Question

What are the physiological effects of cytokinin?

Answer 1

Role of cytokinin:

1. Cytokinins are a type of plant growth hormone that encourages cytokinesis, or cell division, in plant roots and shoots.
2. They are pure adenine derivatives. It is a true cell division factor that promotes meristematic tissue regions. It prevents the destruction of chlorophyll in leaves. Adenine is used to make cytokinins, which are produced in the roots.
3. They make their way up the xylem (woody tissue) and into the leaves and fruits, where they are required for cell differentiation and growth.
4. Cytokinins were originally defined as chemicals that, when combined with auxins, cause cell proliferation and callus differentiation to shoots.
5. However, it is now known that cytokinins are involved in many aspects of plant growth and development, including embryogenesis, root maintenance, and callus differentiation to shoots.
6. In response to environmental stimuli, they also control root elongation, lateral root number, nodule formation, and apical dominance.
7. Cytokinins are thus crucial signaling molecules for controlling plant growth and development throughout its life cycle.