Editorial: Wood Development and Physiology in a Changing Climate

Abstract

Wood of forest trees is a renewable, sustainable and easily workable material and has been widely used in construction, paper making, furniture, and as a feedstock for biofuels. Wood formation is the result of a highly ordered and finely regulated process. Secondary xylem (wood) and phloem are the inner and outer derivative products of the vascular cambium, respectively. Xylem is mainly composed of dead cells with thickened cell walls rich in cellulose, hemicelluloses, and lignin, which are responsible for providing mechanical support and conducting water and minerals for the trees. Phloem transports photoassimilates and signaling molecules, including phytohormones and peptides. Wood structure varies greatly between, and within, tree species. A thorough understanding of developmental processes and metabolic pathways during wood formation would provide a basis for improving wood biomass and modifying properties in forest trees.