An international research team published a study in New Phytologist that describes a formula for how vines search for and attach to other plants. The scientists explain why this matters: vines can block sunlight and restrict water and nutrient flow, and host trees store atmospheric carbon dioxide.
The researchers worked with common bean vines and identified three central processes: rapid elongation, directional movement toward supports, and production of specialized contacting cells called G-fibers. G-fibers are contractile cells that help branches bend and allow twining.
To test these parts, the team compared normal vines with plants engineered to produce excess brassinosteroid, a plant hormone that controls growth. Plants with extra hormone showed reduced G-fiber development, elongated very quickly, and moved without clear direction—behavior the team described as "lazy vines." The study also identified a gene family linked to these processes and named a candidate gene, XTH5, active during G-fiber development.
Difficult words
- g-fiber — special plant cell that helps branches bendG-fibers
- elongation — process of becoming longer or growing in length
- directional — moving toward a specific target or support
- brassinosteroid — a plant hormone that controls growth
- twine — to wrap around a support by twistingtwining
- contractile — able to shorten or tighten by contracting
- candidate gene — a gene thought to have a specific role
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- How might vines that block sunlight affect trees and other forest plants?
- What problems could "lazy vines" cause for the host plants they attach to?
- The study used plants engineered to produce extra hormone. Do you think changing plant hormones is a good idea for agriculture? Why or why not?
Related articles
How mangroves survive saltwater
Scientists studied mangrove trees to learn why some plants tolerate repeated saltwater flooding. They found small cells and thicker cell walls help mangroves stay strong in salty, waterlogged conditions and suggest this could help make crops more salt-tolerant.
Antibody and EGFR–STAT1 pathway point to new fibrosis treatments
Researchers at Yale found a human antibody that blocks epiregulin and lowers fibrosis markers. They also show EGFR activates STAT1 in fibroblasts, suggesting two treatment paths: block epiregulin or target the EGFR–STAT1 pathway.
High-dose antioxidants may harm sperm and offspring
A study in mice found that regular high doses of antioxidant supplements can damage sperm and change skull and facial development in offspring. Researchers advise caution for men taking large antioxidant doses when planning children.