How do plant cell communicate ?

Our lab investigates how plasmodesmata (PD) regulate cell-to-cell communication in plants. These membrane-lined pores create cytoplasmic, plasma membrane (PM), and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) continuity between neighboring cells, allowing the direct exchange of proteins, RNAs, hormones, and metabolites. PD are central to the organization of plant multicellularity, yet their regulation remains poorly defined.
We focus on the molecular mechanisms that shape PD specialization and function, with particular emphasis on their unique membrane architecture and its impact on intercellular trafficking. Using lipidomics, proteomics, super-resolution, electron tomography and expansion microscopy, molecular dynamics, and plant genetics, we address fundamental questions such as: What defines PD membrane domains? What role do lipids play in PD function? How do ER–PM contacts within PD control trafficking?
Our work has revealed lipids as functional regulators of PD, uncovered the plasticity of their 3D structure, and demonstrated that PD act as specialized ER–PM membrane contact sites with dedicated tethering proteins. More recently, we showed that PD form through ER-dependent incomplete cytokinesis, redefining the role of the ER in establishing intercellular continuity. Together, these findings reshape our view of how plant cells connect and communicate.