Abstract

We present the results of our attempt to determine the metabolic status of excised maize roots (Zea mays L. cv. ZP SC704) and its effect on the trans-root electrical potential difference (TRP). Besides the electrical potential difference, we measured oxygen consumption, sugar content and 14C-sucrose uptake and distribution by supplying the cut end of root with sucrose. Our experiments show that sucrose added to the cut end of excised roots was taken up by them, increasing the sugar content and metabolic activity of such roots. These sugar-supplemented roots exhibited approximately 60% higher internal sugar content and respiratory rates, and 30% higher magnitudes of TRP, compared to sugar-depleted roots. By optimizing the ionic composition (pH, K+, Ca2+) and sucrose concentration of the upper solution for sucrose uptake and translocation, maintenance of energetic status and transport functions of the excised root, closer to that existing in situ, was ensured.

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