO is generated in part through Nitrate Reductase (NR), a key enzyme involved in nitrate assimilation, and its production depends on levels of nitrate/nitrite, NR substrate/product, as well as on L-arginine and polyamine levels. Cross-regulation between NO signaling and N supply/metabolism has been evidenced. NO production can be affected by N supply, and conversely NO appears to regulate nitrate transport and assimilation. Based on this knowledge, we hypothesized that N availability partly controls plant resistance to pathogens by controlling NO homeostasis. Using the Medicago truncatula/Aphanomyces euteiches pathosystem, we showed that NO homeostasis is important for resistance to this oomycete and that N availability impacts NO homeostasis by affecting S-nitrosothiol (SNO) levels and S-nitrosoglutathione reductase activity in roots. These results could therefore explain the increased resistance we noted in N-deprived as compared to N-replete M. truncatula seedlings. They open onto new perspectives for the studies of N/plant defense interactions.

Plant Survival in a Changing Environment: The Role of Nitric Oxide in Plant Responses to Abiotic Stress

Nitric oxide in plants may originate endogenously or come from surrounding atmosphere and soil. Interestingly, this gaseous free radical is far from having a constant level and varies greatly among tissues depending on a given plant's ontogeny and environmental fluctuations. Proper plant growth, vegetative development, and reproduction require the integration of plant hormonal activity with the antioxidant network, as well as the maintenance of concentration of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species within a narrow range. Plants are frequently faced with abiotic stress conditions such as low nutrient availability, salinity, drought, high ultraviolet (UV) radiation and extreme temperatures, which can influence developmental processes and lead to growth restriction making adaptive responses the plant's priority. The ability of plants to respond and survive under environmental-stress conditions involves sensing and signaling events where nitric oxide becomes a critical component mediating hormonal actions, interacting with reactive oxygen species, and modulating gene expression and protein activity. This review focuses on the current knowledge of the role of nitric oxide in adaptive plant responses to some specific abiotic stress conditions, particularly low mineral nutrient supply, drought, salinity and high UV-B radiation.

Ripening of pepper (Capsicum annuum) fruit is characterized by an enhancement of protein tyrosine nitration

BACKGROUND AND AIMS

Pepper (Capsicum annuum, Solanaceae) fruits are consumed worldwide and are of great economic importance. In most species ripening is characterized by important visual and metabolic changes, the latter including emission of volatile organic compounds associated with respiration, destruction of chlorophylls, synthesis of new pigments (red/yellow carotenoids plus xanthophylls and anthocyanins), formation of pectins and protein synthesis. The involvement of nitric oxide (NO) in fruit ripening has been established, but more work is needed to detail the metabolic networks involving NO and other reactive nitrogen species (RNS) in the process. It has been reported that RNS can mediate post-translational modifications of proteins, which can modulate physiological processes through mechanisms of cellular signalling. This study therefore examined the potential role of NO in nitration of tyrosine during the ripening of California sweet pepper.

METHODS

The NO content of green and red pepper fruit was determined spectrofluorometrically. Fruits at the breaking point between green and red coloration were incubated in the presence of NO for 1 h and then left to ripen for 3 d. Profiles of nitrated proteins were determined using an antibody against nitro-tyrosine (NO2-Tyr), and profiles of nitrosothiols were determined by confocal laser scanning microscopy. Nitrated proteins were identified by 2-D electrophoresis and MALDI-TOF/TOF analysis.

KEY RESULTS

Treatment with NO delayed the ripening of fruit. An enhancement of nitrosothiols and nitroproteins was observed in fruit during ripening, and this was reversed by the addition of exogenous NO gas. Six nitrated proteins were identified and were characterized as being involved in redox, protein, carbohydrate and oxidative metabolism, and in glutamate biosynthesis. Catalase was the most abundant nitrated protein found in both green and red fruit.

CONCLUSIONS

The RNS profile reported here indicates that ripening of pepper fruit is characterized by an enhancement of S-nitrosothiols and protein tyrosine nitration. The nitrated proteins identified have important functions in photosynthesis, generation of NADPH, proteolysis, amino acid biosynthesis and oxidative metabolism. The decrease of catalase in red fruit implies a lower capacity to scavenge H2O2, which would promote lipid peroxidation, as has already been reported in ripe pepper fruit.

