Search Results (152)

CRABS CLAW (CRC) is a member of the plant-specific YABBY transcription factor family, defined by the presence of a C2C2 zinc-finger domain and a C-terminal YABBY domain. CRC is essential for proper floral development, functioning in the termination of the floral meristem, maintenance of adaxial–abaxial polarity within the gynoecium, and regulation of nectary and leaf morphogenesis. CRC orchestrates its diverse regulatory functions through interaction networks comprising other transcription factors and plant developmental regulators, including chromatin-modifying enzymes and proteins involved in auxin biosynthesis, transport, and signaling. The roles of genes and proteins interacting with CRC or CRC have been characterized in several model plant species, and the number of identified CRC/CRC-associated interactions continues to expand, revealing both species-specific and conserved functional roles across angiosperms. Many functions of CRC and its interacting partners have been elucidated through the analysis of anatomical and physiological phenotypes associated with specific gene mutations. The functional roles of CRC in plant development appear to have been acquired progressively through evolutionary diversification. These evolutionary changes have been associated with the relative conservation of CRC gene copy number and a predominant role of mutations occurring in non-coding regulatory regions. These properties are attributed to the relatively limited number of genes comprising the CRC regulatory network and the capacity to induce dosage-dependent effects via the emergence of novel proteins with overlapping or analogous functions. The identification and functional characterization of CRC transcription factors across diverse plant species has advanced rapidly in recent years, yet a comprehensive synthesis of these findings has not been presented in a dedicated article. Therefore, this study reviews the current knowledge on CRC transcription factors, with a focus on their identification, expression patterns, and functional roles in plant development. Full article

This study evaluates the impact of biotic elicitors and hormone regimes on the in vitro establishment, shoot multiplication, and organogenesis of Solanum tuberosum L. cv. Fianna under controlled laboratory conditions. Explants derived from pre-treated tubers were cultured on Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium supplemented with vitamins and varying concentrations of growth regulators or elicitors. Aseptic establishment achieved a high success rate (~95%) using a 6% sodium hypochlorite disinfection protocol. Multiplication was significantly enhanced with a combination of 0.2 mg L⁻¹ naphthaleneacetic acid (NAA) and 0.5–1.0 mg L⁻¹ benzylaminopurine (BAP), producing the greatest number and length of shoots and roots. Direct organogenesis was stimulated by bio-elicitors Activane^®, Micobiol^®, and Stemicol^® in (MS) basal medium at mid-level concentrations (0.5 g or mL L⁻¹), improving shoot number, elongation, and root development. Activane^®, Micobiol^®, and Stemicol^® are commercial elicitors that stimulate plant defense pathways and morphogenesis through salicylic acid, microbial, and jasmonic acid signaling mechanisms, respectively. Indirect organogenesis showed significantly higher callus proliferation in Stemicol^® and Micobiol^® treatments compared to the control medium, resulting in the highest fresh weight, diameter, and friability of callus. The results demonstrate the potential of biotic elicitors as alternatives or enhancers to traditional plant growth regulators in potato tissue culture, supporting more efficient and cost-effective micropropagation strategies. Full article

Morphogenetic factors (MTFs) are specialized plant genes and transcription factors that play pivotal roles in embryogenesis and organogenesis. This review focuses on their functions in plant development regulation and their applications in plant biotechnology and modern breeding. Common challenges in transformation and regeneration were discussed, along with successful case studies demonstrating improved regeneration capacity and transgene stability in rice (Oryza sativa), soybean (Glycine max), rapeseed (Brassica napus), tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) and other less common crops and plant model organisms. These improvements were achieved through the utilization of key developmental MTFs such as WUCHEL, BABY BOOM, GRF-GIF, etc. The principles of designing genetic constructs with MTFs are explored, including promoter selection and regulatory elements, as well as their synergistic effects with phytohormones like auxins and cytokinins for optimizing in vitro morphogenesis. Current limitations in MTF expression and strategies to overcome them are analyzed. The article highlights recent advances, including MTFs potential for developing stress-resistant, high-yielding cultivars. Key discussion points include the discovery of novel morphogens, their application to recalcitrant species, and prospects for expanding the range of easily transformable and regenerable crops. Future directions involve developing universal transformation protocols and integrating morphogens with precision genome editing technologies, offering new opportunities for agriculture and global food security. Full article

