Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 16, 2026

Lateral Root Inducible System in Arabidopsis and Maize
Published on: January 14, 2016
CLE peptides regulate lateral root development in response to nitrogen nutritional status of plants
Takao Araya1, Nicolaus von Wirén, Hideki Takahashi
1a Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology; Michigan State University; East Lansing, MI USA.
Abstract:
CLE (CLAVATA3/embryo surrounding region (ESR)) peptides control meristem functions in plants. Our recent study highlights the critical role of a peptide-receptor signaling module composed of nitrogen (N)-responsive CLE peptides and the CLAVATA1 (CLV1) leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase in controlling lateral root development in Arabidopsis thaliana. CLE1, -3, -4 and -7 are expressed in root pericycle cells in Arabidopsis roots under N-limited growth conditions. Overexpression of these CLE genes inhibits lateral root emergence from the primary root. The inhibitory action of N-responsive CLE peptides on lateral root development requires the function of CLV1 expressed in phloem companion cells in roots, suggesting that downstream signals are transferred through phloem for systemic regulation of root system architecture. An additional mechanism downstream of CLV1 feedback-regulates transcript levels of N-responsive CLE genes in roots for fine-tuning the signal amplitude.
Related Concept Videos
Key Elements for Plant Nutrition
Primary and Secondary Growth in Roots and Shoots
The Roles of Bacteria and Fungi in Plant Nutrition
Cell Signaling in Plants
Short-distance Transport of Resources
Inorganic Nitrogen Assimilation

