1
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Lu TW, Chen WH, Chen PY, Shu YC, Chen HH. Perturbation of periodic spot-generation balance leads to diversified pigmentation patterning of harlequin Phalaenopsis orchids: in silico prediction. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 24:681. [PMID: 39020275 PMCID: PMC11330024 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-024-05305-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/19/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A retrotransposon HORT1 in the promoter of the anthocyanin activator gene PeMYB11, microRNA858 (miR858) that targets PeMYB11, and a repressor PeMYBx have been implicated in pigmentation patterning diversity of harlequin Phalaenopsis orchids. However, the interrelationship among them remains to be elucidated. RESULTS To understand how these factors interact to generate anthocyanin spots in Phalaenopsis, we successfully developed a mathematical model based on the known reaction-diffusion system to simulate their interplay and refined the conceptual biological model. Intriguingly, the expression of both PeMYBx and PeMYB11 were in phase for purple spot formation, even though they showed adverse effects on anthocyanin accumulations. An increase in the self-activation rate of PeMYB11 resulted in the increased size of purple spots, but no effects on spot fusion. Decreased degradation rate of miR858 in the purple regions, led to disruption of the formation of spotted pigmentation patterning and a full-red pigmentation pattern. Significantly, the reduced miR858 level promotes the fusion of large dark purple dots induced by the solo-LTR of HORT1, eventually generating the purple patches. In addition, the spatially heterogeneous insertion of HORT1 caused by the remnant solo-LTR of HORT1 derived from random homologous unequal recombination of HORT1 in individual cells of floral organs could explain the diverse pigmentation patterning of harlequin Phalaenopsis. CONCLUSIONS This devised model explains how HORT1 and miR858 regulate the formation of the pigmentation patterning and holds great promise for developing efficient and innovative approaches to breeding harlequin Phalaenopsis orchids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ti-Wen Lu
- Department of Life Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
| | - Wen-Huei Chen
- Orchid Research and Development Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan
| | - Pao-Yang Chen
- Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 115, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Chen Shu
- Department of Mathematics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan.
| | - Hong-Hwa Chen
- Department of Life Sciences, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan.
- Orchid Research and Development Center, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan.
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2
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Demesa-Arevalo E, Narasimhan M, Simon R. Intercellular Communication in Shoot Meristems. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PLANT BIOLOGY 2024; 75:319-344. [PMID: 38424066 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-arplant-070523-035342] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
The shoot meristem of land plants maintains the capacity for organ generation throughout its lifespan due to a group of undifferentiated stem cells. Most meristems are shaped like a dome with a precise spatial arrangement of functional domains, and, within and between these domains, cells interact through a network of interconnected signaling pathways. Intercellular communication in meristems is mediated by mobile transcription factors, small RNAs, hormones, and secreted peptides that are perceived by membrane-localized receptors. In recent years, we have gained deeper insight into the underlying molecular processes of the shoot meristem, and we discuss here how plants integrate internal and external inputs to control shoot meristem activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar Demesa-Arevalo
- Institute for Developmental Genetics, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany;
| | - Madhumitha Narasimhan
- Institute for Developmental Genetics, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany;
| | - Rüdiger Simon
- Institute for Developmental Genetics, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany;
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3
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Tee EE, Faulkner C. Plasmodesmata and intercellular molecular traffic control. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2024; 243:32-47. [PMID: 38494438 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
Plasmodesmata are plasma membrane-lined connections that join plant cells to their neighbours, establishing an intercellular cytoplasmic continuum through which molecules can travel between cells, tissues, and organs. As plasmodesmata connect almost all cells in plants, their molecular traffic carries information and resources across a range of scales, but dynamic control of plasmodesmal aperture can change the possible domains of molecular exchange under different conditions. Plasmodesmal aperture is controlled by specialised signalling cascades accommodated in spatially discrete membrane and cell wall domains. Thus, the composition of plasmodesmata defines their capacity for molecular trafficking. Further, their shape and density can likewise define trafficking capacity, with the cell walls between different cell types hosting different numbers and forms of plasmodesmata to drive molecular flux in physiologically important directions. The molecular traffic that travels through plasmodesmata ranges from small metabolites through to proteins, and possibly even larger mRNAs. Smaller molecules are transmitted between cells via passive mechanisms but how larger molecules are efficiently trafficked through plasmodesmata remains a key question in plasmodesmal biology. How plasmodesmata are formed, the shape they take, what they are made of, and what passes through them regulate molecular traffic through plants, underpinning a wide range of plant physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Estee E Tee
- Cell and Developmental Biology, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK
| | - Christine Faulkner
- Cell and Developmental Biology, John Innes Centre, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK
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4
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Xiao F, Zhao Y, Wang X, Jian X, Zhou H. Analysis of differential mRNA and miRNA expression induced by heterogeneous grafting in Gleditsia sinensis. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 270:132235. [PMID: 38734341 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.132235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2024] [Revised: 04/30/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Gleditsia sinensis Lam. is a multifaceted plant with medicinal, edible, chemical, timber, and ornamental applications. However, the effect of rootstocks on scions after grafting is still unclear. This study examined the mRNA and miRNA transcriptome among homografts, heterografts, and seedlings. GO enrichment analysis between seedlings and homograft/heterograft combinations revealed that biosynthesis, degradation, and transport were enriched. The KEGG enrichment results showed that plant hormone signal transduction and the plant MAPK signaling pathway were enriched in both seedlings and heterograft combinations. Through weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA), the hub genes related to the content of plant hormones were obtained. Taking G. sinensis as the scion, there were 4594, 2887, 3429, and 5959 mRNAs that were specifically expressed in the grafted plants of G. sinensis/G. fera, G. sinensis/G. delavayi, G. sinensis/G. microphylla, and G. sinensis/G. japonica, respectively. The specifically expressed mRNA genes may participate in such processes and pathways as the rhythmic process, circadian rhythm, gibberellic-acid-mediated signaling pathway, and peptide-based amino acid modification. Additionally, 3, 16, 2, and 15 specifically expressed miRNAs were identified. This study examines the impact of grafting on gene expression in Gleditsia plants and establishes a foundation for the development of new resources and rootstock breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Xiao
- Institute for Forest Resources and Environment of Guizhou, Key Laboratory of Forest Cultivation in Plateau Mountain of Guizhou Province, College of Forestry, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Yang Zhao
- Institute for Forest Resources and Environment of Guizhou, Key Laboratory of Forest Cultivation in Plateau Mountain of Guizhou Province, College of Forestry, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China.
| | - Xiurong Wang
- Institute for Forest Resources and Environment of Guizhou, Key Laboratory of Forest Cultivation in Plateau Mountain of Guizhou Province, College of Forestry, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
| | - Xueyan Jian
- College of Continuing Education, Yanbian University, Yanji 133002, Jilin, China
| | - Heying Zhou
- Institute for Forest Resources and Environment of Guizhou, Key Laboratory of Forest Cultivation in Plateau Mountain of Guizhou Province, College of Forestry, Guizhou University, Guiyang 550025, Guizhou, China
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5
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Nien YC, Vanek A, Axtell MJ. Trans-Species Mobility of RNA Interference between Plants and Associated Organisms. PLANT & CELL PHYSIOLOGY 2024; 65:694-703. [PMID: 38288670 DOI: 10.1093/pcp/pcae012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/24/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Trans-species RNA interference (RNAi) occurs naturally when small RNAs (sRNAs) silence genes in species different from their origin. This phenomenon has been observed between plants and various organisms including fungi, animals and other plant species. Understanding the mechanisms used in natural cases of trans-species RNAi, such as sRNA processing and movement, will enable more effective development of crop protection methods using host-induced gene silencing (HIGS). Recent progress has been made in understanding the mechanisms of cell-to-cell and long-distance movement of sRNAs within individual plants. This increased understanding of endogenous plant sRNA movement may be translatable to trans-species sRNA movement. Here, we review diverse cases of natural trans-species RNAi focusing on current theories regarding intercellular and long-distance sRNA movement. We also touch on trans-species sRNA evolution, highlighting its research potential and its role in improving the efficacy of HIGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ya-Chi Nien
- Plant Biology Intercollege Ph.D. Program, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Allison Vanek
- Bioinformatics and Genomics Ph.D. Program, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
| | - Michael J Axtell
- Plant Biology Intercollege Ph.D. Program, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Bioinformatics and Genomics Ph.D. Program, Huck Institutes of the Life Sciences, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
- Department of Biology, The Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA
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6
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Fedorin DN, Eprintsev AT, Chuykova VO, Igamberdiev AU. Participation of miR165a in the Phytochrome Signal Transduction in Maize ( Zea mays L.) Leaves under Changing Light Conditions. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:5733. [PMID: 38891921 PMCID: PMC11171563 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25115733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024] Open
Abstract
The involvement of the microRNA miR165a in the light-dependent mechanisms of regulation of target genes in maize (Zea mays) has been studied. The light-induced change in the content of free miR165a was associated with its binding by the AGO10 protein and not with a change in the rate of its synthesis from the precursor. The use of knockout Arabidopsis plants for the phytochrome A and B genes demonstrated that the presence of an active form of phytochrome B causes an increase in the level of the RNA-induced silencing miR165a complex, which triggers the degradation of target mRNAs. The two fractions of vesicles from maize leaves, P40 and P100 that bind miR165a, were isolated by ultracentrifugation. The P40 fraction consisted of larger vesicles of the size >0.170 µm, while the P100 fraction vesicles were <0.147 µm. Based on the quantitative PCR data, the predominant location of miR165a on the surface of extracellular vesicles of both fractions was established. The formation of the active form of phytochrome upon the irradiation of maize plants with red light led to a redistribution of miR165a, resulting in an increase in its proportion inside P40 vesicles and a decrease in P100 vesicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry N. Fedorin
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Physiology, Voronezh State University, 394018 Voronezh, Russia; (D.N.F.); (A.T.E.); (V.O.C.)
| | - Alexander T. Eprintsev
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Physiology, Voronezh State University, 394018 Voronezh, Russia; (D.N.F.); (A.T.E.); (V.O.C.)
| | - Victoria O. Chuykova
- Department of Biochemistry and Cell Physiology, Voronezh State University, 394018 Voronezh, Russia; (D.N.F.); (A.T.E.); (V.O.C.)
