title: The root cap at the forefront.
abstract: Two essential functions are associated with the root tip: first of all, it ensures a sustained growth of the root system thanks to its role in protecting the stem cell zone responsible for cell division and differentiation. In addition, it is capable of detecting environmental changes at the root cap level, and this property provides a crucial advantage considering that this tissue is located at the forefront of soil exploration. Using results obtained mainly with the plant model Arabidopsis, we summarize the description of the structure of root cap and the known molecular mechanisms regulating its functioning. We briefly review the various responses of the root cap related to the interaction between the plant and its environment, such as phototropism, gravitropism, hydrotropism, mineral composition of the soil and protection against pathogens.
authors.affiliation: UMR 6191 CEA, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, laboratoire de biologie du développement des plantes, université d'Aix-Marseille, 13108 Saint-Paul-lez-Durance, France.
authors.forename: Carole
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Arnaud
authors.forename: Clémence
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: Bonnot
authors.forename: Thierry
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Desnos
authors.forename: Laurent
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Nussaume
mesh_terms: D017360:Arabidopsis / Q000502:physiology; D009747:Nutritional Physiological Phenomena; D018521:Plant Physiological Phenomena; D018517:Plant Roots / Q000254:growth & development / Q000502:physiology*; D012987:Soil; D014867:Water / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D012987:Soil; D014867:Water