How the internal clock controls gene activity, growth, and development in Arabidopsis plants

The plant circadian clock is associated with complex systems that synchronize physiology with daily and seasonal environmental changes.

• Most organisms, including plants, have evolved an internal circadian clock to recognize 24-hour environmental fluctuations.
• The plant clock integrates light signaling pathways to anticipate environmental changes and measure day length.
• Significant advancements in genetic and molecular studies have clarified the organization and function of the circadian system, particularly in Arabidopsis thaliana.
• The core of the plant circadian oscillator operates through negative feedback loops, with additional regulatory mechanisms involved.
• New insights into the molecular mechanisms of the circadian clock enhance understanding of how plants coordinate their growth and development with environmental cycles.

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