Meristems in plants, including the shoot apical meristem (SAM), root apical meristem (RAM), and cambium, maintain a balance between stem cell proliferation and differentiation to support the growth of new organs. This article aims to review recent literature (2024–2026) on meristem organization and the regulation of cell division rates in plant roots and shoots. The methodology employed is a systematic literature review of 10 relevant journals, comprising experimental studies and review articles focusing on genetic pathways (WUS-CLV3, WOX5-CLE, TDIF-PXY), transcription factors (WUS, WOX5, KNOX, PLT, NAC, MYB), hormonal regulation (auxin, cytokinin, brassinosteroids, ethylene), epigenetics, cellular mechanics, and metabolism. The analysis shows that stem cell homeostasis is achieved through the integration of genetic feedback loops, hormonal cross-talk, epigenetic regulation, and mechanical regulation, which together control proliferation, differentiation, the orientation of symmetric and asymmetric cell division, and intercellular communication through plasmodesmata and the extracellular matrix. Metabolic and redox status also support meristem adaptation to environmental conditions. These findings provide a holistic overview of meristem regulatory mechanisms in plants and serve as a conceptual foundation for further research, crop improvement, and a deeper understanding of organogenesis.
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