Abstract

Photosynthesis, partitioning of carbohydrates and growth have to be highly orchestrated to enable an efficient performance of plants. To study the diurnal relationships between carbon distribution and growth, we analysed transgenic potato plants with altered carbon allocation patterns. To modify carbohydrate supply of growing sinks, we used plants that accumulated starch as a consequence of inhibition in triose-phosphate export from chloroplasts and plants that were genetically inhibited in starch production. Carbon assimilation was analysed by gas exchange and single cell analysis of source leaves. Export was determined by microanalysis of phloem exudates and internodal growth rates were measured by displacement transducers. Gas exchange measurements showed similar assimilation rates in the wild-type and transgenic plants during the light period. Sugar analysis of phloem exudates and epidermal cells revealed a severe shift of sucrose concentrations in the individual plant lines. Moreover, epidermal cells turned out to be a potential storage site for carbohydrates in potato. Finally, we could demonstrate that changing the diurnal rhythm of carbon allocation results in a change in the diurnal growth pattern.

Full Text
Paper version not known

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.