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Organization of cortical microtubules in graviresponding maize rootsImmunofluorescence labeling of cortical microtubules (MTs) was used to investigate the relationship between MT arrangement and changes in growth rate of the upper and lower sides of horizontally placed roots of maize (Zea mays L. cv. Merit). Cap cells and cells of the elongation zone of roots grown vertically in light or darkness showed MT arrangements that were transverse (perpendicular) to the growth direction. Microtubules of cells basal to the elongation zone typically showed oblique orientation. Two hours after horizontal reorientation, cap cells of gravicompetent, light-grown and curving roots contained MTs parallel to the gravity vector. The MT arrangement on the upper side of the elongation zone remained transverse but the MTs of the outer four to five layers of cortical cells along the lower side of the elongation zone showed reorientation parallel to the axis of the root. The MTs of the lower epidermis retained their transverse orientation. Dark-grown roots did not curve and did not show reorientation of MTs in cells of the root cap or elongation zone. The data indicate that MT depolymerization and reorientation is correlated with reduction in growth rate, and that MT reorientation is one of the steps of growth control of graviresponding roots.
Document ID
20040090233
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
Authors
Blancaflor, E. B.
(University of Southwestern Louisiana Lafayette 70504-2451, United States)
Hasenstein, K. H.
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1993
Publication Information
Publication: Planta
Volume: 191
ISSN: 0032-0935
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: IBN9-118094
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
NASA Discipline Plant Biology
NASA Discipline Number 40-50
Non-NASA Center
NASA Program Space Biology

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