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Free tryptophan and indole-3-acetic acid levels in the leaves and vascular pathways of Ricinus communis L.

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Abstract

Levels of free tryptophan in the leaves, phloem and xylem saps of Ricinus communis L. were determined by colorimetric assay. Values of 0.38 μg ml-1 in root pressure sap and 96.0 μg ml-1 in phloem sap were recorded. Tryptophan levels were highest in mature and senescing leaves. Levels of indoleacetic acid (IAA) in the phloem sap and leaves were determined by gas chromatography—mass spectrometry using a deuterated internal standard. A mean value of 13.0 ng ml-1 was recorded in phloem sap. The distribution in the leaves showed an inverse relationship to that of tryptophan, being highest in young leaves.

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Abbreviations

IAA:

indoleacetic acid

GC-MS:

Gas chromatography-mass spectrometry

PFP-derivative:

pentafluoropropionyl-derivative

TLC:

thin layer chromatography

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Author notes

  1. D. A. Baker

    Present address: Department of Plant Sciences, Wye College (University of London), TN25 5AH, Near Ashford, Kent, UK

Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Biological Sciences, University of Sussex, Falmer, BN1 9QG, Brighton, UK

    J. R. F. Allen & D. A. Baker

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  1. J. R. F. Allen
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  2. D. A. Baker
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Allen, J.R.F., Baker, D.A. Free tryptophan and indole-3-acetic acid levels in the leaves and vascular pathways of Ricinus communis L.. Planta 148, 69–74 (1980). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00385444

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00385444

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