| | - Abir U. Igamberdiev
- Department of Biology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1C 5S7, Canada
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7
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Mirlohi S, Schott G, Imboden A, Voinnet O. An AGO10:miR165/6 module regulates meristem activity and xylem development in the Arabidopsis root. EMBO J 2024; 43:1843-1869. [PMID: 38565948 PMCID: PMC11066010 DOI: 10.1038/s44318-024-00071-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The RNA-silencing effector ARGONAUTE10 influences cell fate in plant shoot and floral meristems. ARGONAUTE10 also accumulates in the root apical meristem (RAM), yet its function(s) therein remain elusive. Here, we show that ARGONAUTE10 is expressed in the root cell initials where it controls overall RAM activity and length. ARGONAUTE10 is also expressed in the stele, where post-transcriptional regulation confines it to the root tip's pro-vascular region. There, variations in ARGONAUTE10 levels modulate metaxylem-vs-protoxylem specification. Both ARGONAUTE10 functions entail its selective, high-affinity binding to mobile miR165/166 transcribed in the neighboring endodermis. ARGONAUTE10-bound miR165/166 is degraded, likely via SMALL-RNA-DEGRADING-NUCLEASES1/2, thus reducing miR165/166 ability to silence, via ARGONAUTE1, the transcripts of cell fate-influencing transcription factors. These include PHABULOSA (PHB), which controls meristem activity in the initials and xylem differentiation in the pro-vasculature. During early germination, PHB transcription increases while dynamic, spatially-restricted transcriptional and post-transcriptional mechanisms reduce and confine ARGONAUTE10 accumulation to the provascular cells surrounding the newly-forming xylem axis. Adequate miR165/166 concentrations are thereby channeled along the ARGONAUTE10-deficient yet ARGONAUTE1-proficient axis. Consequently, inversely-correlated miR165/166 and PHB gradients form preferentially along the axis despite ubiquitous PHB transcription and widespread miR165/166 delivery inside the whole vascular cylinder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Mirlohi
- Department of Biology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH-Zürich), Universitätsstrasse 2, 8092, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Gregory Schott
- Department of Biology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH-Zürich), Universitätsstrasse 2, 8092, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - André Imboden
- Department of Biology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH-Zürich), Universitätsstrasse 2, 8092, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Olivier Voinnet
- Department of Biology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH-Zürich), Universitätsstrasse 2, 8092, Zürich, Switzerland.
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8
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El Arbi N, Schürholz AK, Handl MU, Schiffner A, Hidalgo Prados I, Schnurbusch L, Wenzl C, Zhao X, Zeng J, Lohmann JU, Wolf S. ARGONAUTE10 controls cell fate specification and formative cell divisions in the Arabidopsis root. EMBO J 2024; 43:1822-1842. [PMID: 38565947 PMCID: PMC11066080 DOI: 10.1038/s44318-024-00072-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2023] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
A key question in plant biology is how oriented cell divisions are integrated with patterning mechanisms to generate organs with adequate cell type allocation. In the root vasculature, a gradient of miRNA165/6 controls the abundance of HD-ZIP III transcription factors, which in turn control cell fate and spatially restrict vascular cell proliferation to specific cells. Here, we show that vascular development requires the presence of ARGONAUTE10, which is thought to sequester miRNA165/6 and protect HD-ZIP III transcripts from degradation. Our results suggest that the miR165/6-AGO10-HDZIP III module acts by buffering cytokinin responses and restricting xylem differentiation. Mutants of AGO10 show faster growth rates and strongly enhanced survival under severe drought conditions. However, this superior performance is offset by markedly increased variation and phenotypic plasticity in sub-optimal carbon supply conditions. Thus, AGO10 is required for the control of formative cell division and coordination of robust cell fate specification of the vasculature, while altering its expression provides a means to adjust phenotypic plasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nabila El Arbi
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 230, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Department of Plant Physiology, Umea Plant Science Centre, Umea, Sweden
| | - Ann-Kathrin Schürholz
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 230, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Corden Pharma, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Marlene U Handl
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 230, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Plant Molecular Biology (ZMBP), University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 32, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Alexei Schiffner
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 230, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
- Center for Plant Molecular Biology (ZMBP), University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 32, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Inés Hidalgo Prados
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 230, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Liese Schnurbusch
- Center for Plant Molecular Biology (ZMBP), University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 32, 72076, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Christian Wenzl
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 230, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Xin'Ai Zhao
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 230, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jian Zeng
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 230, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Jan U Lohmann
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 230, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Wolf
- Centre for Organismal Studies Heidelberg, Heidelberg University, Im Neuenheimer Feld 230, 69120, Heidelberg, Germany.
- Center for Plant Molecular Biology (ZMBP), University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 32, 72076, Tübingen, Germany.
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9
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Huang NC, Tien HC, Yu TS. Arabidopsis leaf-expressed AGAMOUS-LIKE 24 mRNA systemically specifies floral meristem differentiation. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2024; 241:504-515. [PMID: 37766487 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023]
Abstract
Plants can record external stimuli in mobile mRNAs and systemically deliver them to distal tissues to adjust development. Despite the identification of thousands of mobile mRNAs, the functional relevance of mobile mRNAs remains limited. Many mobile mRNAs are synthesized in the source cells that perceive environmental stimuli, but specifically exert their functions upon transportation to the recipient cells. However, the translation of mobile mRNA-encoded protein in the source cells could locally activate downstream target genes. How plants avoid ectopic functions of mobile mRNAs in the source cells to achieve tissue specificity remains to be elucidated. Here, we show that Arabidopsis AGAMOUS-LIKE 24 (AGL24) is a mobile mRNA whose movement is necessary and sufficient to specify floral organ identity. Although AGL24 mRNA is expressed in vegetative tissues, AGL24 protein exclusively accumulates in the shoot apex. In leaves, AGL24 proteins are degraded to avoid ectopically activating its downstream target genes. Our results reveal how selective protein degradation in source cells provides a strategy to limit the local effects associated with proteins encoded by mobile mRNAs, which ensures that mobile mRNAs specifically trigger systemic responses only in recipient tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nien-Chen Huang
- Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Huan-Chi Tien
- Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
- Molecular and Biological Agricultural Sciences Program, Taiwan International Graduate Program, Academia Sinica and National Chung Hsing University, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Tien-Shin Yu
- Institute of Plant and Microbial Biology, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
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10
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Sexauer M, Bhasin H, Schön M, Roitsch E, Wall C, Herzog U, Markmann K. A micro RNA mediates shoot control of root branching. Nat Commun 2023; 14:8083. [PMID: 38057302 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-43738-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2022] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Plants extract mineral nutrients from the soil, or from interactions with mutualistic soil microbes via their root systems. Adapting root architecture to nutrient availability enables efficient resource utilization, particularly in patchy and dynamic environments. Root growth responses to soil nitrogen levels are shoot-mediated, but the identity of shoot-derived mobile signals regulating root growth responses has remained enigmatic. Here we show that a shoot-derived micro RNA, miR2111, systemically steers lateral root initiation and nitrogen responsiveness through its root target TML (TOO MUCH LOVE) in the legume Lotus japonicus, where miR2111 and TML were previously shown to regulate symbiotic infections with nitrogen fixing bacteria. Intriguingly, systemic control of lateral root initiation by miR2111 and TML/HOLT (HOMOLOGUE OF LEGUME TML) was conserved in the nonsymbiotic ruderal Arabidopsis thaliana, which follows a distinct ecological strategy. Thus, the miR2111-TML/HOLT regulon emerges as an essential, conserved factor in adaptive shoot control of root architecture in dicots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moritz Sexauer
- Eberhard-Karls-University, Centre for Molecular Biology of Plants, Tübingen, Germany
- Julius-Maximilians-University, Julius-von-Sachs Institute for Biosciences, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Hemal Bhasin
- Eberhard-Karls-University, Centre for Molecular Biology of Plants, Tübingen, Germany
- University of Toronto - Scarborough, Department of Biological Sciences, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Maria Schön
- Eberhard-Karls-University, Centre for Molecular Biology of Plants, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Elena Roitsch
- Eberhard-Karls-University, Centre for Molecular Biology of Plants, Tübingen, Germany
- Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Institute for Genetics, Halle/Saale, Germany
| | - Caroline Wall
- Eberhard-Karls-University, Centre for Molecular Biology of Plants, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Ulrike Herzog
- Eberhard-Karls-University, Centre for Molecular Biology of Plants, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Katharina Markmann
- Eberhard-Karls-University, Centre for Molecular Biology of Plants, Tübingen, Germany.
- Martin-Luther-University Halle-Wittenberg, Institute for Genetics, Halle/Saale, Germany.
- Julius-Maximilians-University, Julius-von-Sachs Institute for Biosciences, Würzburg, Germany.
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11
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Liang C, Wang X, He H, Xu C, Cui J. Beyond Loading: Functions of Plant ARGONAUTE Proteins. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:16054. [PMID: 38003244 PMCID: PMC10671604 DOI: 10.3390/ijms242216054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/04/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023] Open
Abstract
ARGONAUTE (AGO) proteins are key components of the RNA-induced silencing complex (RISC) that mediates gene silencing in eukaryotes. Small-RNA (sRNA) cargoes are selectively loaded into different members of the AGO protein family and then target complementary sequences to in-duce transcriptional repression, mRNA cleavage, or translation inhibition. Previous reviews have mainly focused on the traditional roles of AGOs in specific biological processes or on the molecular mechanisms of sRNA sorting. In this review, we summarize the biological significance of canonical sRNA loading, including the balance among distinct sRNA pathways, cross-regulation of different RISC activities during plant development and defense, and, especially, the emerging roles of AGOs in sRNA movement. We also discuss recent advances in novel non-canonical functions of plant AGOs. Perspectives for future functional studies of this evolutionarily conserved eukaryotic protein family will facilitate a more comprehensive understanding of the multi-faceted AGO proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jie Cui
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory for Plant Epigenetics, College of Life Sciences and Oceanography, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen 518060, China; (C.L.); (X.W.); (H.H.); (C.X.)
