Unraveling the Molecular Basis of ROS-Mediated Cell Wall Biomechanics During Arabidopsis Root Hair Cell Growth

The study investigates the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in regulating cell wall biomechanics during the growth of Arabidopsis thaliana root hairs. By using a microfluidics setup and automated pumping system, researchers quantified the dynamics of growth, cytoplasmic calcium, extracellular pH, ROS, and cell wall charge in both wild-type and mutant root hairs. These mutants had alterations in transmembrane and cytoplasmic receptor-like kinases and ROS-generating proteins. The study also explored the effects of ROS modulation on growth dynamics and cell wall integrity through live-cell imaging. Complementary approaches, including kinase activity assays and pathway reconstitution in HEK cells, were used to analyze protein interactions. The research aims to create a mechanistic framework for understanding ROS-related growth regulation, which could inform future agricultural advancements.