Microtome and knife maker for structure and function analysis of Arabidopsis and canola seed coats

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My research interest focuses on the developmental and molecular genetic events associated with seed coat development in oilseeds. One of the underlying mechanisms of development is through the localized expression of genes encoding transcription factors (TFs) at specific times and places. Identification of TF genes that are essential for growth and development of oilseed crops such as canola (Brassica napus) by conventional genetic approaches has been limiting. Understanding the transcriptional mechanisms that control seed development in the closely related model species Arabidopsis thaliana will very likely provide the insight necessary to solve this issue. Growth of oilseeds like Arabidopsis and canola relies on the coordinated development of the embryo, endosperm and seed coat. Unlike the embryo and endosperm, the seed coat has received little attention when it comes to understanding the structural and genetic mechanisms that underlie its function. For example, the function of the proximal seed coat, which comprises the chalazal proliferating tissue and chalazal seed coat is unknown. However, histological observations suggest a transport function due to transfer cell morphology. Moreover, rapid differentiation of this tissue makes it an ideal candidate to study cell differentiation. Based on these results I will carry out extensive histological studies to observe the effects of genetic perturbations on proximal seed coat development. The requested semi-motorized rotary microtome and glass knife maker will be used for (1) generating paraffin-embedded thick sections for laser capture microdissection and RNA profiling of the chalazal proliferating tissue in Arabidopsis and (2) anatomical observations of the proximal seed coat following genetic perturbations using thin plastic-embedded sections. Since this instrument can produce ribbons using both paraffin and plastic embedded materials, it provides the advantage to perform organized high-throughput reconstruction of seed parts. No microtome with these features is currently available in our department. Moreover, this instrument will be used to train highly qualified personnel in the art of histology which contribute greatly to thesis and publication quality figures.