WOX5 suppresses CYCLIN D activity to establish quiescence at the center of the root stem cell niche.

ABSTRACT: In Arabidopsis, stem cells maintain the provision of new cells for root growth. They surround a group of slowly dividing cells named the quiescent center (QC), and, together, they form the stem cell niche (SCN). The QC acts as the signaling center of the SCN, repressing differentiation of the surrounding stem cells and providing a pool of cells able to replace damaged stem cells. Maintenance of the stem cells depends on the transcription factor WUSCHEL-RELATED HOMEOBOX 5 (WOX5), which is specifically expressed in the QC. However, the molecular mechanisms by which WOX5 promotes stem cell fate and whether WOX5 regulates proliferation of the QC are unknown. Here, we reveal a new role for WOX5 in restraining cell division in the cells of the QC, thereby establishing quiescence. In contrast, WO

SUBMITTER: Forzani C 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4148176 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature