UV‐B Perception in Plant Roots

Abstract

Sunlight reaching the surface of the Earth contains electromagnetic radiation in the far-red, visible, and ultraviolet (UV) wavelength regions. Photons in the UV region possess high energy compared to long-wavelength light and cause photon-induced damage to living organisms. The energy of UV-B (280-315 nm) is the highest of all wavelengths of sunlight going through into the troposphere. Hence, most terrestrial plants are continuously exposed to harmful UV-B light during the daytime and have been evolving under these circumstances. Recently, it has been reported that receptors found in plant roots are involved in UV-B perception and play important roles in cellular signaling. As roots are naturally in darkness, they have been thought not to require UV-B light sensory abilities. In this chapter, we focus on a biological mystery: why have roots evolved sophisticated abilities of UV-B light recognition? 11.

Learning from an Intelligent Mechanosensing System of Plants

“…The arrangement of cellulose microfibrils in the cell wall also prohibits damage of the border structure. In roots, the mechanosensor works well below the ground which is a heterogeneous and challenging environment with limited space due to dense soil particles, stones, and rocks. The distinct complex synergy of the touch sensing and gravity sensing guides growing roots around obstacles in the soil and contributes to plant survival …”