The location of (1-3)-β-glucan in the nucellar projection and in the vascular tissue of the crease in developing barley grain using a (1-3)-β-glucan-specific monoclonal antibody

Immunocytochemical localization of the (1-3)-beta -glucan, callose, in developing barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) grain was investigated using a specific monoclonal antibody and observed by means of confocal laser-scanning microscopy. The nucellar projection (NP) and vascular tissue (VT) of the crease cells were specifically labelled by this antibody at all stages of grain development. Maximum intensity of label was found in the NP at 12-15 days post anthesis; thereafter, label was localized in the VT of the crease. The location of (1-3)-beta -glucan in the NP and VT of the crease was also monitored by means of aniline blue-induced fluorescence of callose. The results obtained using both methods were found to be similar. The possible significance of the presence of callose in these tissues is discussed in relation to the uptake of assimilates into the developing grain.