In vivo visualization of nitrate dynamics using a genetically encoded fluorescent biosensor.

Abstract

Nitrate (NO3−) uptake and distribution are critical to plant life. Although the upstream regulation of NO3− uptake and downstream responses to NO3− in a variety of cells have been well studied, it is still not possible to directly visualize the spatial and temporal distribution of NO3− with high resolution at the cellular level. Here, we report a nuclear-localized, genetically encoded fluorescent biosensor, which we named NitraMeter3.0, for the quantitative visualization of NO3− distribution in Arabidopsis thaliana. This biosensor tracked the spatiotemporal distribution of NO3− along the primary root axis and disruptions by genetic mutation of transport (low NO3− uptake) and assimilation (high NO3− accumulation). The developed biosensor effectively monitors NO3− concentrations at the cellular level in real time and spatiotemporal changes during the plant life cycle.