Models of shoot apical meristem function.

In this review we describe how concepts of shoot apical meristem function have developed over time. The role of the scientist is emphasized, as proposer, receiver and evaluator of ideas about the shoot apical meristem. Models have become increasingly popular over the last 250 years, and we consider their role. They provide valuable grounding for the development of hypotheses, but in addition they have a strong human element and their uptake relies on various degrees of persuasion. The most influential models are probably those that most data support, consolidating them as an insight into reality; but they also work by altering how we see meristems, re-directing us to influence the data we collect and the questions we consider meaningful. Contents Summary 37 I. Introduction 37 II. How things began 38 III. Cytology 39 IV. Morphology 41 V. Developmental genetics 44 VI. Conclusions 49 Acknowledgements 50 References 50.