Peptides of Plant Innate Immune System. Part II. Biosynthesis, Biologiocal Functions and Possible Practical Application
One of mechanisms of the plant innate immune system regulation is an activation of the synthesis of various defense peptides having diverse structural organization. Some of them possess antimicrobial activity. In plants, defense peptides have various localization, often are synthesized as multi domain precursor proteins, are produced by limited proteolysis or by some other way of degradation. In addition to antimicrobial activity, some of these peptides also display an insecticidal effect, inhibit endo- and exogenous proteases as well as α‑amylases, participate in the transfer of signal and building hydrophobic molecules, affect the operation of ion channels. As a result, peptides of the plant innate immune system not only protect plants against viruses, bacteria, fungi, and insects, but also reinforce their resistance toward various types of abiotic stresses and participate in the regulation of plant growth and development. In addition, plant defense peptides can suppress the growth of some human pathogens, possess antitumor activity, exhibit properties of food, inhalation, and latex allergens and can be used in various areas of medicine. This review summarizes data on the biosynthesis, biological functions and possible practical application of the peptides of plant innate immune system.