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Microinjection--a tool to study gravitropismDespite extensive studies on plant gravitropism this phenomenon is still poorly understood. The separation of gravity sensing, signal transduction and response is a common concept but especially the mechanism of gravisensing remains unclear. This paper focuses on microinjection as powerful tool to investigate gravisensing in plants. We describe the microinjection of magnetic beads in rhizoids of the green alga Chara and related subsequent manipulation of the gravisensing system. After injection, an external magnet can control the movement of the magnetic beads. We demonstrate successful injection of magnetic beads into rhizoids and describe a multitude of experiments that can be carried out to investigate gravitropism in Chara rhizoids. In addition to examining mechanical properties, bead microinjection is also useful for probing the function of the cytoskeleton by coating beads with drugs that interfere with the cytoskeleton. The injection of fluorescently labeled beads or probes may reveal the involvement of the cytoskeleton during gravistimulation and response in living cells. c2003 COSPAR. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
Document ID
20040087430
Acquisition Source
Ames Research Center
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Scherp, P.
(University of Louisiana at Lafayette LA 70504-2451, United States)
Hasenstein, K. H.
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 2003
Publication Information
Publication: Advances in space research : the official journal of the Committee on Space Research (COSPAR)
Volume: 31
Issue: 10
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAG2-1423
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
NASA Program Fundamental Space Biology
Non-NASA Center
NASA Discipline Plant Biology

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