SOL1 and SOL2 regulate fate transition and cell divisions in the Arabidopsis stomatal lineage

Abstract

In the Arabidopsis stomatal lineage, cells transit through several distinct precursor identities, each characterized by unique cell division behaviors. Flexibility in the duration of these precursor phases enables plants to alter leaf size and stomatal density in response to environmental conditions; however, transitions between phases must be complete and unidirectional to produce functional and correctly patterned stomata. Among direct transcriptional targets of the stomatal initiating factor SPEECHLESS, a pair of genes, SOL1 and SOL2, are required for effective transitions in the lineage. We show that these two genes, which are homologs of the LIN54 DNA-binding components of the mammalian DREAM complex, are expressed in a cell cycle-dependent manner and regulate cell fate and division properties in the self-renewing early lineage. In the terminal division of the stomatal lineage, however, these two proteins appear to act in opposition to their closest paralog, TSO1, revealing complexity in the gene family that may enable customization of cell divisions in coordination with development.

Keywords: Arabidopsis; CXC-Hinge-CXC; Cell cycle; Cell-state transition; DREAM complex; Stomata.