Kinetin

Definition

Kinetin is a type of cytokinin, which is a plant hormone that promotes cell division and growth. It plays a crucial role in various plant processes such as shoot and root development, delay of leaf senescence, and the promotion of chloroplast development. Kinetin's influence on these processes makes it an essential player in the broader category of plant growth regulators.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Kinetin was first discovered in 1955 from herring sperm DNA, making it one of the first cytokinins to be identified.
2. This hormone is involved in delaying leaf senescence, which helps prolong the life of leaves and enhances photosynthesis.
3. Kinetin can stimulate lateral bud growth, breaking apical dominance and encouraging bushier growth in plants.
4. In addition to promoting growth, kinetin also helps regulate nutrient mobilization and affects various metabolic pathways within plants.
5. Research has shown that kinetin can improve the shelf life of fruits and vegetables by delaying ripening and senescence processes.

Review Questions

• How does kinetin influence cell division and growth in plants?
  • Kinetin influences cell division and growth by acting as a cytokinin, which promotes the process of mitosis in plant cells. This leads to increased cell numbers and expansion, particularly in shoots and roots. Its role in promoting chloroplast development also contributes to enhanced photosynthesis, further aiding overall plant growth.
• What effects does kinetin have on leaf senescence and how does this impact plant health?
  • Kinetin delays leaf senescence by maintaining chlorophyll levels and promoting continued photosynthetic activity. This has a significant impact on plant health as it allows for longer periods of nutrient absorption and energy production, which can lead to increased vigor and yield during critical growth phases.
• Evaluate the significance of kinetin's discovery in relation to its applications in agriculture and horticulture.
  • The discovery of kinetin has had a profound impact on agriculture and horticulture by providing insights into how plant hormones regulate growth. Its application in these fields has led to improved crop yields, extended shelf life for produce, and enhanced ornamental plant quality. Understanding kinetin's role allows growers to manipulate growth patterns, optimize harvests, and develop strategies for sustainable farming practices.

Related terms

Cytokinins:

A class of plant hormones that promote cell division and influence various aspects of plant growth and development.

Adenine: A purine nucleobase that is a key component of nucleotides; kinetin is derived from adenine.

Apical Dominance: The phenomenon where the main stem of a plant grows more vigorously than the side stems, often influenced by plant hormones like cytokinins.