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12
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Chiang CP, Li JL, Chiou TJ. Dose-dependent long-distance movement of microRNA399 duplex regulates phosphate homeostasis in Arabidopsis. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2023; 240:802-814. [PMID: 37547977 DOI: 10.1111/nph.19182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023]
Abstract
MicroRNA399 (miR399), a phosphate (Pi) starvation-induced long-distance signal, is first produced in shoots and moves to roots to suppress PHO2 encoding a ubiquitin conjugase, leading to enhanced Pi uptake and root-to-shoot translocation. However, the molecular mechanism underlying miR399 long-distance movement remains elusive. Hypocotyl grafting with various Arabidopsis mutants or transgenic lines expressing artificial miR399f was employed. The movement of miR399 across graft junction and the rootstock PHO2 transcript and scion Pi levels were analyzed to elucidate the potential factors involved. Our results showed that miR399f precursors are cell-autonomous and mature miR399f movement is independent of its biogenesis, sequence context, and length (21 or 22 nucleotides). Expressing viral silencing suppressor P19 in the root stele or blocking unloading in the root phloem pore pericycle (PPP) antagonized its silencing effect, suggesting that the miR399f/miR399f* duplex is a mobile entity unloaded through PPP. Notably, the scion miR399f level positively correlates with its amount translocated to rootstocks, implying dose-dependent movement. This study uncovers the molecular basis underlying the miR399-mediated long-distance silencing in coordinating shoot Pi demand with Pi acquisition and translocation activities in the roots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chih-Pin Chiang
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Jia-Ling Li
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
| | - Tzyy-Jen Chiou
- Agricultural Biotechnology Research Center, Academia Sinica, Taipei, 11529, Taiwan
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13
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Scintu D, Scacchi E, Cazzaniga F, Vinciarelli F, De Vivo M, Shtin M, Svolacchia N, Bertolotti G, Unterholzner SJ, Del Bianco M, Timmermans M, Di Mambro R, Vittorioso P, Sabatini S, Costantino P, Dello Ioio R. microRNA165 and 166 modulate response of the Arabidopsis root apical meristem to salt stress. Commun Biol 2023; 6:834. [PMID: 37567954 PMCID: PMC10421904 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05201-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/13/2023] Open
Abstract
In plants, developmental plasticity allows for the modulation of organ growth in response to environmental cues. Being in contact with soil, roots are the first organ that responds to various types of soil abiotic stress such as high salt concentration. In the root, developmental plasticity relies on changes in the activity of the apical meristem, the region at the tip of the root where a set of self-renewing undifferentiated stem cells sustain growth. Here, we show that salt stress promotes differentiation of root meristem cells via reducing the dosage of the microRNAs miR165 and 166. By means of genetic, molecular and computational analysis, we show that the levels of miR165 and 166 respond to high salt concentration, and that miR165 and 166-dependent PHABULOSA (PHB) modulation is central to the response of root growth to this stress. Specifically, we show that salt-dependent reduction of miR165 and 166 causes a rapid increase in PHB expression and, hence, production of the root meristem pro-differentiation hormone cytokinin. Our data provide direct evidence for how the miRNA-dependent modulation of transcription factor dosage mediates plastic development in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daria Scintu
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Charles Darwin, Università di Roma, Sapienza - via dei Sardi, 70, 00185, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via L. Ghini, 13, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Emanuele Scacchi
- Center for Plant Molecular Biology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 32, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Francesca Cazzaniga
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Charles Darwin, Università di Roma, Sapienza - via dei Sardi, 70, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Vinciarelli
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Charles Darwin, Università di Roma, Sapienza - via dei Sardi, 70, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Mirko De Vivo
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Charles Darwin, Università di Roma, Sapienza - via dei Sardi, 70, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Margaryta Shtin
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Charles Darwin, Università di Roma, Sapienza - via dei Sardi, 70, 00185, Rome, Italy
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via L. Ghini, 13, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Noemi Svolacchia
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Charles Darwin, Università di Roma, Sapienza - via dei Sardi, 70, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Gaia Bertolotti
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Charles Darwin, Università di Roma, Sapienza - via dei Sardi, 70, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Simon Josef Unterholzner
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Free University of Bozen-Bolzano, Piazzale Università, 5, 39100, Bolzano, Italy
| | | | - Marja Timmermans
- Center for Plant Molecular Biology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 32, Tübingen, 72076, Germany
| | - Riccardo Di Mambro
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via L. Ghini, 13, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Paola Vittorioso
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Charles Darwin, Università di Roma, Sapienza - via dei Sardi, 70, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Sabrina Sabatini
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Charles Darwin, Università di Roma, Sapienza - via dei Sardi, 70, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Paolo Costantino
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Charles Darwin, Università di Roma, Sapienza - via dei Sardi, 70, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaele Dello Ioio
- Dipartimento di Biologia e Biotecnologie Charles Darwin, Università di Roma, Sapienza - via dei Sardi, 70, 00185, Rome, Italy.
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14
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Sun X, Zheng HX, Li S, Gao Y, Dang Y, Chen Z, Wu F, Wang X, Xie Q, Sui N. MicroRNAs balance growth and salt stress responses in sweet sorghum. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2023; 113:677-697. [PMID: 36534087 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.16065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Salt stress is one of the major causes of reduced crop production, limiting agricultural development globally. Plants have evolved with complex systems to maintain the balance between growth and stress responses, where signaling pathways such as hormone signaling play key roles. Recent studies revealed that hormones are modulated by microRNAs (miRNAs). Previously, two sweet sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) inbred lines with different salt tolerance were identified: the salt-tolerant M-81E and the salt-sensitive Roma. The levels of endogenous hormones in M-81E and Roma varied differently under salt stress, showing a different balance between growth and stress responses. miRNA and degradome sequencing showed that the expression of many upstream transcription factors regulating signal transduction and hormone-responsive genes was directly induced by differentially expressed miRNAs, whose levels were very different between the two sweet sorghum lines. Furthermore, the effects of representative miRNAs on salt tolerance in sorghum were verified through a transformation system mediated by Agrobacterium rhizogenes. Also, miR-6225-5p reduced the level of Ca2+ in the miR-6225-5p-overexpressing line by inhibiting the expression of the Ca2+ uptake gene SbGLR3.1 in the root epidermis and affected salt tolerance in sorghum. This study provides evidence for miRNA-mediated growth and stress responses in sweet sorghum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xi Sun
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Stress, College of life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Hong-Xiang Zheng
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Stress, College of life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Simin Li
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Stress, College of life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Yinping Gao
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Stress, College of life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Yingying Dang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Stress, College of life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Zengting Chen
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Stress, College of life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Fenghui Wu
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Stress, College of life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Xuemei Wang
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Stress, College of life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
| | - Qi Xie
- State Key Laboratory of Plant Genomics, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, The Innovative Academy of Seed Design, China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100081, China
| | - Na Sui
- Shandong Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Stress, College of life Sciences, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, Shandong, 250014, China
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15
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Valmas MI, Sexauer M, Markmann K, Tsikou D. Plants Recruit Peptides and Micro RNAs to Regulate Nutrient Acquisition from Soil and Symbiosis. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 12:187. [PMID: 36616316 PMCID: PMC9824779 DOI: 10.3390/plants12010187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 12/24/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Plants engage in symbiotic relationships with soil microorganisms to overcome nutrient limitations in their environment. Among the best studied endosymbiotic interactions in plants are those with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi and N-fixing bacteria called rhizobia. The mechanisms regulating plant nutrient homeostasis and acquisition involve small mobile molecules such as peptides and micro RNAs (miRNAs). A large number of CLE (CLAVATA3/EMBRYO SURROUNDING REGION-RELATED) and CEP (C-TERMINALLY ENCODED PEPTIDE) peptide hormones as well as certain miRNAs have been reported to differentially respond to the availability of essential nutrients such as nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P). Interestingly, a partially overlapping pool of these molecules is involved in plant responses to root colonization by rhizobia and AM fungi, as well as mineral nutrition. The crosstalk between root endosymbiosis and nutrient availability has been subject of intense investigations, and new insights in locally or systemically mobile molecules in nutrient- as well as symbiosis-related signaling continue to arise. Focusing on the key roles of peptides and miRNAs, we review the mechanisms that shape plant responses to nutrient limitation and regulate the establishment of symbiotic associations with beneficial soil microorganisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marios I. Valmas
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, 41500 Larissa, Greece
| | - Moritz Sexauer
- Julius-von-Sachs-Institute for Biosciences, Würzburg University, Julius-von-Sachs-Platz 3, 97082 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Katharina Markmann
- Julius-von-Sachs-Institute for Biosciences, Würzburg University, Julius-von-Sachs-Platz 3, 97082 Würzburg, Germany
| | - Daniela Tsikou
- Department of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Thessaly, Biopolis, 41500 Larissa, Greece
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16
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Minow MAA, Coneva V, Lesy V, Misyura M, Colasanti J. Plant gene silencing signals move from the phloem to influence gene expression in shoot apical meristems. BMC PLANT BIOLOGY 2022; 22:606. [PMID: 36550422 PMCID: PMC9783409 DOI: 10.1186/s12870-022-03998-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Small RNAs (sRNA) are potent regulators of gene expression that can diffuse short distances between cells and move long distances through plant vasculature. However, the degree to which sRNA silencing signals can move from the phloem to the shoot apical meristem (SAM) remains unclear. RESULTS Two independent transgenic approaches were used to examine whether phloem sRNA silencing can reach different domains of the SAM and silence SAM-expressed genes. First, the phloem companion-cell specific SUCROSE-PROTON SYMPORTER2 (SUC2) promoter was used to drive expression of an inverted repeat to target the FD gene, an exclusively SAM-localized floral regulator. Second, the SUC2 promoter was used to express an artificial microRNA (aMiR) designed to target a synthetic CLAVATA3 (CLV3) transgene in SAM stem cells. Both phloem silencing signals phenocopied the loss of function of their targets and altered target gene expression suggesting that a phloem-to-SAM silencing communication axis exists, connecting distal regions of the plant to SAM stem cells. CONCLUSIONS Demonstration of phloem-to-SAM silencing reveals a regulatory link between somatic sRNA expressed in distal regions of the plant and the growing shoot. Since the SAM stem cells ultimately produce the gametes, we discuss the intriguing possibility that phloem-to-SAM sRNA trafficking could allow transient somatic sRNA expression to manifest stable, transgenerational epigenetic changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A. A. Minow
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Viktoriya Coneva
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Victoria Lesy
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Max Misyura
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Joseph Colasanti
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Road East Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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17
