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Root elongation against a constant force: experiment with a computerized feedback-controlled device.

P S Kuzeja·P M Lintilhac·C Wei
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Abstract

Axial force was applied to the root tip of corn (Zea mays L. cv. Merit) seedlings using a computerized, feedback-controlled mechanical device. The system's feedback capability allowed continuous control of a constant tip load, and the attached displacement transducer provided the time course of root elongation. Loads up to 7.5 g decreased the root elongation rate by 0.13 mm h-1 g-1, but loads 7.5 to 17.5 g decreased the growth rate by only 0.04 mm h-1 g-1. Loads higher than 18 g stopped root elongation completely. Measurement of the cross-sectional areas of the root tips indicated that the 18 g load had applied about 0.98 MPa of axial pressure to the root, thereby exceeding the root's ability to respond with increased turgor pressure. Recorded time-lapse images of loaded roots showed that radial thickening (swelling) occurred behind the root cap, whose cross-sectional area increased with tip load.

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Biophysical PhenomenaBiophysicsGravitationImage Processing, Computer-AssistedPhysical StimulationPlant Root CapPlant RootsTime FactorsZea maysNASA Discipline Plant BiologyNon-NASA CenterComparative StudyJournal Article

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P S Kuzeja, P M Lintilhac, C Wei. 2001. Root elongation against a constant force: experiment with a computerized feedback-controlled device.. https://doi.org/10.1078/0176-1617-00307

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