Ca2+ influx into lily pollen grains through a hyperpolarization-activated Ca2+-permeable channel which can be regulated by extracellular CaM

Polyphenol oxidases regulate pollen development through modulating flavonoids homeostasis in tobacco

Pollen development is critical in plant reproduction. Polyphenol oxidases (PPOs) genes encode defense-related enzymes, but the role of PPOs in pollen development remains largely unexplored. Here, we characterized NtPPO genes, and then investigated their function in pollen via creating NtPPO9/10 double knockout mutant (cas-1), overexpression 35S::NtPPO10 (cosp) line and RNAi lines against all NtPPOs in Nicotiana tabacum. NtPPOs were abundantly expressed in the anther and pollen (especially NtPPO9/10). The pollen germination, polarity ratio and fruit weights were significantly reduced in the NtPPO-RNAi and cosp lines, while they were normal in cas-1 likely due to compensation by other NtPPO isoforms. Comparisons of metabolites and transcripts between the pollen of WT and NtPPO-RNAi, or cosp showed that decreased enzymatic activity of NtPPOs led to hyper-accumulation of flavonoids. This accumulation might reduce the content of ROS. Ca²⁺ and actin levels also decreased in pollen of the transgenic lines.Thus, the NtPPOs regulate pollen germination through the flavonoid homeostasis and ROS signal pathway. This finding provides novel insights into the native physiological functions of PPOs in pollen during reproduction.

An allergenic plant calmodulin from Artemisia pollen primes human DCs leads to Th2 polarization

Artemisia pollen is the major cause of seasonal allergic respiratory diseases in the northern hemisphere. About 28.57% of Artemisia allergic patients’ IgE can recognize ArtCaM, a novel allergenic calmodulin from Artemisia identified in this study. These patients exhibited stronger allergic reactions and a longer duration of allergic symptoms. However, the signaling mechanism that triggers these allergic reactions is not fully understood. In this study, we found that extracellular ArtCaM directly induces the maturation of human dendritic cells (DCs), which is attributed to a series of Ca²⁺ relevant cascades, including Ca²⁺/NFAT/CaMKs. ArtCaM alone induces inflammatory response toward Th1, Th17, and Treg. Interestingly, a combination of ArtCaM and anti-ArtCaM IgE led to Th2 polarization. The putative mechanism is that anti-ArtCaM IgE partially blocks the ArtCaM-induced ERK signal, but does not affect Ca²⁺-dependent cascades. The crosstalk between ERK and Ca²⁺ signal primes DCs maturation and Th2 polarization. In summary, ArtCaM related to clinical symptoms when combined with anti-ArtCaM IgE, could be a novel allergen to activate DCs and promote Th2 polarization. Such findings provide mechanistic insights into Th2 polarization in allergic sensitization and pave the way for novel preventive and therapeutic strategies for efficient management of such pollen allergic disease.

A low molecular-weight cyclophilin localizes in different cell compartments of Pyrus communis pollen and is released in vitro under Ca2+ depletion

Cyclophilins (CyPs) are ubiquitous proteins involved in a wide variety of processes including protein maturation and trafficking, receptor complex stabilization, apoptosis, receptor signaling, RNA processing, and spliceosome assembly. The ubiquitous presence is justified by their peptidyl-prolyl cis-trans isomerase (PPIase) activity, catalyzing the rotation of X-Pro peptide bonds from a cis to a trans conformation, a critical rate-limiting step in protein folding, as over 90% of proteins contain trans prolyl imide bonds. In Arabidopsis 35 CyPs involved in plant development have been reported, showing different subcellular localizations and tissue- and stage-specific expression. In the present work, we focused on the localization of CyPs in pear (Pyrus communis) pollen, a model system for studies on pollen tube elongation and on pollen-pistil self-incompatibility response. Fluorescent, confocal and immuno-electron microscopy showed that this protein is present in the cytoplasm, organelles and cell wall, as confirmed by protein fractionation. Moreover, an 18-kDa CyP isoform was specifically released extracellularly when pear pollen was incubated with the Ca²⁺ chelator EGTA.

Signaling in Pollen Tube Growth: Beyond the Tip of the Polarity Iceberg

The coordinated growth of pollen tubes through floral tissues to deliver the sperm cells to the egg and facilitate fertilization is a highly regulated process critical to the Angiosperm life cycle. Studies suggest that the concerted action of a variety of signaling pathways underlies the rapid polarized tip growth exhibited by pollen tubes. Ca2+ and small GTPase-mediated pathways have emerged as major players in the regulation of pollen tube growth. Evidence suggests that these two signaling pathways not only integrate with one another but also with a variety of other important signaling events. As we continue to elucidate the mechanisms involved in pollen tube growth, there is a growing importance in taking a holistic approach to studying these pathways in order to truly understand how tip growth in pollen tubes is orchestrated and maintained. This review considers our current state of knowledge of Ca2+-mediated and GTPase signaling pathways in pollen tubes, how they may intersect with one another, and other signaling pathways involved. There will be a particular focus on recent reports that have extended our understanding in these areas.

Extracellular ATP promoted pollen germination and tube growth of Nicotiana tabacum through promoting K+ and Ca2+ absorption

Extracellular ATP (eATP) plays an essential role in plant growth, development, and stress tolerance. Here, we report that eATP participated in Nicotiana tabacum pollen germination (PG) and pollen tube growth (PTG) by regulating K+ and Ca2+ influx. Exogenous ATP or ADP effectively promoted PG and PTG in a dose-dependent manner; weakly hydrolysable ATP analog (ATPγS) showed a similar effect. AMP, adenosine, adenine, and phosphate did not affect PG or PTG. Within a certain range, higher concentrations of K+ or Ca2+ in the medium increased the effect of ATP in promoting PG and PTG. However, in mediums containing K+ or Ca2+ concentrations above this range, the effect of ATP was reversed, resulting in PG and PTG inhibition. Ca2+ chelators (EGTA), Ca2+ channel blockers, and K+ channel blockers suppressed ATP-promoted PG and PTG. Results from a patch clamp showed that ATP activated a K+ and Ca2+ influx in pollen protoplasts. These results suggest that, as an apoplastic signal, eATP may be involved in PG and PTG via regulating Ca2+ and K+ absorption.

An interconnection between tip-focused Ca2+ and anion homeostasis controls pollen tube growth

Plant reproduction is the basis for economically relevant food production. It relies on pollen tube (PTs) growth into the female flower organs for successful fertilization. The high cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) at the PT tip is sensed by Ca2+-dependent protein kinases (CPKs) that in turn activate R- and S-type anion channels to control polar growth. Lanthanum, a blocker for plant Ca2+-permeable channels was used here to demonstrate a strict dependency for anion channel activation through high PT tip [Ca2+]cyt. We visualized this relationship by live-cell anion imaging and concurrent triggering of Ca2+-elevations with the two-electrode voltage-clamp (TEVC) technique. The anion efflux provoked by a TEVC-triggered [Ca2+]cyt increase was abolished by Lanthanum and was followed by an overall rise in the cytosolic anion concentration. An interrelation between Ca2+ and anion homeostasis occurred also on the transcript level of CPKs and anion channels. qRT-PCR analysis demonstrated a co-regulation of anion channels and CPKs in media with different Cl- and NO3- compositions. Our data provides strong evidence for the importance of a Ca2+-dependent anion channel regulation and point to a synchronized adjustment of CPK and anion channel transcript levels to fine-tune anion efflux at the PT tip.

