The Plant Journal

Authors: Peng Wang, Steven Kelly, Jim P. Fouracre, Jane A. Langdale Article first published online: 8 June 2013 DOI: 10.1111/tpj.12229 © 2013 The Authors The Plant Journal © 2013 John Wiley & Sons Ltd

Photosynthesis underpins the viability of most ecosystems, with C4 plants that exhibit ‘Kranz’ anatomy being the most efficient primary producers. Kranz anatomy is characterised by closely spaced veins that are encircled by two morphologically distinct photosynthetic cell types. Although Kranz anatomy evolved multiple times, the underlying genetic mechanisms remain largely elusive, with only the maize 'scarecrow' gene so far implicated in Kranz patterning.