Abiotic stresses and soil nutrient limitations are major environmental conditions that reduce plant growth,productivity and quality.Plants have evolved mechanisms to perceive these environmental challenges,transmit th...Abiotic stresses and soil nutrient limitations are major environmental conditions that reduce plant growth,productivity and quality.Plants have evolved mechanisms to perceive these environmental challenges,transmit the stress signals within cells as well as between cells and tissues,and make appropriate adjustments in their growth and development in order to survive and reproduce.In recent years,significant progress has been made on many fronts of the stress signaling research,particularly in understanding the downstream signaling events that culminate at the activation of stress-and nutrient limitation-responsive genes,cellular ion homeostasis,and growth adjustment.However,the revelation of the early events of stress signaling,particularly the identification of primary stress sensors,still lags behind.In this review,we summarize recent work on the genetic and molecular mechanisms of plant abiotic stress and nutrient limitation sensing and signaling and discuss new directions for future studies.展开更多
AIM To study the effect of phosphorylation ofMAPK and Stat3 and the expression of c-fos andc-jun proteins on hepatocellular carcinogenesisand their clinical significance.METHODS SP immunohistochemistry was usedto dete...AIM To study the effect of phosphorylation ofMAPK and Stat3 and the expression of c-fos andc-jun proteins on hepatocellular carcinogenesisand their clinical significance.METHODS SP immunohistochemistry was usedto detect the expression of p42/44MAPK, p-Stat3,c-fos and c-jun proteins in 55 hepatocellularcarcinomas (HCC) and their surrounding livertissues.RESULTS The positive rates and expressionlevels of p42/44MAPK, p-Stat3, c-fos and c-junproteins in HCCs were significantly higher thanthose in pericarcinomatous liver tissues (PCLT).A positive correlation was observed between theexpression of p42/44MAPK and c-fos proteins, andbetween p-Stat3 and c-jun, but there was nosignificant correlation between p42/44MAPK and p-Stat3 in HCCs and their surrounding livertissues.CONCLUSION The abnormalities of Ras/Rat/MAPK and JAKs/ Stat3 cascade reaction maycontribute to malignant transformation ofhepatocytes. Hepatocytes which are positive forp42/ 44MAPK, c-fos or c-jun proteins may bepotential malignant pre-cancerous cells.Activation of MAPK and Stat3 proteins may be anearly event in hepatocellular carcinogenesis.展开更多
Tea trees have a long history of cultivation and utilization.People in many countries have the habit of drinking tea and choosing green tea,oolong tea,or black tea according to different regions and personal tastes.Te...Tea trees have a long history of cultivation and utilization.People in many countries have the habit of drinking tea and choosing green tea,oolong tea,or black tea according to different regions and personal tastes.Tea polyphe nols are a general term for polyphenol co mpounds in tea,and has been shown to have good effects on antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,cancer prevention and regulation of lipid metabolism.Tea polyphenols have been widely used as antioxidants in disease treatment and animal husbandry,but their specific mechanism of action needs to be further clarified and revealed.This review focuses on the definition,classification,antioxidant activity and the regulation of signaling pathways of tea polyphenols.This paper also aims to examine the application of tea polyphenols in human and animal health,providing a scientific basis for this application in addition to proposing future directions for the development of this resource.展开更多
Toll-like receptors (TLRs) recognize distinct microbial components to initiate the innate and adaptive immune responses. TLR activation culminates in the expression of appropriate pro-inflammatory and immunomodulato...Toll-like receptors (TLRs) recognize distinct microbial components to initiate the innate and adaptive immune responses. TLR activation culminates in the expression of appropriate pro-inflammatory and immunomodulatory factors to meet pathogenic challenges. The transcription factor NF-kB is the master regulator of all TLR-induced responses and its activation is the pivotal event in TLR-mediated activation of the innate immune response. Many of the key molecular events required for TLR-induced NF-r.B activation have been elucidated. However, much remain to be learned about the ability of TLRs to generate pathogen-specific responses using a limited number of transcription factors. This review will focus on our current understanding of NF-kB activation by TLRs and potential mechanisms for achieving a signal-specific response through NF-kB. Cellular & Molecular Immunology. 2007;4(1):31-41.展开更多
The limited availability of phosphate (Pi) in most soils results in the manifestation of Pi starvation responses in plants. To dissect the transcriptional regulation of Pi stress-response mechanisms, we have charact...The limited availability of phosphate (Pi) in most soils results in the manifestation of Pi starvation responses in plants. To dissect the transcriptional regulation of Pi stress-response mechanisms, we have characterized the biological role of MYB62, an R2R3-type MYB transcription factor that is induced in response to Pi deficiency. The induction of MYB62 is a specific response in the leaves during Pi deprivation. The MYB62 protein localizes to the nucleus. The overexpression of MYB62 resulted in altered root architecture, Pi uptake, and acid phosphatase activity, leading to decreased total Pi content in the shoots. The expression of several Pi starvation-induced (PSI) genes was also suppressed in the MYB62 overexpressing plants. Overexpression of MYB62 resulted in a characteristic gibberellic acid (GA)-deficient phenotype that could be partially reversed by exogenous application of GA. In addition, the expression of SOC1 and SUPERMAN, molecular reg- ulators of flowering, was suppressed in the MYB62 overexpressing plants. Interestingly, the expression of these genes was also reduced during Pi deprivation in wild-type plants, suggesting a role for GA biosynthetic and floral regulatory genes in Pi starvation responses. Thus, this study highlights the role of MYB62 in the regulation of phosphate starvation responses via changes in GA metabolism and signaling. Such cross-talk between Pi homeostasis and GA might have broader implications on flowering, root development and adaptive mechanisms during nutrient stress.展开更多
PURPOSE: To review the recent developments in the structure and function of Smad proteins. DATA SOURCES: Both Chinese- and English-language literatures were searched using MEDLINE/CD-ROM (1997 - 2000) and the Index of...PURPOSE: To review the recent developments in the structure and function of Smad proteins. DATA SOURCES: Both Chinese- and English-language literatures were searched using MEDLINE/CD-ROM (1997 - 2000) and the Index of Chinese-Language Literature (1997 - 2000). STUDY SELECTION: Data from published articles about TGF-beta signal transduction in recent domestic and foreign literature were selected. DATA EXTRACTION: Data were mainly extracted from 22 articles which are listed in the reference section of this review. RESULTS: Smad proteins mediate signal transduction induced by the TGF-beta superfamily. Based on their structural and functional properties, Smad proteins are divided into three groups. The first group, receptor-regulated Smads (R-Smads), are phosphorylated by activated type I receptors and form heteromeric complexes with the second group of Smads, common mediator Smads (Co-Smads). These Smad complexes translocate into the nucleus to influence gene transcription. Inhibitory Smads (I-Smads) are the third group and these antagonize the activity of R-Smads. In the nucleus, Smads can directly contact Smad-binding elements (SBE) in target gene promoters. Through interaction with different transcription factors, transcriptional co-activators or co-repressors, Smads elicit different effects in various cell types. The aberrance of Smad proteins has been noted in several human disorders such as fibrosis, hypertrophic scarring and cancer. CONCLUSION: The structure of Smads determines their function as transcriptional factors which translocate signals from the cell surface to the nucleus where Smads regulate TGF-beta superfamily-dependent gene expression.展开更多
