Protocol for analyzing shoot apical meristem development and heat stress responses in tomato
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 12, 2026
Confocal Live Imaging of Shoot Apical Meristems from Different Plant Species
Published on: March 29, 2019
Nan Xiao1, Cao Xu1, Xiaozhen Huang2
1Key Laboratory of Seed Innovation, Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China; CAS-JIC Centre of Excellence for Plant and Microbial Science (CEPAMS), Institute of Genetics and Developmental Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China.
Abstract:
Shoot apical meristem (SAM) development is critical for plant aerial architecture and reproduction, but its spatiotemporal specificity and phenotyping challenges hinder mechanistic studies, particularly under stresses. Here, we present a protocol for molecular and cellular analysis of SAM development and stress response in tomato. We describe steps for imaging, developmental stage-specific heat treatment, and recovery growth. We then detail procedures for microdissection and tissue sectioning. This protocol enables high-resolution investigation of SAM development in response to heat stress. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Huang et al.1.
