Occurrence, structure, and function of short cells in maize leaf epidermis.
He Dong1, Chongmei Xu2, Chengtao Zhang2
1College of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Weifang Medical University, Weifang, Shandong, 261053, China; College of Life Sciences, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi, 712100, China.
Plant Physiology and Biochemistry : PPB
|November 29, 2023
Summary
Maize (Zea mays L.) short cells, including cork and silica cells, enhance leaf mechanical support, photosynthesis, and drought resistance. Cork cells also play a role in stomatal regulation and water stress response.
Area of Science:
- Plant Anatomy
- Plant Physiology
- Agricultural Science
Background:
- Short cells are specialized epidermal cells in grasses, comprising cork and silica cells.
- Their occurrence, distribution, and number vary across plant tissues.
- Understanding their role in maize (Zea mays L.) is crucial for crop improvement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence, structure, and function of short cells in maize leaf epidermis.
- To analyze the relationship between short cells, stomatal regulation, and physiological responses.
- To evaluate the contribution of short cells to maize drought resistance.
Main Methods:
- Field and potted experiments with maize cultivar "Zhengdan 958".
- Microscopic observation of short cell distribution and structure.
- Measurement of K+, H2O2 accumulation, photosynthetic parameters, and stomatal aperture.
Main Results:
- Short cells were found synchronously in multiple maize leaves, with specific distribution patterns.
- Cork cells showed periodic accumulation of K+ and H2O2, linked to stomatal movement and water stress.
- Leaves with short cells exhibited significantly higher photosynthetic parameters and stomatal aperture.
Conclusions:
- Short cells enhance maize leaf mechanical support and photosynthetic performance.
- They contribute to drought resistance and participate in stomatal regulation.
- Cork cells are involved in physiological responses to water stress.
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