Analysis of cellulose synthase activity in Arabidopsis using spinning disk microscopy.

We describe sample preparation and visualization of fluorescently tagged cellulose synthases in cellulose synthase complexes at the plasma membrane of Arabidopsis hypocotyl epidermal cells using live-cell imaging via spinning disk microscopy. We present a technique for sample mounting that may be suitable for imaging other samples. Additionally, we offer free, open-source solutions for image analysis and provide extensive troubleshooting suggestions.

A G protein-coupled receptor-like module regulates cellulose synthase secretion from the endomembrane system in Arabidopsis.

Cellulose is produced at the plasma membrane of plant cells by cellulose synthase (CESA) complexes (CSCs). CSCs are assembled in the endomembrane system and then trafficked to the plasma membrane. Because CESAs are only active in the plasma membrane, control of CSC secretion regulates cellulose synthesis.

Carbon Supply and the Regulation of Cell Wall Synthesis.

All plant cells are surrounded by a cell wall that determines the directionality of cell growth and protects the cell against its environment. Plant cell walls are comprised primarily of polysaccharides and represent the largest sink for photosynthetically fixed carbon, both for individual plants and in the terrestrial biosphere as a whole. Cell wall synthesis is a highly sophisticated process, involving multiple enzymes and metabolic intermediates, intracellular trafficking of proteins and cell wall precursors, assembly of cell wall polymers into the extracellular matrix, remodeling of polymers and their interactions, and recycling of cell wall sugars.