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Lateral Root Inducible System in Arabidopsis and Maize
Published on: January 14, 2016
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Theoretical approaches to understanding root vascular patterning: a consensus between recent models
Nathan Mellor1, Milad Adibi2, Sedeer El-Showk3,4
1Centre for Plant Integrative Biology, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, UK.
Journal of Experimental Botany
|November 13, 2016
Summary
Mathematical models reveal how hormonal signals and gene regulation orchestrate root vascular patterning. Asymmetries in auxin and cytokinin signaling are key drivers in forming bisymmetric patterns from radial symmetry.
Area of Science:
- Plant biology
- Developmental biology
- Systems biology
Background:
- Root vascular tissue patterning transitions from radial to bisymmetric symmetry.
- Patterning involves complex interactions of hormonal pathways, transcription factors, and microRNAs (miRNAs).
- Understanding these intricate interactions in multicellular tissues is challenging.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reconcile three independent mathematical models of root vascular patterning.
- To identify commonalities and differences between existing models.
- To explore the transferability of findings between different modeling approaches.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of three distinct mathematical models of root vascular patterning.
- Running new simulations to test hypotheses regarding pattern formation.
- Investigating the role of hormonal asymmetry in vascular pattern establishment.
Main Results:
- Simulations support the hypothesis that auxin input asymmetry directs vascular pattern formation.
- The xylem axis can function as a sole cytokinin source to specify correct root patterns.
- Broader patterns of cytokinin production are also capable of patterning the root.
Conclusions:
- Reconciliation of models provides deeper insights into root vascular patterning mechanisms.
- Hormonal asymmetries, particularly in auxin and cytokinin, are critical for pattern establishment.
- Identified key areas for future experimental investigation in root development.
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