Proteomics of effector-triggered immunity (ETI) in plants

Effector-triggered immunity (ETI) was originally termed gene-for-gene resistance and dates back to fundamental observations of flax resistance to rust fungi by Harold Henry Flor in the 1940s. Since then, genetic and biochemical approaches have defined our current understanding of how plant “resistance” proteins recognize microbial effectors. More recently, proteomic approaches have expanded our view of the protein landscape during ETI and contributed significant advances to our mechanistic understanding of ETI signaling. Here we provide an overview of proteomic techniques that have been used to study plant ETI including both global and targeted approaches. We discuss the challenges associated with ETI proteomics and highlight specific examples from the literature, which demonstrate how proteomics is advancing the ETI research field.

Mass spectrometry analysis of nitrotyrosine-containing proteins

Oxidative stress plays important roles in a wide range of diseases such as cancer, inflammatory disease, neurodegenerative disorders, etc. Tyrosine nitration in a protein is a chemically stable oxidative modification, and a marker of oxidative injuries. Mass spectrometry (MS) is a key technique to identify nitrotyrosine-containing proteins and nitrotyrosine sites in endogenous and synthetic nitroproteins and nitropeptides. However, in vivo nitrotyrosine-containing proteins occur with extreme low-abundance to severely challenge the use of MS to identify in vivo nitroproteins and nitrotyrosine sites. A preferential enrichment of nitroproteins and/or nitropeptides is necessary before MS analysis. Current enrichment methods include immuno-affinity techniques, chemical derivation of the nitro group plus target isolations, followed with tandem mass spectrometry analysis. This article reviews the MS techniques and pertinent before-MS enrichment techniques for the identification of nitrotyrosine-containing proteins. This article reviews future trends in the field of nitroproteomics, including quantitative nitroproteomics, systems biological networks of nitroproteins, and structural biology study of tyrosine nitration to completely clarify the biological functions of tyrosine nitration.

Nitric oxide is a ubiquitous signal for maintaining redox balance in plant cells: regulation of ascorbate peroxidase as a case study

Oxidative and nitrosative stresses and their respective antioxidant responses are common metabolic adjustments operating in all biological systems. These stresses result from an increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and an imbalance in the antioxidant response. Plants respond to ROS and RNS accumulation by increasing the level of the antioxidant molecules glutathione and ascorbate and by activating specific antioxidant enzymes. Nitric oxide (NO) is a free radical considered to be toxic or protective depending on its concentration, combination with ROS compounds, and subcellular localization. In this review we focus on the mechanisms of NO action in combination with ROS on the regulation of the antioxidant system in plants. In particular, we describe the redox post-translational modifications of cytosolic ascorbate peroxidase and its influence on enzyme activity. The regulation of ascorbate peroxidase activity by NO as a redox sensor of acute oxidative stress or as part of a hormone-induced signalling pathway leading to lateral root development is presented and discussed.

Functional and structural changes in plant mitochondrial PrxII F caused by NO

Peroxiredoxins (Prxs) have emerged as important factors linking reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism to redox-dependent signaling events. Together with ROS, nitric oxide (NO) is a free radical product of the cell metabolism that is essential in the signal transduction. S-Nitrosylation is emerging as a fundamental protein modification for the transduction of NO bioactivity. Using recombinant pea mitochondrial PsPrxII F (PrxII F), the effect of S-nitrosoglutathione (GSNO) and sodium nitroprusside dehydrate (SNP), which are known to mediate protein S-nitrosylation processes, was studied. S-Nitrosylation of the PrxII F was demonstrated using the biotin switch method and LC ESI-QTOF tandem MS analysis. S-nitrosylated PrxII F decreased its peroxidase activity and acquired a new transnitrosylase activity, preventing the thermal aggregation of citrate synthase (CS). For the first time, we demonstrate the dual function for PrxII F as peroxidase and transnitrosylase. This switch was accompanied by a conformational change of the protein that could favor the protein-protein interaction CS-PrxII F. The observed in vivo S-nitrosylation of PrxII F could probably function as a protective mechanism under oxidative and nitrosative stress, such as occurs under salinity. We conclude that we are dealing with a novel regulatory mechanism for this protein by NO.

BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE

S-Nitrosylation is a post-translational modification that is increasingly viewed as fundamental for the signal transduction role of NO in plants. This study demonstrates that S-nitrosylation of the mitochondrial peroxiredoxin PrxII F induces a conformational change in the protein and provokes a reduction in its peroxidase activity, while acquiring a novel function as transnitrosylase. The implication of this mechanism will increase our understanding of the role of posttranslational modifications in the protein function in plants under stress situations such as salinity, in which NO could act as signaling molecule.

Down regulation of NO signaling in Trypanosoma cruzi upon parasite-extracellular matrix interaction: changes in protein modification by nitrosylation and nitration

Background

Adhesion of the Trypanosoma cruzi trypomastigotes, the causative agent of Chagas' disease in humans, to components of the extracellular matrix (ECM) is an important step in host cell invasion. The signaling events triggered in the parasite upon binding to ECM are less explored and, to our knowledge, there is no data available regarding •NO signaling.

Methodology/Principal Findings

Trypomastigotes were incubated with ECM for different periods of time. Nitrated and S-nitrosylated proteins were analyzed by Western blotting using anti-nitrotyrosine and S-nitrosyl cysteine antibodies. At 2 h incubation time, a decrease in NO synthase activity, •NO, citrulline, arginine and cGMP concentrations, as well as the protein modifications levels have been observed in the parasite. The modified proteins were enriched by immunoprecipitation with anti-nitrotyrosine antibodies (nitrated proteins) or by the biotin switch method (S-nitrosylated proteins) and identified by MS/MS. The presence of both modifications was confirmed in proteins of interest by immunoblotting or immunoprecipitation.

Conclusions/Significance

For the first time it was shown that T. cruzi proteins are amenable to modifications by S-nitrosylation and nitration. When T. cruzi trypomastigotes are incubated with the extracellular matrix there is a general down regulation of these reactions, including a decrease in both NOS activity and cGMP concentration. Notwithstanding, some specific proteins, such as enolase or histones had, at least, their nitration levels increased. This suggests that post-translational modifications of T. cruzi proteins are not only a reflex of NOS activity, implying other mechanisms that circumvent a relatively low synthesis of •NO. In conclusion, the extracellular matrix, a cell surrounding layer of macromolecules that have to be trespassed by the parasite in order to be internalized into host cells, contributes to the modification of •NO signaling in the parasite, probably an essential move for the ensuing invasion step.

Interaction of Trypanosoma cruzi with the extracellular matrix (ECM) is an essential step in the invasion of mammalian cells. However, the nature of the signaling triggered in the parasite is poorly understood. Herein the key role of nitric oxide in T. cruzi signaling is described, using an ECM preparation, in the absence of host cells. Inhibition of NOS activity, with the expected decrease in •NO production, as well as decrease in cGMP concentration were observed by the incubation of T. cruzi trypomastigotes with ECM. Additionally, lower levels of protein S-nitrosylation and nitration were detected. These post-translational modifications have been analyzed by biotin-switch and protein immunoprecipitation approaches coupled to mass spectrometry. The presence of both modifications was confirmed for specific proteins, as mucin II (S-nitrosylation), histones, enolase and tubulins. To our knowledge, decrease in the •NO signaling pathway upon T. cruzi trypomastigotes adhesion to ECM, affecting both the canonical pathway (•NO-soluble guanylyl cyclase-cGMP) and protein S-nitrosylation and nitration is described for the first time in this parasite.

NO signaling in plant immunity: a tale of messengers

Nitric oxide (NO) is a free radical gas involved in a myriad of plant physiological processes including immune responses. How NO mediates its biological effects in plant facing microbial pathogen attack is an unresolved question. Insights into the molecular mechanisms by which it propagates signals reveal the contribution of this simple gas in complex signaling pathways shared with reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the second messenger Ca(2+). Understanding of the subtle cross-talks operating between these signals was greatly improved by the recent identification and the functional analysis of proteins regulated through S-nitrosylation, a major NO-dependent post-translational protein modification. Overall, these findings suggest that NO is probably an important component of the mechanism coordinating and regulating Ca(2+) and ROS signaling in plant immunity.

