Function of Small Peptides During Male-Female Crosstalk in Plants

Plant peptides secreted as signal molecular to trigger cell-to-cell signaling are indispensable for plant growth and development. Successful sexual reproduction in plants requires extensive communication between male and female gametophytes, their gametes, and with the surrounding sporophytic tissues. In the past decade, it has been well-documented that small peptides participate in many important reproductive processes such as self-incompatibility, pollen tube growth, pollen tube guidance, and gamete interaction. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the peptides regulating the processes of male-female crosstalk in plant, aiming at systematizing the knowledge on the sexual reproduction, and signaling of plant peptides in future.

Automated summary

Plant peptides play a crucial role in plant growth and development by serving as signal molecules. Successful sexual reproduction in plants relies on communication between male and female gametophytes, their gametes, and surrounding sporophytic tissues. Small peptides have been found to participate in key reproductive processes such as self-incompatibility, pollen tube growth, guidance, and gamete interaction.