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Yan Y. Insights into Mobile Small-RNAs Mediated Signaling in Plants. PLANTS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 11:3155. [PMID: 36432884 PMCID: PMC9698838 DOI: 10.3390/plants11223155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/09/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In higher plants, small RNA (sRNA)-mediated RNA interfering (RNAi) is involved in a broad range of biological processes. Growing evidence supports the model that sRNAs are mobile signaling agents that move intercellularly, systemically and cross-species. Recently, considerable progress has been made in terms of characterization of the mobile sRNAs population and their function. In this review, recent progress in identification of new mobile sRNAs is assessed. Here, critical questions related to the function of these mobile sRNAs in coordinating developmental, physiological and defense-related processes is discussed. The forms of mobile sRNAs and the underlying mechanisms mediating sRNA trafficking are discussed next. A concerted effort has been made to integrate these new findings into a comprehensive overview of mobile sRNAs signaling in plants. Finally, potential important areas for both basic science and potential applications are highlighted for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
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18
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Brioudes F, Jay F, Voinnet O. Suppression of both intra- and intercellular RNA silencing by the tombusviral P19 protein requires its small RNA binding property. THE NEW PHYTOLOGIST 2022; 235:824-829. [PMID: 35686966 PMCID: PMC9328354 DOI: 10.1111/nph.18180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Florian Brioudes
- Department of BiologyETH‐ZürichUniversitätsstrasse 2Zürich8092Switzerland
| | - Florence Jay
- Department of BiologyETH‐ZürichUniversitätsstrasse 2Zürich8092Switzerland
| | - Olivier Voinnet
- Department of BiologyETH‐ZürichUniversitätsstrasse 2Zürich8092Switzerland
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19
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Jin T, Wu H, Deng Z, Cai T, Li J, Liu Z, Waterhouse PM, White RG, Liang D. Control of root-to-shoot long-distance flow by a key ROS-regulating factor in Arabidopsis. PLANT, CELL & ENVIRONMENT 2022; 45:2476-2491. [PMID: 35689480 DOI: 10.1111/pce.14375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Inter-tissue communication is instrumental to coordinating the whole-body level behaviour for complex multicellular organisms. However, little is known about the regulation of inter-tissue information exchange. Here we carried out genetic screens for root-to-shoot mobile silencing in Arabidopsis plants with a compromised small RNA-mediated gene silencing movement rate and identified radical-induced cell death 1 (RCD1) as a critical regulator of root-shoot communication. RCD1 belongs to a family of poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase proteins, which are highly conserved across land plants. We found that RCD1 coordinates symplastic and apoplastic movement by modulating the sterol level of lipid rafts. The higher superoxide production in rcd1-knockout plants resulted in lower plasmodesmata (PD) frequency and altered PD structure in the symplasm of the hypocotyl cortex. Furthermore, the mutants showed increased lateral area of tracheary pits, which reduced axial movement. Our study highlights a novel mechanism through which root-to-shoot long-distance signalling can be modulated both symplastically and apoplastically.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianling Jin
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Grain Industry, School of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei Province, China
| | - Huiyan Wu
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Grain Industry, School of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhuying Deng
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Grain Industry, School of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei Province, China
| | - Tingting Cai
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Grain Industry, School of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei Province, China
| | - Junkai Li
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Grain Industry, School of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei Province, China
| | - Zhangyong Liu
- Engineering Research Center of Ecology and Agricultural Use of Wetlandy, Ministry of Education/Hubei Key Laboratory of Waterlogging Disaster and Wetland Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei Province, China
| | - Peter M Waterhouse
- Centre for Tropical Crops and Biocommodities, Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, QLD, Australia
| | - Rosemary G White
- Department of Plant Sciences, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT, Australia
| | - Dacheng Liang
- Hubei Collaborative Innovation Center for Grain Industry, School of Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei Province, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ecology and Agricultural Use of Wetlandy, Ministry of Education/Hubei Key Laboratory of Waterlogging Disaster and Wetland Agriculture, Yangtze University, Jingzhou, Hubei Province, China
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20
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Li H, Staxäng K, Hodik M, Melkersson KG, Rask-Andersen M, Rask-Andersen H. Regeneration in the Auditory Organ in Cuban and African Dwarf Crocodiles (Crocodylus rhombifer and Osteolaemus tetraspis) Can We Learn From the Crocodile How to Restore Our Hearing? Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 10:934571. [PMID: 35859896 PMCID: PMC9289536 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2022.934571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 06/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In several non-mammalian species, auditory receptors undergo cell renewal after damage. This has raised hope of finding new options to treat human sensorineural deafness. Uncertainty remains as to the triggering mechanisms and whether hair cells are regenerated even under normal conditions. In the present investigation, we explored the auditory organ in the crocodile to validate possible ongoing natural hair cell regeneration. Materials and Methods: Two male Cuban crocodiles (Crocodylus rhombifer) and an adult male African Dwarf crocodile (Osteolaemus tetraspis) were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy and immunohistochemistry using confocal microscopy. The crocodile ears were fixed in formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde and underwent micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) and 3D reconstruction. The temporal bones were drilled out and decalcified. Results: The crocodile papilla basilaris contained tall (inner) and short (outer) hair cells surrounded by a mosaic of tightly connected supporting cells coupled with gap junctions. Afferent neurons with and without ribbon synapses innervated both hair cell types. Supporting cells occasionally showed signs of trans-differentiation into hair cells. They expressed the MAFA and SOX2 transcription factors. Supporting cells contained organelles that may transfer genetic information between cells, including the efferent nerve fibers during the regeneration process. The tectorial membrane showed signs of being replenished and its architecture being sculpted by extracellular exosome-like proteolysis. Discussion: Crocodilians seem to produce new hair cells during their life span from a range of supporting cells. Imposing efferent nerve fibers may play a role in regeneration and re-innervation of the auditory receptors, possibly triggered by apoptotic signals from wasted hair cells. Intercellular signaling may be accomplished by elaborate gap junction and organelle systems, including neural emperipolesis. Crocodilians seem to restore and sculpt their tectorial membranes throughout their lives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hao Li
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Otolaryngology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karin Staxäng
- The Rudbeck TEM Laboratory, BioVis Platform, Uppsala University, Uppasala, Swedan
| | - Monika Hodik
- The Rudbeck TEM Laboratory, BioVis Platform, Uppsala University, Uppasala, Swedan
| | | | - Mathias Rask-Andersen
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Helge Rask-Andersen
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Otolaryngology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
- *Correspondence: Helge Rask-Andersen,
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21
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Yan Y, Ham BK. The Mobile Small RNAs: Important Messengers for Long-Distance Communication in Plants. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:928729. [PMID: 35783973 PMCID: PMC9247610 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.928729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2022] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Various species of small RNAs (sRNAs), notably microRNAs and small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), have been characterized as the major effectors of RNA interference in plants. Growing evidence supports a model in which sRNAs move, intercellularly, systemically, and between cross-species. These non-coding sRNAs can traffic cell-to-cell through plasmodesmata (PD), in a symplasmic manner, as well as from source to sink tissues, via the phloem, to trigger gene silencing in their target cells. Such mobile sRNAs function in non-cell-autonomous communication pathways, to regulate various biological processes, such as plant development, reproduction, and plant defense. In this review, we summarize recent progress supporting the roles of mobile sRNA in plants, and discuss mechanisms of sRNA transport, signal amplification, and the plant's response, in terms of RNAi activity, within the recipient tissues. We also discuss potential research directions and their likely impact on engineering of crops with traits for achieving food security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yan
- Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Byung-Kook Ham
- Global Institute for Food Security, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
- Department of Biology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK, Canada
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22
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Cisneros AE, de la Torre‐Montaña A, Carbonell A. Systemic silencing of an endogenous plant gene by two classes of mobile 21-nucleotide artificial small RNAs. THE PLANT JOURNAL : FOR CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2022; 110:1166-1181. [PMID: 35277899 PMCID: PMC9310713 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.15730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Artificial small RNAs (art-sRNAs) are 21-nucleotide small RNAs (sRNAs) computationally designed to silence plant genes or pathogenic RNAs with high efficacy and specificity. They are typically produced in transgenic plants to induce silencing at the whole-organism level, although their expression in selected tissues for inactivating genes in distal tissues has not been reported. Here, art-sRNAs designed against the magnesium chelatase subunit CHLI-encoding SULFUR gene (NbSu) were agroinfiltrated in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves, and the induction of local and systemic silencing was analyzed phenotypically by monitoring the appearance of the characteristic bleached phenotype, as well as molecularly by analyzing art-sRNA processing, accumulation and targeting activity and efficacy. We found that the two classes of art-sRNAs, artificial microRNAs (amiRNAs) and synthetic trans-acting small interfering RNAs (syn-tasiRNAs), are able to induce systemic silencing of NbSu, which requires high art-sRNA expression in the vicinity of the leaf petiole but is independent on the production of secondary sRNAs from NbSu mRNAs. Moreover, we revealed that 21-nucleotide amiRNA and syn-tasiRNA duplexes, and not their precursors, are the molecules moving between cells and through the phloem to systemically silence NbSu in upper leaves. In sum, our results indicate that 21-nucleotide art-sRNAs can move throughout the plant to silence plant genes in tissues different from where they are produced. This highlights the biotechnological potential of art-sRNAs, which might be applied locally for triggering whole-plant and highly specific silencing to regulate gene expression or induce resistance against pathogenic RNAs in next-generation crops. The present study demonstrates that artificial small RNAs, such as artificial microRNAs and synthetic trans-acting small interfering RNAs, can move long distances in plants as 21-nucleotide duplexes, specifically silencing endogenous genes in tissues different from where they are applied. This highlights the biotechnological potential of artificial small RNAs, which might be applied locally for triggering whole-plant, highly specific silencing to regulate gene expression or induce resistance against pathogenic RNAs in next-generation crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana E. Cisneros
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas – Universitat Politècnica de València)46022ValenciaSpain
| | - Ainhoa de la Torre‐Montaña
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas – Universitat Politècnica de València)46022ValenciaSpain
| | - Alberto Carbonell
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Plantas (Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas – Universitat Politècnica de València)46022ValenciaSpain
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23
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Fan L, Zhang C, Gao B, Zhang Y, Stewart E, Jez J, Nakajima K, Chen X. Microtubules promote the non-cell autonomous action of microRNAs by inhibiting their cytoplasmic loading onto ARGONAUTE1 in Arabidopsis. Dev Cell 2022; 57:995-1008.e5. [PMID: 35429434 PMCID: PMC9056376 DOI: 10.1016/j.devcel.2022.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Mobile microRNAs (miRNAs) serve as local and long-distance signals in the developmental patterning and stress responses in plants. However, mechanisms governing the non-cell autonomous activities of miRNAs remain elusive. Here, we show that mutations that disrupt microtubule dynamics are specifically defective for the non-cell autonomous actions of mobile miRNAs, including miR165/6 that is produced in the endodermis and moves to the vasculature to pattern xylem cell fates in Arabidopsis roots. We show that KTN1, a subunit of a microtubule-severing enzyme, is required in source cells to inhibit the loading of miR165/6 into ARGONUATE1 (AGO1), which is cell autonomous, to enable the miRNA to exit the cell. Microtubule disruption enhances the association of miR165/6 with AGO1 in the cytoplasm. These findings suggest that although cell-autonomous miRNAs load onto AGO1 in the nucleus, the cytoplasmic AGO1 loading of mobile miRNAs is a key step regulated by microtubules to promote the range of miRNA cell-to-cell movement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lusheng Fan
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Cui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100093, China
| | - Bin Gao
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Yong Zhang
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA
| | - Ethan Stewart
- Vienna Biocenter Core Facilities (VBCF), Vienna, Austria
| | - Jakub Jez
- Vienna Biocenter Core Facilities (VBCF), Vienna, Austria
| | - Keiji Nakajima
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5 Takayama, Ikoma, Nara 630-0192, Japan
| | - Xuemei Chen
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA.
