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DWARF4 accumulation in root tips is enhanced via blue light perception by cryptochromes
Jun Sakaguchi1, Tomonao Matsushita2, Yuichiro Watanabe1
1Department of Life Sciences, Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, 153-8902, Japan.
Plant, Cell & Environment
|January 9, 2019
Summary
Blue light signaling regulates brassinosteroid (BR) biosynthesis in plant roots, impacting root growth. This process, mediated by cryptochromes, appears distinct from auxin and sugar signaling pathways.
Area of Science:
- Plant Biology
- Molecular Plant Physiology
Background:
- Brassinosteroid (BR) signaling interacts with light signaling in above-ground plant tissues.
- Previous research indicated light perception in shoots triggers BR biosynthesis enzyme DWARF 4 (DWF4) accumulation in root tips.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the specific light wavelengths and photoreceptors regulating DWF4 accumulation in root tips.
- To elucidate the role of blue light signaling in root growth and BR biosynthesis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized DWF4-GUS marker plants grown under various monochromatic LED light conditions (blue, red, white).
- Investigated root growth and DWF4-GUS expression patterns in wild-type and photoreceptor double mutants (cryptochrome1/2, phytochromeA/B).
- Assessed the impact of auxin and sugar treatments on DWF4 accumulation in root tips.
Main Results:
- Monochromatic blue LED light induced DWF4 accumulation in primary root tips and promoted root growth, similar to white light.
- Red LED light did not induce DWF4 accumulation or root growth.
- Cryptochrome1/2 double mutants exhibited reduced root growth under white light, while phytochromeA/B double mutants did not.
- Auxin or sugar treatments did not alter DWF4 accumulation patterns in primary root tips.
Conclusions:
- Blue light signaling is crucial for DWF4 accumulation in root tips and subsequent root growth.
- Cryptochromes are key photoreceptors mediating blue light-induced root growth and BR biosynthesis.
- Blue light signaling in shoots influencing root BR biosynthesis is distinct from auxin and sugar signaling pathways.
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