Abstract
While each individual root responds to such environmental factors as light or gravity the question arises how these reactions subordinate to the whole root system, which is supposed to maintain its primary functions. Data presented here confirm that in cucumber the gravity and light modulate the growth direction of the lateral roots subunits of the system. Another important factor affecting behavior of lateral roots is an orientation of the main root. These facts all together suggest that the root system functions as an integrated entity, capable of adapting its architecture to changing environmental conditions. Its flexibility, based on unknown signaling network, guarantees optimal functioning of the system.
Highlights
Plant architecture results from oriented growth of plant organs in 3D space
According to the recent literature, as it has been recently reported, the characteristic growth pattern of the lateral roots manifested by their initially horizontal declined downwards growth is associated with development and maturation of statocytes
Kiss et al (2002) have shown a correlation between positive gravitropism and development of amyloplasts in columella cells of A. thaliana lateral roots suggesting that large mature amyloplasts are required for the lateral roots to be sensitive to the gravity
Summary
Plant architecture results from oriented growth of plant organs in 3D space This process, which is precisely controlled on the whole plant (genet) level by intrinsic mechanisms, assuring proper response of subunits (ramets) to changing environmental conditions, requires integration of many internal and external signals. Among the latter, the most important are gravity and light. It is known that plant organs, such as stems or roots, growing in steady state condition, acquire and maintain a definite and stable orientation with respect to the gravity vector This orientation, called the gravitropic setpoint angle (GSA) depends upon the type and developmental stage of the organ, it may change in the course of ontogeny. It can be modified by environmental factors such as light or gravistimulation by reorienting the plant
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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.