AIM: The goal of this study was to characterize the AFP receptor, its possible signal transduction pathway and its proliferative functions in human hepatoma cell line Bel 7402. METHODS: Cell proliferation enhanced by ...AIM: The goal of this study was to characterize the AFP receptor, its possible signal transduction pathway and its proliferative functions in human hepatoma cell line Bel 7402. METHODS: Cell proliferation enhanced by AFP was detected by MTT assay, 3H-thymidine incorporation and S-stage percentage of cell cycle analysis. With radioactive labeled 125I-AFP for receptor binding assay; cAMP accumulation, protein kinase A activity were detected by radioactive immunosorbent assay and the change of intracellular free calcium (Ca2+i) was monitored by scanning fluorescence intensity under TCS-NT confocal microscope. The expression of oncogenes N- ras, p 53, and p21( ras ) in the cultured cells in vitro were detected by Northern blotting and Western blotting respectively. RESULTS: It was demonstrated that AFP enhanced the proliferation of human hepatoma Bel 7402 cell in a dose dependent fashion as shown in MTT assay, (3)H-thymidine incorporation and S-phase percentage up to 2-fold. Two subtypes of AFP receptors were identified in the cells with Kds of 1.3 x 10(-9)mol.L(-1) and 9.9 x10(-8)mol. (-1)L respectively. Pretreatment of cells with AFP resulted in a significant increase (625%) in cAMP accumulation. The activity of protein kinase A activity were increased up to 37.5, 122.6, 73.7 and 61.2% at treatment time point 2, 6, 12 and 24 hours. The level of intracellular calcium were elevated after the treatment of alpha-fetoprotein and achieved to 204% at 4 min. The results also showed that AFP(20mg.L(-1)) could upregulate the expression of N- ras oncogenes and p 53 and p21( ras ) in Bel 7402 cells. In the later case,the alteration were 81.1%(12h) and 97.3%(12h) respectively compared with control. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate that AFP is a potential growth factor to promote the proliferation of human hepatoma Bel 7402 cells. Its growth-regulatory effects are mediated by its specific plasma membrane receptors coupled with its transmembrane signaling transduction through the pathway of cAMP-PKA and intracellular calcium展开更多
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most com- mon cancers in the world with an annual incidence of more than 500 000 in the year 2000. Its incidence is rising in many countries. Recently, it has been estimate...Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most com- mon cancers in the world with an annual incidence of more than 500 000 in the year 2000. Its incidence is rising in many countries. Recently, it has been estimated that about 53% of HCC cases in the world are related to hepatitis B virus (HBV). The epidemiological association of HBV with HCC is well established. In recent studies, it was revealed that HBsAg carriers have a 25-37 times increased risk of developing HCC as compared to non-infected people. At present, HBV-associated carcinogenesis can be seen as a multi-factorial process that includes both direct and indirect mechanisms that might act synergistically. The integration of HBV DNA into the host genome occurs at early steps of clonal tumor expansion. The integration has been shown in a number of cases to affect a variety of cancer- related genes and to exert insertional mutagenesis. The permanent liver inflammation, induced by the immune response, resulting in a degeneration and regeneration process confers to the accumulation of critical mutations in the host genome. In addition to this, the regulatory proteins HBx and the PreS2 activators that can be encoded by the integrate exert a tumor promoter-like function resulting in positive selection of cells producing a functional regulatory protein. Gene expression profiling and proteomic techniques may help to characterize the molecular mechanisms driving HBV-associated carcino- genesis, and thus potentially identify new strategies in diagnosis and therapy.展开更多
RAV1 is a novel DNA-binding protein with two distinct DNA-binding domains unique in higher plants,but its role in plant growth and development remains unknown. Using cDNA array,we found that transcription of RAV1 is d...RAV1 is a novel DNA-binding protein with two distinct DNA-binding domains unique in higher plants,but its role in plant growth and development remains unknown. Using cDNA array,we found that transcription of RAV1 is downregulated by epibrassinolide (epiBL) in Arabidopsis suspension cells. RNA gel blot analysis revealed that epiBL-regulated RAV1 transcription involves neither protein phosphorylation/dephosphorylation nor newly synthesized protein,and does not require the functional BRI1,suggesting that this regulation might be through a new BR signaling pathway.Overexpressing RAV1 in Arabidopsis results in a retardation of lateral root and rosette leaf development,and the underexpression causes an earlier flowering phenotype,implying that RAV1 may function as a negative regulatory component of growth and development.展开更多
Bone Morphogenetic Proteins(BMPs)are a group of signaling molecules that belongs to the Transforming Growth Factor-b(TGF-b)superfamily of proteins.Initially discovered for their ability to induce bone formation,BMPs a...Bone Morphogenetic Proteins(BMPs)are a group of signaling molecules that belongs to the Transforming Growth Factor-b(TGF-b)superfamily of proteins.Initially discovered for their ability to induce bone formation,BMPs are now known to play crucial roles in all organ systems.BMPs are important in embryogenesis and development,and also in maintenance of adult tissue homeostasis.Mouse knockout models of various components of the BMP signaling pathway result in embryonic lethality or marked defects,highlighting the essential functions of BMPs.In this review,we first outline the basic aspects of BMP signaling and then focus on genetically manipulated mouse knockout models that have helped elucidate the role of BMPs in development.A significant portion of this review is devoted to the prominent human pathologies associated with dysregulated BMP signaling.展开更多
