Functional analysis of McSnRK1 (SNF1-related protein kinase 1) in regulating Na/K homeostasis in transgenic cultured cells and roots of halophyte Mesembryanthemum crystallinum.

Transgenic callus and roots of ice plant with altered SnRK1 function were established using Agrobacterium-mediated transformation. The role of McSnRK1 in controlling Na influx and Na/K ratio was demonstrated. SnRK1 kinases (SNF1-related protein kinase1) control metabolic adaptation during energy deprivation and regulate protective mechanisms against environmental stress.