The Rolled Towel Method for Hormone Response Assays in Maize

Area of Science:

• Plant Science
• Genetics
• Agricultural Science

Background:

• The rolled towel assay (RTA) is a soil-free method for evaluating juvenile crop phenotypes.
• Existing protocols require updates for modern phenotyping needs in crops like maize and soybean.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an updated, scalable RTA protocol for phenotyping maize seedling responses to chemical treatments.
• To detail methods for root trait annotation and primary root length data analysis.

Main Methods:

• Utilized an updated rolled towel assay (RTA) protocol for maize seedlings.
• Tested the protocol with synthetic auxin herbicides, an auxin precursor, and an auxin inhibitor.
• Included detailed instructions for root trait annotation and data analysis.

Main Results:

• The protocol successfully phenotyped maize seedling responses to tested chemicals.
• Demonstrated the RTA's versatility for various plant growth regulators soluble in growth media.
• Provided a framework for root trait analysis and data interpretation.

Conclusions:

• The updated RTA protocol is effective for maize seedling phenotyping and chemical response analysis.
• This method is scalable for genetic screens, gene expression studies, GWASs, and QTL identification.
• The protocol facilitates robust analysis of root traits in response to chemical stimuli.