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Chen X, Rechavi O. Plant and animal small RNA communications between cells and organisms. Nat Rev Mol Cell Biol 2022; 23:185-203. [PMID: 34707241 PMCID: PMC9208737 DOI: 10.1038/s41580-021-00425-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Since the discovery of eukaryotic small RNAs as the main effectors of RNA interference in the late 1990s, diverse types of endogenous small RNAs have been characterized, most notably microRNAs, small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and PIWI-interacting RNAs (piRNAs). These small RNAs associate with Argonaute proteins and, through sequence-specific gene regulation, affect almost every major biological process. Intriguing features of small RNAs, such as their mechanisms of amplification, rapid evolution and non-cell-autonomous function, bestow upon them the capacity to function as agents of intercellular communications in development, reproduction and immunity, and even in transgenerational inheritance. Although there are many types of extracellular small RNAs, and despite decades of research, the capacity of these molecules to transmit signals between cells and between organisms is still highly controversial. In this Review, we discuss evidence from different plants and animals that small RNAs can act in a non-cell-autonomous manner and even exchange information between species. We also discuss mechanistic insights into small RNA communications, such as the nature of the mobile agents, small RNA signal amplification during transit, signal perception and small RNA activity at the destination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuemei Chen
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, Institute for Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA, USA.
| | - Oded Rechavi
- Department of Neurobiology, The George S. Wise Faculty of Life Sciences, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel. .,Sagol School of Neuroscience, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel.
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25
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Miras M, Pottier M, Schladt TM, Ejike JO, Redzich L, Frommer WB, Kim JY. Plasmodesmata and their role in assimilate translocation. JOURNAL OF PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2022; 270:153633. [PMID: 35151953 DOI: 10.1016/j.jplph.2022.153633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
During multicellularization, plants evolved unique cell-cell connections, the plasmodesmata (PD). PD of angiosperms are complex cellular domains, embedded in the cell wall and consisting of multiple membranes and a large number of proteins. From the beginning, it had been assumed that PD provide passage for a wide range of molecules, from ions to metabolites and hormones, to RNAs and even proteins. In the context of assimilate allocation, it has been hypothesized that sucrose produced in mesophyll cells is transported via PD from cell to cell down a concentration gradient towards the phloem. Entry into the sieve element companion cell complex (SECCC) is then mediated on three potential routes, depending on the species and conditions, - either via diffusion across PD, after conversion to raffinose via PD using a polymer trap mechanism, or via a set of transporters which secrete sucrose from one cell and secondary active uptake into the SECCC. Multiple loading mechanisms can likely coexist. We here review the current knowledge regarding photoassimilate transport across PD between cells as a prerequisite for translocation from leaves to recipient organs, in particular roots and developing seeds. We summarize the state-of-the-art in protein composition, structure, transport mechanism and regulation of PD to apprehend their functions in carbohydrate allocation. Since many aspects of PD biology remain elusive, we highlight areas that require new approaches and technologies to advance our understanding of these enigmatic and important cell-cell connections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Miras
- Institute for Molecular Physiology, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, 40225, Germany
| | - Mathieu Pottier
- Institute for Molecular Physiology, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, 40225, Germany
| | - T Moritz Schladt
- Institute for Molecular Physiology, Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, 40225, Germany
| | - J Obinna Ejike
- Institute for Molecular Physiology and Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, 40225, Germany
| | - Laura Redzich
- Institute for Molecular Physiology and Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, 40225, Germany
| | - Wolf B Frommer
- Institute for Molecular Physiology and Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, 40225, Germany; Institute of Transformative Bio-Molecules (WPI-ITbM), Nagoya University, Chikusa, Nagoya, 464-8601, Japan.
| | - Ji-Yun Kim
- Institute for Molecular Physiology and Cluster of Excellence on Plant Sciences (CEPLAS), Heinrich-Heine-University Düsseldorf, Düsseldorf, 40225, Germany
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26
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Han H, Zhou Y. Function and Regulation of microRNA171 in Plant Stem Cell Homeostasis and Developmental Programing. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2544. [PMID: 35269685 PMCID: PMC8910752 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Revised: 02/21/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
MicroRNA171 (miR171), a group of 21-nucleotide single-strand small RNAs, is one ancient and conserved microRNA family in land plants. This review focuses on the recent progress in understanding the role of miR171 in plant stem cell homeostasis and developmental patterning, and the regulation of miR171 by developmental cues and environmental signals. Specifically, miR171 regulates shoot meristem activity and phase transition through repressing the HAIRYMERISTEM (HAM) family genes. In the model species Arabidopsis, miR171 serves as a short-range mobile signal, which initiates in the epidermal layer of shoot meristems and moves downwards within a limited distance, to pattern the apical-basal polarity of gene expression and drive stem cell dynamics. miR171 levels are regulated by light and various abiotic stresses, suggesting miR171 may serve as a linkage between environmental factors and cell fate decisions. Furthermore, miR171 family members also demonstrate both conserved and lineage-specific functions in land plants, which are summarized and discussed here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Han Han
- Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA;
- Purdue Center for Plant Biology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
| | - Yun Zhou
- Department of Botany and Plant Pathology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA;
- Purdue Center for Plant Biology, Purdue University, West Lafayette, IN 47907, USA
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27
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Dong Q, Hu B, Zhang C. microRNAs and Their Roles in Plant Development. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2022; 13:824240. [PMID: 35251094 PMCID: PMC8895298 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2022.824240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/27/2022] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Small RNAs are short non-coding RNAs with a length ranging between 20 and 24 nucleotides. Of these, microRNAs (miRNAs) play a distinct role in plant development. miRNAs control target gene expression at the post-transcriptional level, either through direct cleavage or inhibition of translation. miRNAs participate in nearly all the developmental processes in plants, such as juvenile-to-adult transition, shoot apical meristem development, leaf morphogenesis, floral organ formation, and flowering time determination. This review summarizes the research progress in miRNA-mediated gene regulation and its role in plant development, to provide the basis for further in-depth exploration regarding the function of miRNAs and the elucidation of the molecular mechanism underlying the interaction of miRNAs and other pathways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingkun Dong
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Binbin Hu
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Cui Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Physiology, CAS Center for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences, Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
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28
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29
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Ramalho JJ, Jones VAS, Mutte S, Weijers D. Pole position: How plant cells polarize along the axes. THE PLANT CELL 2022; 34:174-192. [PMID: 34338785 PMCID: PMC8774072 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koab203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Having a sense of direction is a fundamental cellular trait that can determine cell shape, division orientation, or function, and ultimately the formation of a functional, multicellular body. Cells acquire and integrate directional information by establishing discrete subcellular domains along an axis with distinct molecular profiles, a process known as cell polarization. Insight into the principles and mechanisms underlying cell polarity has been propelled by decades of extensive research mostly in yeast and animal models. Our understanding of cell polarity establishment in plants, which lack most of the regulatory molecules identified in other eukaryotes, is more limited, but significant progress has been made in recent years. In this review, we explore how plant cells coordinately establish stable polarity axes aligned with the organ axes, highlighting similarities in the molecular logic used to polarize both plant and animal cells. We propose a classification system for plant cell polarity events and nomenclature guidelines. Finally, we provide a deep phylogenetic analysis of polar proteins and discuss the evolution of polarity machineries in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sumanth Mutte
- Laboratory of Biochemistry, Wageningen University, Stippeneng 4, 6703WE Wageningen, The Netherlands
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30
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Bertolotti G, Scintu D, Dello Ioio R. A small cog in a large wheel: crucial role of miRNAs in root apical meristem patterning. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2021; 72:6755-6767. [PMID: 34350947 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erab332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In both animal and plants, establishment of body axes is fundamental for proper organ development. Plant roots show two main developmental axes: the proximo-distal axis, which spans from the hypocotyl-root junction to the root tip; and the radial axis, which traverses from the vascular tissue to the epidermis. Root axes are determined in the root meristem. The root meristem occupies the tip of the root and contains self-renewing stem cells, which continuously produce new root cells. An intricate network of signalling pathways regulates meristem function and patterning to ensure proper root development and growth. In the last decade, miRNAs, 20-21 nucleotide-long molecules with morphogenetic activity, emerged as central regulators of root cell patterning. Their activity intersects with master regulators of meristematic activity, including phytohormones. In this review, we discuss the latest findings about the activity of miRNAs and their interaction with other molecular networks in the formation of root meristem axes. Furthermore, we describe how these small molecules allow root growth to adapt to changes in the environment, while maintaining the correct patterning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Bertolotti
- University of Rome 'La Sapienza', Department of Biology and Biotechnology, 'Charles Darwin', Via dei Sardi 70, Rome, Italy
| | - Daria Scintu
- University of Rome 'La Sapienza', Department of Biology and Biotechnology, 'Charles Darwin', Via dei Sardi 70, Rome, Italy
| | - Raffaele Dello Ioio
- University of Rome 'La Sapienza', Department of Biology and Biotechnology, 'Charles Darwin', Via dei Sardi 70, Rome, Italy
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31
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Abstract
Plants exhibit remarkable lineage plasticity, allowing them to regenerate organs that differ from their respective origins. Such developmental plasticity is dependent on the activity of pluripotent founder cells or stem cells residing in meristems. At the shoot apical meristem (SAM), the constant flow of cells requires continuing cell specification governed by a complex genetic network, with the WUSCHEL transcription factor and phytohormone cytokinin at its core. In this review, I discuss some intriguing recent discoveries that expose new principles and mechanisms of patterning and cell specification acting both at the SAM and, prior to meristem organogenesis during shoot regeneration. I also highlight unanswered questions and future challenges in the study of SAM and meristem regeneration. Finally, I put forward a model describing stochastic events mediated by epigenetic factors to explain how the gene regulatory network might be initiated at the onset of shoot regeneration. Expected final online publication date for the Annual Review of Genetics, Volume 55 is November 2021. Please see http://www.annualreviews.org/page/journal/pubdates for revised estimates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leor Eshed Williams
- The Robert H. Smith Institute of Plant Sciences and Genetics in Agriculture, The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Rehovot 76100, Israel;
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The receptor-like kinases BAM1 and BAM2 are required for root xylem patterning. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A 2021; 118:2022547118. [PMID: 33723062 DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2022547118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Xylem patterning in the root is established through the creation of opposing gradients of miRNAs and their targets, transcripts of the HD-ZIP III family of transcriptions factors, enabled by the cell-to-cell spread of the former. The miRNAs regulating xylem patterning, miR165/6, move through plasmodesmata, but how their trafficking is regulated remains elusive. Here, we describe that simultaneous mutation of the plasma membrane- and plasmodesmata-localized receptor-like kinases (RLKs) BARELY ANY MERISTEM (BAM) 1 and 2 or expression of the geminivirus-encoded BAM1/2-interactor C4 results in higher accumulation and broader distribution of the HD-ZIP III transcripts despite normal total accumulation of miR165/6, and ultimately causes defects in xylem patterning, which depend on the function of the aforementioned miRNA targets. Taken together, our results show that BAM1 and BAM2 are redundantly required for proper xylem patterning in the Arabidopsis root, by ensuring the proper distribution and accumulation of miR165/6-targeted transcripts.
