Regulatory functions of soluble auxin-binding proteins

Auxins action on Glycine max secretory phospholipase A2 is mediated by the interfacial properties imposed by the phytohormones

Secretory phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) are soluble enzymes that catalyze the conversion of phospholipids to lysophospholipids and free fatty acids at membrane interfaces. The effect of IAA and IPA auxins over the activity of recombinant sPLA2 isoforms from Glycine max was studied using membrane model systems including mixed micelles and Langmuir lipid monolayers. Both phytohormones stimulate the activity of both plant sPLA2 using DLPC/Triton mixed micelles as substrate. To elucidate the mechanism of action of the phytohormones, we showed that both auxins are able to self-penetrate lipid monolayers and cause an increment in surface pressure and an expansion of lipid/phytohormone mixed interfaces. The stimulating effect of auxins over phospholipase A2 activity was still present when using Langmuir mixed monolayers as organized substrate regardless of sPLA2 source (plant or animal). All the data suggest that the stimulating effect of auxins over sPLA2 is due to a more favorable interfacial environment rather to a direct effect over the enzyme.

A new perspective on auxin perception

An important question in modern plant biology concerns the mechanisms of auxin perception. Despite the recently discovered soluble receptor, the F-box protein TIR1, there is no doubt that another type of signal perception exists, and is linked to the plasma membrane. Two models for the receptor have been suggested: either the receptor includes a protein kinase, or it is coupled with a G-protein. We propose a third model, acting through Ca(2+)-channels in the plasma membrane. The model is based on the revealed rapid auxin-induced reactions, including changes in the membrane potential, shifts in cytosol concentration of Ca(2+) and H(+) and modulation of cell sensitivity to hormones by the external Ca(2+) concentration. Detailed inhibitor analysis with both living cells and isolated plasma membranes show that auxin might directly stimulate Ca(2+) transport through the plasma membrane. A hypothetical scheme of auxin perception at the plasma membrane is suggested together with further transduction events. In addition, comparative analyses of auxin and serotonin perceptions are provided.