Functions of plant importin β proteins beyond nucleocytoplasmic transport

In eukaryotic cells, nuclear activities are isolated from other cellular functions by the nuclear envelope. Because the nuclear envelope provides a diffusion barrier for macromolecules, a complex nuclear transport machinery has evolved that is highly conserved from yeast to plants and mammals. Among those components, the importin beta family is the most important one. In this review, we summarize recent findings on the biological function of importin beta family members, including development, reproduction, abiotic stress responses, and plant immunity. In addition to the traditional nuclear transport function, we highlight the new molecular functions of importin beta, including protein turnover, miRNA regulation, and signaling. Taken together, our review will provide a systematic view of this versatile protein family in plants.

Automated summary

In eukaryotic cells, nuclear activities are isolated by the nuclear envelope, leading to the evolution of a highly conserved nuclear transport machinery, with the importin beta family playing a crucial role. This review summarizes the biological functions of importin beta family members in plants, including development, reproduction, stress responses, and immunity, highlighting new molecular functions such as protein turnover, miRNA regulation, and signaling. It provides a comprehensive view of this versatile protein family in plants.