Objective: To explore the effects and molecular mechanisms of the combination between total Astragalus extract (TAE) and total Panax notoginseng saponins (TPNS) against cerebral ischemia- reperfusion injury. Meth...Objective: To explore the effects and molecular mechanisms of the combination between total Astragalus extract (TAE) and total Panax notoginseng saponins (TPNS) against cerebral ischemia- reperfusion injury. Methods: C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into sham-operated group, model group, TAE (110 mg/kg) group, TPNS (115 mg/kg) group, TAE-TPNS combination group and Edaravone (4 mg/kg) group, treated for 4 days, then, cerebral ischemia-repeffusion injury was established by bilateral common carotid artery (CCA) ligation for 20 min followed by reperfusion for 1 and 24 h. Results: TPNS could increase adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level, TAE and TAE-TPNS combination increased ATP, adenosine diphosphate (ADP) contents and Na+-K+-ATPase activity, and the effects of TAE-TPNS combination were stronger than those of TAE or TPNS alone after reperfusion for 1 h. After reperfusion for 24 h, TAE, TPNS and TAE-TPNS combination significantly increased neurocyte survival rate and decreased the apoptosis rate as well as down-regulated the expression of phosphorylated c-June N-terminal kinasel/2 (p-JNK1/2), cytochrome C (Cyt C), cysteine aspartic acid-specific protease (Caspase)-9 and Caspase-3. Furthermore, the effects in TAE-TPNS combination were better than those in TAE or TPNS alone. Conclusion: The combination of TAE 110 mg/kg and TPNS 115 mg/kg could strengthen protective effects on cerebral ischemia injury, the mechanism underlying might be related to improving jointly the early energy metabolism, and relieving the delayed apoptosis via inhibiting the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway of JNK signal transduction.展开更多
Soil salinity is a major abiotic stress that decreases plant growth and productivity. Recently, it was reported that plants overexpressing AtNHX1 or SOS1 have significantly increased salt tolerance. To test whether ov...Soil salinity is a major abiotic stress that decreases plant growth and productivity. Recently, it was reported that plants overexpressing AtNHX1 or SOS1 have significantly increased salt tolerance. To test whether overexpression of multiple genes can improve plant salt tolerance even more, we produced six different transgenic Arabidopsis plants that overexpress AtNHX1, SOS3, AtNHX1 + SOS3, SOS1, SOS2 + SOS3, or SOS1 + SOS2 + SOS3. Northern blot analyses con- firmed the presence of high levels of the relevant gene transcripts in transgenic plants. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing AtNHX1 alone did not present any significant increase in salt tolerance, contrary to earlier reports. We found that transgenic plants overexpressing SOS3 exhibit increased salt tolerance similar to plants overexpressing SOS1. Moreover, salt tolerance of transgenic plants overexpressing AtNHX1 + SO53, SOS2 + SOS3, or SOS1 + SOS2 + SOS3, respectively, appeared similar to the tolerance of transgenic plants overexpressing either SOS1 or SO53 alone.展开更多
Calcium plays a vital role as a second messenger in many signaling pathways in plants. The calcineurin B-like proteins (CBLs) represent a family of plant calcium-binding proteins that function in calcium signaling b...Calcium plays a vital role as a second messenger in many signaling pathways in plants. The calcineurin B-like proteins (CBLs) represent a family of plant calcium-binding proteins that function in calcium signaling by interacting with their interacting protein kinases (CIPKs). In our previous study, we have reported a role for one of the CBLs (CBL9) and one of the CIPKs (CIPK3) in ABA signaling. Here, we have shown that CBL9 and CIPK3 physically and functionally interact with each other in regulating the ABA responses. The CBL9 and CIPK3 proteins interacted with each other in the yeast two- hybrid system and when expressed in plant cells. The double mutant cbl9cipk3 showed the similar hypersensitive response to ABA as observed in single mutants (cbl9 or cipk3). The constitutively active form of CIPK3 genetically complemented the cbl9 mutant, indicating that CIPK3 function downstream of CBL9. Based on these findings, we conclude that CBL9 and CIPK3 act together in the same pathway for regulating ABA responses.展开更多
Ski and the closely related SnoN were discovered as oncogenes by their ability to transform chicken embryo fibroblasts upon overexpression. While elevated expressions of Ski and SnoN have also been reported in many hu...Ski and the closely related SnoN were discovered as oncogenes by their ability to transform chicken embryo fibroblasts upon overexpression. While elevated expressions of Ski and SnoN have also been reported in many human cancer cells and tissues, consistent with their pro-oncogenic activity, emerging evidence also suggests a potential anti-oncogenic activity for both. In addition, Ski and SnoN have been implicated in regulation of cell differentiation, especially in the muscle and neuronal lineages. Multiple cellular partners of Ski and SnoN have been identifed in an effort to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the complex roles of Ski and SnoN. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the biological functions of Ski and SnoN, their mechanisms of action and how their levels of expression are regulated.展开更多
Accumulating information indicates that plant disease resistance signaling pathways frequently interact with other pathways regulating developmental processes or abiotic stress responses. However, the molecular mechan...Accumulating information indicates that plant disease resistance signaling pathways frequently interact with other pathways regulating developmental processes or abiotic stress responses. However, the molecular mechanisms of these types of crosstalk remain poorly understood in most cases. Here we report that OsWRKY13, an activator of rice resistance to both bacterial and fungal pathogens, appears to function as a convergent point for crosstalk among the pathogen-induced salicylate-dependent defense pathway and five other physiologic pathways. Genome-wide analysis of the expression profiles of OsWRKY13-overexpressing lines suggests that OsWRKY13 directly or indirectly regulates the expression of more than 500 genes that are potentially involved in different physiologic processes according to the classification of the Gene Ontology database. By comparing the expression patterns of genes functioning in known pathways or cellular processes of pathogen infection and the phenotypes between OsWRKY13-overexpressing and wildtype plants, our data suggest that OsWRKY13 is also a regulator of other physiologic processes during pathogen infection. The OsWRKY13-associated disease resistance pathway synergistically interacts via OsWRKY13 with the glutathione/ glutaredoxin system and flavonoid biosynthesis pathway to monitor redox homeostasis and to putatively enhance the biosynthesis of antimicrobial flavonoid phytoalexins, respectively, in OsWRKY13-overexpressing lines. Meanwhile, the OsWRKY13-associated disease resistance pathway appears to interact antagonistically with the SNACl-mediated abiotic stress defense pathway, jasmonic acid signaling pathway, and terpenoid metabolism pathway via OsWRKY13 to suppress salt and cold defense responses as well as to putatively retard rice growth and development.展开更多
Stimulus-specific accumulation of second messengers like reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca^+ are central to many signaling and regulation processes in plants. However, mechanisms that govern the reciprocal inter...Stimulus-specific accumulation of second messengers like reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca^+ are central to many signaling and regulation processes in plants. However, mechanisms that govern the reciprocal interrelation of Ca^+ and ROS signaling are only beginning to emerge. NADPH oxidases of the respiratory burst oxidase homolog (RBOH) family are critical components contributing to the generation of ROS while Calcineurin B-like (CBL) Ca^+ sensor proteins together with their interacting kinases (CIPKs) have been shown to function in many Ca^+- signaling processes. In this study, we identify direct functional interactions between both signaling systems. We report that the CBL-interacting pro- tein kinase ClPK26 specifically interacts with the N-terminal domain of RBOHF in yeast two-hybrid analyses and with the full-length RBOHF protein in plant cells. In addition, CIPK26 phosphorylates RBOHF in vitro and co-expression of either CBL1 or CBL9 with CIPK26 strongly enhances ROS production by RBOHF in HEK293T cells. Together, these findings identify a direct interconnection between CBL-ClPK-mediated Ca^+ signaling and ROS signaling in plants and provide evidence for a synergistic activation of the NADPH oxidase RBOHF by direct Ca^+-binding to its EF-hands and Ca2+-induced phospho-rylation by CBL1/9-ClPK26 complexes.展开更多
