Gibberellin Induces an Increase in Cytosolic Ca2+ via a DELLA-Independent Signaling Pathway.

DELLA proteins play a central role in gibberellin (GA) signaling. GA triggers DELLA degradation via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway, thereby promoting plant growth. An increase in cytosolic Ca2+ ([Ca2+]cyt) was observed previously after several hours of GA application. Recent studies also suggest the existence of a DELLA-independent GA response. However, the effect of DELLA on the GA-induced increase in [Ca2+]cyt remains unknown. This study reexamined the effects of GAs on [Ca2+]cyt using the Ca2+ sensor protein aequorin in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). [Ca2+]cyt increased within a few minutes of GA treatment, even in transgenic plants expressing a mutated degradation-resistant version of REPRESSOR OF ga1-3 and in della pentuple mutant plants. In addition, it was also revealed that Ca2+ is not involved in DELLA degradation. These results suggest that the GA-induced increase in [Ca2+]cyt occurs via a DELLA-independent pathway, providing important information on the GA signaling network.