Cell Separation in Isolated Abscission Zones

Abstract

A technique is described for the isolation and maintenance culture of 250 p;m thick slices of the leaf abscission zone of Ooleus. Such cultures can be observed under the light microscope and a continuous photographic record of the cytological events associated with abscission can be obtained. Certain stages of the process can be accurately defined and the opportunity arises for closely correlated cytological and physiological studies by exposing the tissues to agents known to influence abscission. Some examples illustrating these points are discussed briefly