Affiliation:
1. Beijing Key Laboratory of Agricultural Genetic Resources and Biotechnology, Institute of Biotechnology, Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences , Beijing 100097 , China
Abstract
Abstract
The mechanical properties of guard cells have major effects on stomatal functioning. Reinforced stiffness in the stomatal polar regions was recently proposed to play an important role in stomatal function, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we used genetic and biochemical approaches in poplar (Populus spp.) to show that the transcription factor MYB156 controls pectic homogalacturonan–based polar stiffening through the downregulation of the gene encoding pectin methylesterase 6 (PME6). Loss of MYB156 increased the polar stiffness of stomata, thereby enhancing stomatal dynamics and response speed to various stimuli. In contrast, overexpression of MYB156 resulted in decreased polar stiffness and impaired stomatal dynamics, accompanied by smaller leaves. Polar stiffening functions in guard cell dynamics in response to changing environmental conditions by maintaining normal stomatal morphology during stomatal movement. Our study revealed the structure–function relationship of the cell wall of guard cells in stomatal dynamics, providing an important means for improving the stomatal performance and drought tolerance of plants.
Funder
National Natural Science Foundation of China
Science Foundation of the Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences
Beijing Natural Science Foundation
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Subject
Cell Biology,Plant Science
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