Chinese scientists have uncovered the mechanism behind plant cell totipotency, solving a century-old biological mystery. This discovery explains how a single plant somatic cell can develop into a complete plant. The achievement promises to transform crop breeding, germplasm conservation, and agricultural biotechnology.
The research team, led by Professor Zhang Xiansheng at Shandong Agricultural University, published their findings in the journal Cell. The study represents the first comprehensive explanation of the molecular processes that reprogram somatic cells into totipotent stem cells.
Plant cell totipotency, first proposed in 1902, describes a plant cell’s ability to dedifferentiate and regain the potential to form a full organism. While the phenomenon occurs across crops and woody plants, its underlying molecular mechanisms remained unknown for over a century.
Since 2005, Zhang’s team has used Arabidopsis thaliana to investigate the process. They developed an experimental system showing how somatic cells can regain totipotency and initiate embryogenesis under controlled conditions. They also discovered that auxin accumulation serves as a key trigger in activating this process.
The scientists employed advanced methods such as single-nucleus RNA sequencing, scanning electron microscopy, and spatial laser capture microdissection combined with RNA sequencing. These techniques allowed the team to observe the full cell division process and provide direct evidence for the “single somatic cell origin” of plant cell totipotency.
The researchers identified two crucial genetic factors: SPCH, specific to leaf stomatal precursor cells, and inducible overexpression of the LEC2 gene. Acting together, they form a molecular switch that initiates totipotency. Professor Su Yinghua noted that during this transition, cells undergo chromatin remodeling and activate previously silent genes.
Experts say the discovery addresses a long-standing “regeneration bottleneck” in agricultural biotechnology. Academician Zhong Kang highlighted that the study not only deepens understanding of plant biology but also provides tools for precision breeding and rapid cloning of superior crop varieties.
Looking forward, Zhang predicts that precise regulation of plant cell totipotency could accelerate crop improvement. The findings may shorten breeding cycles, improve conservation of rare germplasm, and advance plant synthetic biology. Early trials are already underway in crops such as wheat, maize, and soybean.
This breakthrough marks a major step in plant science, offering both fundamental insights and practical applications for agriculture worldwide. Plant cell totipotency now opens new possibilities for efficient regeneration and targeted improvement of crop traits.