Leghemoglobin is nitrated in functional legume nodules in a tyrosine residue within the heme cavity by a nitrite/peroxide-dependent mechanism

Protein tyrosine (Tyr) nitration is a post-translational modification yielding 3-nitrotyrosine (NO2 -Tyr). Formation of NO2 -Tyr is generally considered as a marker of nitro-oxidative stress and is involved in some human pathophysiological disorders, but has been poorly studied in plants. Leghemoglobin (Lb) is an abundant hemeprotein of legume nodules that plays an essential role as an O2 transporter. Liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry was used for a targeted search and quantification of NO2 -Tyr in Lb. For all Lbs examined, Tyr30, located in the distal heme pocket, is the major target of nitration. Lower amounts were found for NO2 -Tyr25 and NO2 -Tyr133. Nitrated Lb and other as yet unidentified nitrated proteins were also detected in nodules of plants not receiving NO3- and were found to decrease during senescence. This demonstrates formation of nitric oxide (˙NO) and NO2- by alternative means to nitrate reductase, probably via a ˙NO synthase-like enzyme, and strongly suggests that nitrated proteins perform biological functions and are not merely metabolic byproducts. In vitro assays with purified Lb revealed that Tyr nitration requires NO2- + H2 O2 and that peroxynitrite is not an efficient inducer of nitration, probably because Lb isomerizes it to NO3-. Nitrated Lb is formed via oxoferryl Lb, which generates nitrogen dioxide and tyrosyl radicals. This mechanism is distinctly different from that involved in heme nitration. Formation of NO2 -Tyr in Lb is a consequence of active metabolism in functional nodules, where Lb may act as a sink of toxic peroxynitrite and may play a protective role in the symbiosis.

Interplays between nitric oxide and reactive oxygen species in cryptogein signalling

Nitric oxide (NO) has many functions in plants. Here, we investigated its interplays with reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the defence responses triggered by the elicitin cryptogein. The production of NO induced by cryptogein in tobacco cells was partly regulated through a ROS-dependent pathway involving the NADPH oxidase NtRBOHD. In turn, NO down-regulated the level of H2O2. Both NO and ROS synthesis appeared to be under the control of type-2 histone deacetylases acting as negative regulators of cell death. Occurrence of an interplay between NO and ROS was further supported by the finding that cryptogein triggered a production of peroxynitrite (ONOO(-)). Next, we showed that ROS, but not NO, negatively regulate the intensity of activity of the cryptogein-induced protein kinase NtOSAK. Furthermore, using a DNA microarray approach, we identified 15 genes early induced by cryptogein via NO. A part of these genes was also modulated by ROS and encoded proteins showing sequence identity to ubiquitin ligases. Their expression appeared to be negatively regulated by ONOO(-), suggesting that ONOO(-) mitigates the effects of NO and ROS. Finally, we provided evidence that NO required NtRBOHD activity for inducing cell death, thus confirming previous assumption that ROS channel NO through cell death pathways.

Glutamine synthetase in Medicago truncatula, unveiling new secrets of a very old enzyme

Glutamine synthetase (GS) catalyzes the first step at which nitrogen is brought into cellular metabolism and is also involved in the reassimilation of ammonium released by a number of metabolic pathways. Due to its unique position in plant nitrogen metabolism, GS plays essential roles in all aspects of plant development, from germination to senescence, and is a key component of nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and plant yield. Understanding the mechanisms regulating GS activity is therefore of utmost importance and a great effort has been dedicated to understand how GS is regulated in different plant species. The present review summarizes exciting recent developments concerning the structure and regulation of GS isoenzymes, using the model legume Medicago truncatula. These include the understanding of the structural determinants of both the cytosolic and plastid located isoenzymes, the existence of a seed-specific GS gene unique to M. truncatula and closely related species and the discovery that GS isoenzymes are regulated by nitric oxide at the post-translational level. The data is discussed and integrated with the potential roles of the distinct GS isoenzymes within the whole plant context.

Redox regulation in plant immune function

SIGNIFICANCE

Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) occurs rapidly in response to attempted pathogen invasion of potential host plants. Such reduction-oxidation (redox) changes are sensed and transmitted to engage immune function, including the hypersensitive response, a programmed execution of challenged plant cells.

