Connectivity and signalling at the plant nuclear periphery

In eukaryotes, the nuclear envelope encloses genetic material thereby separating it from the rest of the cell. This compartmentalisation into the nucleus creates a controlled environment for nucleic acid metabolism, regulation and organisation of the genetic material. However, far from forming a rigid, impermeable barrier, the components of the nuclear envelope facilitate communications between the cell and the nucleus thereby mediating the integration of cellular and nuclear events. Nuclear pore complexes anchored in the nuclear envelope are functional gateways that control the exchange of molecules – such as the import of proteins into the nucleus and the export of RNA’s from the nucleus as well as the exchange of ions. In addition, nucleo-cytoskeletal bridging complexes form physical protein connections that span the membranes of the nuclear envelope and directly link cytoskeletal components to nucleoskeletal and chromatin components. Finally, ion channels and pumps localised in both inner and out nuclear membranes are involved in signalling events, which transmit cellular and extracellular signals into the nucleus causing changes in gene regulation and nucleic acid metabolism.
The identification and characterisation of plant NE components in recent years has resulted in significant advances to be made in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying these processes and their roles in plant growth and development, stress responses and reproduction. This Frontiers Research Topic aims to provide a platform for research focused on the plant nuclear periphery as interface for mediating cellular - nuclear interactions. All article types – original research, review, hypothesis and opinion articles – are welcome.