NON SPECIFIC LIPID TRANSFER PROTEINS: THE FAMILY WITH TWISTS AND TURNS

The non-specific lipid transfer proteins (LTPs) in plants are small, basic moderate sized gene family found in all plants excepting algae. These proteins have a tunnel-like hydrophobic cavity that help in binding non-specifically to diverse lipids. The LTPs have been shown to be expressed in most of the tissues. The mature protein is characterized by an N-terminal signal peptide that guides it to the exterior of the plasma membrane. The nsLTPs are characterized by eight-cysteine residue linked by four disulfide bonds in the protein backbone. This structure helps in providing stability for binding diverse lipid molecules non-specifically. The different members of nsLTPs are involved in diverse developmental stages along with stress responses. The major roles of this gene family members are cell wall organization, membrane stabilization, signal transduction, plant development, sexual reproduction, seed development, biotic and abiotic stresses. This review is mainly emphasizing on the diverse roles of nsLTPs reported in recent years.