Molecular Mechanisms of Light-Mediated Morphogenesis and Development

Photomorphogenesis and development are vital areas that focus on understanding how organisms interact with their environment through light-dependent reactions. Light is a key determinant in the evolution of morphogenic programs and influences genetic programs, organismal development, physiological reactions, and morphological transitions throughout the life cycle. Despite significant advancements, there remain critical gaps in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms that govern these processes. Recent studies have highlighted specific photoreceptor-dependent processes, circadian control, and signal transduction pathways, yet the intricate interplay between light-triggered processes and environmental factors is not fully elucidated. Addressing these gaps is essential for a comprehensive understanding of how light influences biological development and adaptation.

This research topic aims to address the current challenges and advancements in unraveling the molecular mechanisms underlying light-mediated morphogenesis and development. We seek to explore specific questions such as: What are the key photoreceptors involved in these processes? How do signal transduction pathways integrate light signals with other environmental cues? What are the genetic and epigenetic modifications induced by light exposure? By answering these questions, we aim to deepen our understanding of the interconnectedness between light and organismal development and identify potential areas for future research.

To gather further insights into the boundaries of light-mediated morphogenesis and development, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
• Light-controlled genetic programs
• Morphological transitions influenced by light
• Properties and evolution of photoreceptors
• Signal transduction pathways in light-mediated processes
• Interaction of light with other environmental factors
• New technological approaches for studying light-mediated development

Join us in uncovering the fascinating world of light-mediated morphogenesis and development, as we strive to deepen our understanding of the molecular mechanisms and environmental interactions that shape biological processes.

Note that this section does not cover light-triggered behavior of animals, vision studies, or light-induced diseases.

We welcomes submissions of the following article types: Brief Research Report, Data Report, General Commentary, Hypothesis & Theory, Methods, Mini Review, Opinion, Original Research, Perspective, Review, Systematic Review.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Review
• Systematic Review

Keywords: Photomorphogenesis, Development, Light-controlled processes, Photoreceptors, Signal transduction

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.