Root elongation against a constant force: experiment with a computerized feedback-controlled device.
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.
Kuzeja
P S
PS
Botanic Garden, Mount Holyoke College, South Hadley, Massachusetts 01075, USA. pkuzeja@aol.com
Lintilhac
P M
PM
Wei
C
C
D055592:Biophysical Phenomena; D001703:Biophysics; D006112:Gravitation; D007091:Image Processing, Computer-Assisted; D010812:Physical Stimulation; D018518:Plant Root Cap / Q000166:cytology / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000502:physiology; D018517:Plant Roots / Q000166:cytology / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000502:physiology; D013997:Time Factors; D003313:Zea mays / Q000166:cytology / Q000254:growth & development* / Q000502:physiology