ABSTRACT
Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) has emerged as a useful tool for analyzing cell-wall mechanics in plants. The ability to directly assay wall elasticity in the living organism has allowed new scientific observations. Here, we present a method of AFM-based elasticity measurement and analysis in macroalgae. Hints and tips are provided for sample mounting and maintenance. We explore the effects of salinity on three microalgae: (1) Fucus, (2) Ulva, and (3) Chondrus. We examine the effect of various indenter sizes on data obtained from Fucus and Sargassum. Finally, we will also discuss technical analysis details such as which fitting method to use, which elasticity measurement is most useful, and the effect of adhesion on the analysis. This method has been successfully applied to apices, thallus segments, leaflets, and developing zygotes demonstrating its diverse applications across macroalgae species and organ types.
Keywords: Atomic Force Microscopy, macroalgae, seaweed, cell wall, Fucus, Sargassum, Ulva, Chondrus
