After yesterday's interlude, we return to the UBC research series. Ruth continues:
Assistant Professor Jin-Gui Chen from the UBC Botany Department conducts research in plant cell biology. He writes: "Trichomes are hair-like epidermal outgrowths on the surface of leaves, stems and some floral organs. It is generally recognized that trichomes have protective roles. For example, trichomes interfere with the feeding of some herbivores. The most important trichome for human beings is the cotton fibre. Many trichomes, such as glandular trichomes in lavender (Lavandula) and peppermint (Mentha × piperita) are also important places for oil and fragrance production."
"By studying model laboratory plant Arabidopsis thaliana, scientists have found that the number and distribution of trichomes are largely determined by the interactions and competitions between several different types of transcription factor--proteins that regulate the expression of target genes. These studies make it possible to alter the number, property (e.g. length), and distribution of trichomes in plants with economic values. Shown on the top are leaf trichomes in a normal (wild-type) Arabidopsis plant. By controlling the expression level of certain transcription factors, the leaf could become glabrous (the middle photograph) or very hairy (the bottom image)."
Hah! never noticed the trichomes! I guess I'll have to go and check for myself!
Oh the memories - I spent the better part of my freshman year dipping leaves in liquid nitrogen, then meticulously scraping off the trichomes to isolate them.
Something new learned. And aren't they photogenic, too.
Are trichomes responsible for the sting of the nettles?
Interesting. Trichomes are also responsible taste/smell/inebriating effects of marijuana. Perhaps we can use the knowledge above to make smoking pot even more delicious and fun than it already is.
Well, Bravo Brian!
They look like sponge spicules. Neat.
Seems that there might be another role in areas where there is morning fog or mist. More surface area for moisture to gather and run down the leaf and stem or petiole.
Nice close-up.
Trichomes are neat. They come in different shapes (the peppermint trichome is like a tiny ball on a stalk, look it up on Google Images!) and they also serve to reflect light from the leaves.
Yes, I think that the trichomes are the so-called stinging hairs of nettles.
this page never ceases to be interesting
thank you to every one