Transcriptomic changes in Arabidopsis leaves indicate causes for loss of stress tolerance with age

This research attempts to examine the occurrence of senescence-inducing ARCs and their effects on Arabidopsis leaves of different ages. Firstly, the transcriptomic datasets of the young leaves (early expanded) up until fully expanded leaves were analysed to reveal a global picture of ARCs occurring during early leaf development. We found the upregulation of stress hormones and oxidative stress related genes with increase in age of a leaf, therefore the transcriptomic data analysis pinpoints to the occurrence of crucial senescence-inducing ARCs. Our study suggests that the occurrence of senescence-inducing ARCs appear to be intrinsically coupled to ageing, ensuring a timely and certain death.