Extracellular pectin-RALF phase separation mediates FERONIA global signaling function. (https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38157854/)

These scientists wanted to understand how certain molecules in plants help them grow and survive. They focused on a molecule called RALF and two other molecules called FER and LLG1. They discovered that when RALF comes into contact with the cell surface of plants, it causes the molecules to cluster together and be taken inside the cell. This process also happens with other molecules that are not directly related to RALF.

The scientists found that RALF stays outside the plant cell, but it binds to a substance called pectin, which is found in the cell wall of plants. When RALF and pectin come together, they form separate areas within the cell, like little droplets. Inside these droplets, FER and LLG1 are also brought together with RALF. This gathering of molecules helps to start the plant's response to RALF on the cell surface.

The scientists also discovered that when plants face challenges like high salt or temperature, the RALF and pectin droplets form more frequently. This causes the molecules to cluster together even more and be taken inside the cell in large amounts. This process is important for plants to recover from the stress and continue growing.

In conclusion, the scientists found that the interaction between RALF, pectin, FER, and LLG1 helps plants to respond to signals on their cell surface and helps them grow and survive.

Liu MJ., Yeh FJ., Yvon R., Simpson K., Jordan S., Chambers J., Wu HM., Cheung AY. Extracellular pectin-RALF phase separation mediates FERONIA global signaling function. Cell. 2024 Jan 18;187(2):312-330.e22. doi: 10.1016/j.cell.2023.11.038. Epub 2023 Dec 28.