The Regulatory Functions of Thiol-Based Redoxins in Plant Cellular Physiology

Abstract

Within plant cells, a pivotal cohort of thiol-based redoxins, encompassing thioredoxins, glutaredoxins, and peroxiredoxins and characterized by pKa values spanning the physiological range of 6.0 to 8.0, orchestrates cellular redox homeostasis through the mechanism of thiol-disulfide exchange. Their active site cysteine residues enable redox modulation of target proteins under physiological pHs. Electron transfer-mediating proteins constitute critical molecular conduits that orchestrate fundamental cellular redox signaling mechanisms. These molecular processes subsequently modulate intricate cellular regulatory pathways, encompassing comprehensive developmental programming, hormonal signaling cascades, and the sophisticated synchronization of circadian rhythmicity within biological systems. In this review, we elucidate the definition, classification, molecular mechanisms, and physiological functions of thiol-based redoxins. Furthermore, it incorporates recent advances to reveal newly characterized physiological roles, governing a broad spectrum of biological activities. The integrated analysis of the proteins highlights the essential contribution of these molecules to cellular and metabolic balance while simultaneously delineating a trajectory for future research focused on their application in augmenting plant stress tolerance and productivity.