Open AccessPrecise transcriptional control of cellular quiescence by BRAVO/WOX5 complex in Arabidopsis roots
Author(s) -
BetegónPutze Isabel,
Mercadal Josep,
Bosch Nadja,
PlanasRiverola Ainoa,
MarquèsBueno Mar,
VilarrasaBlasi Josep,
Frigola David,
Burkart Rebecca C,
Martínez Cristina,
Conesa Ana,
Sozzani Rosangela,
Stahl Yvonne,
Prat Salomé,
Ibañes Marta,
CañoDelgado Ana I
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
molecular systems biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 8.523
H-Index - 148
ISSN - 1744-4292
DOI - 10.15252/msb.20209864
Subject(s) - biology , arabidopsis , stem cell , transcription factor , microbiology and biotechnology , developmental biology , cell division , transcriptional regulation , regulation of gene expression , gene , computational biology , cell , genetics , mutant
Understanding stem cell regulatory circuits is the next challenge in plant biology, as these cells are essential for tissue growth and organ regeneration in response to stress. In the Arabidopsis primary root apex, stem cell‐specific transcription factors BRAVO and WOX5 co‐localize in the quiescent centre (QC) cells, where they commonly repress cell division so that these cells can act as a reservoir to replenish surrounding stem cells, yet their molecular connection remains unknown. Genetic and biochemical analysis indicates that BRAVO and WOX5 form a transcription factor complex that modulates gene expression in the QC cells to preserve overall root growth and architecture. Furthermore, by using mathematical modelling we establish that BRAVO uses the WOX5/BRAVO complex to promote WOX5 activity in the stem cells. Our results unveil the importance of transcriptional regulatory circuits in plant stem cell development.