In Situ western blot: A novel strategy to study gene expression in transgenic plant roots

Abstract

A novel strategy based on protein western blotting and “microcosm” principles has been developed to study gene expression in transgenic plant roots. Primary polyclonal antibodies, raised against streptavidin protein purified fromStreptomyces avidinii, were used to localize streptavidin protein expressed in a transgenic tobacco seedling root systemin situ. Streptavidin gene expression was detected in tobacco seedling roots, especially on the root tips. This strategy can be used as a model to study transgenic plant root system expressionin situ.