Spatial and temporal effects of free-air CO2 enrichment (POPFACE) on leaf growth, cell expansion, and cell production in a closed canopy of poplar

Enhanced genome-wide association reveals the role of YABBY11-NGATHA-LIKE1 in leaf serration development of Populus

Leaf margins are complex plant morphological features that contribute to leaf shape diversity, which affects plant structure, yield, and adaptation. Although several leaf margin regulators have been identified to date, the genetic basis of their natural variation has not been fully elucidated. In this study, we profiled two distinct leaf morphology types (serrated and smooth) using the persistent homology mathematical framework (PHMF) in two poplar species (Populus tomentosa and Populus simonii, respectively). A combined genome-wide association study (GWAS) and expression quantitative trait nucleotide (eQTN) mapping were applied to create a leaf morphology control module using data from P. tomentosa and P. simonii populations. Natural variation in leaf margins was associated with YABBY11 (YAB11) transcript abundance in poplar. In P. tomentosa, PtoYAB11 carries a premature stop codon (PtoYAB11PSC), resulting in the loss of its positive regulation of NGATHA-LIKE1 (PtoNGAL-1) and RIBULOSE BISPHOSPHATE CARBOXYLASE LARGE SUBUNIT (PtoRBCL). Overexpression of PtoYAB11PSC promoted serrated leaf margins, enlarged leaves, enhanced photosynthesis, and increased biomass. Overexpression of PsiYAB11 in P. tomentosa promoted smooth leaf margins, higher stomatal density, and greater light damage repair ability. In poplar, YAB11-NGAL1 is sensitive to environmental conditions, acts as a positive regulator of leaf margin serration, and may also link environmental signaling to leaf morphological plasticity.

Physiological and Molecular Responses of Woody Plants Exposed to Future Atmospheric CO2 Levels under Abiotic Stresses

Climate change is mainly driven by the accumulation of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere in the last century. Plant growth is constantly challenged by environmental fluctuations including heat waves, severe drought and salinity, along with ozone accumulation in the atmosphere. Food security is at risk in an increasing world population, and it is necessary to face the current and the expected effects of global warming. The effects of the predicted environment scenario of elevated CO2 concentration (e[CO2]) and more severe abiotic stresses have been scarcely investigated in woody plants, and an integrated view involving physiological, biochemical and molecular data is missing. This review highlights the effects of elevated CO2 in the metabolism of woody plants and the main findings of its interaction with abiotic stresses, including a molecular point of view, aiming to improve the understanding of how woody plants will face the predicted environmental conditions. Overall, e[CO2] stimulates photosynthesis and growth and attenuates mild to moderate abiotic stress in woody plants if root growth and nutrients are not limited. Moreover, e[CO2] does not induce acclimation in most tree species. Some high-throughput analyses involving omics techniques were conducted to better understand how these processes are regulated. Finally, knowledge gaps in the understanding of how the predicted climate condition will affect woody plant metabolism were identified, with the aim of improving the growth and production of this plant species.

Potassium regulates diel leaf growth of Brassica napus by coordinating the rhythmic carbon supply and water balance

Carbon and water are two main factors limiting leaf expansion. Restriction of leaf growth by low availability of carbon or water is among the earliest visible effects of potassium (K) deficiency. It is not known how K is involved in regulating the rhythmic supply of these two substrates, which differ remarkably across the day-night cycle, affecting leaf expansion. We investigated the effects of different K regimes on the time courses of leaf expansion, carbon assimilation, carbohydrates, and hydraulic properties of Brassica napus. Potassium supply increased leaf area, predominantly by promoting night-time leaf expansion (>60%), which was mainly associated with increased availability of carbohydrates from photosynthetic carbon fixation and import from old leaves rather than improvement of leaf hydraulics. However, sufficient K improved leaf hydraulic conductance to balance diurnal evaporative water loss and increase the osmotic contribution of water-soluble carbohydrates, thereby maintaining leaf turgor and increasing the daytime expansion rate. The results also indicated an ontogenetic role of K in modifying the amplitude of circadian expansion; almost 80% of the increase in leaf area occurred before the area reached 66.9% of the mature size. Our data provide mechanistic insight into K-mediated diel coordination of rhythmic carbon supply and water balance in leaf expansion.

A meta-analysis of responses of C3 plants to atmospheric CO2 : dose-response curves for 85 traits ranging from the molecular to the whole-plant level

Generalised dose-response curves are essential to understand how plants acclimate to atmospheric CO₂ . We carried out a meta-analysis of 630 experiments in which C₃ plants were experimentally grown at different [CO₂ ] under relatively benign conditions, and derived dose-response curves for 85 phenotypic traits. These curves were characterised by form, plasticity, consistency and reliability. Considered over a range of 200-1200 µmol mol^-1 CO₂ , some traits more than doubled (e.g. area-based photosynthesis; intrinsic water-use efficiency), whereas others more than halved (area-based transpiration). At current atmospheric [CO₂ ], 64% of the total stimulation in biomass over the 200-1200 µmol mol^-1 range has already been realised. We also mapped the trait responses of plants to [CO₂ ] against those we have quantified before for light intensity. For most traits, CO₂ and light responses were of similar direction. However, some traits (such as reproductive effort) only responded to light, others (such as plant height) only to [CO₂ ], and some traits (such as area-based transpiration) responded in opposite directions. This synthesis provides a comprehensive picture of plant responses to [CO₂ ] at different integration levels and offers the quantitative dose-response curves that can be used to improve global change simulation models.

Plant growth: the What, the How, and the Why

Growth is a widely used term in plant science and ecology, but it can have different meanings depending on the context and the spatiotemporal scale of analysis. At the meristem level, growth is associated with the production of cells and initiation of new organs. At the organ or plant scale and over short time periods, growth is often used synonymously with tissue expansion, while over longer time periods the increase in biomass is a common metric. At even larger temporal and spatial scales, growth is mostly described as net primary production. Here, we first address the question 'what is growth?'. We propose a general framework to distinguish between the different facets of growth, and the corresponding physiological processes, environmental drivers and mathematical formalisms. Based on these different definitions, we then review how plant growth can be measured and analysed at different organisational, spatial and temporal scales. We conclude by discussing why gaining a better understanding of the different facets of plant growth is essential to disentangle genetic and environmental effects on the phenotype, and to uncover the causalities around source or sink limitations of plant growth.

Integration of genome wide association studies and co-expression networks reveal roles of PtoWRKY 42-PtoUGT76C1-1 in trans-zeatin metabolism and cytokinin sensitivity in poplar

Cytokinins are important for in vitro shoot regeneration in plants. Cytokinin N-glucosides are produced via an irreversible glycosylation pathway, which regulates the endogenous cytokinin content. Although cytokinin N-glucoside pathways have been uncovered in higher plants, no regulator has been identified to date. We performed a metabolome genome-wide association study (mGWAS), weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and expression quantitative trait nucleotide (eQTN) mappings to build a core triple genetic network (mGWAS-gene expression-phenotype) for the trans-zeatin N-glucoside (ZNG) metabolite using data from 435 unrelated Populus tomentosa individuals. Variation of the ZNG level in poplar is attributed to the differential transcription of PtoWRKY42, a member of WRKY multigene family group IIb. Functional analysis revealed that PtoWRKY42 negatively regulated ZNG accumulation by binding directly to the W-box of the UDP-glycosyltransferase 76C 1-1 (PtoUGT761-1) promoter. Also, PtoWRKY42 was strongly induced by leaf senescence, 6-BA, wounding, and salt stress, resulting in a reduced ZNG level. We identified PtoWRKY42, a negative regulator of cytokinin N-glucosides, which contributes to the natural variation in ZNG level and mediates ZNG accumulation by directly modulating the key glycosyltransferase gene PtoUGT76C1-1.

