Bioassay for investigation of auxin transport in single cell layers

Abstract

Auxin was collected from the cambial region of Pinus sylvestris by applying agar strips to the cut surfaces of stem sections which comprised a single layer of 2 to 4-mm long, mainly intact fusiform cells. Sections of the agar strips were either bioassayed immediately to determine their auxin content or stored for several months at -80^oC, extracted with 80% MeOH and redissolved in hot agar prior to bioassay. Auxin concentrations were determined by Went's oat coleoptile test, as described by Funke, which was modified considerably to give highly reproducible results. The modifications proved essential for good replication of results and are described in detail together with the use of the bioassay to determine changes in cambial cell polarity during ageing and senescence in P. sylvestris.