Molecular Biology: Open Access

Trichome, a Functional Diversity Phenotype in Plant

Abstract

Kaizhuan Xiao, Xiaohui Mao, Yuelong Lin, Huibin Xu, Yonsheng Zhu, Qiuhua Cai, Huaan Xie, Jianfu Zhang

Trichomes play a very important role in the process of evolution for plant which are epidermal appendages covering the surface of plants. In this paper, some progress concerning the genes responsible for trichome formation is presented for monocots and dicotyledons plants. Meanwhile, the special structures and physiological functions of trichome are briefly introduced, such as reflectance, energy balance, ultraviolet protection, drought resistance, gas exchange, insect resistance and disease resistance. The review provides a theoretical basis for the further study of other trichome related traits in plants.