Gasotransmitters and Their Role in Adaptive Reactions of Plant Cells

Abstract

The review is devoted to the physiological functions of the main gasotransmitters (GT) in plants. The pathways for synthesis of nitric oxide, hydrogen sulphide, and carbon monoxide are characterized. Their interplay (cross-talk) with other key participants of signaling—calcium ions and reactive oxygen species—was shown. The main pathways for modification of target proteins by GT—S-nitrosylation, nitridation, and persulphidation—were considered. Special attention was paid to the mechanisms of functional interplay of GT among themselves caused by the direct chemical interaction, competition for targets of biomacromolecules, and reciprocal influence on synthesis. The participation of endogenous GT in the processes of plants’ adaptation to the influence of the main abiotic stressors—low and high temperatures, dehydration, and salinity—was described. The examples for practical use of GT donors for the induction of plants’ resistance to the abiotic stresses were provided.