Cytological and histochemical characteristics of the axenic root surface of Alnus glutinosa

Abstract

The aim of the present study was to investigate the Alnus root surface using seedlings grown axenically. This study has focused on root zones where infection by the symbiotic actinomycete Frankia takes place. The zones examined extend from the root cap to the emerging root hair zone. The root cap ensheaths the Alnus root apex and extends over the root surface as a layer of highly flattened cells closely appressed to the root epidermal cell wall. These cells contain phenolic compounds as demonstrated by various histochemical tests. They are externally bordered by a thin cell wall coated by a thin mucilage layer. The root cap is ruptured when underlying epidermal cells elongate, and cell remnants are still found in the emerging root hair zone. Young emerging root hairs are bordered externally by a cell wall covered by a thin mucilage layer which reacts positively to the tests used for the detection of polysaccharides, glycoproteins, and anionic sites. The characteristics of the Alnus root surface and the biological function of mucilage and phenols present at the root surface are discussed in relation to the infection process.