Background: Transcription factors (TFs) critically regulate gene expression, orchestrating plant growth, development, and stress responses. The conserved IDD (INDETERMINATE DOMAIN) TF family modulates key developmental processes, including root, stem, and seed morphogenesis. Dendrocalamus latiflorus Munro, an economically vital sympodial bamboo in southern China, suffers significant yield losses due to prevalent bamboo shoot abortion, impacting both edible shoot production and timber output. Despite the documented roles of IDD TFs in shoot apical meristem expression and lateral organ regulation, their genome-wide characterization in D. latiflorus remains unstudied. Methods: Using IDD members from Arabidopsis thaliana, Oryza sativa, and Phyllostachys edulis as references, we identified 45 DlIDD genes in D. latiflorus. Comprehensive bioinformatics analyses included gene characterization, protein physicochemical assessment, phylogenetic reconstruction, and examination of gene structures/conserved domains. Differential expression of DlIDD genes was profiled between dormant and sprouting bamboo shoots to infer putative functions. Results: The 45 DlIDD genes were phylogenetically classified into three subfamilies and unevenly distributed across 34 chromosomes. Whole-genome duplication (WGD) events drove the expansion of this gene family. Promoter analyses revealed enriched cis-regulatory elements associated with hormone response and developmental regulation. Functional analyses suggested potential roles for DlIDD genes in bamboo shoot development. Conclusions: This study provides a foundation for future research to elucidate the functions of IDD TFs and their regulatory mechanisms in bamboo shoot morphogenesis and lateral bud development within woody monocots. Full article

The miR156 family, crucial for phase transition and stress responses in plants, remains functionally uncharacterized in the ecologically and commercially important gymnosperm Larix kaempferi. This study systematically investigated L. kaempferi miR156 through phylogenetic analysis, structural prediction, expression profiling during somatic embryogenesis, and heterologous functional validation in Arabidopsis. Four MIR156 family members (LkMIR156s) were identified in Larix kaempferi, each with a characteristic stem-loop structure and highly conserved mature sequences. Computational predictions indicated that these LkMIR156s target four LkSPL family genes (LkSPL1, LkSPL2, LkSPL3, and LkSPL9). qRT-PCR analysis showed that mature LkmiR156s expression remained relatively low during early embryonic development but was significantly upregulated at the cotyledonary stage (21–42 days). Precursor transcript levels peaked earlier (around 28 days) than those of the mature LkmiR156, which remained highly expressed throughout cotyledonary embryo development. This sustained high expression coincided with cotyledon morphogenesis and embryonic dormancy. Functional validation via heterologous overexpression of LkMIR156b1 in Arabidopsis resulted in increased rosette leaf numbers (42.86% ± 6.19%) and individual leaf area (54.90% ± 6.86%), phenotypically consistent with the established role of miR156 in growth regulation. This study reveals the temporal expression dynamics of LkmiR156s during L. kaempferi somatic embryogenesis and its coordinated expression patterns with cotyledon development and embryonic dormancy. The functional conservation of the miR156-SPL module was confirmed in a model plant, providing key molecular insights into the developmental regulatory network of conifers. These findings offer potential strategies for optimizing somatic embryogenesis techniques in conifer species. Full article

N, as plants’ most essential nutrient, profoundly shapes root system architecture (RSA), with LRs being preferentially regulated. This review synthesizes the intricate molecular mechanisms underpinning N sensing, signaling, and its integration into developmental pathways governing LR initiation, primordium formation, emergence, and elongation. We delve deeply into the roles of specific transporters (NRT1.1, nitrate transporter 2.1 (NRT2.1)), transcription factors (Arabidopsis nitrate regulated 1 (ANR1), NLP7, TGACG motif-binding factor (TGA), squamosa promoter-binding protein-like 9 (SPL9)) and intricate hormone signaling networks (auxin, abscisic acid, cytokinins, ethylene) modulated by varying N availability (deficiency, sufficiency, excess) and chemical forms (NO₃⁻, NH₄⁺, organic N). Emphasis is placed on the systemic signaling pathways, including peptide-mediated long-distance communication (CEP—C-terminally encoded peptide receptor 1 (CEPR1)) and the critical role of the shoot in modulating root responses. Furthermore, we explore the emerging significance of carbon–nitrogen (C/N) balance, post-translational modifications (ubiquitination, phosphorylation), epigenetic regulation, and the complex interplay with other nutrients (phosphorus (P), sulfur (S)) and environmental factors in shaping N-dependent LR plasticity. Recent advances utilizing single-cell transcriptomics and advanced imaging reveal unprecedented cellular heterogeneity in LR responses to N. Understanding this sophisticated regulatory network is paramount for developing strategies to enhance nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) in crops. This synthesis underscores how N acts as a master regulator, dynamically rewiring developmental programs through molecular hubs that synchronize nutrient sensing with root morphogenesis—a key adaptive strategy for resource acquisition in heterogeneous soils. Full article

