The generation of Ca(2+) signals in plants

Annu Rev Plant Biol. 2004:55:401-27. doi: 10.1146/annurev.arplant.55.031903.141624.

Abstract

The calcium ion is firmly established as a ubiquitous intracellular second messenger in plants. At their simplest, Ca(2+)-based signaling systems are composed of a receptor, a system for generating the increase in [Ca(2+)]cyt, downstream components that are capable of reacting to the increase in [Ca(2+)]cyt, and other cellular systems responsible for returning [Ca(2+)]cyt to its prestimulus level. Here we review the various mechanisms responsible for generating the stimulus-induced increases in [Ca(2+)]cyt known as Ca(2+) signals. We focus particularly on the mechanisms responsible for generating [Ca(2+)]cyt oscillations and transients and use Nod Factor signaling in legume root hairs and stimulus-response coupling in guard cells to assess the physiological significance of these classes of Ca(2+) signals.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Calcium / metabolism
  • Calcium Channels / physiology*
  • Calcium Signaling / physiology*
  • Cell Membrane / physiology
  • Homeostasis
  • Plant Physiological Phenomena*

Substances

  • Calcium Channels
  • Calcium