Heterotrimeric G protein signalling in plant biotic and abiotic stress response

Heterotrimeric G proteins act as molecular switches to participate in transmitting various stimuli signals from outside of cells. G proteins have three subunits, G alpha, G beta and G gamma, which function mutually to modulate many biological processes in plants, including plant growth and development, as well as biotic and abiotic stress responses. In plants, the number of G gamma subunits is larger than that of the alpha and beta subunits. Based on recent breakthroughs in studies of plant G protein signal perception, transduction and downstream effectors, this review summarizes and analyses the connections between different subunits and the interactions of G proteins with other signalling pathways, especially in plant biotic and abiotic stress responses. Based on current progress and unresolved questions in the field, we also suggest future research directions on G proteins in plants.

Automated summary

Heterotrimeric G proteins function as molecular switches in plants, playing crucial roles in plant growth, development, and stress responses. Research focuses on understanding the interactions between different subunits and their connections with other signaling pathways.