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-encoded latent membrane protein 1 (LMPI) has been known to have oncogenic properties during latent infection in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Our studies focused on the role of LMP1 in...Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-encoded latent membrane protein 1 (LMPI) has been known to have oncogenic properties during latent infection in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Our studies focused on the role of LMP1 in NPC, and showed that LMP1 triggers the NF-κB, AP-1 and STAT signaling pathways. Strikingly, LMP1 was found to mediate the formation of a new heterodimer between c-Jun and JunB. Also, we have identified JAK/STAT and PI-PLC-PKC activation triggered by LMP1 through upregulating the expression of JAK3 and enhancing the phosphorylation of STATo The constitutive activation of these signaling cascades explains LMP1's ability to induce such a diverse array of morphological and phenotypic effects in cells and provides insight into how LMP1 may induce cell transformation, in which multihit targeted genes in the downstream play an essential role. All signaling cascades triggered by LMP1 ultimately lead to the disruption of the cell cycle: the acceleration of G1/S phase and the arrest of G2/M phase. We also found that LMP1 induced the expression of hTERT and promoted cell immortalization. Importantly, by intervening physical intracellular signal transduction pathways and disturbing the progression of the cell cycle, LMP1, an important oncoprotein encoded by EBV, is thought to be a key modulator in the pathogenesis of NPC. Interfering LMP1 signaling could be a promising strategy to target the malignant phenotype of NPC. Cellular & Molecular Immunology.展开更多
rd29A gene of Arabidopsis encodes a LEA-like hydrophilic protein, its expression is induced by drought, high-salt and cold stress. In the promoter region of rd29A gene, there are 2 ORE cis-acting elements involved in ...rd29A gene of Arabidopsis encodes a LEA-like hydrophilic protein, its expression is induced by drought, high-salt and cold stress. In the promoter region of rd29A gene, there are 2 ORE cis-acting elements involved in responses to these environmental stresses. 5 cDNAs (DREB1A-C and DREB2A-B) encoding DREB transcription factors, which specifically bind to ORE element and control the expression of reporter gene under drought, high-salt and stress, have been isolated by One-Hybrid screening method and with ORE element of rd29A promoter. DREB transcription factors and ORE element function in signal transduction of drought, high-salt and cold stress. One DREB transcription factor can control the expression of several target functional genes involved in plant tolerance to drought, high-salt and cold stress. Thus, it may be an effective strategy to achieve ideal, multiple and fundamental effect for improving plant stress-resistance by DREB gene transfer.展开更多
AIM: To test the hypothesis to block VEGF expression of SMMC-7721 hepatoma cells may inhibit tumor growth using the rat hepatoma model. METHODS: Amplify the 200 VEGF cDNA fragment and insert it into human U6 gene cass...AIM: To test the hypothesis to block VEGF expression of SMMC-7721 hepatoma cells may inhibit tumor growth using the rat hepatoma model. METHODS: Amplify the 200 VEGF cDNA fragment and insert it into human U6 gene cassette in the reverse orientation transcribing small antisense RNA which could specifically interact with VEGF165, and VEGF121 mRNA. Construct the retroviral vector containing this antisense VEGF U6 cassette and package the replication-deficient recombinant retrovirus. SMMC-7721 cells were transduced with these virus and positive clones were selected with G418. PCR and Southern blot analysis were performed to determine if U6 cassette integrated into the genomic DNA of positive clone. Transfected tumor cells were evaluated for RNA expression by ribonuclease protection assays. The VEGF protein in the supernatant of parental tumor cells and genetically modified tumor cells was determined with ELISA. In vitro and in vivo growth properties of antisense VEGF cell clone in nude mice were analyzed. RESULTS: Restriction enzyme digestion and PCR sequencing verified that the antisense VEGF RNA retroviral vector was successfully constructed.After G418 selection, resistant SMMC-7721 cell clone was picked up. PCR and Southern blot analysis suggested that U6 cassette was integrated into the cell genomic DNA. Stable SMMC-7721 cell clone transduced with U6 antisense RNA cassette could express 200 bp small antisense VEGF RNA and secrete reduced levels of VEGF in culture condition. Production of VEGF by antisense transgene-expressing cells was 65+/-10 ng/L per 10(6) cells, 42045 ng/L per 10(6) cells in sense group and 485+/-30 ng/L per 10(6) cells in the negative control group, (P【 0.05). The antisense-VEGF cell clone appeared phenotypically indistinguishable from SMMC-7721 cells and SMMC-7721 cells transfected sense VEGF. The growth rate of the antisense-VEGF cell clone was the same as the control cells. When S.C. was implanted into nude mice, growth of antisense-VEGF cell lines was greatly inhibited compared with co展开更多
Nitric oxide (NO) plays important roles in diverse physiological processes in plants. NO can provoke both beneficial and harmful effects, which depend on the concentration and location of NO in plant cells. This rev...Nitric oxide (NO) plays important roles in diverse physiological processes in plants. NO can provoke both beneficial and harmful effects, which depend on the concentration and location of NO in plant cells. This review is focused on NO synthesis and the functions of NO in plant responses to abiotic environmental stresses. Abiotic stresses mostly induce NO production in plants. NO alleviates the harmfulness of reactive oxygen species, and reacts with other target molecules, and regulates the expression of stress responsive genes under various stress conditions.展开更多
文摘Abiotic stresses and soil nutrient limitations are major environmental conditions that reduce plant growth,productivity and quality.Plants have evolved mechanisms to perceive these environmental challenges,transmit the stress signals within cells as well as between cells and tissues,and make appropriate adjustments in their growth and development in order to survive and reproduce.In recent years,significant progress has been made on many fronts of the stress signaling research,particularly in understanding the downstream signaling events that culminate at the activation of stress-and nutrient limitation-responsive genes,cellular ion homeostasis,and growth adjustment.However,the revelation of the early events of stress signaling,particularly the identification of primary stress sensors,still lags behind.In this review,we summarize recent work on the genetic and molecular mechanisms of plant abiotic stress and nutrient limitation sensing and signaling and discuss new directions for future studies.