Calcium dynamics in tomato pollen tubes using the Yellow Cameleon 3.6 sensor

In vitro tomato pollen tubes show a cytoplasmic calcium gradient that oscillates with the same period as growth. Pollen tube growth requires coordination between the tip-focused cytoplasmic calcium concentration ([Ca²⁺]_cyt) gradient and the actin cytoskeleton. This [Ca²⁺]_cyt gradient is necessary for exocytosis of small vesicles, which contributes to the delivery of new membrane and cell wall at the pollen tube tip. The mechanisms that generate and maintain this [Ca²⁺]_cyt gradient are not completely understood. Here, we studied calcium dynamics in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) pollen tubes using transgenic tomato plants expressing the Yellow Cameleon 3.6 gene under the pollen-specific promoter LAT52. We use tomato as an experimental model because tomato is a Solanaceous plant that is easy to transform, and has an excellent genomic database and genetic stock center, and unlike Arabidopsis, tomato pollen is a good system to do biochemistry. We found that tomato pollen tubes showed an oscillating tip-focused [Ca²⁺]_cyt gradient with the same period as growth. Then, we used a pharmacological approach to disturb the intracellular Ca²⁺ homeostasis, evaluating how the [Ca²⁺]_cyt gradient, pollen germination and in vitro pollen tube growth were affected. We found that cyclopiazonic acid (CPA), a drug that inhibits plant P_IIA-type Ca²⁺-ATPases, increased [Ca²⁺]_cyt in the subapical zone, leading to the disappearance of the Ca²⁺ oscillations and inhibition of pollen tube growth. In contrast, 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate (2-APB), an inhibitor of Ca²⁺ released from the endoplasmic reticulum to the cytoplasm in animals cells, completely reduced [Ca²⁺]_cyt at the tip of the tube, blocked the gradient and arrested pollen tube growth. Although both drugs have antagonistic effects on [Ca²⁺]_cyt, both inhibited pollen tube growth triggering the disappearance of the [Ca²⁺]_cyt gradient. When CPA and 2-APB were combined, their individual inhibitory effects on pollen tube growth were partially compensated. Finally, we found that GsMTx-4, a peptide from spider venom that blocks stretch-activated Ca²⁺ channels, inhibited tomato pollen germination and had a heterogeneous effect on pollen tube growth, suggesting that these channels are also involved in the maintenance of the [Ca²⁺]_cyt gradient. All these results indicate that tomato pollen tube is an excellent model to study calcium dynamics.

Tip-localized Ca2+ -permeable channels control pollen tube growth via kinase-dependent R- and S-type anion channel regulation

Pollen tubes (PTs) are characterized by having tip-focused cytosolic calcium ion (Ca2+ ) concentration ([Ca2+ ]cyt ) gradients, which are believed to control PT growth. However, the mechanisms by which the apical [Ca2+ ]cyt orchestrates PT growth are not well understood. Here, we aimed to identify these mechanisms by combining reverse genetics, cell biology, electrophysiology, and live-cell Ca2+ and anion imaging. We triggered Ca2+ -channel activation by applying hyperpolarizing voltage pulses and observed that the evoked [Ca2+ ]cyt increases were paralleled by high anion channel activity and a decrease in the cytosolic anion concentration at the PT tip. We confirmed a functional correlation between these patterns by showing that inhibition of Ca2+ -permeable channels eliminated the [Ca2+ ]cyt increase, resulting in the abrogation of anion channel activity via Ca2+ -dependent protein kinases (CPKs). Functional characterization of CPK and anion-channel mutants revealed a CPK2/20/6-dependent activation of SLAH3 and ALMT12/13/14 anion channels. The impaired growth phenotypes of anion channel and CPK mutants support the physiological significance of a kinase- and Ca2+ -dependent pathway to control PT growth via anion channel activation. Other than unveiling this functional link, our membrane hyperpolarization method allows for unprecedented manipulation of the [Ca2+ ]cyt gradient or oscillations in the PT tips and opens an array of opportunities for channel screenings.

Spatio-temporal Aspects of Ca2+ Signalling: Lessons from Guard Cells and Pollen Tubes

Changes in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) serve to transmit information in eukaryotic cells. The involvement of this second messenger in plant cell growth as well as osmotic- and water relations is well established. After almost 40 years of intense research on the coding and decoding of plant Ca2+ signals, numerous proteins involved in Ca2+ action have been identified. However, we are still far from understanding the complexity of Ca2+ networks. New in vivo Ca2+ imaging techniques combined with molecular genetics allow visualisation of spatio-temporal aspects of Ca2+ signalling. In parallel, cell biology together with protein biochemistry and electrophysiology are able to dissect information processing by this second messenger in space and time. Here we focus on the time-resolved changes in cellular events upon Ca2+ signals, concentrating on the two best-studied cell types, pollen tubes and guard cells. We put their signalling networks side by side, compare them with those of other cell types and discuss rapid signalling in the context of Ca2+ transients and oscillations to regulate ion homeostasis.

The ellagitannin HeT induces electrolyte leakage, calcium influx and the accumulation of nitric oxide and hydrogen peroxide in strawberry

HeT (1-0-galloyl-2,3; 4,6-bis-hexahydroxydiphenoyl-β-D-glucopyranose) is a penta-esterified ellagitannin obtained from strawberry leaves. Previous studies have shown that foliar application of HeT prior to inoculation with a virulent pathogen increases the resistance toward Colletotrichum acutatum in strawberry plants and to Xanthomonas citri subsp. citri in lemon plants. In this work we report that HeT induces an immediate leak of electrolytes, the hyperpolarization of the cellular membrane, a rapid Ca²⁺ influx to the cytoplasm during the first few seconds, which in turn modulates the accumulation of nitric oxide 5 min after treatment. At longer times, a biphasic accumulation of H₂O₂ with peaks at 2 and 5 h post treatment could be observed. In addition, HeT elicited the increase of alternative oxidase capacity during the first 12 h post treatment.

