Cell Wall Modifying Proteins Mediate Plant Acclimatization to Biotic and Abiotic Stresses

Cell wall modification is an important aspect of plant acclimation to environmental stresses. Structural changes of the existing cell wall mediated by various cell wall modifying proteins help a plant adjust to environmental changes by regulating growth and policing the entry of biotic agents. For example, accelerated shoot growth during submergence and shading allows some plants to escape these unfavorable conditions. This is mediated by the regulation of wall modifying proteins that alter cell wall structure and allow it to yield to turgor, thus fueling cellular expansion. Regulation of cell wall protein activity results in growth modulation during drought, where maintenance of root growth through changes in wall extensibility is an important adaptation to water deficit. Freeze-tolerant plants adjust their cell wall properties to prevent freezing-induced dehydration and also use the cell wall as a barrier against ice crystal propagation. Cell wall architecture is an important determinant of plant resistance to biotic stresses. A rigid cell wall can fend off pathogen attack by forming an impenetrable, physical barrier. When breached, products released during wall modification can trigger plant defense signaling. This review documents and discusses studies demonstrating the importance of timely cell wall modification during plant stress responses by focusing on a well-researched subset of wall modifying proteins.