Modifications of Auxin Efflux Carrier in the Auxin Transport System by Diethyl Ether and Ethylene

Abstract

A variety of agents in vapor or in gas phase have attracted the attention of some early investigators for their growth-modifying effects in plants. Among these, Schroeder (17, see also 23) noticed a temporary stimulation of growth by low concentrations of ether vapor. Since Neljubov (12) first showed that growth of pea seedlings was affected by ethylene, ethylene research was carried out by many workers thereafter (see 1). Ether and ethylene (2), however unrelated they may be to each other functionally, are likely to influence plant growth through an interference with the auxin transport system. In an extensive study, van der Weij (21) showed that polar auxin movement in Avena coleoptile segments was inhibited (“suspended”) when 40 % ether-saturated water was placed in the test chamber. Several studies (e.g. 2) have demonstrated ethylene interference with auxin movement.