
Introduction

In Arabidopsis thaliana, Lateral Root Initiation (LRI) is hallmarked by coordinated asymmetric divisions in adjacent xylem pole pericycle cells. Similar to many developmental processes, it is strongly regulated by the plant hormone auxin.
Studying root development at the macro- and micro- evolutionary scale was facilitated the ongoing amelioration of phenotyping techniques, the extent of plant accessions databases and the arise of next-generation sequencing. Two main strategies have been initiated in the Root Development group to investigate micro-evolution of root architecture in Arabidopsis, and macro-evolution of genetic determinants of lateral root development in different species.
LRI datasets were compiled and integrated in the eFP browser online tool.
Within the angiosperms, major differences in root architecture between dicotyledonous and monocotyledonous plants exist. We are working on the genetic and molecular mechanisms involved in the development of the root system in major crop species.
Over the years, the Root Development lab has developed different techniques and protocols to achieve his goals. We provide here some descriptions and links towards the publications describing these.
General information and technical specificities about the EPICS ALTRA Fluorescent Activated Cell Sorting (FACS)
The Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) facility located on the campus ‘Ledeganck’ of the UGent is providing expertise in the use and application of transmission electron microscopy to serve biological or biomedical sciences.