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Abstract

The past decade, the study of the physiological and ecological functions of red anthocyanin pigments in leaves has greatly expanded. Previous hypotheses related to photoprotection (light attenuation and antioxidant scavenging) have been corroborated by multiple independent studies, and have also recently been extended to include reddening of the lower (abaxial) leaf surface and potentially, leaf margins. In addition, anthocyanins have also been implicated as playing direct roles in herbivory deterrence, chelation of heavy metals, ROS signaling, and photoprotection under nitrogen deficiency, heavy metal toxicity, and during light sensitive seasons and ontogenetic stages. This talk highlights several studies (conducted by myself and others) that have contributed to our growing understanding of the process of leaf reddening within the context of plant physiology and ecology.