Narrow Results

PIXE analysis was applied to study alteration of mineral composition (Al, P, K, and Cl) of alfalfa root-tip exposed to low pH or aluminum stress. These minerals were detectable using one or two pieces of root-tips. Short-term (within 4 h) decreases in K/P and Cl/P ratios were observed under low pH and aluminum stress conditions. However, degree of the decrease was not same. Differences in toxic effects of low pH and Al on the root-tip of alfalfa are discussed.

Elemental composition of living cells and tissues reflects their physiological function and status. However, it has been difficult to know in-situ elemental distribution by conventional analytical methods. In-air PIXE seems suitable for surface analysis of living cells and tissues because any treatment (e.g. freeze drying, digestion) is not required before and during measurement. We applied Via (vertical-beam in-air) PIXE to surface analysis of plant roots exposed to aluminum (Al). Aluminum stress is a major factor that limits elongation of plant roots in acid soils. We previously reported decrease in atomic ratio of potassium to phosphorus (K/P ratio) of dried root-tip of alfalfa (Medicago sativa L.) under Al stress using in-vacuum PIXE. In Via PIXE, 5 to 7-minute irradiation by 3 MeV proton beams of 200 pA was sufficient to obtain X-ray spectra without drying root samples. Decrease in K/P ratio in surface cells of root-tips was observed by short-term (6-8 h) exposure of root to Al. Via PIXE is recognized as a powerful tool for in-situ surface analysis of plant material.