Quantification of Root Anatomical Traits in RGP Transgenic Maize Plants Based on Micro-CT

The RGP transgenic plants show good resistance to drought especially reflected in corn yield. However, little is known about root traits which contribute to drought resistance. Here, we characterized root anatomy in the transgenic plants based on micro-CT scanning. Quantitative analysis of root anatomical traits showed that the drought-resistant RGP transgenic plants had larger root and stele cross-sectional areas in the fourth and the fifth whorls of nodal roots. The metaxylem vessel number and total area of metaxylem vessels was higher or larger in the fifth and the sixth whorls of nodal roots from RGP transgenic plants.

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