Amyloplast distribution in hairy roots induced by infection with Agrobacterium rhizogenes

To elucidate the rapid and plagiotropic growth of hairy root induced by A. rhizogenes, a root apex was investigated with respect to it's amyloplast deposition, activity of alpha-amylase and glucose content. The amyloplasts distributed in the hairy roots were fewer than those of the adventitious root. Since auxin availability is enhanced in hairy roots, it could affect the statolith degradation by elevating alpha-amylase activity so that the energy requirement for rapid growth could be fulfilled as represented of glucose content. Consequently, it is suggested the overall decrease of starch grains could result in the lack of gravi-response in hairy roots.