Plant reproduction: Fertilization SALvaged by the central cell

Flowering plants evolved glandular synergid cells assisting female gametes to attract pollen tubes carrying sperm cells. A recent study shows how central cells serve as a back-up to ensure pollen tube attraction and reproductive success in the absence of the assistants.

Automated summary

A recent study demonstrates the role of central cells in ensuring pollen tube attraction and reproductive success in the absence of glandular synergid cells.