tsütokinin

Tsütokinin is a class of plant hormones that play a crucial role in plant growth and development. These molecules are primarily involved in regulating cell division, or cytokinesis, which is where their name originates. They work in conjunction with another major plant hormone, auxin, to control various aspects of plant life.

The main functions of tsütokinins include promoting cell division and differentiation, delaying senescence (the aging of plant tissues), and influencing the formation of shoots and roots. For instance, a higher ratio of tsütokinin to auxin generally favors shoot development, while a lower ratio tends to promote root formation. They are synthesized mainly in the root tips and transported upwards to the rest of the plant through the xylem.

Tsütokinins are a diverse group, with adenine-based compounds being the most common. They are essential for maintaining the meristematic activity in plants, ensuring continuous growth. Their presence is vital for healthy plant development, affecting everything from leaf expansion to fruit ripening and seed germination. Without adequate tsütokinin levels, plants would exhibit stunted growth and impaired development.