文摘AIM To study the effect of phosphorylation ofMAPK and Stat3 and the expression of c-fos andc-jun proteins on hepatocellular carcinogenesisand their clinical significance.METHODS SP immunohistochemistry was usedto detect the expression of p42/44MAPK, p-Stat3,c-fos and c-jun proteins in 55 hepatocellularcarcinomas (HCC) and their surrounding livertissues.RESULTS The positive rates and expressionlevels of p42/44MAPK, p-Stat3, c-fos and c-junproteins in HCCs were significantly higher thanthose in pericarcinomatous liver tissues (PCLT).A positive correlation was observed between theexpression of p42/44MAPK and c-fos proteins, andbetween p-Stat3 and c-jun, but there was nosignificant correlation between p42/44MAPK and p-Stat3 in HCCs and their surrounding livertissues.CONCLUSION The abnormalities of Ras/Rat/MAPK and JAKs/ Stat3 cascade reaction maycontribute to malignant transformation ofhepatocytes. Hepatocytes which are positive forp42/ 44MAPK, c-fos or c-jun proteins may bepotential malignant pre-cancerous cells.Activation of MAPK and Stat3 proteins may be anearly event in hepatocellular carcinogenesis.
基金financially supported by the National Key R&D Program(2018YFD0500405)the National Nature Science Foundation of China(31972582)+3 种基金the Science and Technology Projects of Changsha City(kq1801059)the STS regional key projects of Chinese Academy of Sciences(KFJ-STS-QYZD-052)the Youth Innovation Team Project of ISA,CAS(2017QNCXTD_ZCS)the Earmarked Fund for China Agriculture Research System(CARS-35)
文摘Tea trees have a long history of cultivation and utilization.People in many countries have the habit of drinking tea and choosing green tea,oolong tea,or black tea according to different regions and personal tastes.Tea polyphe nols are a general term for polyphenol co mpounds in tea,and has been shown to have good effects on antioxidant,anti-inflammatory,cancer prevention and regulation of lipid metabolism.Tea polyphenols have been widely used as antioxidants in disease treatment and animal husbandry,but their specific mechanism of action needs to be further clarified and revealed.This review focuses on the definition,classification,antioxidant activity and the regulation of signaling pathways of tea polyphenols.This paper also aims to examine the application of tea polyphenols in human and animal health,providing a scientific basis for this application in addition to proposing future directions for the development of this resource.
文摘Toll-like receptors (TLRs) recognize distinct microbial components to initiate the innate and adaptive immune responses. TLR activation culminates in the expression of appropriate pro-inflammatory and immunomodulatory factors to meet pathogenic challenges. The transcription factor NF-kB is the master regulator of all TLR-induced responses and its activation is the pivotal event in TLR-mediated activation of the innate immune response. Many of the key molecular events required for TLR-induced NF-r.B activation have been elucidated. However, much remain to be learned about the ability of TLRs to generate pathogen-specific responses using a limited number of transcription factors. This review will focus on our current understanding of NF-kB activation by TLRs and potential mechanisms for achieving a signal-specific response through NF-kB. Cellular & Molecular Immunology. 2007;4(1):31-41.
文摘The limited availability of phosphate (Pi) in most soils results in the manifestation of Pi starvation responses in plants. To dissect the transcriptional regulation of Pi stress-response mechanisms, we have characterized the biological role of MYB62, an R2R3-type MYB transcription factor that is induced in response to Pi deficiency. The induction of MYB62 is a specific response in the leaves during Pi deprivation. The MYB62 protein localizes to the nucleus. The overexpression of MYB62 resulted in altered root architecture, Pi uptake, and acid phosphatase activity, leading to decreased total Pi content in the shoots. The expression of several Pi starvation-induced (PSI) genes was also suppressed in the MYB62 overexpressing plants. Overexpression of MYB62 resulted in a characteristic gibberellic acid (GA)-deficient phenotype that could be partially reversed by exogenous application of GA. In addition, the expression of SOC1 and SUPERMAN, molecular reg- ulators of flowering, was suppressed in the MYB62 overexpressing plants. Interestingly, the expression of these genes was also reduced during Pi deprivation in wild-type plants, suggesting a role for GA biosynthetic and floral regulatory genes in Pi starvation responses. Thus, this study highlights the role of MYB62 in the regulation of phosphate starvation responses via changes in GA metabolism and signaling. Such cross-talk between Pi homeostasis and GA might have broader implications on flowering, root development and adaptive mechanisms during nutrient stress.
基金supported by a grant from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.G1999054204); the National Prominent Youth Science Foundation of China(No.39525024).
