Dynamic models of epidermal patterning as an approach to plant eco-evo-devo.

Epidermal patterning in Arabidopsis thaliana leaves and root has become a model system for experimental and theoretical developmental studies, yielding well-characterized regulatory networks. We succinctly review the dynamic models proposed for this system and then argue that it provides an excellent instance to integrate and further study the role of non-genetic factors in plant development and evolution. Then, we set up to review the role of phytohormones and environmental stimuli in the regulation of cell-fate determination and patterning in this system. We conclude that dynamic modeling of complex regulatory networks can help understand the plasticity and variability of cellular patterns, and hence, such modeling approaches can be expanded to advance in the consolidation of plant Evolutionary and Ecological Developmental Biology (eco-evo-devo).