Scientists from the University of Nottingham have made a significant breakthrough by identifying a protein responsible for sealing plant roots, which plays a vital role in controlling the uptake of nutrients and water from the soil. This discovery has the potential to pave the way for the development of climate-resistant crops that require less water and chemical fertilizers, addressing pressing agricultural and environmental challenges.
The research, published in Science, unravels the intricate mechanisms within plant roots that enable the absorption of essential mineral nutrients and water from the soil while maintaining their proper balance. This control is primarily managed by a specialized layer of root tissue known as the endodermis.
Within the endodermis, an impermeable barrier composed of lignin, the same material found in wood, forms a tight seal between cells. This seal acts as a safeguard, preventing the uncontrolled movement of materials into the root. As a result, it ensures that the sole pathway for nutrients and water to enter the roots is through the cells of the endodermis, granting the plant full control over the substances it absorbs and releases via its roots.
The groundbreaking research has identified new components within the machinery responsible for lignin deposition and has shed light on the critical role of dirigent proteins (DPs), situated in the root endodermis. These proteins work in conjunction with other known root regulatory elements to guide and organize the precise deposition of lignin in the endodermis. This intricate process empowers the plant to maintain an optimal balance of nutrients from the soil.
Dr. Gabriel Castrillo from the School of Biosciences emphasized the relevance of this discovery in the context of changing climate patterns and food security challenges. He noted, “With record temperatures being reached in parts of the world this year and erratic rainfall, it is ever more important to understand the mechanisms of plants so we can future-proof them to secure future food supplies. This research shows how plant roots regulate their uptake of water and nutrients through the deposition of lignin, which is regulated by DPs.”
Importantly, the absence of these proteins disrupts the proper sealing of roots, compromising the nutrient balance within the plant. The newfound knowledge offers a valuable tool for researchers and plant breeders to engineer crops capable of thriving with reduced water and chemical fertilizer inputs, ensuring a more sustainable and resilient future for agriculture.
This breakthrough not only has the potential to significantly enhance agricultural sustainability but also addresses global concerns related to resource efficiency, making strides toward a more resilient and environmentally responsible agricultural landscape.