Mechanical control of plant organ growth: Lessons from the seed

Abstract

Plant organ growth is governed by the mechanical properties of individual cells but also by mechanical interactions between adjacent cells and tissues. These interactions generate forces that are sensed, triggering mechanical responses that influence essential cellular processes important for growth and differentiation. However, the extent to which cell mechanical properties and responses to forces shape organ size and form, as well as the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes, remain poorly understood due to the inherent complexity of plant organ morphogenesis. In this review, we highlight recent advancements in understanding the mechanics of plant organ development, focusing on insights gained from studying Arabidopsis seed development. We illustrate how mechanical interactions between tissues contribute to the regulation of seed growth and provide a framework for exploring the role of mechanics in shaping plant morphology.