Review: The root transition zone: A hot spot for signal crosstalk (TIPS) ($)

Plant roots are an excellent system to study the interactions between endogenous (phytohormones) and exogenous (abiotic stresses) stimuli. The root can be considered as three sections: the meristematic zone (where active cell division occurs), the transition zone (acting as a boundary between meristem and elongation zones), and the elongation and differentiation zone (where cells elongate and root hairs start to form). Hormonal crosstalk and the perception of aluminum and low phosphate stress occur in the transition zone. In this review, Kong et al. focus on the genetic circuitry between phytohormones and abiotic stress regulation in the root transition zone. They also discuss future research opportunities related to the role of the transition zone in response to other abiotic stresses, such as drought and salt stress. (Summary by Arif Ashraf) Trends Plant Sci. 10.1016/j.tplants.2018.02.004