Garlic-released NO and H2S modulate Arabidopsis metabolism by reshaping redox balance and redox-dependent post-translational modifications

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Authors: Francisco J. Corpas, Salvador González-Gordo, María A. Muñoz-Vargas, Marta Rodríguez-Ruiz, Carmelo Ruíz-Torres, Jorge Taboada, José Manuel Palma
Cited by: 1
References: 122

Abstract

Nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S) are key gasotransmitters acting as signaling molecules in plants and animals. Garlic, known for its sulfur-rich compounds, had not previously been identified as a source of NO or H 2 S emission. Using specific sensors, we show that garlic cloves simultaneously release both gases. To assess their biological impact, 30-day-old Arabidopsis thaliana plants were exposed for 24 h to a garlic-released NO/H 2 S-enriched atmosphere. Biochemical analyses revealed significant changes in components of reactive oxygen species (ROS), NO, and H 2 S metabolism, including protein S -glutathionylation, S -nitrosation and tyrosine/tryptophan nitration. Major effects were detected in the antioxidant enzyme catalase (CAT), the H 2 O 2 -producing glycolate oxidase (GOX), and hydroxypyruvate reductase (HPR), all central to peroxisomal redox metabolism. The activity of the H 2 S-producing enzyme L-cysteine desulfhydrase (LCD) and the expression of PAO4 , encoding a peroxisomal H 2 O 2 -generating polyamine oxidase, were also modified. Conversely, nitrite/NADH-dependent NO generation and nitrosoglutathione reductase (GSNOR) activity remained unchanged. These results collectively indicate that garlic-released NO and H 2 S modulate the metabolism of A. thaliana through redox-dependent post-translational modifications, thereby promoting adaptive redox responses. This suggests that garlic may act as a natural dual donor of both NO and H 2 S. • Garlic cloves simultaneously emit nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen sulfide (H 2 S). • Exposure to garlic-derived NO/ H 2 S reprograms redox metabolism in Arabidopsis. • Key peroxisomal enzymes (CAT, GOX, HPR) are modulated by garlic gas emissions.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Plant Stress Responses and Tolerance Sulfur Compounds in Biology Plant nutrient uptake and metabolism

Publication details

Journal / source
Plant Physiology and Biochemistry
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
235
Pages
111360–111360
Publication date
5 May 2026
Language
EN