Temporal variability in tree responses to elevated atmospheric CO2

At leaf level, elevated atmospheric CO₂ concentration (eCO₂ ) results in stimulation of carbon net assimilation and reduction of stomatal conductance. However, a comprehensive understanding of the impact of eCO₂ at larger temporal (seasonal and annual) and spatial (from leaf to whole-tree) scales is still lacking. Here, we review overall trends, magnitude and drivers of dynamic tree responses to eCO₂ , including carbon and water relations at the leaf and the whole-tree level. Spring and early season leaf responses are most susceptible to eCO₂ and are followed by a down-regulation towards the onset of autumn. At the whole-tree level, CO₂ fertilization causes consistent biomass increments in young seedlings only, whereas mature trees show a variable response. Elevated CO₂ -induced reductions in leaf stomatal conductance do not systematically translate into limitation of whole-tree transpiration due to the unpredictable response of canopy area. Reduction in the end-of-season carbon sink demand and water-limiting strategies are considered the main drivers of seasonal tree responses to eCO₂ . These large temporal and spatial variabilities in tree responses to eCO₂ highlight the risk of predicting tree behavior to eCO₂ based on single leaf-level point measurements as they only reveal snapshots of the dynamic responses to eCO₂ .

Translational regulation contributes to the elevated CO2 response in two Solanum species

Understanding the impact of elevated CO2 (eCO2 ) in global agriculture is important given climate change projections. Breeding climate-resilient crops depends on genetic variation within naturally varying populations. The effect of genetic variation in response to eCO2 is poorly understood, especially in crop species. We describe the different ways in which Solanum lycopersicum and its wild relative S. pennellii respond to eCO2 , from cell anatomy, to the transcriptome, and metabolome. We further validate the importance of translational regulation as a potential mechanism for plants to adaptively respond to rising levels of atmospheric CO2 .

Plastid-expressed Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cry3Bb confers high mortality to a leaf eating beetle in poplar

The Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) cry3Bb gene was successfully introduced into poplar plastid genome, leading to transplastomic poplar with high mortality to Plagiodera versicolora. Poplar (Populus L.) is one of the main resource of woody industry, but being damaged by insect pests. The feasibility and efficiency of plastid transformation technology for controlling two lepidopteran caterpillars have been demonstrated previously. Here, we introduced B. thuringiensis (Bt) cry3Bb into poplar plastid genome by biolistic bombardment for controlling P. versicolora, a widely distributed forest pest. Chimeric cry3Bb gene is controlled by the tobacco plastid rRNA operon promoter combined with the 5'UTR from gene10 of bacteriophage T7 (NtPrrn:T7g10) and the 3'UTR from the E. coli ribosomal RNA operon rrnB (TrrnB). The integration of transgene and homoplasmy of transplastomic poplar plants was confirmed by Southern blot analysis. Northern blot analysis indicated that cry3Bb was transcribed to both read through and shorter length transcripts in plastid. The transplastomic poplar expressing Cry3Bb insecticidal protein showed the highest accumulation level in young leaves, which reach up to 16.8 μg/g fresh weight, and comparatively low levels in mature and old leaves. Feeding the young leaves from Bt-Cry3Bb plastid lines to P. versicolora caused 100% mortality in the first-instar larvae after only 1 day, in the second-instar larvae after 2 days, and in the third-instar larvae for 3 days. Thus, we report a successful extension of plastid engineering poplar against the chrysomelid beetle.

Bacillus thuringiensis cry1C expression from the plastid genome of poplar leads to high mortality of leaf-eating caterpillars

Plastid transformation technology has several attractive features compared with traditional nuclear transformation technology. However, only a handful of species are able to be successfully transformed. Here, we report an efficient and stable plastid transformation protocol for poplar, an economically important tree species grown worldwide. We transformed the Bacillus thuringiensis cry1C gene into the poplar plastid genome, and homoplasmic transplastomic poplar was obtained after two to three rounds of regeneration under antibiotic selection for 7-12 months. The transplastomic poplar expressing Cry1C insecticidal protein showed the highest accumulation level in young leaves, which reached up to 20.7 μg g-1 fresh weight, and comparatively low levels in mature and old leaves, and hardly detectable levels in non-green tissues, such as phloem, xylem and roots. Transplastomic poplar showed high toxicity to Hyphantria cunea and Lymantria dispar, two notorious forest pests worldwide, without affecting plant growth. These results are the first successful examples of insect-resistant poplar generation by plastid genome engineering and provide a new avenue for future genetic improvement of poplar plants.

Sugar-induced de novo cytokinin biosynthesis contributes to Arabidopsis growth under elevated CO2

Carbon availability is a major regulatory factor in plant growth and development. Cytokinins, plant hormones that play important roles in various aspects of growth and development, have been implicated in the carbon-dependent regulation of plant growth; however, the details of their involvement remain to be elucidated. Here, we report that sugar-induced cytokinin biosynthesis plays a role in growth enhancement under elevated CO₂ in Arabidopsis thaliana. Growing Arabidopsis seedlings under elevated CO₂ resulted in an accumulation of cytokinin precursors that preceded growth enhancement. In roots, elevated CO₂ induced two genes involved in de novo cytokinin biosynthesis: an adenosine phosphate-isopentenyltransferase gene, AtIPT3, and a cytochrome P450 monooxygenase gene, CYP735A2. The expression of these genes was inhibited by a photosynthesis inhibitor, DCMU, under elevated CO₂, and was enhanced by sugar supplements, indicating that photosynthetically generated sugars are responsible for the induction. Consistently, cytokinin precursor accumulation was enhanced by sugar supplements. Cytokinin biosynthetic mutants were impaired in growth enhancement under elevated CO₂, demonstrating the involvement of de novo cytokinin biosynthesis for a robust growth response. We propose that plants employ a system to regulate growth in response to elevated CO₂ in which photosynthetically generated sugars induce de novo cytokinin biosynthesis for growth regulation.

Leaf structural and hydraulic adjustment with respect to air humidity and canopy position in silver birch (Betula pendula)

Climate change scenarios predict an increase in air temperature and precipitation in northern temperate regions of Europe by the end of the century. Increasing atmospheric humidity inevitably resulting from more frequent rainfall events reduces water flux through vegetation, influencing plants' structure and functioning. We investigated the extent to which artificially elevated air humidity affects the anatomical structure of the vascular system and hydraulic conductance of leaves in Betula pendula. A field experiment was carried out at the Free Air Humidity Manipulation (FAHM) site with a mean increase in relative air humidity (RH) by 7% over the ambient level across the growing period. Leaf hydraulic properties were determined with a high-pressure flow meter; changes in leaf anatomical structure were studied by means of conventional light microscopy and digital image processing techniques. Leaf development under elevated RH reduced leaf-blade hydraulic conductance and petiole conductivity and had a weak effect on leaf vascular traits (vessel diameters decreased), but had no significant influence on stomatal traits or tissue proportions in laminae. Both hydraulic traits and relevant anatomical characteristics demonstrated pronounced trends with respect to leaf location in the canopy-they increased from crown base to top. Stomatal traits were positively correlated with several petiole and leaf midrib vascular traits. The reduction in leaf hydraulic conductance in response to increasing air humidity is primarily attributable to reduced vessel size, while higher hydraulic efficiency of upper-crown foliage is associated with vertical trends in the size of vascular bundles, vessel number and vein density. Although we observed co-ordinated adjustment of vascular and hydraulic traits, the reduced leaf hydraulic efficiency could lead to an imbalance between hydraulic supply and transpiration demand under the extreme environmental conditions likely to become more frequent in light of global climate change.