The SCARECROW (SCR) transcription factor governs cell-type patterning in plant roots and Kranz anatomy of leaves, serving as a master regulator of root and shoot morphogenesis. Foxtail millet (Setaria italica), characterized by a compact genome, self-pollination, and a short growth cycle, has emerged as a C₄ model plant. Here, we revealed two SCR paralogs in foxtail millet—SiSCR1 and SiSCR2—which exhibit high sequence conservation with ZmSCR1/1h (Zea mays), OsSCR1/2 (Oryza sativa), and AtSCR (Arabidopsis thaliana), particularly within the C-terminal GRAS domain. Both SiSCR genes exhibited nearly identical secondary structures and physicochemical profiles, with promoter analyses revealing five conserved cis-regulatory elements. Robust phylogenetic reconstruction resolved SCR orthologs into monocot- and dicot-specific clades, with SiSCR genes forming a sister branch to SvSCR from its progenitor species Setaria viridis. Spatiotemporal expression profiling demonstrated ubiquitous SiSCR gene transcription across developmental stages, with notable enrichment in germinated seeds, plants at the one-tip-two-leaf stage, leaf 1 (two days after heading), and roots during the seedling stage. Co-expression network analysis revealed that there is a correlation between SiSCR genes and other functional genes. Abscisic acid (ABA) treatment led to a significant downregulation of the expression level of SiSCR genes in Yugu1 roots, and the expression of the SiSCR genes in the roots of An04 is more sensitive to PEG6000 treatment. Drought treatment significantly upregulated SiSCR2 expression in leaves, demonstrating its pivotal role in plant adaptation to abiotic stress. Analysis of heterologous expression under the control of the 35S promoter revealed that SiSCR genes were expressed in root cortical/endodermal initial cells, endodermal cells, cortical cells, and leaf stomatal complexes. Strikingly, ectopic expression of SiSCR genes in Arabidopsis led to hypersensitivity to ABA, and ABA treatment resulted in a significant reduction in the length of the meristematic zone. These data delineate the functional divergence and evolutionary conservation of SiSCR genes, providing critical insights into their roles in root/shoot development and abiotic stress signaling in foxtail millet. Full article

Leaves are essential for photosynthesis and transpiration, directly influencing plant growth and development. Leaf morphology, such as length, width, and area, affects photosynthetic efficiency and transpiration rates. In this study, we investigated the role of PtoWOX1 in leaf morphogenesis by generating both overexpression and CRISPR/Cas9 knockout lines in P. tomentosa. The results showed that PtoWOX1A and PtoWOX1B encode nuclear-localized transcription factors highly expressed in young leaves, particularly in palisade and epidermal cells. Knockout of PtoWOX1 resulted in reduced leaf width and area, enlarged upper epidermal cells, and lower stomatal density. Overexpression led to wrinkled leaf surfaces and reduced margin serration. Anatomical analysis revealed altered palisade cell arrangement and increased leaf thickness in knockout lines, accompanied by higher chlorophyll content and enhanced photosynthetic rates. Additionally, PtoWOX1A interacts with PtoYAB3B, suggesting a complex that regulates leaf margin development. These findings clarify the function of PtoWOX1 in regulating mid-lateral axis development and leaf margin morphology and provide new insights for the molecular breeding of poplar. Full article

