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Multiple facets of laticifer cells
Lourdes Castelblanque1, Begoña Balaguer1, Cristina Martí1
1a Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia-C.S.I.C, Ciudad Politécnica de la Innovación, Ingeniero Fausto Elio , Valencia , Spain.
Plant Signaling & Behavior
|July 19, 2017
Summary
Laticifer cells in latex-bearing plants form specialized tissues synthesizing valuable metabolites. This review explores laticifer features, evolution, and potential applications, using Euphorbia lathyris as a model.
Area of Science:
- Plant Biology
- Botany
- Plant Physiology
Background:
- Laticifers are specialized living cells forming tubing structures that contain latex in certain plant species.
- These cells synthesize a variety of metabolites, some with significant commercial value.
- Laticifers are found in a small percentage of flowering plants, representing unique plant tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on laticifer cells.
- To discuss their unique features, evolutionary aspects, and ecophysiological roles.
- To explore the potential applications of laticifer research.
Main Methods:
- Mini-review synthesizing existing research on laticifer cells.
- Illustrative examples using Euphorbia lathyris laticifers and latex.
Main Results:
- Laticifers are complex cellular structures with diverse metabolic capabilities.
- Their specialized nature offers insights into plant evolution and physiology.
- Potential commercial applications exist for compounds derived from laticifers.
Conclusions:
- Understanding laticifer biology is crucial for harnessing their potential.
- Further research can unlock novel applications in various industries.
- Euphorbia lathyris serves as a valuable model for studying laticifer systems.
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