RECENT ADVANCES

Pathogen elicitors trigger changes in calcium that are sensed by calmodulin, calmodulin-like proteins, and calcium-dependent protein kinases, which activate ROS and RNS production. The ROS and RNS production is compartmentalized within the cell and occurs through multiple routes. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascades are engaged upstream and downstream of ROS and nitric oxide (NO) production. NO is increasingly recognized as a key signaling molecule, regulating downstream protein function through S-nitrosylation, the addition of an NO moiety to a reactive cysteine thiol.

CRITICAL ISSUES

How multiple sources of ROS and RNS are coordinated is unclear. The putative protein sensors that detect and translate fluxes in ROS and RNS into differential gene expression are obscure. Protein tyrosine nitration following reaction of peroxynitrite with tyrosine residues has been proposed as another signaling mechanism or as a marker leading to protein degradation, but the reversibility remains to be established.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

Research is needed to identify the full spectrum of NO-modified proteins with special emphasis on redox-activated transcription factors and their cognate target genes. A systems approach will be required to uncover the complexities integral to redox regulation of MAPK cascades, transcription factors, and defense genes through the combined effects of calcium, phosphorylation, S-nitrosylation, and protein tyrosine nitration.

Plant mitochondria: source and target for nitric oxide

Plant mitochondria generate nitric oxide (NO) under anoxia through the action of cytochrome c oxidase and other electron transport chain components on nitrite. This reductive mechanism operates under aerobic conditions at high electron transport rates. Indirect evidence also indicates that the oxidative pathway of NO production may be associated with mitochondria. We review the consequences of mitochondrial NO production, including the inhibition of oxygen uptake by cytochrome c oxidase, the inhibition of aconitase and succinate dehydrogenase, the induction of alternative oxidase, and the nitrosylation of several proteins, including glycine decarboxylase. The importance of these events in adaptation to abiotic and biotic stresses is discussed.

Nitric oxide and phytohormone interactions: current status and perspectives

Nitric oxide (NO) is currently considered a ubiquitous signal in plant systems, playing significant roles in a wide range of responses to environmental and endogenous cues. During the signaling events leading to these plant responses, NO frequently interacts with plant hormones and other endogenous molecules, at times originating remarkably complex signaling cascades. Accumulating evidence indicates that virtually all major classes of plant hormones may influence, at least to some degree, the endogenous levels of NO. In addition, studies conducted during the induction of diverse plant responses have demonstrated that NO may also affect biosynthesis, catabolism/conjugation, transport, perception, and/or transduction of different phytohormones, such as auxins, gibberellins, cytokinins, abscisic acid, ethylene, salicylic acid, jasmonates, and brassinosteroids. Although still not completely elucidated, the mechanisms underlying the interaction between NO and plant hormones have recently been investigated in a number of species and plant responses. This review specifically focuses on the current knowledge of the mechanisms implicated in NO-phytohormone interactions during the regulation of developmental and metabolic plant events. The modifications triggered by NO on the transcription of genes encoding biosynthetic/degradative enzymes as well as proteins involved in the transport and signal transduction of distinct plant hormones will be contextualized during the control of developmental, metabolic, and defense responses in plants. Moreover, the direct post-translational modification of phytohormone biosynthetic enzymes and receptors through S-nitrosylation will also be discussed as a key mechanism for regulating plant physiological responses. Finally, some future perspectives toward a more complete understanding of NO-phytohormone interactions will also be presented and discussed.

Separation and characterization of nitrated variants of the major birch pollen allergen by CZE-ESI-μTOF MS

A CZE-ESI-TOF MS method has been optimized for the separation and identification of nitrated variants of the major birch pollen allergen from Betula verrucosa, isoform 1a (Bet v 1a). In-house nitration of recombinant Bet v 1a was done by peroxynitrite. As a BGE, 10 mmol/L ammonium bicarbonate with pH 7.50 provided best resolution. Nebulizer gas pressure and sheath liquid flow rate of 0.4 bar and 6 μL/min, respectively, maintained CZE selectivity and constituted stable electrospray conditions. A sheath liquid composition of 75% v/v methanol with 0.1% v/v formic acid in ultrapure water resulted in highest signal intensities. Alternatively, methanol could be replaced by 50% v/v isopropanol. Two modified allergen products derived from reaction mixtures that contained different amounts of the nitration reagent were compared by the elaborated CZE-ESI-TOF MS method. Up to twelve different Bet v 1a variants with one- to sixfold nitration could be distinguished. Several allergen fractions of equivalent nitration grade were resolved. Their different migration times indicate site-specific nitration with concomitant differences in pI and maybe also in hydrodynamic radius. The method allows for a characterization of in-house nitrated allergen samples that are intended for testing the postulated enhanced allergenicity of nitrated Bet v 1a variants.

