摘要The indeterminate growth pattern displayed by shoots is mediated by the proper maintenance of the shoot meristem.Meristem maintenance is dependent upon the balance of stem cell perpetuation in the central zone (CZ) and organogenesis in the peripheral zone (PZ).Although the mechanisms that coordinate CZ and PZ function is not understood,meristem cell fate is likely achieved by the spatial interplay between gene regulatory networks and hormone signaling pathways.During shoot maturation,the identity of the shoot meristem as well as the lateral organs are transformed during the vegetative and reproductive transitions.Studies in model plant systems indicate that three amino acid extension (TALE) homeodomain proteins integrate signaling events that transform the identity of the shoot meristem and establish reproductive patterns of growth.This review will highlight the function of TALE homeodomain transcription factors that regulate shoot meristem cell fate and also function with phase specific regulators to maintain shoot meristem identity.