Abstract
Intertwined roots: linked nitrate and brassinosteroid signaling pathways modulate root system architecture.
Highlights
root system architecture (RSA) modification in response to nitrate deficiency includes morphological changes in lateral and primary roots, such as promotion of lateral and primary root elongation and lateral root number (Gruber et al, 2013)
Depending on NO–3 concentration and plant stage, the primary nitrate response branches out to include hormonal signaling e.g. auxin and brassinosteroids (BRs), which appear to feedback on NO–3 metabolism, blurring the lines between N nutrition and root developmental responses (Krouk, 2016; Jia et al, 2020)
In this issue of Plant Physiology, Song et al (2021) identify an interaction module composed of CALMODULIN-LIKE-38 (CML38) and PEP1 RECEPTOR 2 (PEPR2) using Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) as a model plant
Summary
Intertwined roots: linked nitrate and brassinosteroid signaling pathways modulate root system architecture. Physiological, and transcriptomic observations demonstrate the nitrate regulation of auxin transport and biosynthesis to stimulate lateral root emergence and lateral and primary root elongation to low-nitrate conditions, such observations for BRs are still emerging In this issue of Plant Physiology, Song et al (2021) identify an interaction module composed of CALMODULIN-LIKE-38. The authors investigated the role of CML38 in N uptake, assimilation, and metabolism through biochemical assays and showed increased absorption and assimilation of NO–3 in cml, an observation consistent with the upregulation of primary nitrate-response genes, including those encoding various N-transporters and -reductases. They conclude that CML38 participates in the primary nitrate response in Arabidopsis.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
