The coupling of local and global growth patterns governs leaf morphogenesis

Morphogenetic processes encompass the molecular and cellular mechanisms that govern the reproducible development of organisms. Since the seminal work of early botanists who systematically documented morphological diversity, the leaf has served as a central model system for the study of morphogenesis. Recent advances in quantitative and computational approaches in developmental biology have facilitated a more comprehensive and integrative view of the morphogenetic processes involved in leaf formation. Here, we review our current knowledge on how regulators of leaf shape act at the cellular level to control either cell proliferation and/or differentiation, and how global and local factors integrate to allow the production of leaves with reproducible shape. This review highlights how the fundamental understanding of both molecular and cellular processes and their interplay contribute to the broader understanding of plant development and evolution.