Influence of cell size on differentiation of root meristem cells

Abstract

Cell size and meristem length were analyzed in steady-state growing roots in the presence of low concentrations of hydroxyurea. The ability of cells to undergo differentiation was related to cell size so that the larger the proliferating cell size, the shorter the meristem length. Results suggest the existence of a cell size requirement that, interacting with regulatory factors of development, would be responsible for the initiation of processes leading meristematic cells to differentiate.