Abstract
Geophytes, the plants that form vegetative storage organs, are characterized by a dual reproduction system, in which vegetative and sexual propagation are tightly regulated to ensure fitness in harsh climatic conditions. Recent findings highlight the role of the PEBP (PHOSPHATIDYLETHANOLAMINE-BINDING PROTEIN) gene family in geophytes as major players in the molecular cascades underlying both types of reproduction. In this review, we briefly explain the life cycle and reproduction strategies of different geophytes and what is known about the physiological aspects related to these processes. Subsequently, an in-depth overview is provided of the molecular and genetic pathways driving these processes. In the evolution of plants, the PEBP gene family has expanded, followed by neo- and subfunctionalization. Careful characterization revealed that differential expression and differential protein complex formation provide the members of this gene family with unique functions, enabling them to mediate the crosstalk between the two reproductive events in geophytes in response to environmental and endogenous cues. Taking all these studies into account, we propose to regard the PEBPs as conductors of geophyte reproductive development.
Highlights
Successful reproduction is key to plant species survival and evolution, but how can sessile organisms accomplish these tasks under continuously fluctuating or extreme climate conditions?The evolution of an ingenious sexual reproduction strategy optimally adapted to the species’ environmental niche appears to be the key
Recent findings highlight the role of the phosphatidylethanolamine-binding proteins (PEBPs) (PHOSPHATIDYLETHANOLAMINE-BINDING PROTEIN) gene family in geophytes as major players in the molecular cascades underlying both types of reproduction
Careful characterization revealed that differential expression and differential protein complex formation provide the members of this gene family with unique functions, enabling them to mediate the crosstalk between the two reproductive events in geophytes in response to environmental and endogenous cues
Summary
Successful reproduction is key to plant species survival and evolution, but how can sessile organisms accomplish these tasks under continuously fluctuating or extreme climate conditions?The evolution of an ingenious sexual reproduction strategy optimally adapted to the species’ environmental niche appears to be the key. Understanding of the environmental and internal effects on geophyte development requires a holistic approach which includes the study of flower initiation, stem elongation, blooming, and formation of underground storage organs, together with the interactions between these processes and orchestration of complex sink–source relationships.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
