Stomatal cell fate commitment via transcriptional and epigenetic control: Timing is crucial

Plant Cell Environ. 2024 Sep;47(9):3288-3298. doi: 10.1111/pce.14761. Epub 2023 Nov 23.

Abstract

The formation of stomata presents a compelling model system for comprehending the initiation, proliferation, commitment and differentiation of de novo lineage-specific stem cells. Precise, timely and robust cell fate and identity decisions are crucial for the proper progression and differentiation of functional stomata. Deviations from this precise specification result in developmental abnormalities and nonfunctional stomata. However, the molecular underpinnings of timely cell fate commitment have just begun to be unravelled. In this review, we explore the key regulatory strategies governing cell fate commitment, emphasizing the distinctions between embryonic and postembryonic stomatal development. Furthermore, the interplay of transcription factors and cell cycle machineries is pivotal in specifying the transition into differentiation. We aim to synthesize recent studies utilizing single-cell as well as cell-type-specific transcriptomics, epigenomics and chromatin accessibility profiling to shed light on how master-regulatory transcription factors and epigenetic machineries mutually influence each other to drive fate commitment and maintenance.

Keywords: basic‐helix‐loop‐helix transcription factors; stem cell; stomata.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cell Differentiation* / genetics
  • Cell Lineage
  • Epigenesis, Genetic*
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Plant*
  • Plant Stomata* / genetics
  • Plant Stomata* / physiology
  • Transcription Factors / genetics
  • Transcription Factors / metabolism
  • Transcription, Genetic

Substances

  • Transcription Factors