Role of mitochondrial alternative oxidase in the regulation of cellular homeostasis during the development of photosynthetic function in greening leaves.

Here, recent publications on the role of mitochondrial non-phosphorylating pathways (NPhPs) in the electron transport chain during the de-etiolation of wheat leaves were reviewed. Among the NPhPs, the alternative oxidase (AOX) pathway is the most effective pathway in maintaining the cellular redox and energy balance, especially under stress conditions, including light stress. AOX is considered to dissipate excess reductants produced in the chloroplasts, and thereby prevent photooxidation. However, when etiolated wheat plants were exposed to a physiologically relevant light level, AOX was rapidly induced and increased, although the etioplasts do not produce excess reductants and have their own strong photoprotective mechanisms. The present study provides further insights into the role of AOX in greening cells and highlights the importance of AOX in the integration of cellular signaling pathways.