Changes in cell size and number and in rhizodermal development contribute to root tip swelling of Hyoscyamus albus roots subjected to iron deficiency.
Root tip swelling is a common phenomenon observed when plant roots are subjected to Fe deficiency. We analysed whether an increase in cell number or an enlargement of cell width was involved in this phenomenon. Root tips of Hyoscyamus albus cultured with or without Fe were stained with fluorescent SYTO14 and analysed by confocal laser-scanning microscopy. Time-course and position-based examination revealed that the inhibition of longitudinal cell elongation and acceleration of transverse cell enlargement under Fe deficiency started from the tips and then extended towards the base during the time-course period. An increase in cell number also occurred behind the tips. In addition, the development of rhizodermal protrusions was observed on the surface of roots subjected to Fe deficiency. These results indicated that changes in cell size and number and in root hair development were all involved in root tip swelling.
Graduate School of Fisheries Science and Environmental Studies, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan.
Yuki
Y
Kawahara
Graduate School of Fisheries Science and Environmental Studies, Nagasaki University, Nagasaki, Japan. Electronic address: k-yoshie@nagasaki-u.ac.jp.
Yoshie
Y
Kitamura
D000222:Adaptation, Physiological; D049109:Cell Proliferation; D048429:Cell Size; D032304:Hyoscyamus / Q000254:growth & development / Q000378:metabolism*; D007501:Iron / Q000378:metabolism; D000090463:Iron Deficiencies; D018519:Meristem / Q000254:growth & development*; D018613:Microscopy, Confocal / Q000379:methods; D059828:Plant Cells; D019441:Plant Epidermis / Q000254:growth & development*; D018517:Plant Roots / Q000254:growth & development / Q000378:metabolism; D013312:Stress, Physiological
D007501:Iron
Cell number; Cell size; Confocal laser-scanning microscopy; Fe deficiency; Hyoscyamus albus; Root hair; Root morphology