A Two-Dimensional Vibrating Probe Study of Currents around Lateral Roots of Raphanus sativus Developing in Culture

A computer-assisted, two-dimensional vibrating probe was used to study the ionic currents around developing lateral roots of Raphanus sativus in vitro. This system allowed us to superimpose current vectors on the video image of the roots. In a young lateral root, current entered the cap, meristematic, and elongation zones and exited the primary root surface close to the base of the lateral root. As the lateral root grew, current began to exit from its basal (cell maturation zone) end. The densities of currents entering the apical portion of the faster-growing lateral roots in a medium lacking indole 3-acetic acid were about twice as large as those entering the apical region of the slower-growing lateral roots in indole 3-acetic acid-supplemented medium.