Mechanisms of cytosolic calcium elevation in plants: the role of ion channels, calcium extrusion systems and NADPH oxidase-mediated 'ROS-Ca2+ Hub'

Elevation in the cytosolic free calcium is crucial for plant growth, development and adaptation. Calcium influx into plant cells is mediated by Ca2+ depolarisation-activated, hyperpolarisation-activated and voltage-independent Ca2+-permeable channels (DACCs, HACCs and VICCs respectively). These channels are encoded by the following gene families: (1) cyclic nucleotide-gated channels (CNGCs), (2) ionotropic glutamate receptors (GLRs), (3) annexins, (4) 'mechanosensitive channels of small (MscS) conductance'-like channels (MSLs), (5) 'mid1-complementing activity' channels (MCAs), Piezo channels, and hyperosmolality-induced [Ca2+]cyt. channel 1 (OSCA1). Also, a 'tandem-pore channel1' (TPC1) catalyses Ca2+ efflux from the vacuole in response to the plasma membrane-mediated Ca2+ elevation. Recent experimental data demonstrated that Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. CNGCs 2, 5-10, 14, 16 and 18, GLRs 1.2, 3.3, 3.4, 3.6 and 3.7, TPC1, ANNEXIN1, MSL9 and MSL10,MCA1 and MCA2, OSCA1, and some their homologues counterparts in other species, are responsible for Ca2+ currents and/or cytosolic Ca2+ elevation. Extrusion of Ca2+ from the cytosol is mediated by Ca2+-ATPases and Ca2+/H+ exchangers which were recently examined at the level of high resolution crystal structure. Calcium-activated NADPH oxidases and reactive oxygen species (ROS)-activated Ca2+ conductances form a self-amplifying 'ROS-Ca2+hub', enhancing and transducing Ca2+ and redox signals. The ROS-Ca2+ hub contributes to physiological reactions controlled by ROS and Ca2+, demonstrating synergism and unity of Ca2+ and ROS signalling mechanisms.

Hydrogen peroxide affects ion channels in lily pollen grain protoplasts

Ion homeostasis plays a central role in polarisation and polar growth. In several cell types ion channels are controlled by reactive oxygen species (ROS). One of the most important cells in the plant life cycle is the male gametophyte, which grows under the tight control of both ion fluxes and ROS balance. The precise relationship between these two factors in pollen tubes has not been completely elucidated, and in pollen grains it has never been studied to date. In the present study we used a simple model - protoplasts obtained from lily pollen grains at the early germination stage - to reveal the effect of H2 O2 on cation fluxes crucial for pollen germination. Here we present direct evidence for two ROS-sensitive currents on the pollen grain plasma membrane: the hyperpolarisation-activated calcium current, which is strongly enhanced by H2 O2 , and the outward potassium current, which is modestly enhanced by H2 O2 . We used low concentrations of H2 O2 that do not cause an intracellular oxidative burst and do not damage cells, as demonstrated with fluorescent staining.

Role of Cyclic Nucleotide Gated Channels in Stress Management in Plants

Tolerance of plants to a number of biotic and abiotic stresses such as pathogen and herbivore attack, drought, salinity, cold and nutritional limitations is ensued by complex multimodule signaling pathways. The outcome of this complex signaling pathways results in adaptive responses by restoring the cellular homeostasis and thus promoting survival. Functions of many plant cation transporter and channel protein families such as glutamate receptor homologs (GLRs), cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channel (CNGC) have been implicated in providing biotic and abiotic stress tolerance. Ion homeostasis regulated by several transporters and channels is one of the crucial parameters for the optimal growth, development and survival of all living organisms. The CNGC family members are known to be involved in the uptake of cations such as Na(+), K(+) and Ca(2+) and regulate plant growth and development. Detail functional genomics approaches have given an emerging picture of CNGCs wherein these protein are believed to play crucial role in pathways related to cellular ion homeostasis, development and as a 'guard' in defense against biotic and abiotic challenges. Here, we discuss the current knowledge of role of CNGCs in mediating stress management and how they aid plants in survival under adverse conditions.

The apical actin fringe contributes to localized cell wall deposition and polarized growth in the lily pollen tube

In lily (Lilium formosanum) pollen tubes, pectin, a major component of the cell wall, is delivered through regulated exocytosis. The targeted transport and secretion of the pectin-containing vesicles may be controlled by the cortical actin fringe at the pollen tube apex. Here, we address the role of the actin fringe using three different inhibitors of growth: brefeldin A, latrunculin B, and potassium cyanide. Brefeldin A blocks membrane trafficking and inhibits exocytosis in pollen tubes; it also leads to the degradation of the actin fringe and the formation of an aggregate of filamentous actin at the base of the clear zone. Latrunculin B, which depolymerizes filamentous actin, markedly slows growth but allows focused pectin deposition to continue. Of note, the locus of deposition shifts frequently and correlates with changes in the direction of growth. Finally, potassium cyanide, an electron transport chain inhibitor, briefly stops growth while causing the actin fringe to completely disappear. Pectin deposition continues but lacks focus, instead being delivered in a wide arc across the pollen tube tip. These data support a model in which the actin fringe contributes to the focused secretion of pectin to the apical cell wall and, thus, to the polarized growth of the pollen tube.

Long-chain base phosphates modulate pollen tube growth via channel-mediated influx of calcium

Long-chain base phosphates (LCBPs) have been correlated with amounts of crucial biological processes ranging from cell proliferation to apoptosis in animals. However, their functions in plants remain largely unknown. Here, we report that LCBPs, sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and phytosphingosine-1-phosphate (Phyto-S1P), modulate pollen tube growth in a concentration-dependent bi-phasic manner. The pollen tube growth in the stylar transmitting tissue was promoted by SPHK1 overexpression (SPHK1-OE) but dampened by SPHK1 knockdown (SPHK1-KD) compared with wild-type of Arabidopsis; however, there was no detectable effect on in vitro pollen tube growth caused by misexpression of SPHK1. Interestingly, exogenous S1P or Phyto-S1P applications could increase the pollen tube growth rate in SPHK1-OE, SPHK1-KD and wild-type of Arabidopsis. Calcium ion (Ca(2+) )-imaging analysis showed that S1P triggered a remarkable increase in cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration in pollen. Extracellular S1P induced hyperpolarization-activated Ca(2+) currents in the pollen plasma membrane, and the Ca(2+) current activation was mediated by heterotrimeric G proteins. Moreover, the S1P-induced increase of cytosolic free Ca(2+) inhibited the influx of potassium ions in pollen tubes. Our findings suggest that LCBPs functions in a signaling cascade that facilitates Ca(2+) influx and modulates pollen tube growth.

Calcium involved in the poly(γ-glutamic acid)-mediated promotion of Chinese cabbage nitrogen metabolism

Plant growth can reportedly be promoted by poly(γ-glutamic acid) (γ-PGA). However, the underlying mechanism is unknown. To reveal the mechanism of γ-PGA, we designed an experiment that investigated the effect of γ-PGA on the nitrogen metabolism of Chinese cabbage hydroponic cultured at different calcium (Ca) levels and varied exogenous Ca(2+) inhibitors. The results showed that nitrate reductase (NR), glutamine synthetase (GS), glutamate synthase, and glutamate dehydrogenase activities in leaves and roots were obviously enhanced by γ-PGA at the normal Ca(2+) level (4.0 mM). Meanwhile, γ-PGA increased the content of total nitrogen, soluble protein, and soluble amino acids in leaves. However, the promotional effect of γ-PGA on fresh weight weakened when Ca(2+) was inadequate. Moreover, γ-PGA not only induced the influx of extracellular Ca(2+) and Ca(2+) in organelles into cytoplasm, but also increased the Ca(2+)-ATPase level to modify Ca(2+) homeostasis in plant cells. In addition, exogenous Ca(2+) inhibitors significantly suppressed the γ-PGA-mediated promotion of cytoplasmic free Ca(2+) level, calmodulin (CaM) content, GS and glutamate dehydrogenase activities. In summary, γ-PGA accelerated the nitrogen metabolism of plants through the Ca(2+)/CaM signaling pathway, thereby improving the growth of the plant.

