Synchronization of Medicago sativa Cell Suspension Culture

Abstract

Deepening our knowledge on the regulation of the plant cell division cycle depends on techniques that allow for the enrichment of cell populations in defined cell cycle phases. Synchronization of cell division can be achieved using different plant tissues; however, well-established cell suspension cultures provide the largest amount of biological sample for further analysis. Here we describe the methodology of the establishment, propagation, and analysis of a Medicago sativa suspension culture that can be used for efficient synchronization of the cell division and also the application and removal of hydroxyurea blocking agent. A novel method is used for the estimation of cell portion that enters S phase during the assay. The protocol can be used in the case of other species as well.