A simple method forIn Situ hybridization to RNA in guard cells ofVicia Faba L.: The expression of aquaporins in guard cells

Abstract

Because the epidermis ofV. faba L. leaves easily can be peeled into strips of one cell layer, we developed a simple method ofin situ hybridization using epidermal peels as a substitute for paraffin, resin and cryosections. Our method sufficiently detected the expression of broad bean aquaporin 1 in guard cells. RT-PCR revealed higher expression of aquaporins (AQPs) in guard cells compared to other leaf cell types; this indicates the importance of AQP for bulk water flow across guard cell membranes and, therefore, for stomatal movements.