Intrinsic Signaling Pathways and key Regulatory Factors of Stomatal Development

Stomata are small pores on the surface of plant leaves that play a critical role in regulating gas exchange and water loss. The development of stomata is a complex process regulated by a network of signaling pathways and regulatory factors. In this review, we discuss the major signaling pathways and regulatory factors involved in stomatal development, including the roles of the EPF ligands family, the TMM and ERECTA receptor complex, the MAPK cascade, and various bHLH transcription factors such as SPCH. The interconnections between these pathways and regulatory factors are also summarized, revealing a complex network of interactions that integrate signals from multiple sources. Although significant progress has been made in understanding stomatal development, there are still knowledge gaps. Future studies should focus on elucidating the precise processes of the interaction between regulatory factors and signaling pathways, investigating the function of epigenetic regulation in stomatal development, and understanding the impact of environmental cues on it. This review provides insights into the complex intricate network that underlies stomatal development.