[19] Compartmentation in root cells and tissues: X-ray microanalysis of specific ions

Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the compartmentation in root cells and tissues that is X-Ray microanalysis of specific ions. It develops a cryofracturing technique for the preparation of frozen hydrated bulk plant specimens for X-ray microanalysis. This new technique has been found to preserve subcellular structures, reduce the occurrence of topographical inhomogeneities, and has been applied extensively to both root and shoot samples. The technique of specimen preparation used is crucial to the application of X-ray microanalysis to biological specimens. Ideally specimens should be prepared to minimize loss and redistribution of diffusible elements and to maintain cellular structures in the in vivo condition throughout the preparation and analysis. This chapter concludes with the discussion on the several useful applications of X-Ray microanalysis to ion compartmentation in root cells and tissues.