A simple and cost-effective method for studying anoxia tolerance in plants

PremiseWe developed a novel, cost-effective protocol that facilitates testing anoxia tolerance in plants without access to specialized equipment. Methods and ResultsArabidopsis thaliana and barley (Hordeum vulgare) seedlings were treated in airtight 2-L Kilner jars. An anoxic atmosphere was generated using Oxoid AnaeroGen 2.5-L sachets placed on in-house, custom-built wire stands. The performed experiments confirmed a higher sensitivity to low oxygen stress previously observed in anac017 A. thaliana mutants and the positive effect of exogenous sucrose on anoxia tolerance reported by previous studies in A. thaliana. Barley seedlings displayed typical responses to anoxia treatment, including shoot growth cessation and the induction of marker genes for anaerobic metabolism and ethylene biosynthesis in root tissue. ConclusionsThe results validate the novel method as an inexpensive, simple alternative for testing anoxia tolerance in plants, where access to an anaerobic workstation is not possible. The novel protocol requires minimum investment and is easily adaptable.

Automated summary

We developed a cost-effective method for testing anoxia tolerance in plants without specialized equipment. By conducting experiments in airtight jars and generating an anoxic atmosphere using anaerobic sachets, we validated this novel protocol as an inexpensive alternative for testing anoxia tolerance in plants.