Blue light is a significant environmental cue influencing plant photomorphogenesis and regulating plant growth and development. The COP9 signaling complex (CSN), a multi-subunit protein complex, plays a pivotal role in regulating photomorphogenesis, with CSN2 being identified as a key subunit essential for the assembly and function of the CSN. This study investigated the role of OsCSN2 in rice under blue-light conditions. Utilizing OsCSN2 knockout (KO) mutant plants and transgenic overexpression (OE) lines for wild-type (WT) and mutated versions of OsCSN2, we observed significant suppression of the overall seedling phenotype under blue light, indicating that OsCSN2 acts as a negative regulator of blue light-mediated morphogenesis. Further analysis revealed that exogenous application of gibberellin (GA₃) and the GA synthesis inhibitor paclobutrazol (PAC) modulated seedling elongation in response to blue light, particularly affecting plant height, coleoptile, and first incomplete leaf length without altering root growth. This suggests that OsCSN2 mediates the inhibitory effects of blue light on aboveground development through the gibberellin signaling pathway. On day 9, the analyses of endogenous GA₃ levels combined with Western blotting (WB) and quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) revealed that OsCSN2 senses blue light signals through cryptochrome 2 (CRY2), influences the expression of COP1 and BBX14, and highlights its role in the photoreceptive signaling pathway. This regulation ultimately influences the degradation of SLR1 within the GA signaling pathway, affecting rice seedling growth and development. Our findings also highlight the differential roles of OsCSN1 and OsCSN2 within the CSN in modulating rice seedling photomorphogenesis, thereby providing new insights into the intricate regulatory mechanisms governing plant responses to blue light. Full article

Passiflora caerulea L., commonly known as the blue passionflower, is traditionally grown as an ornamental plant, but has a diverse chemical composition resulting in a wide range of biological activities that determine its pharmacological properties and use in medicine. Traditional propagation methods, including seed germination and vegetative cuttings, are often inefficient due to low germination rates, susceptibility to pathogens, and slow growth. In particular, P. caerulea presents significant challenges in germination due to its slow development. In this context, in vitro cultivation is used to enable rapid, large-scale plant production while maintaining genetic fidelity. The study of Passiflora tissue cultures began in 1966 and has since attracted increasing attention from researchers around the world. However, despite growing interest, studies specifically focused on the in vitro propagation of P. caerulea remain limited. This review aims to summarize existing knowledge on the main techniques used for in vitro culturing and propagation of P. caerulea, including organogenesis, somatic embryogenesis, and callogenesis. Particular attention is paid to the key factors that influence the initiation, growth, and regeneration of cultures, including the type of explant, the composition of the media, and the environmental conditions. Advances in the in vitro cultivation of P. caerulea have greatly improved the understanding and propagation of this species. Although in vitro cultivation offers several advantages, it is crucial to conduct thorough research on the selection of explants, their age, and the appropriate culture media to ensure optimal growth and development. Full article

Light spectral composition critically regulates plant morphogenesis and molecular adaptation in controlled environments. This study investigated the synergistic effects of three light spectra, red-blue (RB, 7:3), red-blue-green (RGB, 7:3:1), and red-blue-far-red (RBFR, 7:3:1), on multiplication, morphogenesis, physiological traits, and transcriptomic dynamics in tissue-cultured strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa cv. ‘Benihoppe’). After 28 days of cultivation under controlled conditions (25 °C/22 °C day/night, 50 μmol·m⁻²·s⁻¹ PPFD), RBFR and RGB treatments significantly enhanced shoot multiplication (38.8% and 24.2%, respectively), plant height, and callus biomass compared to RB light. RGB elevated chlorophyll a and b by 1.8- and 1.6-fold, respectively, while RBFR increased soluble protein content by 16%. Transcriptome analysis identified 144 and 376 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) under RGB and RBFR, respectively, enriched in pathways linked to circadian rhythm, auxin transport, and photosynthesis. Far-red light upregulated light signaling and photomorphogenesis genes, whereas green light enhanced chlorophyll biosynthesis while suppressing stress-responsive genes. These findings elucidate the spectral-specific regulatory mechanisms underlying strawberry micropropagation and provide a framework for optimizing multispectral LED systems in controlled-environment horticulture. Full article