Plant adaptation or acclimation to rising CO2 ? Insight from first multigenerational RNA-Seq transcriptome

Atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO₂ ) directly determines the rate of plant photosynthesis and indirectly effects plant productivity and fitness and may therefore act as a selective pressure driving evolution, but evidence to support this contention is sparse. Using Plantago lanceolata L. seed collected from a naturally high CO₂ spring and adjacent ambient CO₂ control site, we investigated multigenerational response to future, elevated atmospheric CO₂ . Plants were grown in either ambient or elevated CO₂ (700 μmol mol^-1 ), enabling for the first time, characterization of the functional and population genomics of plant acclimation and adaptation to elevated CO₂ . This revealed that spring and control plants differed significantly in phenotypic plasticity for traits underpinning fitness including above-ground biomass, leaf size, epidermal cell size and number and stomatal density and index. Gene expression responses to elevated CO₂ (acclimation) were modest [33-131 genes differentially expressed (DE)], whilst those between control and spring plants (adaptation) were considerably larger (689-853 DE genes). In contrast, population genomic analysis showed that genetic differentiation between spring and control plants was close to zero, with no fixed differences, suggesting that plants are adapted to their native CO₂ environment at the level of gene expression. An unusual phenotype of increased stomatal index in spring but not control plants in elevated CO₂ correlated with altered expression of stomatal patterning genes between spring and control plants for three loci (YODA, CDKB1;1 and SCRM2) and between ambient and elevated CO₂ for four loci (ER, YODA, MYB88 and BCA1). We propose that the two positive regulators of stomatal number (SCRM2) and CDKB1;1 when upregulated act as key controllers of stomatal adaptation to elevated CO₂ . Combined with significant transcriptome reprogramming of photosynthetic and dark respiration and enhanced growth in spring plants, we have identified the potential basis of plant adaptation to high CO₂ likely to occur over coming decades.

Plant developmental responses to climate change

Climate change is multi-faceted, and includes changing concentrations of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, rising temperatures, changes in precipitation patterns, and increasing frequency of extreme weather events. Here, we focus on the effects of rising atmospheric CO₂ concentrations, rising temperature, and drought stress and their interaction on plant developmental processes in leaves, roots, and in reproductive structures. While in some cases these responses are conserved across species, such as decreased root elongation, perturbation of root growth angle and reduced seed yield in response to drought, or an increase in root biomass in shallow soil in response to elevated CO₂, most responses are variable within and between species and are dependent on developmental stage. These variable responses include species-specific thresholds that arrest development of reproductive structures, reduce root growth rate and the rate of leaf initiation and expansion in response to elevated temperature. Leaf developmental responses to elevated CO₂ vary by cell type and by species. Variability also exists between C₃ and C₄ species in response to elevated CO₂, especially in terms of growth and seed yield stimulation. At the molecular level, significantly less is understood regarding conservation and variability in molecular mechanisms underlying these traits. Abscisic acid-mediated changes in cell wall expansion likely underlie reductions in growth rate in response to drought, and changes in known regulators of flowering time likely underlie altered reproductive transitions in response to elevated temperature and CO₂. Genes that underlie most other organ or tissue-level responses have largely only been identified in a single species in response to a single stress and their level of conservation is unknown. We conclude that there is a need for further research regarding the molecular mechanisms of plant developmental responses to climate change factors in general, and that this lack of data is particularly prevalent in the case of interactive effects of multiple climate change factors. As future growing conditions will likely expose plants to multiple climate change factors simultaneously, with a sum negative influence on global agriculture, further research in this area is critical.

Multi-scale modeling of Arabidopsis thaliana response to different CO2 conditions: From gene expression to metabolic flux

Multi-scale investigation from gene transcript level to metabolic activity is important to uncover plant response to environment perturbation. Here we integrated a genome-scale constraint-based metabolic model with transcriptome data to explore Arabidopsis thaliana response to both elevated and low CO2 conditions. The four condition-specific models from low to high CO2 concentrations show differences in active reaction sets, enriched pathways for increased/decreased fluxes, and putative post-transcriptional regulation, which indicates that condition-specific models are necessary to reflect physiological metabolic states. The simulated CO2 fixation flux at different CO2 concentrations is consistent with the measured Assimilation-CO2intercellular curve. Interestingly, we found that reactions in primary metabolism are affected most significantly by CO2 perturbation, whereas secondary metabolic reactions are not influenced a lot. The changes predicted in key pathways are consistent with existing knowledge. Another interesting point is that Arabidopsis is required to make stronger adjustment on metabolism to adapt to the more severe low CO2 stress than elevated CO2 . The challenges of identifying post-transcriptional regulation could also be addressed by the integrative model. In conclusion, this innovative application of multi-scale modeling in plants demonstrates potential to uncover the mechanisms of metabolic response to different conditions.

Diel leaf growth of soybean: a novel method to analyze two-dimensional leaf expansion in high temporal resolution based on a marker tracking approach (Martrack Leaf)

BACKGROUND

We present a novel method for quantitative analysis of dicot leaf expansion at high temporal resolution. Image sequences of growing leaves were assessed using a marker tracking algorithm. An important feature of the method is the attachment of dark beads that serve as artificial landmarks to the leaf margin. The beads are mechanically constricted to the focal plane of a camera. Leaf expansion is approximated by the increase in area of the polygon defined by the centers of mass of the beads surrounding the leaf. Fluctuating illumination conditions often pose serious problems for tracking natural structures of a leaf; this problem is circumvented here by the use of the beads.

RESULTS

The new method has been used to assess leaf growth in environmental situations with different illumination conditions that are typical in agricultural and biological experiments: Constant illumination via fluorescent light tubes in a climate chamber, a mix of natural and artificial illumination in a greenhouse and natural illumination of the situation on typical summer days in the field. Typical features of diel (24h) soybean leaf growth patterns were revealed in all three conditions, thereby demonstrating the general applicability of the method. Algorithms are provided to the entire community interested in using such approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

The implementation Martrack Leaf presented here is a robust method to investigate diel leaf growth rhythms both under natural and artificial illumination conditions. It will be beneficial for the further elucidation of genotype x environment x management interactions affecting leaf growth processes.

Promotion of growth by elevated carbon dioxide is coordinated through a flexible transcriptional network in Arabidopsis

Although gibberellins (GAs) promote many developmental responses in plants, little is known about how the hormone interacts with environmental signals at the molecular level for regulating plant growth. Recently, we have demonstrated that inhibition of growth by the GA biosynthesis inhibitor paclobutrazol (PAC) at ambient [CO₂] (350 µmol CO₂ mol(-1)) is reverted by elevated [CO₂] (750 μmol CO₂ mol(-1)). Our finding points to an important role of elevated [CO₂] as a signal allowing higher growth rates of low-GA plants. GA promotes plant growth via a complex transcriptional network that integrates multiple signaling pathways. Herein, we discuss how elevated [CO₂] stimulates biomass accumulation in a GA-independent manner by regulating the expression of growth-related genes.