Nitric oxide as a key component in hormone-regulated processes

Nitric oxide (NO) is a small gaseous molecule, with a free radical nature that allows it to participate in a wide spectrum of biologically important reactions. NO is an endogenous product in plants, where different biosynthetic pathways have been proposed. First known in animals as a signaling molecule in cardiovascular and nervous systems, it has turned up to be an essential component for a wide variety of hormone-regulated processes in plants. Adaptation of plants to a changing environment involves a panoply of processes, which include the control of CO2 fixation and water loss through stomatal closure, rearrangements of root architecture as well as growth restriction. The regulation of these processes requires the concerted action of several phytohormones, as well as the participation of the ubiquitous molecule NO. This review analyzes the role of NO in relation to the signaling pathways involved in stomatal movement, plant growth and senescence, in the frame of its interaction with abscisic acid, auxins, gibberellins, and ethylene.

Rapid auxin-induced nitric oxide accumulation and subsequent tyrosine nitration of proteins during adventitious root formation in sunflower hypocotyls

Using NO specific probe (MNIP-Cu), rapid nitric oxide (NO) accumulation as a response to auxin (IAA) treatment has been observed in the protoplasts from the hypocotyls of sunflower seedlings (Helianthus annuus L.). Incubation of protoplasts in presence of NPA (auxin efflux blocker) and PTIO (NO scavenger) leads to significant reduction in NO accumulation, indicating that NO signals represent an early signaling event during auxin-induced response. A surge in NO production has also been demonstrated in whole hypocotyl explants showing adventitious root (AR) development. Evidence of tyrosine nitration of cytosolic proteins as a consequence of NO accumulation has been provided by western blot analysis and immunolocalization in the sections of AR producing hypocotyl segments. Most abundant anti-nitrotyrosine labeling is evident in proteins ranging from 25-80 kDa. Tyrosine nitration of a particular protein (25 kDa) is completely absent in presence of NPA (which suppresses AR formation). Similar lack of tyrosine nitration of this protein is also evident in other conditions which do not allow AR differentiation. Immunofluorescent localization experiments have revealed that non-inductive treatments (such as PTIO) for AR develpoment from hypocotyl segments coincide with symplastic and apoplastic localization of tyrosine nitrated proteins in the xylem elements, in contrast with negligible (and mainly apoplastic) nitration of proteins in the interfascicular cells and phloem elements. Application of NPA does not affect tyrosine nitration of proteins even in the presence of an external source of NO (SNP). Tyrosine nitrated proteins are abundant around the nuclei in the actively dividing cells of the root primordium. Thus, NO-modulated rapid response to IAA treatment through differential distribution of tyrosine nitrated proteins is evident as an inherent aspect of the AR development.

Rapid auxin-induced nitric oxide accumulation and subsequent tyrosine nitration of proteins during adventitious root formation in sunflower hypocotyls

Using NO specific probe (MNIP-Cu), rapid nitric oxide (NO) accumulation as a response to auxin (IAA) treatment has been observed in the protoplasts from the hypocotyls of sunflower seedlings (Helianthus annuus L.). Incubation of protoplasts in presence of NPA (auxin efflux blocker) and PTIO (NO scavenger) leads to significant reduction in NO accumulation, indicating that NO signals represent an early signaling event during auxin-induced response. A surge in NO production has also been demonstrated in whole hypocotyl explants showing adventitious root (AR) development. Evidence of tyrosine nitration of cytosolic proteins as a consequence of NO accumulation has been provided by western blot analysis and immunolocalization in the sections of AR producing hypocotyl segments. Most abundant anti-nitrotyrosine labeling is evident in proteins ranging from 25-80 kDa. Tyrosine nitration of a particular protein (25 kDa) is completely absent in presence of NPA (which suppresses AR formation). Similar lack of tyrosine nitration of this protein is also evident in other conditions which do not allow AR differentiation. Immunofluorescent localization experiments have revealed that non-inductive treatments (such as PTIO) for AR develpoment from hypocotyl segments coincide with symplastic and apoplastic localization of tyrosine nitrated proteins in the xylem elements, in contrast with negligible (and mainly apoplastic) nitration of proteins in the interfascicular cells and phloem elements. Application of NPA does not affect tyrosine nitration of proteins even in the presence of an external source of NO (SNP). Tyrosine nitrated proteins are abundant around the nuclei in the actively dividing cells of the root primordium. Thus, NO-modulated rapid response to IAA treatment through differential distribution of tyrosine nitrated proteins is evident as an inherent aspect of the AR development.

