Cytokinin

Cytokinins are a class of plant growth substances (or plant hormones) that promote cell division, or cytokinesis, in plant roots and shoots. They are involved in various processes of plant growth and development, including cell division, apical dominance, and the aging process of leaves and flowers.

History

Cytokinins were discovered by Folke Skoog and his colleagues in the 1950s when they found that adding coconut milk could stimulate the growth of explants in culture. The active ingredients in the coconut milk were later identified as cytokinins.

Types of Cytokinins

There are two types of cytokinins: natural and synthetic. Natural cytokinins include zeatin, kinetin, and isopentenyladenine. Synthetic cytokinins are man-made and include benzylaminopurine and thidiazuron.

Functions

Cytokinins have several functions in plants. They promote cell division and growth, delay the aging process of leaves and flowers, and regulate apical dominance. They also play a role in nutrient mobilization, delay of leaf senescence, and response to environmental stimuli.

Role in Plant Development

Cytokinins play a crucial role in plant development. They are involved in the regulation of cell division and differentiation, the formation of new leaves, the delay of leaf senescence, and the development of flowers and fruits.

Role in Apical Dominance

Cytokinins are involved in the regulation of apical dominance. They promote the growth of lateral buds and inhibit the growth of the apical bud. This results in a more bushy growth habit in plants.

Role in Aging Process

Cytokinins delay the aging process of leaves and flowers. They do this by inhibiting the breakdown of proteins and nucleic acids, which are essential for the life of the cell.

See Also

• Plant hormones
• Auxin
• Gibberellin
• Abscisic acid
• Ethylene

References

Cytokinin Resources
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