文摘PURPOSE: To review the recent developments in the structure and function of Smad proteins. DATA SOURCES: Both Chinese- and English-language literatures were searched using MEDLINE/CD-ROM (1997 - 2000) and the Index of Chinese-Language Literature (1997 - 2000). STUDY SELECTION: Data from published articles about TGF-beta signal transduction in recent domestic and foreign literature were selected. DATA EXTRACTION: Data were mainly extracted from 22 articles which are listed in the reference section of this review. RESULTS: Smad proteins mediate signal transduction induced by the TGF-beta superfamily. Based on their structural and functional properties, Smad proteins are divided into three groups. The first group, receptor-regulated Smads (R-Smads), are phosphorylated by activated type I receptors and form heteromeric complexes with the second group of Smads, common mediator Smads (Co-Smads). These Smad complexes translocate into the nucleus to influence gene transcription. Inhibitory Smads (I-Smads) are the third group and these antagonize the activity of R-Smads. In the nucleus, Smads can directly contact Smad-binding elements (SBE) in target gene promoters. Through interaction with different transcription factors, transcriptional co-activators or co-repressors, Smads elicit different effects in various cell types. The aberrance of Smad proteins has been noted in several human disorders such as fibrosis, hypertrophic scarring and cancer. CONCLUSION: The structure of Smads determines their function as transcriptional factors which translocate signals from the cell surface to the nucleus where Smads regulate TGF-beta superfamily-dependent gene expression.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.39760077
文摘AIM: The goal of this study was to characterize the AFP receptor, its possible signal transduction pathway and its proliferative functions in human hepatoma cell line Bel 7402. METHODS: Cell proliferation enhanced by AFP was detected by MTT assay, 3H-thymidine incorporation and S-stage percentage of cell cycle analysis. With radioactive labeled 125I-AFP for receptor binding assay; cAMP accumulation, protein kinase A activity were detected by radioactive immunosorbent assay and the change of intracellular free calcium (Ca2+i) was monitored by scanning fluorescence intensity under TCS-NT confocal microscope. The expression of oncogenes N- ras, p 53, and p21( ras ) in the cultured cells in vitro were detected by Northern blotting and Western blotting respectively. RESULTS: It was demonstrated that AFP enhanced the proliferation of human hepatoma Bel 7402 cell in a dose dependent fashion as shown in MTT assay, (3)H-thymidine incorporation and S-phase percentage up to 2-fold. Two subtypes of AFP receptors were identified in the cells with Kds of 1.3 x 10(-9)mol.L(-1) and 9.9 x10(-8)mol. (-1)L respectively. Pretreatment of cells with AFP resulted in a significant increase (625%) in cAMP accumulation. The activity of protein kinase A activity were increased up to 37.5, 122.6, 73.7 and 61.2% at treatment time point 2, 6, 12 and 24 hours. The level of intracellular calcium were elevated after the treatment of alpha-fetoprotein and achieved to 204% at 4 min. The results also showed that AFP(20mg.L(-1)) could upregulate the expression of N- ras oncogenes and p 53 and p21( ras ) in Bel 7402 cells. In the later case,the alteration were 81.1%(12h) and 97.3%(12h) respectively compared with control. CONCLUSION: These results demonstrate that AFP is a potential growth factor to promote the proliferation of human hepatoma Bel 7402 cells. Its growth-regulatory effects are mediated by its specific plasma membrane receptors coupled with its transmembrane signaling transduction through the pathway of cAMP-PKA and intracellular calcium
文摘Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most com- mon cancers in the world with an annual incidence of more than 500 000 in the year 2000. Its incidence is rising in many countries. Recently, it has been estimated that about 53% of HCC cases in the world are related to hepatitis B virus (HBV). The epidemiological association of HBV with HCC is well established. In recent studies, it was revealed that HBsAg carriers have a 25-37 times increased risk of developing HCC as compared to non-infected people. At present, HBV-associated carcinogenesis can be seen as a multi-factorial process that includes both direct and indirect mechanisms that might act synergistically. The integration of HBV DNA into the host genome occurs at early steps of clonal tumor expansion. The integration has been shown in a number of cases to affect a variety of cancer- related genes and to exert insertional mutagenesis. The permanent liver inflammation, induced by the immune response, resulting in a degeneration and regeneration process confers to the accumulation of critical mutations in the host genome. In addition to this, the regulatory proteins HBx and the PreS2 activators that can be encoded by the integrate exert a tumor promoter-like function resulting in positive selection of cells producing a functional regulatory protein. Gene expression profiling and proteomic techniques may help to characterize the molecular mechanisms driving HBV-associated carcino- genesis, and thus potentially identify new strategies in diagnosis and therapy.
基金supported by grants from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.39889003,30070074,30221002)a National Distinguished Young Scholar Award to Jia Yang LI.
文摘RAV1 is a novel DNA-binding protein with two distinct DNA-binding domains unique in higher plants,but its role in plant growth and development remains unknown. Using cDNA array,we found that transcription of RAV1 is downregulated by epibrassinolide (epiBL) in Arabidopsis suspension cells. RNA gel blot analysis revealed that epiBL-regulated RAV1 transcription involves neither protein phosphorylation/dephosphorylation nor newly synthesized protein,and does not require the functional BRI1,suggesting that this regulation might be through a new BR signaling pathway.Overexpressing RAV1 in Arabidopsis results in a retardation of lateral root and rosette leaf development,and the underexpression causes an earlier flowering phenotype,implying that RAV1 may function as a negative regulatory component of growth and development.
基金The reported work was in part supported by research grants from the National Institutes of Health(AR50142 and AR054381 to RCH and HHL)RW,JG,and OI were recipients of the Pritzker Summer Research Fellowship funded through a NIH T-35 training grant(NIDDK).AH was a recipient of the Urban Leadership Fellowship from Miami University.
