Dynamic epigenetic modifications in plant sugar signal transduction

Abstract

In eukaryotes, dynamic chromatin states are closely related to changes in gene expression. Epigenetic modifications help plants adapt to their ever-changing environment by modulating gene expression via covalent modification at specific sites on DNA or histones. Sugars provide energy, but also function as signaling molecules to control plant growth and development. Various epigenetic modifications participate in sensing and transmitting sugar signals. Here we summarize recent progress in uncovering the epigenetic mechanisms involved in sugar signal transduction, including histone acetylation and deacetylation, histone methylation and demethylation, and DNA methylation. We also highlight changes in chromatin marks when crosstalk occurs between sugar signaling and the light, temperature, and phytohormone signaling pathways, and describe potential questions and approaches for future research.

Keywords: DNA methylation; epigenetics; gene expression; histone modification; sugar signal.