Apoplastic calmodulin promotes self-incompatibility pollen tube growth by enhancing calcium influx and reactive oxygen species concentration in Pyrus pyrifolia

Calmodulin (CaM) has been associated with various physiological and developmental processes in plants, including pollen tube growth. In this study, we showed that CaM regulated the pear pollen tube growth in a concentration-dependent bi-phasic response. Using a whole-cell patch-clamp configuration, we showed that apoplastic CaM induced a hyperpolarization-activated calcium ion (Ca²⁺) current, and anti-CaM largely inhibited this type of Ca²⁺ current. Moreover, upon anti-CaM treatment, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) concentration decreased and actin filaments depolymerized in the pollen tube. Interestingly, CaM could partially rescue the inhibition of self-incompatible pear pollen tube growth. This phenotype could be mediated by CaM-enhanced pollen plasma membrane Ca²⁺ current, tip-localized ROS concentration and stabilized actin filaments. These data indicated that Ca²⁺, ROS and actin filaments were involved with CaM in regulating pollen tube growth and provide a potential way for overcoming pear self-incompatibility.

Interaction between Calcium and Actin in Guard Cell and Pollen Signaling Networks

Calcium (Ca(2+)) plays important roles in plant growth, development, and signal transduction. It is a vital nutrient for plant physical design, such as cell wall and membrane, and also serves as a counter-cation for biochemical, inorganic, and organic anions, and more particularly, its concentration change in cytosol is a ubiquitous second messenger in plant physiological signaling in responses to developmental and environmental stimuli. Actin cytoskeleton is well known for its importance in cellular architecture maintenance and its significance in cytoplasmic streaming and cell division. In plant cell system, the actin dynamics is a process of polymerization and de-polymerization of globular actin and filamentous actin and that acts as an active regulator for calcium signaling by controlling calcium evoked physiological responses. The elucidation of the interaction between calcium and actin dynamics will be helpful for further investigation of plant cell signaling networks at molecular level. This review mainly focuses on the recent advances in understanding the interaction between the two aforementioned signaling components in two well-established model systems of plant, guard cell, and pollen.

A heat-activated calcium-permeable channel--Arabidopsis cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channel 6--is involved in heat shock responses

An increased concentration of cytosolic calcium ions (Ca²⁺) is an early response by plant cells to heat shock. However, the molecular mechanism underlying the heat-induced initial Ca²⁺ response in plants is unclear. In this study, we identified and characterized a heat-activated Ca²⁺-permeable channel in the plasma membrane of Arabidopsis thaliana root protoplasts using reverse genetic analysis and the whole-cell patch-clamp technique. The results indicated that A. thaliana cyclic nucleotide-gated ion channel 6 (CNGC6) mediates heat-induced Ca²⁺ influx and facilitates expression of heat shock protein (HSP) genes and the acquisition of thermotolerance. GUS and GFP reporter assays showed that CNGC6 expression is ubiquitous in A. thaliana, and the protein is localized to the plasma membrane of cells. Furthermore, it was found that the level of cytosolic cAMP was increased by a mild heat shock, that CNGC6 was activated by cytosolic cAMP, and that exogenous cAMP promoted the expression of HSP genes. The results reveal the role of cAMP in transduction of heat shock signals in plants. The correlation of an increased level of cytosolic cAMP in a heat-shocked plant with activation of the Ca²⁺ channels and downstream expression of HSP genes sheds some light on how plants transduce a heat stimulus into a signal cascade that leads to a heat shock response.

Calcium entry into pollen tubes

Growing pollen tubes require calcium to maintain a tip-focused cytosolic gradient and as a constituent of the constantly expanding cell wall. Advances in cell and molecular biology as well as electrophysiology implicate several candidate channels and receptors in the flow of calcium into the cell. In this review we discuss the channels that have been identified and consider the role of the growing tip cell wall acting as a sink for calcium thus accounting for differences in oscillatory phase between influx measured on the outside of the cell and changes in tip concentration inside the cell. We also briefly draw attention to uptake mechanisms that restrict and shape the calcium signature in the growing pollen tube.

Fast loading ester fluorescent Ca2+ and pH indicators into pollen of Pyrus pyrifolia

Loading of Ca(2+)-sensitive fluorescent probes into plant cells is an essential step to measure activities of free Ca(2+) ions in cytoplasm with a fluorescent imaging technique. Fluo-3 is one of the most suitable Ca(2+) indicators for CLSM. We loaded pollen with fluo-3/AM at three different temperatures. Fluo-3/AM was successfully loaded into pollen at both low (4°C) and high (37°C) temperatures. However, high loading temperature was best suited for pollen, because germination rate of pollen and growth of pollen tubes were relatively little impaired and loading time was shortened. Moreover, Ca(2+) distribution increased in the three apertures of pollen after hydration and showed a Ca(2+) gradient, similar to the tip of growing pollen tubes. The same protocol can be used with the AM-forms of other fluorescent dyes for effective labeling. When loading BCECF-AM into pollen at high temperature, the pollen did not show a pH gradient after hydration. Ca(2+) activities and fluxes had the same periodicity as pollen germination, but pH did not show the same phase and mostly lagged behind. However, the clear zone was alkaline when pollen tube growth was slowed or stopped and turned acidic when growth recovered. It is likely that apical pH(i) regulated pollen tube growth.

Calcium efflux systems in stress signaling and adaptation in plants

Transient cytosolic calcium ([Ca(2+)](cyt)) elevation is an ubiquitous denominator of the signaling network when plants are exposed to literally every known abiotic and biotic stress. These stress-induced [Ca(2+)](cyt) elevations vary in magnitude, frequency, and shape, depending on the severity of the stress as well the type of stress experienced. This creates a unique stress-specific calcium "signature" that is then decoded by signal transduction networks. While most published papers have been focused predominantly on the role of Ca(2+) influx mechanisms to shaping [Ca(2+)](cyt) signatures, restoration of the basal [Ca(2+)](cyt) levels is impossible without both cytosolic Ca(2+) buffering and efficient Ca(2+) efflux mechanisms removing excess Ca(2+) from cytosol, to reload Ca(2+) stores and to terminate Ca(2+) signaling. This is the topic of the current review. The molecular identity of two major types of Ca(2+) efflux systems, Ca(2+)-ATPase pumps and Ca(2+)/H(+) exchangers, is described, and their regulatory modes are analyzed in detail. The spatial and temporal organization of calcium signaling networks is described, and the importance of existence of intracellular calcium microdomains is discussed. Experimental evidence for the role of Ca(2+) efflux systems in plant responses to a range of abiotic and biotic factors is summarized. Contribution of Ca(2+)-ATPase pumps and Ca(2+)/H(+) exchangers in shaping [Ca(2+)](cyt) signatures is then modeled by using a four-component model (plasma- and endo-membrane-based Ca(2+)-permeable channels and efflux systems) taking into account the cytosolic Ca(2+) buffering. It is concluded that physiologically relevant variations in the activity of Ca(2+)-ATPase pumps and Ca(2+)/H(+) exchangers are sufficient to fully describe all the reported experimental evidence and determine the shape of [Ca(2+)](cyt) signatures in response to environmental stimuli, emphasizing the crucial role these active efflux systems play in plant adaptive responses to environment.

