Regulation of plant immune signaling by calcium-dependent protein kinases

Abstract

Activation of Ca 2+ signaling is a universal response to stress that allows cells to quickly respond to environmental cues. Fluctuations in cytosolic Ca 2+ are decoded in plants by Ca 2+ -sensing proteins such as Ca 2+ -dependent protein kinases (CDPKs). The perception of microbes results in an influx of Ca 2+ that activates numerous CDPKs responsible for propagating immune signals required for resistance against disease-causing pathogens. This review describes our current understanding of CDPK activation and regulation, and provides a comprehensive overview of CDPK-mediated immune signaling through interaction with various substrates.