A Role for KNAT Class II Genes in Root Development.

Homeodomain proteins set up domains of gene expression during the development of animal and plant body plans. In plants, homeodomain proteins of the KNOX class I family have been shown to play a role in shoot apical meristem development. Recently, we have investigated the role of the Arabidopsis thaliana KNOX class II genes KNAT3, KNAT4 and KNAT5 in root development. These genes showed root domain and cell type specific expression patterns, and their expression was regulated by hormones that influence root growth. Moreover, sub-cellular localization of the KNAT proteins exhibited regulation, suggesting that post-transcriptional control contributes to KNOX class II protein activity. Our data provide a survey of KNAT gene expression in the root and indicate that the investigated KNAT genes might play distinct roles during root development.