Three-dimensional study of the intercellular gas space inVigna radiata hypocotyl

Abstract

Infiltration of the intercellular gas space is often used in physiological experimentation either to reach internal targets with various biochemical probes or to extract molecules from the apoplast. Such investigations require a good understanding of the organization and structure of the gas space system. This system was studied in the mung bean hypocotyl using different approaches, in particular internal microcasting of seedlings. Results show the presence of two continuous, more or less independent, networks, one in the cortical parenchyma, the other in the pith. The narrow tubules of one or the other network connect all cells within a tissue. Infiltration with physiological solutions does not significantly disturb living cells, at least in the short term, but opens a large field for experimental applications.