Cell type-specific RNA-seq of maize pericycle cells in the lrt1 mutant during early lateral root development

This project investigates the transcriptional regulation of early lateral root development in maize by profiling xylem-pole and phloem-pole pericycle cells in wild type and the lateral rootless 1 (lrt1) mutant. Cell type-specific RNA was isolated using laser capture microdissection from three developmental stages: priming, founder cell establishment, and lateral root initiation. Forty-eight RNA-seq libraries (2 genotypes x 2 pericycle cell types x 3 stages x 4 biological replicates) were generated to characterize lrt1-dependent transcriptional networks. The data provide insights into cell identity, auxin responsiveness, and developmental reprogramming in maize pericycle cells. This project supports a deeper understanding of the molecular basis of lateral root initiation in a major crop species.