Plant peroxisome dynamics: Movement, positioning and connections

Abstract

Compartmentalization of metabolic functions in membrane bounded organelles is a defining characteristic of eukaryotes. Movement, positioning and morphology of such organelles are key determinants for function, maintenance and inheritance. For example, mutations in the molecular motors (myosin) that drive organelle movement in plants result in dwarf plants with reduced seed set. Therefore, movement and positioning of organelles are key factors for plant development and growth. Peroxisomes are both functionally and morphologically pleomorphic. Several metabolic processes span more than one organelle, highlighting the importance of coordinated movement and positioning of these organelles. Here, we deal with peroxisome dynamics in terms of movement, positioning and how these dynamics may relate to their functional role. In order to understand the potential role of such movement, a brief discussion of the functional role of plant peroxisomes is provided.