Comprehensive insights into the development of arabidopsis trichomes by single-nucleus RNA-seq.

BACKGROUNDTrichomes are specialized epidermal structures that perform critical functions in plant defense and development. Despite their importance, the molecular programs governing trichome initiation, differentiation, maturation, and complete developmental progression remain incompletely characterized, largely due to the inherent limitations of conventional bulk RNA sequencing approaches in capturing cellular heterogeneity. To address this knowledge gap, we leveraged publicly available single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) data from Arabidopsis thaliana to construct a high-resolution developmental trajectory of trichomes, encompassing the transition from epidermal cells through initiation to branching stages. This approach enabled us to identify stage-specific transcriptional regulators and refine the molecular framework underlying trichome development.

RESULTSWe successfully reconstructed a continuous developmental trajectory of arabidopsis trichomes and identified distinct stages characterized by extensive transcriptional reprogramming. Key regulatory genes, including VILLIN 1(VLN1), exhibited strong stage-specific expression during the initiation phase. Additionally, multiple long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) were found to be differentially expressed across developmental stages, suggesting potential roles in early lineage specification and trichome fate commitment.

CONCLUSIONSThis study presents a high-resolution single-nucleus transcriptomic atlas of Arabidopsis trichome development, spanning the continuum from epidermal cells to trichome branching stages, and establishes a comprehensive molecular framework delineating the complete developmental trajectory. This resource provides valuable genetic insights for future functional investigations.