Calcium regulation of tip growth: new genes for old mechanisms

We review the recent advances on Ca(2+) in tip-growing cells, with a special focus on pollen tubes. New genes for Ca(2+) pumps, channels and sensing proteins have been recently described, with special emphasis on cyclic nucleotide gated channels (CNGCs) and glutamate receptor-like channels (GLRs). We also review the current state of knowledge in what concerns Ca(2+) sensor and relay proteins, where the knowledge of the cell models is less advanced. While these newly described genes offer promise to a better understanding of the spatial and temporal patterns of Ca(2+) signalling that may be relevant for the formation of the phenotype, we discuss the necessity to investigate further links in the network downstream of the Ca(2+) signature, with a special need for mechanisms of feed-back that might render functional feed-back loops approachable by modelling and genetics. Given the available literature, we conclude on the need to investigate more on the role of two specific classes of proteins, the calcium binding protein kinases (CPKs) and the Calcineurin B-like proteins (CBLs) and their regulatory relationships to ion channels (summarized in Figure 3b).

Analysis of calcium signaling pathways in plants

BACKGROUND

Calcium serves as a versatile messenger in many adaptation and developmental processes in plants. Ca2+ signals are represented by stimulus-specific spatially and temporally defined Ca2+ signatures. These Ca2+ signatures are detected, decoded and transmitted to downstream responses by a complex toolkit of Ca2+ binding proteins that function as Ca2+ sensors.

SCOPE OF REVIEW

This review will reflect on advancements in monitoring Ca2+ dynamics in plants. Moreover, it will provide insights in the extensive and complex toolkit of plant Ca2+ sensor proteins that relay the information presented in the Ca2+ signatures into phosphorylation events, changes in protein-protein interaction or regulation of gene expression.

MAJOR CONCLUSIONS

Plants' response to signals is encoded by different Ca2+ signatures. The plant decoding Ca2+ toolkit encompasses different families of Ca2+ sensors like Calmodulins (CaM), Calmodulin-like proteins (CMLs), Ca2+-dependent protein kinases (CDPKs), Calcineurin B-like proteins (CBLs) and their interacting kinases (CIPKs). These Ca2+ sensors are encoded by complex gene families and form intricate signaling networks in plants that enable specific, robust and flexible information processing.

GENERAL SIGNIFICANCE

This review provides new insights about the biochemical regulation, physiological functions and of newly identified target proteins of the major plant Ca2+ sensor families. This article is part of a Special Issue entitled Biochemical, biophysical and genetic approaches to intracellular calcium signaling.

cAMP activates hyperpolarization-activated Ca2+ channels in the pollen of Pyrus pyrifolia

Many signal-transduction processes in plant cells have been suggested to be triggered by signal-induced opening of calcium ion (Ca(2+)) channels in the plasma membrane. Cyclic nucleotides have been proposed to lead to an increase in cytosolic free Ca(2+) in pollen. However, direct recordings of cyclic-nucleotide-induced Ca(2+) currents in pollen have not yet been obtained. Here, we report that cyclic AMP (cAMP) activated a hyperpolarization-activated Ca(2+) channel in the Pyrus pyrifolia pollen tube using the patch-clamp technique, which resulted in a significant increase in pollen tube protoplast cytosolic-Ca(2+) concentration. Outside-out single channel configuration identified that cAMP directly increased the Ca(2+) channel open-probability without affecting channel conductance. cAMP-induced currents were composed of both Ca(2+) and K(+). However, cGMP failed to mimic the cAMP effect. Higher cytosolic free-Ca(2+) concentration significantly decreased the cAMP-induced currents. These results provide direct evidence for cAMP activation of hyperpolarization-activated Ca(2+) channels in the plasma membrane of pollen tubes, which, in turn, modulate cellular responses in regulation of pollen tube growth.

Glutamate receptor-like genes form Ca2+ channels in pollen tubes and are regulated by pistil D-serine

Elevations in cytosolic free calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](cyt)) constitute a fundamental signal transduction mechanism in eukaryotic cells, but the molecular identity of Ca(2+) channels initiating this signal in plants is still under debate. Here, we show by pharmacology and loss-of-function mutants that in tobacco and Arabidopsis, glutamate receptor-like channels (GLRs) facilitate Ca(2+) influx across the plasma membrane, modulate apical [Ca(2+)](cyt) gradient, and consequently affect pollen tube growth and morphogenesis. Additionally, wild-type pollen tubes grown in pistils of knock-out mutants for serine-racemase (SR1) displayed growth defects consistent with a decrease in GLR activity. Our findings reveal a novel plant signaling mechanism between male gametophyte and pistil tissue similar to amino acid-mediated communication commonly observed in animal nervous systems.

The essential role of anionic transport in plant cells: the pollen tube as a case study

Plasma membrane anion transporters play fundamental roles in plant cell biology, especially in stomatal closure and nutrition. Notwithstanding, a lot is still unknown about the specific function of these transporters, their specific localization, or molecular nature. Here the fundamental roles of anionic transport in plant cells are reviewed. Special attention will be paid to them in the control of pollen tube growth. Pollen tubes are extreme examples of cellular polarity as they grow exclusively in their apical extremity. Their unique cell biology has been extensively exploited for fundamental understanding of cellular growth and morphogenesis. Non-invasive methods have demonstrated that tube growth is governed by different ion fluxes, with different properties and distribution. Not much is known about the nature of the membrane transporters responsible for anionic transport and their regulation in the pollen tube. Recent data indicate the importance of chloride (Cl(-)) transfer across the plasma membrane for pollen germination and pollen tube growth. A general overview is presented of the well-known accumulated data in terms of biophysical and functional characterization, transcriptomics, and genomic description of pollen ionic transport, and the various controversies around the role of anionic fluxes during pollen tube germination, growth, and development. It is concluded that, like all other plant cells so far analysed, pollen tubes depend on anion fluxes for a number of fundamental homeostatic properties.

