Long-Distance Systemic Signaling and Communication in Plants by František Baluška

Reliable noise coupled with positive feedback constructs probabilistic thresholds amongst a population. Accuracy in transmission is degraded by noise, and the evidence that shows noisiness in genetic circuitry is described. Information is concerned with the conveyance of signals that require both a transmitter and a receiver able to decide what is sent. Organisms are dependent on the continual transmission of information both within cells and from outside them. This allows entirely different communication processes to be carried out with the same types of chemical molecules (e.g., auxin, see below), which optimizes energy cost (see below). Depending on the behavior, the core set of signs common to species, families, and genera of plants is variously produced, combined, and transported. Different abiotic (water, light, gravity) or biotic influences (symbiotic interactions, attack, defense, mating, etc.) require different behaviors. A wide range of chemical substances and physical influences serve as signs. These interactions involve active coordination and active organization of a variety of timely ordered steps and substeps conveyed by signs.

Therefore, identification of meaning functions of signaling molecules depends on coherent investigation of interactional patterns in which signaling occurs. These communication processes are primarily signal-mediated interactions and not simply an exchange of information. As in all organisms, the evolution, development, and growth of plants depend on the success of complex communication processes.

Long-Distance Systemic Signaling and Communication in Plants by František Baluška