Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 29, 2026

Plant Promoter Analysis: Identification and Characterization of Root Nodule Specific Promoter in the Common Bean
Published on: December 23, 2017
Separation of root nodule cells and identification of tissue-specific genes
G Ganter1, M Duquette1, K Dunn1
1Department of Biology, Boston College, Chestnut Hill, MA 02167, USA e-mail: dunnm@bc.edu Fax: +1-617-5522011, , , , , , US.
Abstract:
The interior tissues of the alfalfa (Medicago sativa) root nodule differ in form and function from the peripheral layers. The interior tissues are specialized for the fixation of nitrogen in cells infected by rhizobia. In contrast, the peripheral nodule tissues perform roles that assist the interior tissues: they provide metabolic support and protect the interior tissues from damaging levels of oxygen. We used a novel microdissection technique to separate these tissue types, allowing immunological and molecular comparison between the nodule interior and periphery. Using differential mRNA display reverse transcription and polymerase chain reaction, we compared the mRNA profiles of the separated tissues and identified a transcript specific to the nodule interior, and several peripheral-specific candidate genes.
Related Concept Videos
Cell Specific Gene Expression
Cell Specific Gene Expression
Plant Cells and Tissues
Primary and Secondary Growth in Roots and Shoots
Overview Of Cell Separation And Isolation
Plant Tissue Culture

