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Cytokinin biosynthesis in roots of corn
1Department of Botany, University of California, 94720, Berkeley, CA, USA.
Planta
|December 10, 2013
Summary
Removing the quiescent center (QC) in maize roots triggers regeneration and cytokinin changes. Exogenous cytokinins delay QC regeneration, suggesting a role in root development.
Area of Science:
- Plant Biology
- Root Development
- Hormonal Regulation
Background:
- The quiescent center (QC) is crucial for root apex organization and regeneration in plants.
- Cytokinins are plant hormones known to influence cell division and differentiation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of the quiescent center (QC) and its associated cytokinin levels in maize root apex regeneration.
- To determine the effect of exogenous cytokinin application on QC regeneration and root growth.
Main Methods:
- Surgical removal of the QC from maize (Zea mays L.) root apices.
- Application of various Dowex resin beads (plain, zeatin-treated, CaCl2-treated) to excised root tips.
- Quantification of extractable cytokinins in root tissues.
Main Results:
- Removal of the QC initiated apex regeneration and reduced proximal meristem cytokinins.
- Dowex beads inhibited root growth, with reversal by CaCl2 treatment.
- Zeatin-treated beads delayed new QC formation, irrespective of CaCl2 presence.
Conclusions:
- Cytokinin biosynthesis in maize roots involves both the QC and proximal meristem.
- Exogenous cytokinins can influence root morphogenesis by delaying QC regeneration.
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