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Qiao Y, Xia R, Zhai J, Hou Y, Feng L, Zhai Y, Ma W. Small RNAs in Plant Immunity and Virulence of Filamentous Pathogens. ANNUAL REVIEW OF PHYTOPATHOLOGY 2021; 59:265-288. [PMID: 34077241 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-phyto-121520-023514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Gene silencing guided by small RNAs governs a broad range of cellular processes in eukaryotes. Small RNAs are important components of plant immunity because they contribute to pathogen-triggered transcription reprogramming and directly target pathogen RNAs. Recent research suggests that silencing of pathogen genes by plant small RNAs occurs not only during viral infection but also in nonviral pathogens through a process termed host-induced gene silencing, which involves trans-species small RNA trafficking. Similarly, small RNAs are also produced by eukaryotic pathogens and regulate virulence. This review summarizes the small RNA pathways in both plants and filamentous pathogens, including fungi and oomycetes, and discusses their role in host-pathogen interactions. We highlight secondarysmall interfering RNAs of plants as regulators of immune receptor gene expression and executors of host-induced gene silencing in invading pathogens. The current status and prospects of trans-species gene silencing at the host-pathogen interface are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yongli Qiao
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Plant Molecular Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shanghai Normal University, Shanghai 200234, China;
| | - Rui Xia
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510640, China
| | - Jixian Zhai
- School of Life Sciences, Institute of Plant and Food Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yingnan Hou
- Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, USA
| | - Li Feng
- School of Life Sciences, Institute of Plant and Food Science, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Yi Zhai
- Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, USA
| | - Wenbo Ma
- Department of Microbiology and Plant Pathology, University of California, Riverside, California 92521, USA
- The Sainsbury Laboratory, Norwich Research Park, Norwich, NR4 7UH, UK;
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34
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Brioudes F, Jay F, Sarazin A, Grentzinger T, Devers EA, Voinnet O. HASTY, the Arabidopsis EXPORTIN5 ortholog, regulates cell-to-cell and vascular microRNA movement. EMBO J 2021; 40:e107455. [PMID: 34152631 PMCID: PMC8327949 DOI: 10.15252/embj.2020107455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Plant microRNAs (miRNAs) guide cytosolic post-transcriptional gene silencing of sequence-complementary transcripts within the producing cells, as well as in distant cells and tissues. Here, we used an artificial miRNA-based system (amiRSUL) in Arabidopsis thaliana to explore the still elusive mechanisms of inter-cellular miRNA movement via forward genetics. This screen identified many mutant alleles of HASTY (HST), the ortholog of mammalian EXPORTIN5 (XPO5) with a recently reported role in miRNA biogenesis in Arabidopsis. In both epidermis-peeling and grafting assays, amiRSUL levels were reduced much more substantially in miRNA-recipient tissues than in silencing-emitting tissues. We ascribe this effect to HST controlling cell-to-cell and phloem-mediated movement of the processed amiRSUL, in addition to regulating its biogenesis. While HST is not required for the movement of free GFP or siRNAs, its cell-autonomous expression in amiRSUL-emitting tissues suffices to restore amiRSUL movement independently of its nucleo-cytosolic shuttling activity. By contrast, HST is dispensable for the movement and activity of amiRSUL within recipient tissues. Finally, HST enables movement of endogenous miRNAs that display mostly unaltered steady-state levels in hst mutant tissues. We discuss a role for HST as a hitherto unrecognized regulator of miRNA movement in relation to its recently assigned nuclear function at the nexus of MIRNA transcription and miRNA processing.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Florence Jay
- Department of BiologyETH ZürichZürichSwitzerland
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35
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Cataloguing the small RNA content of honey using next generation sequencing. FOOD CHEMISTRY. MOLECULAR SCIENCES 2021; 2:100014. [PMID: 35415639 PMCID: PMC8991712 DOI: 10.1016/j.fochms.2021.100014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Plant miRNAs are present in Australian polyfloral and Leptospermum scoparium honey. Sequencing shows that honey contains a diverse range of small, non-coding RNAs. Honey RNA comes from different phylogenies including invertebrates and prokaryotes. Unique small RNA profiles can provide insight into honey production conditions.
Honey adulteration is a problem that effects the global honey industry and specifically, has been discovered in the Australian market. Common methods of adulteration include dilution with sugar syrup substitutes and the mislabelling of the floral and geographic origin(s) of honey. Current authentication tools rely on the molecular variability between different honeys, identifying unique chemical profiles and/or DNA signatures characteristic of a particular honey. Honey is known to contain plant miRNAs derived from its floral source. To explore the composition and variability of honey RNA molecules, this is the first study to catalogue the small RNA content of Australian polyfloral table honey and New Zealand Leptospermum scoparium honey using next generation sequencing. The data shows that in addition to miRNAs, honey contains a variety of small non-coding RNAs including tRNA-derived fragments. Moreover, the honey small RNAs are derived from a range of phylogenetic sources, including from plant, invertebrate, and prokaryotic species. The data indicates that different honeys contain unique small RNA profiles, which suggests a novel avenue in developing molecular-based honey authentication tools.
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36
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Kwaśniewska K, Breathnach C, Fitzsimons C, Goslin K, Thomson B, Beegan J, Finocchio A, Prunet N, Ó’Maoiléidigh DS, Wellmer F. Expression of KNUCKLES in the Stem Cell Domain Is Required for Its Function in the Control of Floral Meristem Activity in Arabidopsis. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:704351. [PMID: 34367223 PMCID: PMC8336581 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.704351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
In the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana, the zinc-finger transcription factor KNUCKLES (KNU) plays an important role in the termination of floral meristem activity, a process that is crucial for preventing the overgrowth of flowers. The KNU gene is activated in floral meristems by the floral organ identity factor AGAMOUS (AG), and it has been shown that both AG and KNU act in floral meristem control by directly repressing the stem cell regulator WUSCHEL (WUS), which leads to a loss of stem cell activity. When we re-examined the expression pattern of KNU in floral meristems, we found that KNU is expressed throughout the center of floral meristems, which includes, but is considerably broader than the WUS expression domain. We therefore hypothesized that KNU may have additional functions in the control of floral meristem activity. To test this, we employed a gene perturbation approach and knocked down KNU activity at different times and in different domains of the floral meristem. In these experiments we found that early expression in the stem cell domain, which is characterized by the expression of the key meristem regulatory gene CLAVATA3 (CLV3), is crucial for the establishment of KNU expression. The results of additional genetic and molecular analyses suggest that KNU represses floral meristem activity to a large extent by acting on CLV3. Thus, KNU might need to suppress the expression of several meristem regulators to terminate floral meristem activity efficiently.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Kevin Goslin
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Bennett Thomson
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Joseph Beegan
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Andrea Finocchio
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Nathanaël Prunet
- Department of Molecular, Cell and Developmental Biology, University of California, Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA, United States
| | - Diarmuid S. Ó’Maoiléidigh
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
- Institute of Integrative Biology, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, United Kingdom
| | - Frank Wellmer
- Smurfit Institute of Genetics, Trinity College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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37
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Cai H, Liu L, Zhang M, Chai M, Huang Y, Chen F, Yan M, Su Z, Henderson I, Palanivelu R, Chen X, Qin Y. Spatiotemporal control of miR398 biogenesis, via chromatin remodeling and kinase signaling, ensures proper ovule development. THE PLANT CELL 2021; 33:1530-1553. [PMID: 33570655 PMCID: PMC8254498 DOI: 10.1093/plcell/koab056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The coordinated development of sporophytic and gametophytic tissues is essential for proper ovule patterning and fertility. However, the mechanisms regulating their integrated development remain poorly understood. Here, we report that the Swi2/Snf2-Related1 (SWR1) chromatin-remodeling complex acts with the ERECTA receptor kinase-signaling pathway to control female gametophyte and integument growth in Arabidopsis thaliana by inhibiting transcription of the microRNA gene MIR398c in early-stage megagametogenesis. Moreover, pri-miR398c is transcribed in the female gametophyte but is then translocated to and processed in the ovule sporophytic tissues. Together, SWR1 and ERECTA also activate ARGONAUTE10 (AGO10) expression in the chalaza; AGO10 sequesters miR398, thereby ensuring the expression of three AGAMOUS-LIKE (AGL) genes (AGL51, AGL52, and AGL78) in the female gametophyte. In the context of sexual organ morphogenesis, these findings suggest that the spatiotemporal control of miRNA biogenesis, resulting from coordination between chromatin remodeling and cell signaling, is essential for proper ovule development in Arabidopsis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanyang Cai
- College of Life Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Haixia Applied Plant Systems Biology, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Liping Liu
- College of Life Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Haixia Applied Plant Systems Biology, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Man Zhang
- College of Life Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Haixia Applied Plant Systems Biology, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Mengnan Chai
- College of Life Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Haixia Applied Plant Systems Biology, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Youmei Huang
- College of Life Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Haixia Applied Plant Systems Biology, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Fangqian Chen
- College of Life Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Haixia Applied Plant Systems Biology, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Maokai Yan
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi Key Lab of Sugarcane Biology, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
| | - Zhenxia Su
- College of Life Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Haixia Applied Plant Systems Biology, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
| | - Ian Henderson
- Department of Plant Sciences, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EA, United Kingdom
| | | | - Xuemei Chen
- Department of Botany and Plant Sciences, Institute of Integrative Genome Biology, University of California, Riverside, CA 92521, United States
| | - Yuan Qin
- College of Life Science, Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Haixia Applied Plant Systems Biology, State Key Laboratory of Ecological Pest Control for Fujian and Taiwan Crops, Fujian Agriculture and Forestry University, Fuzhou 350002, China
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi Key Lab of Sugarcane Biology, College of Agriculture, Guangxi University, Nanning 530004, China
- Author for correspondence:
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38
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Kondhare KR, Patil NS, Banerjee AK. A historical overview of long-distance signalling in plants. JOURNAL OF EXPERIMENTAL BOTANY 2021; 72:4218-4236. [PMID: 33682884 DOI: 10.1093/jxb/erab048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Be it a small herb or a large tree, intra- and intercellular communication and long-distance signalling between distant organs are crucial for every aspect of plant development. The vascular system, comprising xylem and phloem, acts as a major conduit for the transmission of long-distance signals in plants. In addition to expanding our knowledge of vascular development, numerous reports in the past two decades revealed that selective populations of RNAs, proteins, and phytohormones function as mobile signals. Many of these signals were shown to regulate diverse physiological processes, such as flowering, leaf and root development, nutrient acquisition, crop yield, and biotic/abiotic stress responses. In this review, we summarize the significant discoveries made in the past 25 years, with emphasis on key mobile signalling molecules (mRNAs, proteins including RNA-binding proteins, and small RNAs) that have revolutionized our understanding of how plants integrate various intrinsic and external cues in orchestrating growth and development. Additionally, we provide detailed insights on the emerging molecular mechanisms that might control the selective trafficking and delivery of phloem-mobile RNAs to target tissues. We also highlight the cross-kingdom movement of mobile signals during plant-parasite relationships. Considering the dynamic functions of these signals, their implications in crop improvement are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirtikumar R Kondhare
- Plant Molecular Biology Unit, Biochemical Sciences Division, CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (NCL) Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Nikita S Patil
- Biology Division, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune, Maharashtra, India
| | - Anjan K Banerjee
- Biology Division, Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Pune, Maharashtra, India
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Ma X, Denyer T, Javelle M, Feller A, Timmermans MCP. Genome-wide analysis of plant miRNA action clarifies levels of regulatory dynamics across developmental contexts. Genome Res 2021; 31:811-822. [PMID: 33863807 PMCID: PMC8092011 DOI: 10.1101/gr.270918.120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Development of complex organisms requires the delicate and dynamic spatiotemporal regulation of gene expression. Central to this are microRNAs (miRNAs). These mobile small RNAs offer specificity in conveying positional information and versatility in patterning the outcomes of gene expression. However, the parameters that shape miRNA output during development are still to be clarified. Here, we address this question on a genome-wide scale, using the maize shoot apex as a model. We show that patterns and levels of miRNA accumulation are largely determined at the transcriptional level, but are finessed post-transcriptionally in a tissue-dependent manner. The stem cell environments of the shoot apical meristem and vasculature appear particularly liable to this. Tissue-specific effects are also apparent at the level of target repression, with target cleavage products in the vasculature exceeding those of other tissues. Our results argue against a clearance mode of regulation purely at the level of transcript cleavage, leading us to propose that transcript cleavage provides a baseline level of target repression, onto which miRNA-driven translational repression can act to toggle the mode of target regulation between clearance and rheostat. Our data show how the inherent complexities of miRNA pathways allow the accumulation and activity of these small RNAs to be tailored in space and time to bring about the gene expression versatility needed during development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoli Ma
- Center for Plant Molecular Biology, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Tom Denyer
- Center for Plant Molecular Biology, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Antje Feller
- Center for Plant Molecular Biology, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marja C P Timmermans
- Center for Plant Molecular Biology, University of Tübingen, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
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40
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Harline K, Martínez-Gómez J, Specht CD, Roeder AHK. A Life Cycle for Modeling Biology at Different Scales. FRONTIERS IN PLANT SCIENCE 2021; 12:710590. [PMID: 34539702 PMCID: PMC8446664 DOI: 10.3389/fpls.2021.710590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/22/2021] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Modeling has become a popular tool for inquiry and discovery across biological disciplines. Models allow biologists to probe complex questions and to guide experimentation. Modeling literacy among biologists, however, has not always kept pace with the rise in popularity of these techniques and the relevant advances in modeling theory. The result is a lack of understanding that inhibits communication and ultimately, progress in data gathering and analysis. In an effort to help bridge this gap, we present a blueprint that will empower biologists to interrogate and apply models in their field. We demonstrate the applicability of this blueprint in two case studies from distinct subdisciplines of biology; developmental-biomechanics and evolutionary biology. The models used in these fields vary from summarizing dynamical mechanisms to making statistical inferences, demonstrating the breadth of the utility of models to explore biological phenomena.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kate Harline
- Section of Plant Biology, School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
- *Correspondence: Kate Harline,
| | - Jesús Martínez-Gómez
- Section of Plant Biology, School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
- L.H. Bailey Hortorium, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Chelsea D. Specht
- Section of Plant Biology, School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
- L.H. Bailey Hortorium, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Adrienne H. K. Roeder
- Section of Plant Biology, School of Integrative Plant Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
- Weill Institute for Cell and Molecular Biology, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
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Affiliation(s)
- Quentin Gouil
- La Trobe Institute for Agriculture and Food, Department of Animal, Plant and Soil Sciences, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
- Epigenetics and Development Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
- Department of Medical Biology, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia.
| | - Mathew G Lewsey
- La Trobe Institute for Agriculture and Food, Department of Animal, Plant and Soil Sciences, School of Life Sciences, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
- Australian Research Council Research Hub for Medicinal Agriculture, La Trobe University, Bundoora, Victoria, Australia.
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42
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Fouracre JP, Poethig RS. Lonely at the top? Regulation of shoot apical meristem activity by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2020; 58:17-24. [PMID: 33099210 PMCID: PMC7752823 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2020.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2020] [Revised: 07/22/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
All the above-ground organs of a plant are derived from stem cells that reside in shoot apical meristems (SAM). Over the past 25 years, the genetic pathways that control the proliferation of stem cells within the SAM, and the differentiation of their progenitors into lateral organs, have been described in great detail. However, longstanding questions regarding the importance of communication between cells within the SAM and lateral organs have, until recently, remained unanswered. In this review, we describe recent investigations into the extent, nature and significance of signaling both to and from the SAM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim P Fouracre
- Biology Department, University of Pennsylvania, 433 S. University Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA
| | - Richard Scott Poethig
- Biology Department, University of Pennsylvania, 433 S. University Ave, Philadelphia, PA, 19104, USA.
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Dávalos A, Pinilla L, López de Las Hazas MC, Pinto-Hernández P, Barbé F, Iglesias-Gutiérrez E, de Gonzalo-Calvo D. Dietary microRNAs and cancer: A new therapeutic approach? Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 73:19-29. [PMID: 33086083 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2020] [Revised: 09/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Cancer is one of the leading causes of premature death and constitutes a challenge for both low- and high-income societies. Previous evidence supports a close association between modifiable risk factors, including dietary habits, and cancer risk. Investigation of molecular mechanisms that mediate the pro-oncogenic and anti-oncogenic effects of diet is therefore fundamental. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have received much attention in the past few decades as crucial molecular elements of human physiology and disease. Aberrant expression patterns of these small noncoding transcripts have been observed in a wide array of cancers. Interestingly, human miRNAs not only can be modulated by bioactive dietary components, but it has also been proposed that diet-derived miRNAs may contribute to the pool of human miRNAs. Results from independent groups have suggested that these exogenous miRNAs may be functional in organisms. These findings open the door to novel and innovative approaches to cancer therapy. Here, we provide an overview of the biology of miRNAs, with a special focus on plant-derived dietary miRNAs, summarize recent findings in the field of cancer, address the possible applications to clinical practice and discuss obstacles and challenges in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Dávalos
- Laboratory of Epigenetics of Lipid Metabolism, Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies (IMDEA)-Food, CEI UAM + CSIC, Crta. de, Carr. de Canto Blanco, nº8, E, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Lucía Pinilla
- Translational Research in Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova and Santa Maria, IRBLleida, Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain; CIBER of Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Institute of Health Carlos III, Av. de Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - María-Carmen López de Las Hazas
- Laboratory of Epigenetics of Lipid Metabolism, Madrid Institute for Advanced Studies (IMDEA)-Food, CEI UAM + CSIC, Crta. de, Carr. de Canto Blanco, nº8, E, 28049 Madrid, Spain
| | - Paola Pinto-Hernández
- Department of Functional Biology, Physiology, University of Oviedo, Av. Julián Clavería, 6, 33006 Oviedo, Spain
| | - Ferran Barbé
- Translational Research in Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova and Santa Maria, IRBLleida, Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain; CIBER of Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Institute of Health Carlos III, Av. de Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029 Madrid, Spain
| | - Eduardo Iglesias-Gutiérrez
- Department of Functional Biology, Physiology, University of Oviedo, Av. Julián Clavería, 6, 33006 Oviedo, Spain; Health Research Institute of the Principality of Asturias (ISPA), Av. Roma, s/n, 33011 Oviedo, Spain
| | - David de Gonzalo-Calvo
- Translational Research in Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital Arnau de Vilanova and Santa Maria, IRBLleida, Av. Alcalde Rovira Roure, 80, 25198 Lleida, Spain; CIBER of Respiratory Diseases (CIBERES), Institute of Health Carlos III, Av. de Monforte de Lemos, 5, 28029 Madrid, Spain.
