Tiny molecules preserve stem cells: Research shows what makes constant plant growth possible
Tuesday, January 22, 2013 - 18:30
in Biology & Nature
Stem cells, found at the tips of the shoots and roots of plants, can transform themselves into other types of cells and develop new organs, such as leaves, fruits, and twigs, throughout the entire lifespan of a plant. However, in order for the plant to continue growing and developing organs, several cells at the tips of the shoots and roots have to remain stem cells. New research confirms that plants need a micro-RNA at the tip of their shoots to prevent all of the stem cells from transforming themselves into other cell types.