Hypothesis: Nitro-fatty acids play a role in plant metabolism

The free radical molecule nitric oxide (NO) is involved in a wide range of plant functions such as growth, senescence, fruit ripening, and responses to adverse environmental conditions. NO and NO-derived molecules peroxynitrite and S-nitrosoglutathione are reactive nitrogen species (RNS) that can directly or indirectly interact with a broad spectrum of biomolecules that affect their biological functions. Plant NO research has focused on post-translational modifications in proteins, mainly S-nitrosylation and nitration. There are other potential target biomolecules in plants that have not been studied, which have been studied in animal systems, such as lipids. Nitro-fatty acids (NO2-FAs) are involved in pleiotropic activities in animal systems, including modulation of macrophage activation, prevention of leukocyte and platelet activation, and promotion of blood vessel relaxation. NO2-FAs are therefore novel mediators in NO signaling pathways and metabolism. This review will focus on these molecules and will highlight their potential in relation to the physiology of higher plants.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Nitro-fatty acids (NO2-FAs) are new signal molecules which mediate important activities in animal systems. ► In higher plants, the presence of nitro-fatty acids has not yet been experimentally demonstrated. ► Plants are natural sources of fatty acids and have a very active NO metabolism. ► It can be hypothesized that plants contain NO2-FAs, as has been demonstrated in relation to animals.