Possible Role of Peroxynitrite in the Responses Induced by Fusicoccin in Plant Cultured Cells.

Fusicoccin (FC) is a well-known phytotoxin able to induce in L. (sycamore) cultured cells, a set of responses similar to those induced by stress conditions. In this work, the possible involvement of peroxynitrite (ONOO) in FC-induced stress responses was studied measuring both in the presence and in the absence of 2,6,8-trihydroxypurine (urate), a specific ONOO scavenger: (1) cell death; (2) specific DNA fragmentation; (3) lipid peroxidation; (4) production of RNS and ROS; (5) activity of caspase-3-like proteases; and (6) release of cytochrome from mitochondria, variations in the levels of molecular chaperones Hsp90 in the mitochondria and Hsp70 BiP in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and of regulatory 14-3-3 proteins in the cytosol.

Recent Applications of Chitin- and Chitosan-Based Polymers in Plants.

In recent years, the use of complex molecules based on the natural biopolymer chitin and/or on its deacetylated derivative chitosan has resulted in great advantages for many users. In particular, industries involved in the production of drugs, cosmetics, biotechnological items, and food have achieved better results using these particular molecules. In plants, chitin- and chitosan-based molecules are largely used as safe and environmental-friendly tools to ameliorate crop productivity and conservation of agronomic commodities.

Effect of Selenium on the Responses Induced by Heat Stress in Plant Cell Cultures.

High temperatures are a significant stress factor for plants. In fact, many biochemical reactions involved in growth and development are sensitive to temperature. In particular, heat stress (HS) represents a severe issue for plant productivity and strategies to obtain high yields under this condition are important goals in agriculture.

Role of peroxynitrite in the responses induced by heat stress in tobacco BY-2 cultured cells.

Temperatures above the optimum are sensed as heat stress (HS) by all living organisms and represent one of the major environmental challenges for plants. Plants can cope with HS by activating specific defense mechanisms to minimize damage and ensure cellular functionality. One of the most common effects of HS is the overproduction of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (ROS and RNS).