Self-incompatibility in Papaver rhoeas activates nonspecific cation conductance permeable to Ca2+ and K+

Cellular responses rely on signaling. In plant cells, cytosolic free calcium is a major second messenger, and ion channels play a key role in mediating physiological responses. Self-incompatibility (SI) is an important genetically controlled mechanism to prevent self-fertilization. It uses interaction of matching S-determinants from the pistil and pollen to allow "self" recognition, which triggers rejection of incompatible pollen. In Papaver rhoeas, the S-determinants are PrsS and PrpS. PrsS is a small novel cysteine-rich protein; PrpS is a small novel transmembrane protein. Interaction of PrsS with incompatible pollen stimulates S-specific increases in cytosolic free calcium and alterations in the actin cytoskeleton, resulting in programmed cell death in incompatible but not compatible pollen. Here, we have used whole-cell patch clamping of pollen protoplasts to show that PrsS stimulates SI-specific activation of pollen grain plasma membrane conductance in incompatible but not compatible pollen grain protoplasts. The SI-activated conductance does not require voltage activation, but it is voltage sensitive. It is permeable to divalent cations (Ba(2+) ≥ Ca(2+) > Mg(2+)) and the monovalent ions K(+) and NH(4)(+) and is enhanced at voltages negative to -100 mV. The Ca(2+) conductance is blocked by La(3+) but not by verapamil; the K(+) currents are tetraethylammonium chloride insensitive and do not require Ca(2+). We propose that the SI-stimulated conductance may represent a nonspecific cation channel or possibly two conductances, permeable to monovalent and divalent cations. Our data provide insights into signal-response coupling involving a biologically important response. PrsS provides a rare example of a protein triggering alterations in ion channel activity.

Lily Cdc42/Rac-interactive binding motif-containing protein, a Rop target, involves calcium influx and phosphoproteins during pollen germination and tube growth

We report unique desiccation-associated ABA signaling transduction through which the Rop (Rho GTPase of plants) and its target LLP12-2 are regulated during the stage of pollen maturation and tube growth. Overexpression of LLP12-2 drastically inhibited pollen germination and tube growth. Studies on the germination inhibitors, Ca (2+) influx blocking agents LaCl 3 and EGTA and an actin-depolymerizing drug, latrunculin B (LatB), revealed that the LLP12-2-induced inhibition of germination and tube growth is significantly suppressed by LaCl 3 and EGTA in the LLP12-2-overexpressing pollen but not by LatB. These results suggested that LLP12-2 is associated with Ca (2+) influx in the cytoplasm and may be not with actin assembly. With the addition of LaCl 3 and EGTA, LLP12-2-overexpressing pollen increased germination and tube growth compared with the one without addition, whereas pollen expressing GFP decreased germination and tube growth. Thus, an optimum level of [Ca (2+) ]cyt influx is crucial for normal germination and tube growth. Studies on the inhibitors, staurosporine and okadaic acid in the LLP12-2-overexpressing pollen, showed no appreciable increase in germination when compared with the one without addition, suggesting that staurosporine-sensitive protein kinases and dephosphorylation of phosphoproteins may be not involved in the LLP12-2 mediated germination. However, the LLP12-2-induced inhibition of tube length was slightly but significantly suppressed by staurosporine, suggesting that staurosporine-sensitive protein kinases involve in the LLP12-2-induced inhibition of tube growth.

Spermidine oxidase-derived H₂O₂ regulates pollen plasma membrane hyperpolarization-activated Ca(2+) -permeable channels and pollen tube growth

Spermidine (Spd) has been correlated with various physiological and developmental processes in plants, including pollen tube growth. In this work, we show that Spd induces an increase in the cytosolic Ca(2+) concentration that accompanies pollen tube growth. Using the whole-cell patch clamp and outside-out single-channel patch clamp configurations, we show that exogenous Spd induces a hyperpolarization-activated Ca(2+) current: the addition of Spd cannot induce the channel open probability increase in excised outside-out patches, indicating that the effect of Spd in the induction of Ca(2+) currents is exerted via a second messenger. This messenger is hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂), and is generated during Spd oxidation, a reaction mediated by polyamine oxidase (PAO). These reactive oxygen species trigger the opening of the hyperpolarization-activated Ca(2+) -permeable channels in pollen. To provide further evidence that PAO is in fact responsible for the effect of Spd on the Ca(2+) -permeable channels, two Arabidopsis mutants lacking expression of the peroxisomal-encoding AtPAO3 gene, were isolated and characterized. Pollen from these mutants was unable to induce the opening of the Ca(2+) -permeable channels in the presence of Spd, resulting in reduced pollen tube growth and seed number. However, a high Spd concentration triggers a Ca(2+) influx beyond the optimal, which has a deleterious effect. These findings strongly suggest that the Spd-derived H₂O₂ signals Ca(2+) influx, thereby regulating pollen tube growth.

Calcium at the cell wall-cytoplast interface

Attention is given to the role of Ca(2+) at the interface between the cell wall and the cytoplast, especially as seen in pollen tubes. While the cytoplasm directs the synthesis and deposition of the wall, it is less well appreciated that the wall exerts considerable self control and influences activities of the cytoplasm. Ca(2+) participates as a crucial factor in this two way communication. In the cytoplasm, a [Ca(2+)] above 0.1 microM, regulates myriad processes, including secretion of cell wall components. In the cell wall Ca(2+), at 10 microM to 10 mM, binds negative charges on pectins and imparts structural rigidity to the wall. The plasma membrane occupies a pivotal position between these two compartments, where selective channels regulate influx of Ca(2+), and specific carriers pump the ion back into the wall. In addition we draw attention to different factors, which either respond to the wall or are present in the wall, and usually generate elevated [Ca(2+)] in the cytoplasm. These factors include: (i) stretch activated channels; (ii) calmodulin; (iii) annexins; (iv) wall associated kinases; (v) oligogalacturonides; and (vi) extracellular adenosine 5'-triphosphate. Together they provide evidence for a rich and multifaceted system of communication between the cytoplast and cell wall, with Ca(2+) as a carrier of information.

Heme-independent soluble and membrane-associated peroxidase activity of a Zea mays annexin preparation

Annexins are cytosolic proteins capable of reversible, Ca(2+)-dependent membrane binding or insertion. Animal annexins form and regulate Ca(2+)-permeable ion channels and may therefore participate in signaling. Zea mays (maize) annexins (ZmANN33 and ZmANN35) have recently been shown to form a Ca(2+)-permeable conductance in planar lipid bilayers and also exhibit in vitro peroxidase activity. Peroxidases form a superfamily of intra- or extracellular heme-containing enzymes that use H(2)O(2) as the electron acceptor in a number of oxidative reactions. Maize annexin peroxidase activity appears independent of heme and persists after membrane association, the latter suggesting a role in reactive oxygen species signaling.

