Heme Oxygenase 1(HO1): An Enzyme of Plant System and Its Role Against Various Abiotic Stresses

Abstract

Heme oxygenase 1 (HO1) is a well-known protector against oxidative stress in an animal system. In plant system, recently it's also well explored against different stresses. Heme oxygenase (HO) scavenges free heme released from heme proteins with the production of ferrous iron (Fe 2+), biliverdin-IXα (BV-IXα), and carbon monoxide (CO). HO illustrates functional diversity and engages in several functions. It regulates positively in antioxidant defense mechanism against various types of abiotic stress. Among all forms of HO, HO1 has been well explored against abiotic stresses as metal stress, salt stress, and drought stress; however, the differing roles of the other three HOs are still less identified. HO1 defects lead to reduced chlorophyll content. It delays gibberellin-triggered programmed cell death of aleu-rone layer due to drought stress by interacting with nitric oxide. HO1 along with nitric oxide and iron shows the long-distance signaling response to salt stress. Overall, the study helps to explore highlights on the recent studies related to plant HO research involving its antioxidant role against abiotic stresses.