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Liu Y, Teng C, Xia R, Meyers BC. PhasiRNAs in Plants: Their Biogenesis, Genic Sources, and Roles in Stress Responses, Development, and Reproduction. THE PLANT CELL 2020; 32:3059-3080. [PMID: 32817252 PMCID: PMC7534485 DOI: 10.1105/tpc.20.00335] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 07/29/2020] [Accepted: 08/14/2020] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Phased secondary small interfering RNAs (phasiRNAs) constitute a major category of small RNAs in plants, but most of their functions are still poorly defined. Some phasiRNAs, known as trans-acting siRNAs, are known to target complementary mRNAs for degradation and to function in development. However, the targets or biological roles of other phasiRNAs remain speculative. New insights into phasiRNA biogenesis, their conservation, and their variation across the flowering plants continue to emerge due to the increased availability of plant genomic sequences, deeper and more sophisticated sequencing approaches, and improvements in computational biology and biochemical/molecular/genetic analyses. In this review, we survey recent progress in phasiRNA biology, with a particular focus on two classes associated with male reproduction: 21-nucleotide (accumulate early in anther ontogeny) and 24-nucloetide (produced in somatic cells during meiosis) phasiRNAs. We describe phasiRNA biogenesis, function, and evolution and define the unanswered questions that represent topics for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanlong Liu
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510640, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510640, China
- College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Chong Teng
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, Missouri 63132
| | - Rui Xia
- State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510640, China
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510640, China
- College of Horticulture, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510640, Guangdong, China
| | - Blake C Meyers
- Donald Danforth Plant Science Center, St. Louis, Missouri 63132
- Division of Plant Sciences, University of Missouri-Columbia, Columbia, Missouri 65211
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45
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Maizel A, Markmann K, Timmermans M, Wachter A. To move or not to move: roles and specificity of plant RNA mobility. CURRENT OPINION IN PLANT BIOLOGY 2020; 57:52-60. [PMID: 32634685 DOI: 10.1016/j.pbi.2020.05.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Revised: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/23/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Intercellular communication in plants coordinates cellular functions during growth and development, and in response to environmental cues. RNAs figure prominently among the mobile signaling molecules used. Many hundreds of RNA species move over short and long distances, and can be mutually exchanged in biotic interactions. Understanding the specificity determinants of RNA mobility and the physiological relevance of this phenomenon are areas of active research. Here, we highlight the recent progress in our knowledge of small RNA and messenger RNA movement. Particular emphasis is given to novel insight into the specificity determinants of messenger RNA mobility, the role of small RNA movement in development, and the specificity of RNA exchange in plant-plant and plant-microbe interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Maizel
- Center for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Im Neuenheimer Feld 230, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Katharina Markmann
- Center for Plant Molecular Biology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 32, 72076 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Marja Timmermans
- Center for Plant Molecular Biology, University of Tübingen, Auf der Morgenstelle 32, 72076 Tübingen, Germany.
| | - Andreas Wachter
- Institute for Molecular Physiology (imP), University of Mainz, Johannes von Müller-Weg 6, 55128 Mainz, Germany
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Wójcik AM. Research Tools for the Functional Genomics of Plant miRNAs During Zygotic and Somatic Embryogenesis. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E4969. [PMID: 32674459 PMCID: PMC7420248 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21144969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2020] [Revised: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
During early plant embryogenesis, some of the most fundamental decisions on fate and identity are taken making it a fascinating process to study. It is no surprise that higher plant embryogenesis was intensively analysed during the last century, while somatic embryogenesis is probably the most studied regeneration model. Encoded by the MIRNA, short, single-stranded, non-coding miRNAs, are commonly present in all Eukaryotic genomes and are involved in the regulation of the gene expression during the essential developmental processes such as plant morphogenesis, hormone signaling, and developmental phase transition. During the last few years dedicated to miRNAs, analytical methods and tools have been developed, which have afforded new opportunities in functional analyses of plant miRNAs, including (i) databases for in silico analysis; (ii) miRNAs detection and expression approaches; (iii) reporter and sensor lines for a spatio-temporal analysis of the miRNA-target interactions; (iv) in situ hybridisation protocols; (v) artificial miRNAs; (vi) MIM and STTM lines to inhibit miRNA activity, and (vii) the target genes resistant to miRNA. Here, we attempted to summarise the toolbox for functional analysis of miRNAs during plant embryogenesis. In addition to characterising the described tools/methods, examples of the applications have been presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Maria Wójcik
- University of Silesia in Katowice, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Institute of Biology, Biotechnology and Environmental Protection, Jagiellonska 28, 40-032 Katowice, Poland
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Fouracre JP, Chen VJ, Poethig RS. ALTERED MERISTEM PROGRAM1 regulates leaf identity independently of miR156-mediated translational repression. Development 2020; 147:dev186874. [PMID: 32198155 PMCID: PMC7197719 DOI: 10.1242/dev.186874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In Arabidopsis, loss of the carboxypeptidase ALTERED MERISTEM PROGRAM1 (AMP1) produces an increase in the rate of leaf initiation, an enlarged shoot apical meristem and an increase in the number of juvenile leaves. This phenotype is also observed in plants with reduced levels of miR156-targeted SQUAMOSA PROMOTER BINDING PROTEIN-LIKE (SPL) transcription factors, suggesting that AMP1 might promote SPL activity. However, we found that the amp1 mutant phenotype is only partially corrected by elevated SPL gene expression, and that amp1 has no significant effect on SPL transcript levels, or on the level or the activity of miR156. Although AMP1 has been reported to promote miRNA-mediated translational repression, amp1 did not prevent the translational repression of the miR156 target SPL9 or the miR159 target MYB33. These results suggest that AMP1 regulates vegetative phase change downstream of, or in parallel to, the miR156/SPL pathway, and that it is not universally required for miRNA-mediated translational repression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim P Fouracre
- Biology Department, University of Pennsylvania, 433 S. University Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - Victoria J Chen
- Biology Department, University of Pennsylvania, 433 S. University Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
| | - R Scott Poethig
- Biology Department, University of Pennsylvania, 433 S. University Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA
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Berckmans B, Kirschner G, Gerlitz N, Stadler R, Simon R. CLE40 Signaling Regulates Root Stem Cell Fate. PLANT PHYSIOLOGY 2020; 182:1776-1792. [PMID: 31806736 PMCID: PMC7140941 DOI: 10.1104/pp.19.00914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 11/20/2019] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The quiescent center (QC) of the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) root meristem acts as an organizer that promotes stem cell fate in adjacent cells and patterns the surrounding stem cell niche. The stem cells distal from the QC, the columella stem cells (CSCs), are maintained in an undifferentiated state by the QC-expressed transcription factor WUSCHEL RELATED HOMEOBOX5 (WOX5) and give rise to the columella cells. Differentiated columella cells provide a feedback signal via secretion of the peptide CLAVATA3/ESR-RELATED40 (CLE40), which acts through the receptor kinases ARABIDOPSIS CRINKLY4 (ACR4) and CLAVATA1 (CLV1) to control WOX5 expression. Previously, it was proposed that WOX5 protein movement from the QC into CSCs is required for CSC maintenance, and that the CLE40/CLV1/ACR4 signaling module restricts WOX5 mobility or function. Here, these assumptions were tested by exploring the function of CLE40/CLV1/ACR4 in CSC maintenance. However, no role for CLE40/CLV1/ACR4 in constricting the mobility of WOX5 or other fluorescent test proteins was identified. Furthermore, in contrast to previous observations, WOX5 mobility was not required to inhibit CSC differentiation. We propose that WOX5 acts mainly in the QC, where other short-range signals are generated that not only inhibit differentiation but also promote stem cell division in adjacent cells. Therefore, the main function of columella-derived CLE40 signal is to position the QC at a defined distance from the root tip by repressing QC-specific gene expression via the ACR4/CLV1 receptors in the distal domain and promoting WOX5 expression via the CLV2 receptor in the proximal meristem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Berckmans
- Institute for Developmental Genetics, Heinrich-Heine University, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Gwendolyn Kirschner
- Institute for Developmental Genetics, Heinrich-Heine University, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Nadja Gerlitz
- Molecular Plant Physiology, University of Erlangen, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Ruth Stadler
- Molecular Plant Physiology, University of Erlangen, Staudtstrasse 5, 91058 Erlangen, Germany
| | - Rüdiger Simon
- Institute for Developmental Genetics, Heinrich-Heine University, D-40225 Düsseldorf, Germany
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A signal cascade originated from epidermis defines apical-basal patterning of Arabidopsis shoot apical meristems. Nat Commun 2020; 11:1214. [PMID: 32139673 PMCID: PMC7058014 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-020-14989-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In multicellular organisms, a long-standing question is how spatial patterns of distinct cell types are initiated and maintained during continuous cell division and proliferation. Along the vertical axis of plant shoot apical meristems (SAMs), stem cells are located at the top while cells specifying the stem cells are located more basally, forming a robust apical-basal pattern. We previously found that in Arabidopsis SAMs, the HAIRY MERISTEM (HAM) family transcription factors form a concentration gradient from the epidermis to the interior cell layers, and this gradient is essential for the stem cell specification and the apical-basal patterning of the SAMs. Here, we uncover that epidermis specific transcription factors, ARABIDOPSIS THALIANA MERISTEM LAYER 1 (ATML1) and its close homolog, define the concentration gradient of HAM in the SAM through activating a group of microRNAs. This study provides a molecular framework linking the epidermis-derived signal to the stem cell homeostasis in plants. A concentration gradient of HAM transcription factors specifies apical-basal patterning in the Arabidopsis shoot apical meristem. Here, the authors show that epidermal expression of the ATML1 transcription factor defines this concentration gradient via activation of mobile micro RNA.
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50
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Yan Y, Ham BK, Chong YH, Yeh SD, Lucas WJ. A Plant SMALL RNA-BINDING PROTEIN 1 Family Mediates Cell-to-Cell Trafficking of RNAi Signals. MOLECULAR PLANT 2020; 13:321-335. [PMID: 31812689 DOI: 10.1016/j.molp.2019.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
In plants, RNA interference (RNAi) plays a pivotal role in growth and development, and responses to environmental inputs, including pathogen attack. The intercellular and systemic trafficking of small interfering RNA (siRNA)/microRNA (miRNA) is a central component in this regulatory pathway. Currently, little is known with regards to the molecular agents involved in the movement of these si/miRNAs. To address this situation, we employed a biochemical approach to identify and characterize a conserved SMALL RNA-BINDING PROTEIN 1 (SRBP1) family that mediates non-cell-autonomous small RNA (sRNA) trafficking. In Arabidopsis, AtSRBP1 is a glycine-rich (GR) RNA-binding protein, also known as AtGRP7, which we show binds single-stranded siRNA. A viral vector, Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV), was employed to functionally characterized the AtSRBP1-4 (AtGRP7/2/4/8) RNA recognition motif and GR domains. Cellular-based studies revealed the GR domain as being necessary and sufficient for SRBP1 cell-to-cell movement. Taken together, our findings provide a foundation for future research into the mechanism and function of mobile sRNA signaling agents in plants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Yan
- Department of Plant Biology, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Byung-Kook Ham
- Department of Plant Biology, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA
| | - Yee Hang Chong
- Department of Plant Pathology, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung
| | - Shyi-Dong Yeh
- Department of Plant Pathology, National Chung-Hsing University, Taichung
| | - William J Lucas
- Department of Plant Biology, College of Biological Sciences, University of California, Davis, CA 95616, USA.
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