A signaling pathway linking nitric oxide production to heterotrimeric G protein and hydrogen peroxide regulates extracellular calmodulin induction of stomatal closure in Arabidopsis

Extracellular calmodulin (ExtCaM) regulates stomatal movement by eliciting a cascade of intracellular signaling events including heterotrimeric G protein, hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)), and Ca(2+). However, the ExtCaM-mediated guard cell signaling pathway remains poorly understood. In this report, we show that Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) NITRIC OXIDE ASSOCIATED1 (AtNOA1)-dependent nitric oxide (NO) accumulation plays a crucial role in ExtCaM-induced stomatal closure. ExtCaM triggered a significant increase in NO levels associated with stomatal closure in the wild type, but both effects were abolished in the Atnoa1 mutant. Furthermore, we found that ExtCaM-mediated NO generation is regulated by GPA1, the Galpha-subunit of heterotrimeric G protein. The ExtCaM-dependent NO accumulation was nullified in gpa1 knockout mutants but enhanced by overexpression of a constitutively active form of GPA1 (cGalpha). In addition, cGalpha Atnoa1 and gpa1-2 Atnoa1 double mutants exhibited a similar response as did Atnoa1. The defect in gpa1 was rescued by overexpression of AtNOA1. Finally, we demonstrated that G protein activation of NO production depends on H(2)O(2). Reduced H(2)O(2) levels in guard cells blocked the stomatal response of cGalpha lines, whereas exogenously applied H(2)O(2) rescued the defect in ExtCaM-mediated stomatal closure in gpa1 mutants. Moreover, the atrbohD/F mutant, which lacks the NADPH oxidase activity in guard cells, had impaired NO generation in response to ExtCaM, and H(2)O(2)-induced stomatal closure and NO accumulation were greatly impaired in Atnoa1. These findings have established a signaling pathway leading to ExtCaM-induced stomatal closure, which involves GPA1-dependent activation of H(2)O(2) production and subsequent AtNOA1-dependent NO accumulation.

Calmodulin binds to extracellular sites on the plasma membrane of plant cells and elicits a rise in intracellular calcium concentration

Calmodulin (CaM) is a highly conserved intracellular calcium sensor. In plants, CaM also appears to be present in the apoplasm, and application of exogenous CaM has been shown to influence a number of physiological functions as a polypeptide signal; however, the existence and localization of its corresponding apoplasmic binding sites remain controversial. To identify the site(s) of action, a CaM-conjugated quantum dot (QD) system was employed for single molecule level detection at the surface of plant cells. Using this approach, we show that QD-CaM binds selectively to sites on the outer surface of the plasma membrane, which was further confirmed by high resolution transmission electron microscopy. Measurements of Ca(2+) fluxes across the plasma membrane, using ion-selective microelectrodes, demonstrated that exogenous CaM induces a net influx into protoplasts. Consistent with these flux studies, calcium-green-dextran and FRET experiments confirmed that applied CaM/QD-CaM elicited an increase in cytoplasmic Ca(2+) levels. These results support the hypothesis that apoplasmic CaM can act as a signaling agent. These findings are discussed in terms of CaM acting as an apoplasmic peptide ligand to mediate transmembrane signaling in the plant kingdom.

Membrane hyperpolarization drives cation influx and fungicidal activity of amiodarone

Cationic amphipathic drugs, such as amiodarone, interact preferentially with lipid membranes to exert their biological effect. In the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, toxic levels of amiodarone trigger a rapid influx of Ca(2+) that can overwhelm cellular homeostasis and lead to cell death. To better understand the mechanistic basis of antifungal activity, we assessed the effect of the drug on membrane potential. We show that low concentrations of amiodarone (0.1-2 microm) elicit an immediate, dose-dependent hyperpolarization of the membrane. At higher doses (>3 microm), hyperpolarization is transient and is followed by depolarization, coincident with influx of Ca(2+) and H(+) and loss in cell viability. Proton and alkali metal cation transporters play reciprocal roles in membrane polarization, depending on the availability of glucose. Diminishment of membrane potential by glucose removal or addition of salts or in pma1, tok1Delta, ena1-4Delta, or nha1Delta mutants protected against drug toxicity, suggesting that initial hyperpolarization was important in the mechanism of antifungal activity. Furthermore, we show that the link between membrane hyperpolarization and drug toxicity is pH-dependent. We propose the existence of pH- and hyperpolarization-activated Ca(2+) channels in yeast, similar to those described in plant root hair and pollen tubes that are critical for cell elongation and growth. Our findings illustrate how membrane-active compounds can be effective microbicidals and may pave the way to developing membrane-selective agents.

Integrative proteomic and cytological analysis of the effects of extracellular Ca(2+) influx on Pinus bungeana pollen tube development

Ca (2+) is an essential ion in the control of pollen germination and tube growth. However, the control of pollen tube development by Ca (2+) signaling and its interactions with cytoskeletal components, energy-providing pathways, and cell-expansion machinery remain elusive. Here, we used nifedipine (Nif) to study Ca (2+) functions in differential protein expression and other cellular processes in Pinus bungeana pollen tube growth. Proteomics analysis indicated that 50 proteins showed differential expression with varying doses of Nif. Thirty-four of these were homologous to previously reported proteins and were classified into different functional categories closely related to tip-growth machinery. Blocking the L-type Ca (2+) channel with Nif in the pollen tube membrane induced several early alterations within a short time, including a reduction of extracellular Ca (2+) influx and a subsequently dramatic decrease in cytosolic free Ca (2+) concentration ([Ca (2+)] c), concomitant with ultrastructural abnormalities and changes in the abundance of proteins involved in energy production and signaling. Secondary alterations included actin filament depolymerization, disrupted patterns of endocytosis/exocytosis, and cell wall remodeling, along with changes in the proteins involved in these processes. These results suggested that extracellular Ca (2+) influx was necessary for the maintenance of the typical tip-focused [Ca (2+)] c gradient in the P. bungeana pollen tube, and that reduced adenosine triphosphate production (ATP), depolymerization of the cytoskeleton, and abnormal endocytosis/exocytosis, together with enhanced rigidity of cell walls, were responsible for the growth arrest observed in pollen tubes treated with Nif.

Relationship between calcium decoding elements and plant abiotic-stress resistance

Serving as an important second messenger, calcium ion has unique properties and universal ability to transmit diverse signals that trigger primary physiological actions in cells in response to hormones, pathogens, light, gravity, and stress factors. Being a second messenger of paramount significance, calcium is required at almost all stages of plant growth and development, playing a fundamental role in regulating polar growth of cells and tissues and participating in plant adaptation to various stress factors. Many researches showed that calcium signals decoding elements are involved in ABA-induced stomatal closure and plant adaptation to drought, cold, salt and other abiotic stresses. Calcium channel proteins like AtTPC1 and TaTPC1 can regulate stomatal closure. Recently some new studies show that Ca(2+) is dissolved in water in the apoplast and transported primarily from root to shoot through the transpiration stream. The oscillating amplitudes of [Ca(2+)](o) and [Ca(2+)](i) are controlled by soil Ca(2+) concentrations and transpiration rates. Because leaf water use efficiency (WUE) is determined by stomatal closure and transpiration rate, so there may be a close relationship between Ca(2+) transporters and stomatal closure as well as WUE, which needs to be studied. The selection of varieties with better drought resistance and high WUE plays an increasing role in bio-watersaving in arid and semi-arid areas on the globe. The current paper reviews the relationship between calcium signals decoding elements and plant drought resistance as well as other abiotic stresses for further study.

