Heterogeneous phosphate supply influences maize lateral root proliferation by regulating auxin redistribution.

ABSTRACT:

Background and aims

Roots take up phosphorus (P) as inorganic phosphate (Pi). Enhanced root proliferation in Pi-rich patches enables plants to capture the unevenly distributed Pi, but the underlying control of root proliferation remains largely unknown. Here, the role of auxin in this response was investigated in maize (Zea mays).

Methods

A split-root, hydroponics system was employed to investigate root responses to Pi supply, with one (heterogeneous) or both (homogeneous) sides receiving 0 or 500 μm Pi.

Key results

Maize roots proliferated in Pi-rich media, particularly with heterogeneous Pi supply. The second-order lateral root number was 3-fold greater in roots of plants receiving a heterogeneous Pi supply than in roots of plants with a homogeneous Pi supply. Root

SUBMITTER: Wang X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6948210 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature