H2O2 and cytosolic Ca2+ signals triggered by the PM H-coupled transport system mediate K+/Na+ homeostasis in NaCl-stressed Populus euphratica cells.

Using confocal microscopy, X-ray microanalysis and the scanning ion-selective electrode technique, we investigated the signalling of H(2)O(2), cytosolic Ca(2+) (Ca(2+)) and the PM H(+)-coupled transport system in K(+)/Na(+) homeostasis control in NaCl-stressed calluses of Populus euphratica. An obvious Na(+)/H(+) antiport was seen in salinized cells; however, NaCl stress caused a net K(+) efflux, because of the salt-induced membrane depolarization. H(2)O(2) levels, regulated upwards by salinity, contributed to ionic homeostasis, because H(2)O(2) restrictions by DPI or DMTU caused enhanced K(+) efflux and decreased Na(+)/H(+) antiport activity. NaCl induced a net Ca(2+) influx and a subsequent rise of Ca(2+), which is involved in H(2)O(2)-mediated K(+)/Na(+) homeostasis in salinized P. euphratica cells. When callus cells were pretreated with inhibitors of the Na(+)/H(+) antiport system, the NaCl-induced elevation of H(2)O(2) and Ca(2+) was correspondingly restricted, leading to a greater K(+) efflux and a more pronounced reduction in Na(+)/H(+) antiport activity. Results suggest that the PM H(+)-coupled transport system mediates H(+) translocation and triggers the stress signalling of H(2)O(2) and Ca(2+), which results in a K(+)/Na(+) homeostasis via mediations of K(+) channels and the Na(+)/H(+) antiport system in the PM of NaCl-stressed cells. Accordingly, a salt stress signalling pathway of P. euphratica cells is proposed.