The RootArray system provides unprecedented insight into the dynamics of gene expression within plant roots. It allows for high-throughput and non-invasive monitoring of gene expression. The growth environment can be controlled to simulate a variety of stress conditions to determine their effect on gene expression and plant development. Different chemicals may also be introduced to the growth environment for mode of action studies.

To visualize gene expression, plants containing fluorescent marker proteins are imaged using an inverted laser scanning confocal microscope. We also have a customized confocal that was developed for experiments that require minimal changes to the gravity vector during image acquisition. Image analysis software was internally developed to calculate expression levels for different root tissues and developmental zones.

The RootArray platform may be tailored for use in many different types of experiments, ranging from high-throughput assessment of promoter activity under many growth conditions to examining the dynamics of gene expression within a specific gene regulatory network.

Click on this link to see a video demonstration of the RootArray:  YouTube 

GrassRoots owns exclusive rights to the RootArray technology.

RootArray Platform

RootArray for high-throughput quantification of expression

GrassRoots scientist Bruce Corliss explains how the RootArray can be used for high-throughput, semi-automated gene expression studies in Arabidopsis roots.

RootArray for time-lapse imaging

GrassRoots scientist Bruce Corliss describes a class of RootArray experiments in which roots are imaged continuously over a period of days.