More Than a Diamine Oxidase Inhibitor: L-Aminoguanidine Modulates Polyamine-Related Abiotic Stress Responses of Plants

L-aminoguanidine (AG) is an inhibitor frequently used for investigating plant abiotic stress responses; however, its exact mode of action is not well understood. Many studies used this compound as a specific diamine oxidase inhibitor, whereas other studies used it for reducing nitric oxide (NO) production. Recent studies suggest its antiglycation effect; however, this remains elusive in plants. This review summarises our current knowledge about different targets of AG in plants. Our recommendation is to use AG as a modulator of polyamine-related mechanisms rather than a specific inhibitor. In the future overall investigation is needed to decipher the exact mechanisms of AG. More careful application of AG could give more insight into plant abiotic stress responses.

Automated summary

L-aminoguanidine (AG) is widely used as an inhibitor in studying plant abiotic stress responses, but its exact mode of action is not well understood. It has been used as a specific diamine oxidase inhibitor and for reducing nitric oxide production. Recent studies suggest its antiglycation effect, but this remains unclear in plants. This review provides a summary of current knowledge about the different targets of AG in plants and recommends using it as a modulator of polyamine-related mechanisms.