Channels hold the key: cyclic nucleotide gated channels (CNGC) in plant biotic stress signaling

Abstract

Cyclic nucleotide‐gated channels (CNGC) are non‐ selective cation channels opened by the direct binding of cyclic nucleotides and permit diffusion of divalent and monovalent cations, including Ca2+ and K+. The role of CNGC in various plant signaling process is emerging rapidly. Multiple studies have shown that CNGCs are involved in both basal and R gene mediated plant immunity. In this review, we will concentrate on the role of CNGCs in plant immunity, their role in calcium uptake in plants and on their relevance for plant phenotypic plasticity, focusing mostly on the well‐studied Arabidopsis CNGCs.