Funds are requested for the purchase of a photomicroscope equipped with a video camera capable of detecting low light emissions, an image processing and analysis system (for enhancement of image quality, quantification of data, and 3-dimensional reconstruction of plant tissues), and a video recorder. One of the primary uses of this instrumentation will be in the analysis of gene expression and protein localization during plant development. In particular, we will pursue investigations into the regulation of cell surface proteins during embryogenesis (Dr. Grimes), the cellular basis of calcium oxalate deposition in plants (Dr. Franceschi), and the temporal and spatial distribution of key enzymes involved in the evolution of the C4 photosysthesis mechanism (Dr. Ku). In these studies, we will need to analyze low-level cell immunofluorescence data, quantitate gene expression in specific cell and tissue types, and perform image analysis and 3-dimensional reconstruction in order to develop a comprehensive understanding of the mechanisms involved in these processes. This instrument will also be used to probe the mechanisms of phloem unloading by in vivo monitoring of fluorescent dye movement in sink tissues. (Dr. Fisher). To fully understand phloem function, it is necessary to evaluate the data in a structural context. The use of 3-dimensional reconstruction from sections of the tissues involved will be of central importance for progress in this area. The mechanism of malic acid accumulation into the vacuole of CAM plants is also being explored (Dr. Uribe). The use of fluorescent probes to monitor the energetics of the the vacuolar membrane in vivo will allow events inside of a living plant cell to be visualized, as opposed to studies on isolated membrane fractions. The requested instrumentation is critical to many aspects of the proposed research and will greatly enhance our capabilities for research in plant cell biology.

Agency
National Science Foundation (NSF)
Institute
Division of Biological Infrastructure (DBI)
Type
Standard Grant (Standard)
Application #
9016138
Program Officer
Gerald Selzer
Project Start
Project End
Budget Start
1991-02-01
Budget End
1993-07-31
Support Year
Fiscal Year
1990
Total Cost
$75,000
Indirect Cost
Name
Washington State University
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Pullman
State
WA
Country
United States
Zip Code
99164