Gibberellinejä

Gibberellinejä, commonly known as gibberellins (GAs), are a class of plant hormones that play a crucial role in various growth and developmental processes. Discovered in Japan in the 1930s, these compounds were initially identified as a substance produced by the fungus Gibberella fujikuroi that caused excessive elongation of rice seedlings.

Gibberellins are diterpenoid carboxylic acids that are synthesized in young leaves, developing seeds, and roots. They function by promoting cell elongation and division, leading to increased stem growth. This effect is particularly evident in their ability to overcome genetic dwarfism.

Beyond stem elongation, gibberellins are involved in a multitude of other plant functions. They stimulate seed germination by breaking dormancy and initiating the synthesis of enzymes necessary for utilizing stored food reserves. They also play a role in flowering, especially in long-day plants, and in the development of fruit. For instance, gibberellin application can be used to increase the size and hasten the maturity of grapes.

The action of gibberellins is mediated through binding to specific receptor proteins within plant cells, triggering a cascade of molecular events. Their effects can be influenced by other plant hormones, such as auxins and abscisic acid, creating a complex regulatory network that governs plant development. Due to their significant impact on plant growth, gibberellins are widely used in agriculture and horticulture to improve crop yields and quality.