The TRM (TONNEAU1 Recruiting Motif) gene family plays a crucial role in multiple biological processes, including microtubule organization, cell division regulation, fruit morphogenesis, stress adaptation, and growth and development. To delve deeper into the potential functions of BnaTRMs in Brassica napus, this study employed bioinformatics methods to systematically identify and analyze the TRM family genes in Brassica napus (Westar). Using the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana as a reference and based on six conserved motifs, 100 TRM members were first identified in Brassica napus. These genes are widely distributed across 19 chromosomes, and most exhibit nuclear localization characteristics. Through gene collinearity analysis among Brassica napus, Arabidopsis thaliana, Glycine max, Oryza sativa, and Zea mays, we speculate that Brassica napus and Glycine max may share a similar evolutionary history. Analysis of cis-acting elements in the 2000 bp upstream region of TRM gene promoters revealed numerous elements related to abiotic stress response and hormone regulation. Furthermore, qRT-PCR data supported these findings, indicating that multiple TRM genes actively participate in the growth and development process and abiotic stress tolerance of Brassica napus. In summary, BnaTRMs exhibit significant functions in stress adaptation, growth, and development. This study not only enhances our understanding of the functions of the TRM gene family but also provides new perspectives and strategies for further exploring their regulatory mechanisms and potential applications. Full article

Bougainvillea spp. possesses vibrantly pigmented bracts that exhibit high ornamental value. Zinc finger proteins (ZFPs), one of the most extensive transcription factor families in plants, are implicated in diverse biological functions, including plant morphogenesis, transcriptional regulation, and responses to abiotic stress. Nevertheless, their regulatory roles in bract pigmentation in Bougainvillea remain unexplored. In the present investigation, 105 BbZFP genes were identified from the Bougainvillea genome via bioinformatic analyses and subsequently categorized into five subgroups according to the quantity and arrangement of their structural domains. Analysis of physicochemical characteristics demonstrated that the BbZFP family encompasses both acidic and basic proteins, all of which are hydrophilic and predominantly classified as unstable proteins. Gene structure analysis revealed that the majority of BbZFP genes comprise between one and five– introns. Cis-regulatory element analysis suggested that BbZFP promoter regions harbor multiple elements associated with abiotic stress responses, hormonal regulation, and light responsiveness, implying their possible participation in these physiological processes. Transcriptomic data analysis revealed distinct expression patterns of BbZFP genes among bracts of different colors. A quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) further confirmed that Bou_68928, Bou_1096, Bou_4400, and Bou_17631 were markedly upregulated in yellow bracts relative to white bracts, suggesting their involvement in flavonoid biosynthesis regulation. Meanwhile, Bou_1096 and Bou_17631 exhibited markedly elevated expression in red-purple bracts compared to white bracts, potentially regulating betacyanin biosynthesis in Bougainvillea. These findings offer candidate genes for molecular breeding strategies aimed at enhancing floral coloration in Bougainvillea. The next step will involve elucidating the functions of these genes in bract coloration. Full article

The morphogenesis and defense evolution of plants are intricately linked to soil microbial community dynamics, where beneficial and pathogenic bacteria regulate ecosystem stability through chemical signaling. A microbial communication mechanism known as quorum sensing (QS), which affects population density, virulence, and biofilm formation, substantially impacts plant development and immune responses. However, plants have developed strategies to detect and manipulate QS signals, enabling bidirectional interactions that influence both plant physiology and the balance of the microbiome. In this review, QS signals from bacteria, fungi, and nematodes are systematically examined, emphasizing their recognition by plant receptors, downstream signaling pathways, and the activation of defense responses. Most significantly, attention is given to the role of fungal and nematode QS molecules in modulating plant microbe interactions. By elucidating these communication networks, we highlight their potential applications in sustainable agriculture, offering novel insights into crop health management and ecosystem resilience. Full article

In plants, SPL is a distinct family of transcription factors. Its protein structure possesses a highly conserved SBP domain comprising two zinc finger structures and nuclear localization regions, and microRNAs (miR156) control the transcriptional expression of the majority of SPL genes. SPLs are key TFs in regulating organ morphogenesis, phase transition/floral induction, and yield-related traits in agronomic and horticultural crops. These biomolecules have been functionally characterized for their role in augmenting plant responses to abiotic and biotic stresses. Present research gaps and viewpoints are addressed herein. Using these extensive data, researchers can more comprehensively understand how SPL genes modulate agronomic features in different ways. Full article