Calcium-calmodulin is required for abscisic acid-induced antioxidant defense and functions both upstream and downstream of H2O2 production in leaves of maize (Zea mays) plants

* Using pharmacological and biochemical approaches, the role of calmodulin (CaM) and the relationship between CaM and hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) in abscisic acid (ABA)-induced antioxidant defense in leaves of maize (Zea mays) plants were investigated. * Treatment with ABA or H(2)O(2) led to significant increases in the concentration of cytosolic Ca(2+) in the protoplasts of mesophyll cells and in the expression of the calmodulin 1 (CaM1) gene and the content of CaM in leaves of maize plants, and enhanced the expression of the antioxidant genes superoxide dismutase 4 (SOD4), cytosolic ascorbate peroxidase (cAPX), and glutathione reductase 1 (GR1) and the activities of the chloroplastic and cytosolic antioxidant enzymes. The up-regulation of the antioxidant enzymes was almost completely blocked by pretreatments with two CaM antagonists. * Pretreatments with CaM antagonists almost completely inhibited ABA-induced H(2)O(2) production throughout ABA treatment, but pretreatment with an inhibitor or scavenger of reactive oxygen species (ROS) did not affect the initial increase in the contents of CaM induced by ABA. * Our results suggest that Ca(2+)-CaM is involved in ABA-induced antioxidant defense, and that cross-talk between Ca(2+)-CaM and H(2)O(2) plays a pivotal role in ABA signaling.

Heterotrimeric G-protein participation in Arabidopsis pollen germination through modulation of a plasmamembrane hyperpolarization-activated Ca2+-permeable channel

The role of heterotrimeric G proteins in pollen germination and tube growth was investigated using Arabidopsis thaliana plants in which the gene (GPA) encoding the G-protein a subunit (Galpha) was null or overexpressed. Pollen germination, free cytosolic calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](cyt)) and Ca(2+) channel activity in the plasma membrane (PM) of pollen cells were investigated. Results showed that, compared with pollen grains of the wild type (ecotype Wassilewskija, ws), in vitro germinated pollen of Galpha null mutants (gpa1-1 and gpa1-2) had lower germination percentages and shorter pollen tubes, while pollen from Galpha overexpression lines (wGalpha and cGalpha) had higher germination percentages and longer pollen tubes. Compared with ws pollen cells, [Ca(2+)](cyt) was lower in gpa1-1 and gpa1-2 and higher in wGalpha and cGalpha. In whole-cell patch clamp recordings, a hyperpolarization-activated Ca(2+)-permeable conductance was identified in the PM of pollen protoplasts. The conductance was suppressed by trivalent cations but insensitive to organic blockers; its permeability to divalent cations was Ba(2+) > Ca(2+) > Mg(2+) > Sr(2+) > Mn(2+). The activity of the Ca(2+)-permeable channel conductance was down-regulated in pollen protoplasts of gpa1-1 and gpa1-2, and up-regulated in wGalpha and cGalpha. The results suggest that Galpha may participate in pollen germination through modulation of the hyperpolarization-activated Ca(2+) channel in the PM of pollen cells.

Ethylene activates a plasma membrane Ca(2+)-permeable channel in tobacco suspension cells

Here, the effects of the ethylene-releasing compound, ethephon, and the ethylene precursor, 1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC), on ionic currents across plasma membranes and on the cytosolic Ca(2+) activity ([Ca(2+)](c)) of tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) suspension cells were characterized using a patch-clamp technique and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Exposure of tobacco protoplasts to ethephon and ACC led to activation of a plasma membrane cation channel that was permeable to Ba(2+), Mg(2+) and Ca(2+), and inhibited by La(3+), Gd(3+) and Al(3+). The ethephon- and ACC-induced Ca(2+)-permeable channel was abolished by the antagonist of ethylene perception (1-metycyclopropene) and by the inhibitor of ACC synthase (aminovinylglycin), indicating that activation of the Ca(2+)-permeable channels results from ethylene. Ethephon elicited an increase in the [Ca(2+)](c) of tobacco suspension cells, as visualized by the Ca(2+)-sensitive probe Fluo-3 and confocal microscopy. The ethephon-induced elevation of [Ca(2+)](c) was markedly inhibited by Gd(3+) and BAPTA, suggesting that an influx of Ca(2+) underlies the elevation of [Ca(2+)](c). These results indicate that an elevation of [Ca(2+)](c), resulting from activation of the plasma membrane Ca(2+)-permeable channels by ethylene, is an essential component in ethylene signaling in plants.

Identification of hyperpolarization-activated calcium channels in apical pollen tubes of Pyrus pyrifolia

The pollen tube has been widely used to study the mechanisms underlying polarized tip growth in plants. A steep tip-to-base gradient of free cytosolic calcium ([Ca(2+)](cyt)) is essential for pollen-tube growth. Local Ca(2+) influx mediated by Ca(2+)-permeable channels plays a key role in maintaining this [Ca(2+)](cyt) gradient. Here, we developed a protocol for successful isolation of spheroplasts from pollen tubes of Pyrus pyrifolia and identified a hyperpolarization-activated cation channel using the patch-clamp technique. We showed that the cation channel conductance displayed a strong selectivity for divalent cations, with a relative permeability sequence of barium (Ba(2+)) approximately Ca(2+) > magnesium (Mg(2+)) > strontium (Sr(2+)) > manganese (Mn(2+)). This channel conductance was selective for Ca(2+) over chlorine (Cl(-)) (relative permeability P(Ca)/P(Cl) = 14 in 10 mm extracellular Ca(2+)). We also showed that the channel was inhibited by the Ca(2+) channel blockers lanthanum (La(3+)) and gadolinium (Gd(3+)). Furthermore, channel activity depended on extracellular pH and pollen viability. We propose that the Ca(2+)-permeable channel is likely to play a role in mediating Ca(2+) influx into the growing pollen tubes to maintain the [Ca(2+)](cyt) gradient.

Influx of extracellular Ca2+ involved in jasmonic-acid-induced elevation of [Ca2+]cyt and JR1 expression in Arabidopsis thaliana

The changes in cytosolic Ca2+ levels play important roles in the signal transduction pathways of many environmental and developmental stimuli in plants and animals. We demonstrated that the increase in cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) of Arabidopsis thaliana leaf cells was induced by exogenous application of jasmonic acid (JA). The elevation of [Ca2+]cyt was detected within 1 min after JA treatment by the fluorescence intensity using laser scanning confocal microscopy, and the elevated level of fluorescence was maintained during measuring time. With pretreatment of nifedipine (Nif), a nonpermeable L-type channel blocker, the fluorescence of [Ca2+]cyt induced by JA was inhibited in a dose-dependent manner. In contrast, verapamil, another L-type channel blocker, had no significant effect. Furthermore, Nif repressed JA-induced gene expression of JR1 but verapamil did not. JA-induced gene expression could be mimicked by higher concentration of extracellular Ca2+. W-7 [N-(6-aminohexyl)-5-chloro-1-naphthalenesulfonamide], an antagonist of calmodulin (CaM), blocked the JA induction of JR1 expression while W-5 [N-(6-aminohexyl)-1-naphthalenesulfonamide], its inactive antagonist, had no apparent effect. These data provide the evidence that the influx of extracellular Ca2+ through Nif sensitive plasma membrane Ca2+ channel may be responsible for JA-induced elevation of [Ca2+]cyt and downstream gene expression, CaM may be also involved in JA signaling pathway.