Factors affecting invertase activity in intact and decapitated roots of Vicia faba L.

Abstract

Summary Invertase activity has been investigated along the axis of intact and decapitated primary roots of Vicia faba grown under a variety of conditions. Enzyme activity was found to be positively correlated with both the rate of root elongation and the availability of sucrose, the latter correlation being the more important. Following the decapitation of primary roots by removing the cap and apical mm of the meristem, changes took place in the level of invertase activity along the axis of these roots, relative to the corresponding values found in the intact controls. These changes have been discussed with respect to leakage of sucrose from, or entry of sucrose into, the decapitated roots through the cut surface at the stump apex, and the suberization of the latter surface 48–96 h after decapitation.