On the cover: The phytohormone jasmonate has a wide range of functions in plant growth, development, reproduction, and defense responses. Jasmonoyl-isoleucine, the biologically active form of jasmonate, is recognized by the COI1 receptor. In this issue, Inagaki et al. have found that among the three COI1 homologs in rice, OsCOI2 is the primary receptor that regulates fertility, senescence, and defense responses.

The cover image shows a scanning electron micrograph of anthers from oscoi2 mutant plants, which are largely male sterile because of their inability to undergo correct anther dehiscence and pollen release. Image supplied by Koji Miyamoto (Teikyo University, Japan).