Cross-talk between nitric oxide and Ca (2+) in elevated CO 2-induced lateral root formation

This study demonstrates a potential signaling pathway of CO 2-dependent stimulation in lateral root (LR) formation. Elevated CO 2 increases production of nitric oxide (NO), which subsequently stimulates the generation of cytosolic Ca (2+) concentration by activating plasma membrane and/or intracellular Ca (2+)-permeable channels. Meanwhile, nitric oxide synthase (NOS), as one of the main NO source, requires Ca (2+) and CaM as cofactors. This complex interaction involves transduction cascades of multiple signals that lead to the LR formation and development. Finally, this review highlights the the role of Ca (2+) in the process that elevated CO 2 enhances the development of LRs through increased NO level.

Action of gibberellins on growth and metabolism of Arabidopsis plants associated with high concentration of carbon dioxide

Although the positive effect of elevated CO(2) concentration [CO(2)] on plant growth is well known, it remains unclear whether global climate change will positively or negatively affect crop yields. In particular, relatively little is known about the role of hormone pathways in controlling the growth responses to elevated [CO(2)]. Here, we studied the impact of elevated [CO(2)] on plant biomass and metabolism in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) in relation to the availability of gibberellins (GAs). Inhibition of growth by the GA biosynthesis inhibitor paclobutrazol (PAC) at ambient [CO(2)] (350 µmol CO(2) mol(-1)) was reverted by elevated [CO(2)] (750 µmol CO(2) mol(-1)). Thus, we investigated the metabolic adjustment and modulation of gene expression in response to changes in growth of plants imposed by varying the GA regime in ambient and elevated [CO(2)]. In the presence of PAC (low-GA regime), the activities of enzymes involved in photosynthesis and inorganic nitrogen assimilation were markedly increased at elevated [CO(2)], whereas the activities of enzymes of organic acid metabolism were decreased. Under ambient [CO(2)], nitrate, amino acids, and protein accumulated upon PAC treatment; however, this was not the case when plants were grown at elevated [CO(2)]. These results suggest that only under ambient [CO(2)] is GA required for the integration of carbohydrate and nitrogen metabolism underlying optimal biomass determination. Our results have implications concerning the action of the Green Revolution genes in future environmental conditions.

Coming of leaf age: control of growth by hydraulics and metabolics during leaf ontogeny

Leaf growth is the central process facilitating energy capture and plant performance. This is also one of the most sensitive processes to a wide range of abiotic stresses. Because hydraulics and metabolics are two major determinants of expansive growth (volumetric increase) and structural growth (dry matter increase), we review the interaction nodes between water and carbon. We detail the crosstalks between water and carbon transports, including the dual role of stomata and aquaporins in regulating water and carbon fluxes, the coupling between phloem and xylem, the interactions between leaf water relations and photosynthetic capacity, the links between Lockhart's hydromechanical model and carbon metabolism, and the central regulatory role of abscisic acid. Then, we argue that during leaf ontogeny, these interactions change dramatically because of uncoupled modifications between several anatomical and physiological features of the leaf. We conclude that the control of leaf growth switches from a metabolic to a hydromechanical limitation during the course of leaf ontogeny. Finally, we illustrate how taking leaf ontogeny into account provides insights into the mechanisms underlying leaf growth responses to abiotic stresses that affect water and carbon relations, such as elevated CO2, low light, high temperature and drought.

Growth under elevated atmospheric CO(2) concentration accelerates leaf senescence in sunflower (Helianthus annuus L.) plants

Some morphogenetic and metabolic processes were sensitive to a high atmospheric CO(2) concentration during sunflower primary leaf ontogeny. Young leaves of sunflower plants growing under elevated CO(2) concentration exhibited increased growth, as reflected by the high specific leaf mass referred to as dry weight in young leaves (16 days). The content of photosynthetic pigments decreased with leaf development, especially in plants grown under elevated CO(2) concentrations, suggesting that high CO(2) accelerates chlorophyll degradation, and also possibly leaf senescence. Elevated CO(2) concentration increased the oxidative stress in sunflower plants by increasing H(2)O(2) levels and decreasing activity of antioxidant enzymes such as catalase and ascorbate peroxidase. The loss of plant defenses probably increases the concentration of reactive oxygen species in the chloroplast, decreasing the photosynthetic pigment content as a result. Elevated CO(2) concentration was found to boost photosynthetic CO(2) fixation, especially in young leaves. High CO(2) also increased the starch and soluble sugar contents (glucose and fructose) and the C/N ratio during sunflower primary leaf development. At the beginning of senescence, we observed a strong increase in the hexoses to sucrose ratio that was especially marked at high CO(2) concentration. These results indicate that elevated CO(2) concentration could promote leaf senescence in sunflower plants by affecting the soluble sugar levels, the C/N ratio and the oxidative status during leaf ontogeny. It is likely that systemic signals produced in plants grown with elevated CO(2), lead to early senescence and a higher oxidation state of the cells of these plant leaves.

Carbon dynamics in trees: feast or famine?

Research on the degree to which carbon (C) availability limits growth in trees, as well as recent trends in climate change and concurrent increases in drought-related tree mortality, have led to a renewed focus on the physiological mechanisms associated with tree growth responses to current and future climate. This has led to some dispute over the role of stored non-structural C compounds as indicators of a tree's current demands for photosynthate. Much of the uncertainty surrounding this issue could be resolved by developing a better understanding of the potential functions of non-structural C stored within trees. In addition to functioning as a buffer to reconcile temporal asynchrony between C demand and supply, the storage of non-structural C compounds may be under greater regulation than commonly recognized. We propose that in the face of environmental stochasticity, large, long-lived trees may require larger C investments in storage pools as safety margins than previously recognized, and that an important function of these pools may be to maintain hydraulic transport, particularly during episodes of severe stress. If so, survival and long-term growth in trees remain a function of C availability. Given that drought, freeze-thaw events and increasing tree height all impose additional constraints on vascular transport, the common trend of an increase in non-structural carbohydrate concentrations with tree size, drought or cold is consistent with our hypothesis. If the regulated maintenance of relatively large constitutive stored C pools in trees serves to maintain hydraulic integrity, then the minimum thresholds are expected to vary depending on the specific tissues, species, environment, growth form and habit. Much research is needed to elucidate the extent to which allocation of C to storage in trees is a passive vs. an active process, the specific functions of stored C pools, and the factors that drive active C allocation to storage.

Computational method for quantifying growth patterns at the adaxial leaf surface in three dimensions

Growth patterns vary in space and time as an organ develops, leading to shape and size changes. Quantifying spatiotemporal variations in organ growth throughout development is therefore crucial to understand how organ shape is controlled. We present a novel method and computational tools to quantify spatial patterns of growth from three-dimensional data at the adaxial surface of leaves. Growth patterns are first calculated by semiautomatically tracking microscopic fluorescent particles applied to the leaf surface. Results from multiple leaf samples are then combined to generate mean maps of various growth descriptors, including relative growth, directionality, and anisotropy. The method was applied to the first rosette leaf of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) and revealed clear spatiotemporal patterns, which can be interpreted in terms of gradients in concentrations of growth-regulating substances. As surface growth is tracked in three dimensions, the method is applicable to young leaves as they first emerge and to nonflat leaves. The semiautomated software tools developed allow for a high throughput of data, and the algorithms for generating mean maps of growth open the way for standardized comparative analyses of growth patterns.

