Flow cytometric analysis of nuclear DNA content in higher plants

Methods of flow cytometric analysis of nuclear DNA content were originally developed for human cells. They are based on the use of DNA‐specific fluorochromes and on the analysis of the relative fluorescence intensity of stained nuclei. During the last decade this methodology has been adapted to the analysis of plant cells. This article reviews the current status of this rapidly developing field. Special attention is given to preparative techniques, methods of instrument calibration and standardization, and interpretation of data. Multiparameter methods which supplement DNA content analysis are also reviewed.