A localized disruption in auxin status leading to root system defects under elevated temperature environments

This study uncovers a temperature-mediated, localized auxin status perturbation in the meristem region responsible for root growth suppression under elevated temperature environments, revealing novel insights into root-environment interactions. Agriculture is highly sensitive to weather and climate because of its heavy reliance on temperature, water, and other natural resources. Among these variables, plants are particularly susceptible to changes in ambient temperature due to its influence on growth and development throughout the life cycle. Therefore, global warming presents a fundamental threat to plant life and productivity. As this climate crisis worsens, it is critical to deepen our understanding about the adverse impacts of elevated temperature on aspects of plant development. In this study, we investigate the negative influence of a rising temperature environment on root system attributes. Compared to the shoot system, roots are known for higher thermosensitivity. Here, our findings demonstrate that besides growth, multiple root system aspects, such as gravitropism response, root system architecture, etc., are affected by elevated temperature environments. Root meristem activities appear to be highly auxin-dependent in a rising temperature environment compared to ambient growth conditions. Furthermore, our findings demonstrate a disruption in auxin status within the root meristem region, in plants exposed to elevated temperature. This temperature-mediated, localized perturbation in the auxin pathway contributes to defective cell proliferation activities and culminates in root growth suppression under elevated temperature. Collectively, these findings provide novel insights into the interplay between root system traits and a rising temperature environment.