文摘Bone Morphogenetic Proteins(BMPs)are a group of signaling molecules that belongs to the Transforming Growth Factor-b(TGF-b)superfamily of proteins.Initially discovered for their ability to induce bone formation,BMPs are now known to play crucial roles in all organ systems.BMPs are important in embryogenesis and development,and also in maintenance of adult tissue homeostasis.Mouse knockout models of various components of the BMP signaling pathway result in embryonic lethality or marked defects,highlighting the essential functions of BMPs.In this review,we first outline the basic aspects of BMP signaling and then focus on genetically manipulated mouse knockout models that have helped elucidate the role of BMPs in development.A significant portion of this review is devoted to the prominent human pathologies associated with dysregulated BMP signaling.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.81102557)Doctoral Program Foundation of Higher Education of China(No.20104323110001)+4 种基金Key Project of Hunan Province Education Department(No.08A050)Aid Project for Innovation Platform Open Fund of Hunan Province University(No.11K050 and No.14K068)Key Project of Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine of Hunan Province(No.201301)General Project of Science and Technology Department of Hunan Province(No.2014SK3001)General Project of Education Bureau of Hunan Province(No.11C0963)
文摘Objective: To explore the effects and molecular mechanisms of the combination between total Astragalus extract (TAE) and total Panax notoginseng saponins (TPNS) against cerebral ischemia- reperfusion injury. Methods: C57BL/6 mice were randomly divided into sham-operated group, model group, TAE (110 mg/kg) group, TPNS (115 mg/kg) group, TAE-TPNS combination group and Edaravone (4 mg/kg) group, treated for 4 days, then, cerebral ischemia-repeffusion injury was established by bilateral common carotid artery (CCA) ligation for 20 min followed by reperfusion for 1 and 24 h. Results: TPNS could increase adenosine triphosphate (ATP) level, TAE and TAE-TPNS combination increased ATP, adenosine diphosphate (ADP) contents and Na+-K+-ATPase activity, and the effects of TAE-TPNS combination were stronger than those of TAE or TPNS alone after reperfusion for 1 h. After reperfusion for 24 h, TAE, TPNS and TAE-TPNS combination significantly increased neurocyte survival rate and decreased the apoptosis rate as well as down-regulated the expression of phosphorylated c-June N-terminal kinasel/2 (p-JNK1/2), cytochrome C (Cyt C), cysteine aspartic acid-specific protease (Caspase)-9 and Caspase-3. Furthermore, the effects in TAE-TPNS combination were better than those in TAE or TPNS alone. Conclusion: The combination of TAE 110 mg/kg and TPNS 115 mg/kg could strengthen protective effects on cerebral ischemia injury, the mechanism underlying might be related to improving jointly the early energy metabolism, and relieving the delayed apoptosis via inhibiting the mitochondrial apoptosis pathway of JNK signal transduction.
文摘Soil salinity is a major abiotic stress that decreases plant growth and productivity. Recently, it was reported that plants overexpressing AtNHX1 or SOS1 have significantly increased salt tolerance. To test whether overexpression of multiple genes can improve plant salt tolerance even more, we produced six different transgenic Arabidopsis plants that overexpress AtNHX1, SOS3, AtNHX1 + SOS3, SOS1, SOS2 + SOS3, or SOS1 + SOS2 + SOS3. Northern blot analyses con- firmed the presence of high levels of the relevant gene transcripts in transgenic plants. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants overexpressing AtNHX1 alone did not present any significant increase in salt tolerance, contrary to earlier reports. We found that transgenic plants overexpressing SOS3 exhibit increased salt tolerance similar to plants overexpressing SOS1. Moreover, salt tolerance of transgenic plants overexpressing AtNHX1 + SO53, SOS2 + SOS3, or SOS1 + SOS2 + SOS3, respectively, appeared similar to the tolerance of transgenic plants overexpressing either SOS1 or SO53 alone.
文摘Calcium plays a vital role as a second messenger in many signaling pathways in plants. The calcineurin B-like proteins (CBLs) represent a family of plant calcium-binding proteins that function in calcium signaling by interacting with their interacting protein kinases (CIPKs). In our previous study, we have reported a role for one of the CBLs (CBL9) and one of the CIPKs (CIPK3) in ABA signaling. Here, we have shown that CBL9 and CIPK3 physically and functionally interact with each other in regulating the ABA responses. The CBL9 and CIPK3 proteins interacted with each other in the yeast two- hybrid system and when expressed in plant cells. The double mutant cbl9cipk3 showed the similar hypersensitive response to ABA as observed in single mutants (cbl9 or cipk3). The constitutively active form of CIPK3 genetically complemented the cbl9 mutant, indicating that CIPK3 function downstream of CBL9. Based on these findings, we conclude that CBL9 and CIPK3 act together in the same pathway for regulating ABA responses.
文摘Ski and the closely related SnoN were discovered as oncogenes by their ability to transform chicken embryo fibroblasts upon overexpression. While elevated expressions of Ski and SnoN have also been reported in many human cancer cells and tissues, consistent with their pro-oncogenic activity, emerging evidence also suggests a potential anti-oncogenic activity for both. In addition, Ski and SnoN have been implicated in regulation of cell differentiation, especially in the muscle and neuronal lineages. Multiple cellular partners of Ski and SnoN have been identifed in an effort to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying the complex roles of Ski and SnoN. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the biological functions of Ski and SnoN, their mechanisms of action and how their levels of expression are regulated.
基金Wethank Dr. Morifumi Hasegawa of College of Agriculture, Ibaraki University for providing momilactone A and sakuranetin chemical standards. This work was supported by grants from the National Program of High Technology Development of China, the National Program on the Development of Basic Research in China, and the National Natural Science Foundation of China.
文摘Accumulating information indicates that plant disease resistance signaling pathways frequently interact with other pathways regulating developmental processes or abiotic stress responses. However, the molecular mechanisms of these types of crosstalk remain poorly understood in most cases. Here we report that OsWRKY13, an activator of rice resistance to both bacterial and fungal pathogens, appears to function as a convergent point for crosstalk among the pathogen-induced salicylate-dependent defense pathway and five other physiologic pathways. Genome-wide analysis of the expression profiles of OsWRKY13-overexpressing lines suggests that OsWRKY13 directly or indirectly regulates the expression of more than 500 genes that are potentially involved in different physiologic processes according to the classification of the Gene Ontology database. By comparing the expression patterns of genes functioning in known pathways or cellular processes of pathogen infection and the phenotypes between OsWRKY13-overexpressing and wildtype plants, our data suggest that OsWRKY13 is also a regulator of other physiologic processes during pathogen infection. The OsWRKY13-associated disease resistance pathway synergistically interacts via OsWRKY13 with the glutathione/ glutaredoxin system and flavonoid biosynthesis pathway to monitor redox homeostasis and to putatively enhance the biosynthesis of antimicrobial flavonoid phytoalexins, respectively, in OsWRKY13-overexpressing lines. Meanwhile, the OsWRKY13-associated disease resistance pathway appears to interact antagonistically with the SNACl-mediated abiotic stress defense pathway, jasmonic acid signaling pathway, and terpenoid metabolism pathway via OsWRKY13 to suppress salt and cold defense responses as well as to putatively retard rice growth and development.
