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Updated: Aug 30, 2026

Laser-assisted Microdissection (LAM) as a Tool for Transcriptional Profiling of Individual Cell Types
Published on: May 10, 2016
Functional versatility of synergid cells in plant reproduction
Ling Li1, Honghui Lin1, Li-Jia Qu2
1Key Laboratory of Bio-Resource and Eco-Environment of Ministry of Education, College of Life Sciences, Southwest Bio-resources R&D Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, People's Republic of China.
Abstract:
In flowering plants (angiosperms), the Polygonum-type embryo sac accounts for approximately 70% of the female gametophytes. It contains three antipodal cells, one central cell, one egg cell, and two synergid cells. Apart from the female gamete cells, the synergid cells play a key role in sexual reproduction. This review traces the origin and research history of synergid cells and summarizes the latest research progress in understanding their core functions in the angiosperm-specific siphonogamy. In particular, we discuss the diverse functions of synergid cells in pollen tube guidance, pollen tube reception, and fertilization recovery. We highlight how angiosperms guarantee fertility by regulating the timing and sequence of the synergid cell degeneration and persistence. Moreover, we discuss important unresolved scientific questions in synergid cell research and provide an outlook on future research directions.
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