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Abstract
Singlet oxygen ((1)O(2)) is a singular reactive oxygen species (ROS) that is produced
constitutively in plant leaves in light via chlorophylls that act as photosensitizers.
This (1)O(2) production is spatially resolved within thylakoid membranes and is enhanced
under light stress conditions. (1)O(2) can also be produced by phytotoxins during
plant-pathogen interactions. (1)O(2) is highly reactive, can be toxic to cells and
can be involved in the signaling of programmed cell death or acclimation processes.
Here, we summarize current knowledge on (1)O(2) management in plants and on the biological
effects of this peculiar ROS. Compared with other ROS, (1)O(2) has received relatively
little attention, but recent developments indicate that it has a crucial role in the
responses of plants to light.