AI Article Synopsis
- Cryo-scanning electron microscopy (SEM) enables the study of biological structures in conditions close to their natural state by using freeze-fractured samples.
- The technique involves high-pressure freezing of leaf tissues, followed by freeze-fracturing, double-layer coating, and imaging, which helps achieve high magnification images while minimizing damage to samples.
- This study specifically examines changes in the organization of photosynthetic membranes in the resurrection plant Craterostigma pumilum during dehydration, providing insights into their structural adaptations.
Article Abstract
Cryo-scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of freeze-fractured samples allows investigation of biological structures at near native conditions. Here, we describe a technique for studying the supramolecular organization of photosynthetic (thylakoid) membranes within leaf samples. This is achieved by high-pressure freezing of leaf tissues, freeze-fracturing, double-layer coating and finally cryo-SEM imaging. Use of the double-layer coating method allows acquiring high magnification (>100,000X) images with minimal beam damage to the frozen-hydrated samples as well as minimal charging effects. Using the described procedures we investigated the alterations in supramolecular distribution of photosystem and light-harvesting antenna protein complexes that take place during dehydration of the resurrection plant Craterostigma pumilum, in situ.
Download full-text PDF |
Source |
|---|---|
| http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4993236 | PMC |
| http://dx.doi.org/10.3791/54066 | DOI Listing |
Publication Analysis
Top Keywords
Similar Publications
Want AI Summaries of new PubMed Abstracts delivered to your In-box?
Enter search terms and have AI summaries delivered each week - change queries or unsubscribe any time!