Proline accumulation in plants: not only stress

Plant Signal Behav. 2009 Nov;4(11):1016-8. doi: 10.4161/psb.4.11.9797. Epub 2009 Nov 12.

Abstract

In addition to its role in protein synthesis and the plant cells' response to environmental stresses, circumstantial evidence suggest that proline may also play a role in flowering and development both as a metabolite and as a signal molecule. Although there is a growing consensus that proline is of special importance throughout the reproductive phase (from flower transition to seed development) a general agreement on the molecular and genetic mechanisms proline is involved in, is yet to be established. In this paper we shall review and critically discuss most of the evidence supporting a role for proline in plant development, paying special attention to the recently reported role of proline in flower transition.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Flowers / genetics
  • Flowers / growth & development*
  • Flowers / metabolism
  • Gene Expression
  • Genes, Plant
  • Plant Development*
  • Plant Proteins / genetics
  • Plant Proteins / metabolism*
  • Plants / genetics
  • Plants / metabolism
  • Proline / genetics
  • Proline / metabolism*
  • Reproduction
  • Signal Transduction / genetics
  • Signal Transduction / physiology*

Substances

  • Plant Proteins
  • Proline