The Regulation of Pollen–Pistil Interactions by Receptor-Like Kinases

Abstract

Receptor-Like Kinases (RLKs) have been discovered to regulate several signaling events during pollen–pistil interactions, with functions uncovered in both the pollen tube and the pistil. The earliest role is for S Receptor Kinase (SRK) in the rapid activation of the Brassicaceae self-incompatible response in the stigma following the perception of self-pollen. The next role is in the communication of a growing pollen tube with the transmitting tract of the Solanum lycopersicum pistils through the Pollen Receptor Kinases (LePRKs). Once the pollen tube has reached the ovule, it is fundamentally important for the pollen tube to have the correct timing to cease growth and release the sperm cells for the successful double fertilization of the egg cell and central cell. In Arabidopsis thaliana, this event is mediated by RLKs on both the female (FERONIA/SIRENE) and male (ANXUR1 and ANXUR2) side. Thus, RLKs play several fundamental roles in the successful creation of the next generation. This chapter will review the functions of these receptor kinases as well as other players that work alongside with these RLKs in regulating these precise steps during pollen–pistil interactions.