Responses of root hair development to elevated CO2

This review highlights a potential signaling pathway of CO2-dependent stimulation in root hair development. Elevated CO2 firstly increases the carbohydrates production, which triggers the auxin or ethylene responsive signal transduction pathways and subsequently stimulates the generation of intracellular nitric oxide (NO). The NO acts on target Ca2+ and ion channels and induces activation of MAPK. Meanwhile, reactive oxygen species (ROS) activates cytoplasmic Ca2+ channels at the plasma membrane in the apex of the root tip. This complex pathway involves transduction cascades of multiple signals that lead to the fine tuning of epidermal cell initiation and elongation. The results suggest that elevated CO2 plays an important role in cell differentiation processes at the root epidermis.

Elevated carbon dioxide and/or ozone concentrations induce hormonal changes in Pinus tabulaeformis

We investigated endogenous plant hormones and needle growth in Pinus tabulaeformis plants grown in open-top chambers and exposed to ambient or elevated concentrations of carbon dioxide (CO(2)) and/or ozone (O(3)). Exposure to elevated CO(2) for 100 days significantly increased the change in fresh needle weight, indole-3-acetic acid (IAA), isopentenyl-adenosine (iPA), and dihydrozeatin riboside (DHZR) content. Abscisic acid (ABA) content decreased, and no effect was observed on zeatin riboside (ZR) content or changes in needle dry weight. The ratios of IAA/ABA and total cytokinins (CKs)/ABA [Formula: see text] were increased. Elevated O(3) significantly decreased IAA and ZR, and decreased the ratios of IAA/ABA and CKs/ABA. Ozone treatment increased ABA content but did not change iPA or DHZR content or change fresh or dry needle weights. The combination treatment significantly increased ABA content and the IAA/ABA ratio but decreased the total CKs/ABA ratio and had no effect on CKs or IAA content or change in fresh and dry needle weights. The results indicate that elevated CO(2) ameliorated the effects of elevated O(3) on tree growth.

Volatile emissions and phenolic compound concentrations along a vertical profile of Populus nigra leaves exposed to realistic ozone concentrations

Plants are exposed to increasing levels of tropospheric ozone concentrations. This pollutant penetrates in leaves through stomata and quickly reacts inside leaves, thus making plants valuable ozone sinks, but at the same time triggers oxidation processes which lead to leaf injuries. To counteract these negative effects, plants produce an array of antioxidants which react with ozone and reactive molecules which ozone generates in the leaf tissues. In this study, we measured the effect of an ozone concentration which is likely to be attained in many areas of the world in the near future (80 ppb) on leaves of the vertical profile of the widespread agroforestry species Populus nigra. Changes in (1) physiological parameters (photosynthesis and stomatal conductance), (2) ozone uptake, (3) emission of volatile organic compounds (VOCs, i.e. isoprene, methanol and other oxygenated compounds), (4) concentration of antioxidant surface compounds, and (5) concentration of phenolic compounds were assessed. The aim was to assess whether the defensive pathways leading to isoprenoids and phenolics formation were induced when a moderate and chronic increment of ozone is not able to damage photosynthesis. No visual injuries and minor changes in physiology and ozone uptake were observed. The emission of isoprene and oxygenated six-carbon (C6) volatiles were inhibited by ozone, whereas methanol emission was increased, especially in developing leaves. We interpret these results as suggesting an ontogenetic shift in ozone-treated leaves, leading to a slower development and a faster senescence. Most surface and phenolic compounds showed a declining trend in concentration from the youngest to the fully expanded leaves. Ozone reduced the concentrations of chlorogenic acid derivatives at the leaf surface, whereas in total leaf extracts a metabolic shift towards few phenolics with higher antioxidant capacity was observed.

Gene expression responses of paper birch (Betula papyrifera) to elevated CO2 and O3 during leaf maturation and senescence

Gene expression responses of paper birch (Betula papyrifera) leaves to elevated concentrations of CO(2) and O(3) were studied with microarray analyses from three time points during the summer of 2004 at Aspen FACE. Microarray data were analyzed with clustering techniques, self-organizing maps, K-means clustering and Sammon's mappings, to detect similar gene expression patterns within sampling times and treatments. Most of the alterations in gene expression were caused by O(3), alone or in combination with CO(2). O(3) induced defensive reactions to oxidative stress and earlier leaf senescence, seen as decreased expression of photosynthesis- and carbon fixation-related genes, and increased expression of senescence-associated genes. The effects of elevated CO(2) reflected surplus of carbon that was directed to synthesis of secondary compounds. The combined CO(2)+O(3) treatment resulted in differential gene expression than with individual gas treatments or in changes similar to O(3) treatment, indicating that CO(2) cannot totally alleviate the harmful effects of O(3).

Spring leaf flush in aspen (Populus tremuloides) clones is altered by long-term growth at elevated carbon dioxide and elevated ozone concentration

Early spring leaf out is important to the success of deciduous trees competing for light and space in dense forest plantation canopies. In this study, we investigated spring leaf flush and how long-term growth at elevated carbon dioxide concentration ([CO(2)]) and elevated ozone concentration ([O(3)]) altered leaf area index development in a closed Populus tremuloides (aspen) canopy. This work was done at the Aspen FACE experiment where aspen clones have been grown since 1997 in conditions simulating the [CO(2)] and [O(3)] predicted for approximately 2050. The responses of two clones were compared during the first month of spring leaf out when CO(2) fumigation had begun, but O(3) fumigation had not. Trees in elevated [CO(2)] plots showed a stimulation of leaf area index (36%), while trees in elevated [O(3)] plots had lower leaf area index (-20%). While individual leaf area was not significantly affected by elevated [CO(2)], the photosynthetic operating efficiency of aspen leaves was significantly improved (51%). There were no significant differences in the way that the two aspen clones responded to elevated [CO(2)]; however, the two clones responded differently to long-term growth at elevated [O(3)]. The O(3)-sensitive clone, 42E, had reduced individual leaf area when grown at elevated [O(3)] (-32%), while the tolerant clone, 216, had larger mature leaf area at elevated [O(3)] (46%). These results indicate a clear difference between the two clones in their long-term response to elevated [O(3)], which could affect competition between the clones, and result in altered genotypic composition in future atmospheric conditions.

Leaf size and surface characteristics of Betula papyrifera exposed to elevated CO2 and O3

Betula papyrifera trees were exposed to elevated concentrations of CO(2) (1.4 x ambient), O(3) (1.2 x ambient) or CO(2) + O(3) at the Aspen Free-air CO(2) Enrichment Experiment. The treatment effects on leaf surface characteristics were studied after nine years of tree exposure. CO(2) and O(3) increased epidermal cell size and reduced epidermal cell density but leaf size was not altered. Stomatal density remained unaffected, but stomatal index increased under elevated CO(2). Cuticular ridges and epicuticular wax crystallites were less evident under CO(2) and CO(2) + O(3). The increase in amorphous deposits, particularly under CO(2) + O(3,) was associated with the appearance of elongated plate crystallites in stomatal chambers. Increased proportions of alkyl esters resulted from increased esterification of fatty acids and alcohols under elevated CO(2) + O(3). The combination of elevated CO(2) and O(3) resulted in different responses than expected under exposure to CO(2) or O(3) alone.

