Preparation of barley roots for histological, structural, and immunolocalization studies using light and electron microscopy

Abstract

Microscopic investigations of biological objects are an integral part in plant research and most fields of life sciences. They allow the description of morphological, histological, and structural aspects of individual cells or tissues. Based on various cell biological tools and methods it is possible to characterize different plant genotypes or study their adaptation to changing environmental conditions. In combination with antibodies raised against specific antigens and epitopes light and electron microscopy enable investigation of the function of single genes/proteins in plant growth and development or their role related to abiotic or biotic stresses. Here, we describe sample preparation of barley roots for cell biological investigations using light and electron microscopy, to characterize morphological, structural, and functional aspects on root sections and the root surface.