Genome-wide characterization of SPL family in Medicago truncatula reveals the novel roles of miR156/SPL module in spiky pod development.

The spines on pods are developed in many plant species, which allow pods to adhere to the animals, and then be transported on the outside. This study sheds light on the new function of SPL family in seed dispersal by controlling the formation of spiky pod, and provides insights on understanding evolutionary divergence of the members of SPL gene family among plant species.