Multi-scale phenotyping of leaf expansion in response to environmental changes: the whole is more than the sum of parts

The leaf is a multi-scale dynamic unit that is determined by mechanisms at different organizational scales (cell, tissue, whole leaf and whole plant) and affected by both internal (genotype) and external (environmental) determinisms. The recent development of phenotyping platforms and imaging techniques provides new insights into the temporal and spatial patterns of leaf growth as affected by those determinisms. Conclusions about the overriding mechanisms often depend on the considered organizational scale and of time resolution which varies from minutes to several weeks. Analyses of leaf growth responses to environmental conditions have revealed robust emerging properties at whole plant or whole leaf scales. They have highlighted that the control of individual leaf expansion is more complex than merely the sum of cellular processes, and the control at the whole plant level is more complex than the sum of individual leaf expansions. However, in many cases, the integrated leaf-growth variable can be simplified to a limited set of underlying variables to be measured for comparative analyses of leaf growth or modelling purposes.

Coppicing shifts CO2 stimulation of poplar productivity to above-ground pools: a synthesis of leaf to stand level results from the POP/EUROFACE experiment

A poplar short rotation coppice (SRC) grown for the production of bioenergy can combine carbon (C) storage with fossil fuel substitution. Here, we summarize the responses of a poplar (Populus) plantation to 6 yr of free air CO(2) enrichment (POP/EUROFACE consisting of two rotation cycles). We show that a poplar plantation growing in nonlimiting light, nutrient and water conditions will significantly increase its productivity in elevated CO(2) concentrations ([CO(2)]). Increased biomass yield resulted from an early growth enhancement and photosynthesis did not acclimate to elevated [CO(2)]. Sufficient nutrient availability, increased nitrogen use efficiency (NUE) and the large sink capacity of poplars contributed to the sustained increase in C uptake over 6 yr. Additional C taken up in high [CO(2)] was mainly invested into woody biomass pools. Coppicing increased yield by 66% and partly shifted the extra C uptake in elevated [CO(2)] to above-ground pools, as fine root biomass declined and its [CO(2)] stimulation disappeared. Mineral soil C increased equally in ambient and elevated [CO(2)] during the 6 yr experiment. However, elevated [CO(2)] increased the stabilization of C in the mineral soil. Increased productivity of a poplar SRC in elevated [CO(2)] may allow shorter rotation cycles, enhancing the viability of SRC for biofuel production.

Environmental effects on spatial and temporal patterns of leaf and root growth

Leaves and roots live in dramatically different habitats, but are parts of the same organism. Automated image processing of time-lapse records of these organs has led to understanding of spatial and temporal patterns of growth on time scales from minutes to weeks. Growth zones in roots and leaves show distinct patterns during a diel cycle (24 h period). In dicot leaves under nonstressful conditions these patterns are characterized by endogenous rhythms, sometimes superimposed upon morphogenesis driven by environmental variation. In roots and monocot leaves the growth patterns depend more strongly on environmental fluctuations. Because the impact of spatial variations and temporal fluctuations of above- and belowground environmental parameters must be processed by the plant body as an entire system whose individual modules interact on different levels, growth reactions of individual modules are often highly nonlinear. A mechanistic understanding of plant resource use efficiency and performance in a dynamically fluctuating environment therefore requires an accurate analysis of leaf and root growth patterns in conjunction with knowledge of major intraplant communication systems and metabolic pathways.

Elevated CO2 increases photosynthesis, biomass and productivity, and modifies gene expression in sugarcane

Because of the economical relevance of sugarcane and its high potential as a source of biofuel, it is important to understand how this crop will respond to the foreseen increase in atmospheric [CO(2)]. The effects of increased [CO(2)] on photosynthesis, development and carbohydrate metabolism were studied in sugarcane (Saccharum ssp.). Plants were grown at ambient (approximately 370 ppm) and elevated (approximately 720 ppm) [CO(2)] during 50 weeks in open-top chambers. The plants grown under elevated CO(2) showed, at the end of such period, an increase of about 30% in photosynthesis and 17% in height, and accumulated 40% more biomass in comparison with the plants grown at ambient [CO(2)]. These plants also had lower stomatal conductance and transpiration rates (-37 and -32%, respectively), and higher water-use efficiency (c.a. 62%). cDNA microarray analyses revealed a differential expression of 35 genes on the leaves (14 repressed and 22 induced) by elevated CO(2). The latter are mainly related to photosynthesis and development. Industrial productivity analysis showed an increase of about 29% in sucrose content. These data suggest that sugarcane crops increase productivity in higher [CO(2)], and that this might be related, as previously observed for maize and sorghum, to transient drought stress.

Effects of elevated CO2 on growth, carbon assimilation, photosynthate accumulation and related enzymes in rice leaves during sink-source transition

To study the effects of growing rice (Oryza sativa L.) leaves under the treatment of the short-term elevated CO(2) during the period of sink-source transition, several physiological processes such as dynamic changes in photosynthesis, photosynthate accumulation, enzyme activities (sucrose phosphate synthase (SPS), and sucrose synthase (SS)), and their specific gene (sps1 and RSus1) expressions in both mature and developing leaf were measured. Rice seedlings with fully expanded sixth leaf (marked as the source leaf, L6) were kept in elevated (700 micromol/mol) and ambient (350 mol/L) CO(2) until the 7th leaf (marked as the sink leaf, L7) fully expanded. The results demonstrated that elevated CO(2) significantly increased the rate of leaf elongation and biomass accumulation of L7 during the treatment without affecting the growth of L6. However, in both developing and mature leaves, net photosynthetic assimilation rate (A), all kinds of photosynthate contents such as starch, sucrose and hexose, activities of SPS and SS and transcript levels of sps1 and RSus1 were significantly increased under elevated CO(2) condition. Results suggested that the elevated CO(2) had facilitated photosynthate assimilation, and increased photosynthate supplies from the source leaf to the sink leaf, which accelerated the growth and sink-source transition in new developing sink leaves. The mechanisms of SPS regulation by the elevated CO(2) was also discussed.

QTLs for shelf life in lettuce co-locate with those for leaf biophysical properties but not with those for leaf developmental traits

Developmental and biophysical leaf characteristics that influence post-harvest shelf life in lettuce, an important leafy crop, have been examined. The traits were studied using 60 informative F9 recombinant inbed lines (RILs) derived from a cross between cultivated lettuce (Lactuca sativa cv. Salinas) and wild lettuce (L. serriola acc. UC96US23). Quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for shelf life co-located most closely with those for leaf biophysical properties such as plasticity, elasticity, and breakstrength, suggesting that these are appropriate targets for molecular breeding for improved shelf life. Significant correlations were found between shelf life and leaf size, leaf weight, leaf chlorophyll content, leaf stomatal index, and epidermal cell number per leaf, indicating that these pre-harvest leaf development traits confer post-harvest properties. By studying the population in two contrasting environments in northern and southern Europe, the genotype by environment interaction effects of the QTLs relevant to leaf development and shelf life were assessed. In total, 107 QTLs, distributed on all nine linkage groups, were detected from the 29 traits. Only five QTLs were common in both environments. Several areas where many QTLs co-located (hotspots) on the genome were identified, with relatively little overlap between developmental hotspots and those relating to shelf life. However, QTLs for leaf biophysical properties (breakstrength, plasticity, and elasticity) and cell area correlated well with shelf life, confirming that the ideal ideotype lettuce should have small cells with strong cell walls. The identification of QTLs for leaf development, strength, and longevity will lead to a better understanding of processability at a genetic and cellular level, and allow the improvement of salad leaf quality through marker-assisted breeding.

Adaptation of tree growth to elevated CO2: quantitative trait loci for biomass in Populus

* Information on the genetic variation of plant response to elevated CO(2) (e[CO(2)]) is needed to understand plant adaptation and to pinpoint likely evolutionary response to future high atmospheric CO(2) concentrations. * Here, quantitative trait loci (QTL) for above- and below-ground tree growth were determined in a pedigree - an F(2) hybrid of poplar (Populus trichocarpa and Populus deltoides), following season-long exposure to either current day ambient CO(2) (a[CO(2)]) or e[CO(2)] at 600 microl l(-1), and genotype by environment interactions investigated. * In the F(2) generation, both above- and below-ground growth showed a significant increase in e[CO(2)]. Three areas of the genome on linkage groups I, IX and XII were identified as important in determining above-ground growth response to e[CO(2)], while an additional three areas of the genome on linkage groups IV, XVI and XIX appeared important in determining root growth response to e[CO(2)]. * These results quantify and identify genetic variation in response to e[CO(2)] and provide an insight into genomic response to the changing environment.

The genetics and genomics of the drought response in Populus

The genetic nature of tree adaptation to drought stress was examined by utilizing variation in the drought response of a full-sib second generation (F(2)) mapping population from a cross between Populus trichocarpa (93-968) and P. deltoides Bart (ILL-129) and known to be highly divergent for a vast range of phenotypic traits. We combined phenotyping, quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis and microarray experiments to demonstrate that 'genetical genomics' can be used to provide information on adaptation at the species level. The grandparents and F(2) population were subjected to soil drying, and contrasting responses to drought across genotypes, including leaf coloration, expansion and abscission, were observed, and QTL for these traits mapped. A subset of extreme genotypes exhibiting extreme sensitivity and insensitivity to drought on the basis of leaf abscission were defined, and microarray experiments conducted on these genotypes and the grandparent species. The extreme genotype groups induced a different set of genes: 215 and 125 genes differed in their expression response between groups in control and drought, respectively, suggesting species adaptation at the gene expression level. Co-location of differentially expressed genes with drought-specific and drought-responsive QTLs was examined, and these may represent candidate genes contributing to the variation in drought response.

EBP1 regulates organ size through cell growth and proliferation in plants

Plant organ size shows remarkable uniformity within species indicating strong endogenous control. We have identified a plant growth regulatory gene, functionally and structurally homologous to human EBP1. Plant EBP1 levels are tightly regulated; gene expression is highest in developing organs and correlates with genes involved in ribosome biogenesis and function. EBP1 protein is stabilised by auxin. Elevating or decreasing EBP1 levels in transgenic plants results in a dose-dependent increase or reduction in organ growth, respectively. During early stages of organ development, EBP1 promotes cell proliferation, influences cell-size threshold for division and shortens the period of meristematic activity. In postmitotic cells, it enhances cell expansion. EBP1 is required for expression of cell cycle genes; CyclinD3;1, ribonucleotide reductase 2 and the cyclin-dependent kinase B1;1. The regulation of these genes by EBP1 is dose and auxin dependent and might rely on the effect of EBP1 to reduce RBR1 protein level. We argue that EBP1 is a conserved, dose-dependent regulator of cell growth that is connected to meristematic competence and cell proliferation via regulation of RBR1 level.

Elucidating genomic regions determining enhanced leaf growth and delayed senescence in elevated CO2

Limited information is available on the genetic variation and control for plant growth response to elevated CO(2) (e[CO(2)]). Such information is necessary to understand plant adaptation and evolution in future rising CO(2). Here, quantitative trait loci (QTL) for leaf growth, development, quality and leaf senescence were determined in a tree pedigree - an F(2) hybrid of Populus trichocarpa T. & G and Populus deltoides Marsh, following season-long exposure to either current day ambient carbon dioxide (a[CO(2)]) or e[CO(2)] at 600 microL L(-1). Leaf growth and development differed between the grandparents such that P. trichocarpa showed greater response to e[CO(2)]. In the F(2) generation, leaf development and quality traits including leaf area, leaf shape, epidermal cell area, and stomatal number, specific leaf area (SLA), and the phenology trait, canopy senescence index, were sensitive to e[CO(2)]. Sixty-nine QTL were mapped for the 19 traits of plants in a[CO(2)] while 60 QTL were mapped for plants in e[CO(2)]. The results suggest that although many QTL mapped to common positions in a[CO(2)] and e[CO(2)], confirming their importance in determining growth, there was also differential genetic control for a number of traits including leaf senescence. Candidate genes were shown to collocate to regions where response QTL mapped. This study is the first to identify candidate genes that may be important in determining plant adaptation to future high-CO(2) world.

The effects of elevated CO2 concentration on soybean gene expression. An analysis of growing and mature leaves

Improvements in carbon assimilation and water-use efficiency lead to increases in maximum leaf area index at elevated carbon dioxide concentration ([CO(2)]); however, the molecular drivers for this increase are unknown. We investigated the molecular basis for changes in leaf development at elevated [CO(2)] using soybeans (Glycine max) grown under fully open air conditions at the Soybean Free Air CO(2) Enrichment (SoyFACE) facility. The transcriptome responses of rapidly growing and fully expanded leaves to elevated [CO(2)] were investigated using cDNA microarrays. We identified 1,146 transcripts that showed a significant change in expression in growing versus fully expanded leaves. Transcripts for ribosomal proteins, cell cycle, and cell wall loosening, necessary for cytoplasmic growth and cell proliferation, were highly expressed in growing leaves. We further identified 139 transcripts with a significant [CO(2)] by development interaction. Clustering of these transcripts showed that transcripts involved in cell growth and cell proliferation were more highly expressed in growing leaves that developed at elevated [CO(2)] compared to growing leaves that developed at ambient [CO(2)]. The 327 [CO(2)]-responsive genes largely suggest that elevated [CO(2)] stimulates the respiratory breakdown of carbohydrates, which provides increased energy and biochemical precursors for leaf expansion and growth at elevated [CO(2)]. While increased photosynthesis and carbohydrate production at elevated [CO(2)] are well documented, this research demonstrates that at the transcript and metabolite level, respiratory breakdown of starch is also increased at elevated [CO(2)].

Can fast-growing plantation trees escape biochemical down-regulation of photosynthesis when grown throughout their complete production cycle in the open air under elevated carbon dioxide?

Poplar trees sustain close to the predicted increase in leaf photosynthesis when grown under long-term elevated CO2 concentration ([CO2]). To investigate the mechanisms underlying this response, carbohydrate accumulation and protein expression were determined over four seasons of growth. No increase in the levels of soluble carbohydrates was observed in the young expanding or mature sun leaves of the three poplar genotypes during this period. However, substantial increases in starch levels were observed in the mature leaves of all three poplar genotypes grown in elevated [CO2]. Despite the very high starch levels, no changes in the expression of photosynthetic Calvin cycle proteins, or in the starch biosynthetic enzyme ADP-glucose pyrophosphorylase (AGPase), were observed. This suggested that no long-term photosynthetic acclimation to CO2 occurred in these plants. Our data indicate that poplar trees are able to 'escape' from long-term, acclimatory down-regulation of photosynthesis through a high capacity for starch synthesis and carbon export. These findings show that these poplar genotypes are well suited to the elevated [CO2] conditions forecast for the middle of this century and may be particularly suited for planting for the long-term carbon sequestration into wood.

