PFT1-controlled ROS balance is critical for multiple stages of root hair development in Arabidopsis

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been shown to play key roles in cellular decision making and signal integration in multicellular organisms. In roots, ROS levels are managed by the action of peroxidases and NAPDH oxidases, resulting in a distinct spatial distribution of hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) and superoxide (O₂(-)) that is critical for the balance between cell proliferation and differentiation. In addition, ROS is required for the determination of the cell shape of root hairs. Mutations in the Mediator subunit MED25/PFT1 result in compromised root hair development, due to altered expression of a suite of H₂O₂-producing class III peroxidases. pft1-1 mutants form shorter root hairs than wild-type plants. Analysis of pft1-1 cross-sections revealed that also root hair initiation is compromised, probably by impeding local cell wall loosening. It is suggested that ROS homeostasis is critical throughout the development of root hairs, controlling various processes via PFT1-regulated transcription of genes encoding redox-active enzymes.