Work

The ultrastructure of the mature wheat grain after resin embedding, as observed using atomic force microscopy

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: This study examines the ultrastructure of the outer layers of hexaploid wheat ( Triticum aestivum L. ) seeds using atomic force microscopy (AFM) in air tapping mode. The specimens were resin-embedded after hydration. A standardised protocol for preparing specimens specifically for AFM investigations is presented, focusing on revealing the ultrastructure while minimising artefacts and optimising the resolution of the structural morphology. AFM provides a comprehensive histological description of the hydrated mature wheat seed, encompassing each layer from the outer pericarp to the starchy endosperm. This study highlights the ultrastructural details of the tissues in their hydrated state, particularly with regard to morphology and size. Thus, AFM shows great potential for revealing intricate details of plant tissues structure and ultrastructure.

Source: Journal of Cereal Science

DOI: 10.1016/j.jcs.2026.104377

Author: Cedric Gaillard

Institutions: Institut National de Recherche pour l'Agriculture, l'Alimentation et l'Environnement, Biopolymères Interactions Assemblages

Language: English

Topic: Force Microscopy Techniques and Applications

Subfield: Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics

Field: Physics and Astronomy

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,930