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Meristem identity and phyllotaxis in inflorescence development.
Madelaine E Bartlett1, Beth Thompson2
1Biology Department, University of Massachusetts Amherst Amherst, MA, USA.
Frontiers in Plant Science
|October 30, 2014
Summary
Plant inflorescence diversity arises from meristem identity. Recent studies reveal a connection between meristem identity and phyllotaxis, the arrangement of organs, particularly in grasses.
Area of Science:
- Plant Morphology
- Developmental Biology
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Inflorescence morphology exhibits significant diversity, a long-standing area of study in plant science.
- Research in model plants like grasses, tomato, and Arabidopsis has advanced understanding of the molecular genetics of plant form.
- Meristem identity, encompassing determinacy and product nature, is crucial for plant development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the framework of shifting meristem identities in inflorescence development.
- To investigate the underappreciated role of phyllotaxis in inflorescence architecture and evolution.
- To highlight the interconnectedness of meristem identity and phyllotaxis.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing research on inflorescence development and meristem identity.
- Analysis of recent findings on phyllotaxis in grass inflorescences (Poaceae).
- Discussion of the role of auxin in lateral primordia positioning.
Main Results:
- A framework of shifting meristem identities is supported by evidence across model systems.
- An evolutionary shift in primary branch phyllotaxis was identified in the Pooideae subfamily of grasses.
- Localized auxin maxima are critical for initiating lateral primordia, though upstream regulators are unclear.
Conclusions:
- Meristem identity and phyllotaxis are intimately linked in both vegetative and inflorescence shoots.
- Understanding the evolution of phyllotaxis requires further investigation into meristem dynamics and upstream regulatory factors.
- Developing new model systems is essential for fully capturing plant morphological diversity.
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