CLAVATA signaling pathway receptors modulate developmental traits and stress responses in crops

Abstract

The CLAVATA signaling pathway is one of the most important signaling components in the plant system. The CLE peptides and their receptors play crucial roles in various aspects of plant development and stress responses. The most common receptor types of this signaling system include the leucine-rich repeat (LRR)-receptor-like kinases like the CLAVATA1, BAM receptors, RPK2, and CIKs and the LRR-RLPs like the CLV2 and its coreceptors. The most notable role of the CLAVATA receptors is in meristematic cell maintenance in root and shoot. Their role is well studied in legumes for autoregulation of nodulation and a similar role has been observed in mycorrhizal symbiotic relation establishment and regulation. The CLAVATA receptors are also involved in both biotic and abiotic stress perception and responses in crops. The signaling pathway and its receptors have enormous potential for utilization in crop improvement endeavors. Understanding their role in signal regulation will help in developing better-performing customized crops.