Analysis of LLPS in Plant Stem Cell Fate Decision

Plant communities can regulate plant growth and developmental processes through liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS). CD BioSciences is committed to studying the emerging role of plant phase separation with the aim to provide comprehensive analytical services to explore LLPS in plant stem cell fate decisions.

Introduction to LLPS in Plant Stem Cell Fate Decision

Stem cells undergo asymmetric division to renew themselves and generate new cell types. Plants maintain a constant pool of stem cells to drive their growth throughout their life cycle. In plants, these stem cells are found in the meristematic tissues, which contain two main meristematic tissues: the stem apical meristem (SAM) and the root apical meristem (RAM). The SAM and RAM are responsible for the development of the above- and below-ground parts of the plant, respectively. In addition, other stem cells establish specialized cell lineages during differentiation, such as the growth of lateral organs of stems and roots and the formation of epidermal stomata that mediate the gas exchange. Fate determination of these stem cells is a tightly regulated process involving complex signaling networks and molecular interactions. Recent studies have revealed the importance of liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS) in orchestrating plant stem cell fate decisions.

Fig. 1. An Arabidopsis seedling depicting the developmental organization of the shoot apical meristem (SAM), root apical meristem (RAM), root developmental zones, and hormone domains of the RAM and SAM. (Pierre-Jerome E, et al., 2018)

Customized Services

CD BioSciences offers an integrated approach of high-resolution real-time imaging and biophysics to analyze the role of LLPS in plant stem cell fate decisions. Our team of experts utilizes advanced technology and state-of-the-art equipment to provide comprehensive insights into the molecular events behind LLPS and their impact on cellular processes.

Our strategies include, but are not limited to:

• Quantitative Analysis of LLPS
  We offer advanced microscopy and imaging techniques to visualize and quantify LLPS in plant stem cells. By using fluorescently labeled probes and live cell imaging, we can help you observe the formation, kinetics, and solubilization of phase-separated condensates. Our quantitative analysis provides valuable information on the spatiotemporal regulation of LLPS and its relevance to stem cell fate decisions.
• Analysis of Protein-Protein/RNA Interactions in Plant Stem Cells
  By employing techniques such as immunoprecipitation, RNA immunoprecipitation, and proximity-based assays, we are able to identify key players and regulators in LLPS condensates in plant SAM and RAM.
• Transcriptomic and Proteomic Analysis of Condensates
  We offer single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) to enable unbiased characterization of the transcriptional landscape of plant stem cell ecotopes and their differentiated cell progeny, identifying specific RNAs and proteins that are enriched in condensates. This analysis provides important insights into the functional role of LLPS in regulating stem cell fate decisions.

CD BioSciences provides clients with a comprehensive toolkit to unravel the complexity of LLPS and its impact on stem cell fate decisions, contributing to the understanding of the molecular mechanisms of plant development. Our experiential expertise, state-of-the-art facilities, and customized solutions make us the ideal partner for those seeking to explore the fascinating world of LLPS in plant biology. If you have any special requirements for our services, please feel free to contact us.