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Visualization of extracellular DNA released during border cell separation from the root cap.
Fushi Wen1, Gilberto Curlango-Rivera1, David A Huskey1
1Department of Soil, Water and Environmental Science, 429 Shantz Building #38, The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona 85721, USA.
American Journal of Botany
|July 16, 2017
Summary
Plant root border cells use DNA in their extracellular traps for defense. This study shows DNA is crucial for the structural integrity of these traps, essential for root tip protection against pathogens.
Area of Science:
- Plant biology
- Cell biology
- Molecular biology
Background:
- Root border cells detach and secrete mucilage containing proteins.
- These cells form extracellular traps, requiring DNA, for root tip defense.
- These traps are analogous to mechanisms in mammalian white blood cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of DNA in the structural integrity of extracellular structures.
- To understand how DNA contributes to border cell function upon root tip dispersal.
Main Methods:
- Utilized various DNA stains (crystal violet, DAPI, etc.) to visualize extracellular mucilage and dispersed border cells.
- Applied DNase I to assess structural alterations upon degradation of extracellular DNA.
Main Results:
- DNA stains revealed complex masses associated with living border cells.
- DNase I treatment significantly altered the structure and association of extracellular components.
- Extracellular DNA was absent in dead border cells, indicating secretion by living cells.
Conclusions:
- DNA is a fundamental component of border cell extracellular traps.
- This DNA is actively secreted by living root border cells.
- DNA contributes significantly to the structural integrity of these defense mechanisms.
