Maize seedlings show cell-specific responses to heat shock as revealed by expression of RNA and protein.

The cellular localization of heat-shock proteins has been described in a number of experimental animal systems but is not well defined in plant systems. Sense and antisense RNA transcripts from the open reading frame (ORF) of 18-kDa maize heat-shock protein genes were employed in in situ hybridizations of inbred Oh43 radicles and plumules to reveal the locations of their mRNAs. Localization of the specific mRNAs to the younger meristematic cells of the root-tips and shoot-tips and also to the densely cytoplasmic cells of the vasculature was observed routinely.

Production of normal, germinable and viable pollen from in vitro-cultured maize tassels.

Immature tassel meristems (1.0-1.5 cm long) of Zea mays L.

Fertilization and seed production with pollen from in-vitro-cultured maize tassels.

Immature tassel meristems (1-1.5 cm) of maize (Zea mays L.) explanted to a defined nutrient medium underwent further growth and floral development.