文摘Stimulus-specific accumulation of second messengers like reactive oxygen species (ROS) and Ca^+ are central to many signaling and regulation processes in plants. However, mechanisms that govern the reciprocal interrelation of Ca^+ and ROS signaling are only beginning to emerge. NADPH oxidases of the respiratory burst oxidase homolog (RBOH) family are critical components contributing to the generation of ROS while Calcineurin B-like (CBL) Ca^+ sensor proteins together with their interacting kinases (CIPKs) have been shown to function in many Ca^+- signaling processes. In this study, we identify direct functional interactions between both signaling systems. We report that the CBL-interacting pro- tein kinase ClPK26 specifically interacts with the N-terminal domain of RBOHF in yeast two-hybrid analyses and with the full-length RBOHF protein in plant cells. In addition, CIPK26 phosphorylates RBOHF in vitro and co-expression of either CBL1 or CBL9 with CIPK26 strongly enhances ROS production by RBOHF in HEK293T cells. Together, these findings identify a direct interconnection between CBL-ClPK-mediated Ca^+ signaling and ROS signaling in plants and provide evidence for a synergistic activation of the NADPH oxidase RBOHF by direct Ca^+-binding to its EF-hands and Ca2+-induced phospho-rylation by CBL1/9-ClPK26 complexes.
基金grants from State Key Basic Research and Development Plan (973) of the Ministry of Science and Technology of China (2004CB518703) National High Technology Research and Development Program (863) of China (N0.2006AA02Z481)+1 种基金 National Science Fund for Distinguished Young Scholars 0verseas (30428008) Hong Kong Cooperation Fund Project of National Natural Science Foundation of China (30418004).
文摘Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-encoded latent membrane protein 1 (LMPI) has been known to have oncogenic properties during latent infection in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). Our studies focused on the role of LMP1 in NPC, and showed that LMP1 triggers the NF-κB, AP-1 and STAT signaling pathways. Strikingly, LMP1 was found to mediate the formation of a new heterodimer between c-Jun and JunB. Also, we have identified JAK/STAT and PI-PLC-PKC activation triggered by LMP1 through upregulating the expression of JAK3 and enhancing the phosphorylation of STATo The constitutive activation of these signaling cascades explains LMP1's ability to induce such a diverse array of morphological and phenotypic effects in cells and provides insight into how LMP1 may induce cell transformation, in which multihit targeted genes in the downstream play an essential role. All signaling cascades triggered by LMP1 ultimately lead to the disruption of the cell cycle: the acceleration of G1/S phase and the arrest of G2/M phase. We also found that LMP1 induced the expression of hTERT and promoted cell immortalization. Importantly, by intervening physical intracellular signal transduction pathways and disturbing the progression of the cell cycle, LMP1, an important oncoprotein encoded by EBV, is thought to be a key modulator in the pathogenesis of NPC. Interfering LMP1 signaling could be a promising strategy to target the malignant phenotype of NPC. Cellular & Molecular Immunology.
文摘rd29A gene of Arabidopsis encodes a LEA-like hydrophilic protein, its expression is induced by drought, high-salt and cold stress. In the promoter region of rd29A gene, there are 2 ORE cis-acting elements involved in responses to these environmental stresses. 5 cDNAs (DREB1A-C and DREB2A-B) encoding DREB transcription factors, which specifically bind to ORE element and control the expression of reporter gene under drought, high-salt and stress, have been isolated by One-Hybrid screening method and with ORE element of rd29A promoter. DREB transcription factors and ORE element function in signal transduction of drought, high-salt and cold stress. One DREB transcription factor can control the expression of several target functional genes involved in plant tolerance to drought, high-salt and cold stress. Thus, it may be an effective strategy to achieve ideal, multiple and fundamental effect for improving plant stress-resistance by DREB gene transfer.
基金Project supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China,No.863 Z2001-04
文摘AIM: To test the hypothesis to block VEGF expression of SMMC-7721 hepatoma cells may inhibit tumor growth using the rat hepatoma model. METHODS: Amplify the 200 VEGF cDNA fragment and insert it into human U6 gene cassette in the reverse orientation transcribing small antisense RNA which could specifically interact with VEGF165, and VEGF121 mRNA. Construct the retroviral vector containing this antisense VEGF U6 cassette and package the replication-deficient recombinant retrovirus. SMMC-7721 cells were transduced with these virus and positive clones were selected with G418. PCR and Southern blot analysis were performed to determine if U6 cassette integrated into the genomic DNA of positive clone. Transfected tumor cells were evaluated for RNA expression by ribonuclease protection assays. The VEGF protein in the supernatant of parental tumor cells and genetically modified tumor cells was determined with ELISA. In vitro and in vivo growth properties of antisense VEGF cell clone in nude mice were analyzed. RESULTS: Restriction enzyme digestion and PCR sequencing verified that the antisense VEGF RNA retroviral vector was successfully constructed.After G418 selection, resistant SMMC-7721 cell clone was picked up. PCR and Southern blot analysis suggested that U6 cassette was integrated into the cell genomic DNA. Stable SMMC-7721 cell clone transduced with U6 antisense RNA cassette could express 200 bp small antisense VEGF RNA and secrete reduced levels of VEGF in culture condition. Production of VEGF by antisense transgene-expressing cells was 65+/-10 ng/L per 10(6) cells, 42045 ng/L per 10(6) cells in sense group and 485+/-30 ng/L per 10(6) cells in the negative control group, (P【 0.05). The antisense-VEGF cell clone appeared phenotypically indistinguishable from SMMC-7721 cells and SMMC-7721 cells transfected sense VEGF. The growth rate of the antisense-VEGF cell clone was the same as the control cells. When S.C. was implanted into nude mice, growth of antisense-VEGF cell lines was greatly inhibited compared with co
基金Supported by the State Key Basic Research and Development Plan of China(2006CB100100)a grant from the Program for New Century Excellent Talents from the Ministry of Education of China to L.M. Fan.
文摘Nitric oxide (NO) plays important roles in diverse physiological processes in plants. NO can provoke both beneficial and harmful effects, which depend on the concentration and location of NO in plant cells. This review is focused on NO synthesis and the functions of NO in plant responses to abiotic environmental stresses. Abiotic stresses mostly induce NO production in plants. NO alleviates the harmfulness of reactive oxygen species, and reacts with other target molecules, and regulates the expression of stress responsive genes under various stress conditions.