Nitric oxide as a mediator for defense responses

Sequential recognition of invading microbes and rapid induction of plant immune responses comprise at least two recognition systems. Early basal defenses are initiated by pathogen-associated molecular patterns and pattern recognition receptors (PRR) in the plasma membrane. Pathogens produce effectors to suppress defense but plants, in turn, can sense such effectors by dominant plant resistance (R) gene products. Plant PRR and R proteins modulate signaling networks for defense responses that rely on rapid production of reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and reactive oxygen species (ROS). Recent research has shown that nitric oxide (NO) mainly mediates biological function through chemical reactions between locally controlled accumulation of RNS and proteins leading to potential alteration of protein function. Many proteins specifically regulated by NO and participating in signaling during plant defense response have been identified, highlighting the physiological relevance of these modifications in plant immunity. ROS function independently or in cooperation with NO during defense, modulating the RNS signaling functions through the entire process. This review provides an overview of current knowledge about regulatory mechanisms for NO burst and signaling, and crosstalk with ROS in response to pathogen attack.

Possible role of glutamine synthetase in the NO signaling response in root nodules by contributing to the antioxidant defenses

Nitric oxide (NO) is emerging as an important regulatory player in the Rhizobium-legume symbiosis. The occurrence of NO during several steps of the symbiotic interaction suggests an important, but yet unknown, signaling role of this molecule for root nodule formation and functioning. The identification of the molecular targets of NO is key for the assembly of the signal transduction cascade that will ultimately help to unravel NO function. We have recently shown that the key nitrogen assimilatory enzyme glutamine synthetase (GS) is a molecular target of NO in root nodules of Medicago truncatula, being post-translationally regulated by tyrosine nitration in relation to nitrogen fixation. In functional nodules of M. truncatula NO formation has been located in the bacteroid containing cells of the fixation zone, where the ammonium generated by bacterial nitrogenase is released to the plant cytosol and assimilated into the organic pools by plant GS. We propose that the NO-mediated GS post-translational inactivation is connected to nitrogenase inhibition induced by NO and is related to metabolite channeling to boost the nodule antioxidant defenses. Glutamate, a substrate for GS activity is also the precursor for the synthesis of glutathione (GSH), which is highly abundant in root nodules of several plant species and known to play a major role in the antioxidant defense participating in the ascorbate/GSH cycle. Existing evidence suggests that upon NO-mediated GS inhibition, glutamate could be channeled for the synthesis of GSH. According to this hypothesis, GS would be involved in the NO-signaling responses in root nodules and the NO-signaling events would meet the nodule metabolic pathways to provide an adaptive response to the inhibition of symbiotic nitrogen fixation by reactive nitrogen species.

Effect of nitric oxide on gene transcription - S-nitrosylation of nuclear proteins

Nitric oxide (NO) plays an important role in many different physiological processes in plants. It mainly acts by post-translationally modifying proteins. Modification of cysteine residues termed as S-nitrosylation is believed to be the most important mechanism for transduction of bioactivity of NO. The first proteins found to be nitrosylated were mainly of cytoplasmic origin or isolated from mitochondria and peroxisomes. Interestingly, it was shown that redox-sensitive transcription factors are also nitrosylated and that NO influences the redox-dependent nuclear transport of some proteins. This implies that NO plays a role in regulating transcription and/or general nuclear metabolism which is a fascinating new aspect of NO signaling in plants. In this review, we will discuss the impact of S-nitrosylation on nuclear plant proteins with a focus on transcriptional regulation, describe the function of this modification and draw also comparisons to the animal system in which S-nitrosylation of nuclear proteins is a well characterized concept.