This proposal requests funds for the acquisition of a microscope, image analysis system, and computer which will be used by eight scientists working independently or collaboratively on five different projects to expand and technically enhance ongoing basic research in plant molecular, cellular, and developmental biology. This research is experimental in approach and focused on cellular and molecular biological interests, such as, chloroplast dna molecules, ultrastructural responses to heat shock mechanisms controlling abscission, bacterial gene expression, and the formation of pit membranes in woody dicots. An image analysis system capable of performing quantitative morphometric and stereological measurements is essential for the successful completion of the research. Also, proposed research investigating various cellular responses require fluorescence microscopy. For example, immunofluorescence microscopy will be used for the localization of specific cytoskeletal proteins and to visualize and quantify subcellular features associated with target cell differentiation in abscission zones of soybean.
