Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms of CO2-Mediated Regulation of Stomatal Movements

Plants must continually balance the influx of CO2 for photosynthesis against the loss of water vapor through stomatal pores in their leaves. This balance can be achieved by controlling the aperture of the stomatal pores in response to several environmental stimuli. Elevation in atmospheric [CO2] induces stomatal closure and further impacts leaf temperatures, plant growth and water-use efficiency, and global crop productivity. Here, we review recent advances in understanding CO2-perception mechanisms and CO2-mediated signal transduction in the regulation of stomatal movements, and we explore how these mechanisms are integrated with other signaling pathways in guard cells.