Plant cell polarity as the nexus of tissue mechanics and morphogenesis

How reproducible body patterns emerge from the collective activity of individual cells is a key question in developmental biology. Plant cells are encaged in their walls and unable to migrate. Morphogenesis thus relies on directional cell division, by precise positioning of division planes, and anisotropic cellular growth, mediated by regulated mechanical inhomogeneity of the walls. Both processes require the prior establishment of cell polarity, marked by the formation of polar domains at the plasma membrane, in a number of developmental contexts. The establishment of cell polarity involves biochemical cues, but increasing evidence suggests that mechanical forces also play a prominent instructive role. While evidence for mutual regulation between cell polarity and tissue mechanics is emerging, the nature of this bidirectional feedback remains unclear. Here we review the role of cell polarity at the interface of tissue mechanics and morphogenesis. We also aim to integrate biochemistry-centred insights with concepts derived from physics and physical chemistry. Lastly, we propose a set of questions that will help address the fundamental nature of cell polarization and its mechanistic basis. The establishment of cell polarity is essential for plant growth and development. The process involves biochemical cues and mechanical changes. Here the authors review the establishment of polarity in plant cells, with a particular focus on the molecular players connecting mechanical information and cell morphogenesis.

Automated summary

The establishment of cell polarity in plant cells plays a crucial role in directional cell division and cellular growth, involving both biochemical cues and mechanical forces. Researchers review the role of cell polarity in plant cell morphogenesis and growth development, with a focus on molecular connections between mechanical information and cell morphogenesis.