An Aseptic Mist Chamber System: A Method for Measuring Root Processes of Peas1

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Abstract
Although plants have been grown with their roots in mist chambers and sterile nutrient solutions, these methods have not been combined to provide a system which permits rapid changes in the gaseous composition of an aseptic rhizosphere. The objectives of this study were to design a mist chamber system which would withstand heat sterilization, maintain an aseptic rhizosphere, permit rapid gaseous exchange without altering rootwater relationships, and permit the measurement of morphological and physiological root responses without disrupting the system.A pyrex glass mist chamber system is described which permitted a complete exchange of the root atmosphere in 5 min. Pea (Pisum sativum L.) seedlings were treated from 6 to 17 days in the aseptic mist chamber. Root respiration, root exudation, and rhizosphere volatiles were monitored. Detection limits were 1.0 ppm of ethanol, 1.0 and 0.25 μg for the TMSi amino acids and sugars.This system provides for concise control of the rhizosphere and precise measurements of root responses to environmental stresses.

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