Biomics

Lignin deposition plays a key role in the formation of Casparian bands, which act as a barrier to the uncontrolled movement of ions and water across the apoplast. Salinity, flooding, drought, and the presence of heavy metal ions in the soil increase lignification. This protective response increases plant resilience by reducing both the influx of toxic ions and the loss of oxygen by roots during flooding and loss of water - during its transport to the shoot through the upper soil layers, which dry out during drought. However, it can have negative consequences for plant growth and development due to reduced hydraulic conductivity resulting from the blockage of the apoplast water pathway. This work was aimed at analyzing data on how plants can solve the problem of maintaining hydraulic conductivity in the context of increased lignin deposition and the resulting limitation of water movement through the apoplast. The reduction in hydraulic conductivity can be avoided by increasing the level and activity of water channels aquaporins. Abcisic acid may play an important role in regulating both lignin deposition and the compensating increase in aquaporin levels.

lignin, apoplast barriers, Casparian bands, resistance, hydraulic conductance

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