BUZZ: An Essential Gene for Postinitiation Root Hair Growth and a Mediator of Root Architecture in Brachypodium Distachyon

The research investigates the role of the BUZZ gene in root hair growth and root architecture in the plant Brachypodium distachyon. The BUZZ gene, identified as a cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)-like gene, is crucial for the post-initiation growth phase of root hairs. Mutations in the BUZZ gene lead to faster primary and lateral root growth but inhibit root hair elongation, resulting in hairless roots. The BUZZ gene also interacts with the RSL pathway, important for root hair development, and is involved in nitrate-responsive growth in roots. The study suggests that the BUZZ gene could be a target for manipulating root architecture and growth in plants.