Mechanical interactions between tissue layers underlie plant morphogenesis

Abstract

Differential growth between tissues generates mechanical conflicts influencing organogenesis in plants. Here we use the anther, the male floral reproductive organ, as a model system to understand how cell dynamics and tissue-scale mechanics control 3D morphogenesis of a complex shape. Combining deep live-cell imaging, growth analysis, osmotic treatments, genetics and mechanical modelling, we show that localized expansion of internal cells actively drives anther lobe outgrowth, while the epidermis stretches in response. At later stages, mechanical load is transferred to the sub-epidermal layer (endothecium), contributing to proper organ shape. We propose the concept of ‘inflation potential’, encapsulating mechanical and anatomical features causing differential growth. Our data emphasize the active mechanical role of inner tissue in controlling both organ shape acquisition and cell dynamics in outer layers.