Quantitative analyses of cell division in plants

At the molecular level regulatory interactions between cell cycle genes are being uncovered rapidly, but less progress is made in unravelling how these molecular events regulate growth processes at the level of cells and of the whole organism. The main obstacle is the absence of a set of analytical tools that are powerful enough to determine pertinent parameters and, at the same time, relatively easy to use by non-specialized laboratories. Appropriate methodology to obtain this type of data has been pioneered in the first half of the last century and is now commonly defined as 'kinematic analysis'. Unfortunately, the laborious nature of these analyses and the relatively complex numerical methods used, have limited their use to only a handful of specialized research groups. In this article we attempt to present an accessible entry to this methodology, particularly in terms of the mathematical framework. We start describing the simplest possible system, i.e., a virtually homogenous cell suspension culture. Then, we outline the analysis of dicotyledonous leaves, root tips, monocotyledonous leaves, and finally shoot apical meristems. For each of these systems we discuss the details of the calculation of cell division parameters such as cell cycle duration, size of the meristem and number of cells contained in it, which enables answering fundamental questions about the relative contribution of differences in cell production and cell size to variation in growth. In addition, we discuss the assumptions and limitations of these and alternative methodologies with the aim to facilitate the choice of appropriate analyses depending on the specific research question.

Molecular targets of elevated [CO2] in leaves and stems of Populus deltoides: implications for future tree growth and carbon sequestration

We report the first comprehensive analysis of the effects of elevated [CO₂] on gene expression in source leaf and stem sink tissues in woody plants. We have taken advantage of coppiced Populus deltoides (Bartr.) stands grown for 3 years under three different and constant elevated [CO₂] in the agriforest mesocosms of Biosphere 2. Leaf area per tree was doubled by elevated [CO₂] but although growth at 800 v. 400 µmol mol^-1 CO₂ resulted in a significant increase in stem biomass, growth was not stimulated at 1200 µmol mol^-1 CO₂. Growth under elevated [CO₂] also resulted in significant increases in stem wood density. Analysis of expression data for the 13 490 clones present on POP1 microarrays revealed 95 and 277 [CO₂]-responsive clones in leaves and stems respectively, with the response being stronger at 1200 µmol mol^-1. When these [CO₂]-responsive genes were assigned to functional categories, metabolism-related genes were the most responsive to elevated [CO₂]. However within this category, expression of genes relating to bioenergetic processes was unchanged in leaves whereas the expression of genes for storage proteins and of those involved in control of wall expansion was enhanced. In contrast to leaves, the genes up-regulated in stems under elevated [CO₂] were primarily enzymes responsible for lignin formation and polymerisation or ethylene response factors, also known to induce lignin biosynthesis. Concomitant with this enhancement of lignin biosynthesis in stems, there was a pronounced repression of genes related to cell wall formation and cell growth. These changes in gene expression have clear consequences for long-term carbon sequestration, reducing the carbon-fertilisation effect, and the potential for increased lignification may negatively impact on future wood quality for timber and paper production.

Elevated CO2 induces physiological, biochemical and structural changes in leaves of Arabidopsis thaliana

Leaves of Arabidopsis thaliana grown under elevated or ambient CO2 (700 or 370 micromol mol(-1), respectively) were examined for physiological, biochemical and structural changes. Stomatal characters, carbohydrate and mineral nutrient concentrations, leaf ultrastructure and plant hormone content were investigated using atomic absorption spectrophotometry, transmission electron microscopy and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Elevated CO2 reduced the stomatal density and stomatal index of leaves, and also reduced stomatal conductance and transpiration rate. Elevated CO2 increased chloroplast number, width and profile area, and starch grain size and number, but reduced the number of grana thylakoid membranes. Under elevated CO2, the concentrations of carbohydrates and plant hormones, with the exception of abscisic acid, increased whereas mineral nutrient concentrations declined. These results suggest that the changes in chloroplast ultrastructure may primarily be a consequence of increased starch accumulation. Accelerated A. thaliana growth and development in elevated CO2 could in part be attributed to increased foliar concentrations of plant hormones. The reductions in mineral nutrient concentrations may be a result of dilution by increased concentrations of carbohydrates and also of decreases in stomatal conductance and transpiration rate.

Enhancement of rice canopy carbon gain by elevated CO(2) is sensitive to growth stage and leaf nitrogen concentration

Increasing our understanding of the factors regulating seasonal changes in rice canopy carbon gain (C(gain): daily net photosynthesis -- night respiration) under elevated CO(2) concentrations ([CO(2)]) will reduce our uncertainty in predicting future rice yields and assist in the development of adaptation strategies. In this study we measured CO(2) exchange from rice (Oryza sativa) canopies grown at c. 360 and 690 micromol mol(-1)[CO(2)] in growth chambers continuously over three growing seasons. Stimulation of C(gain) by elevated [CO(2)] was 22-79% during vegetative growth, but decreased to between -12 and 5% after the grain-filling stage, resulting in a 7-22% net enhancement for the whole season. The decreased stimulation of C(gain) resulted mainly from decreased canopy net photosynthesis and partially from increased respiration. A decrease in canopy photosynthetic capacity was noted where leaf nitrogen (N) decreased. The effect of elevated [CO(2)] on leaf area was generally small, but most dramatic under ample N conditions; this increased the stimulation of whole-season C(gain). These results suggest that a decrease in C(gain) enhancement following elevated CO(2) levels is difficult to avoid, but that careful management of nitrogen levels can alter the whole-season C(gain) enhancement.

How does elevated CO2 or ozone affect the leaf-area index of soybean when applied independently?

Changes in leaf-area index (LAI) may alter ecosystem productivity in elevated [CO2] or [O3]. By increasing the apparent quantum yield of photosynthesis (phi(c,max)), elevated [CO2] may increase maximum LAI. However, [O3] when elevated independently accelerates senescence and may reduce LAI. Large plots (20 m diameter) of soybean (Glycine max) were exposed to ambient (approx. 370 micromol mol(-1)) or elevated (approx. 550 micromol mol(-1)) CO2 or 1.2 times ambient [O3] using soybean free-air concentration enrichment (SoyFACE). In 2001 elevated CO2 had no detectable effect on maximum LAI, but in 2002 maximum LAI increased by 10% relative to ambient air. Elevated [CO2] also increased the phi(c,max) of shade leaves in both years. Elevated [CO2] delayed LAI loss to senescence by approx. 54% and also increased leaf-area duration. Elevated [O3] accelerated senescence, reducing LAI by 40% near the end of the growing season. No effect of elevated [O3] on photosynthesis was detected. Elevated [CO2] or [O3] affected LAI primarily by altering the rate of senescence; knowledge of this may aid in optimizing future soybean productivity.

The transcriptome of Populus in elevated CO2

The consequences of increasing atmospheric carbon dioxide for long-term adaptation of forest ecosystems remain uncertain, with virtually no studies undertaken at the genetic level. A global analysis using cDNA microarrays was conducted following 6 yr exposure of Populus x euramericana (clone I-214) to elevated [CO(2)] in a FACE (free-air CO(2) enrichment) experiment. Gene expression was sensitive to elevated [CO(2)] but the response depended on the developmental age of the leaves, and < 50 transcripts differed significantly between different CO(2) environments. For young leaves most differentially expressed genes were upregulated in elevated [CO(2)], while in semimature leaves most were downregulated in elevated [CO(2)]. For transcripts related only to the small subunit of Rubisco, upregulation in LPI 3 and downregulation in LPI 6 leaves in elevated CO(2) was confirmed by anova. Similar patterns of gene expression for young leaves were also confirmed independently across year 3 and year 6 microarray data, and using real-time RT-PCR. This study provides the first clues to the long-term genetic expression changes that may occur during long-term plant response to elevated CO(2).