Kinetin

Kinetin, also known as N6-furfuryladenine, is a cytokinin, a class of plant hormones that regulate cell division and growth. It occurs naturally in some plants and is widely used as a synthetic growth regulator in plant research and horticulture. As a cytokinin, kinetin promotes cell division and can delay senescence, particularly when used with auxins in tissue culture. In living plants, cytokinins are produced mainly in roots and transported to shoots, where they influence shoot initiation, leaf longevity, and overall growth; kinetin can mimic these effects.

In plant biotechnology, kinetin is used to induce shoot regeneration from explants and to maintain the viability of cultured tissues. Its effects depend on concentration, light, nutrients, and its interaction with other plant hormones; it is frequently applied in combination with auxins to control organ development in vitro.

Chemically, kinetin is N6-furfuryladenine, a derivative of adenine with a furfuryl group attached at the N6 position. It can be isolated in trace amounts in some plants or produced synthetically for research and commercial use.

In cosmetics and consumer products, kinetin has appeared as an ingredient claimed to have anti-aging effects on the skin, based on early reports of anti-senescence activity in cultured cells. However, clinical evidence in humans is limited, and efficacy claims vary among products and formulations.

Safety and regulation: As with other plant growth regulators, kinetin should be used according to product labels and local regulations. It is not intended for ingestion and handling should follow appropriate safety guidelines.