The effect of 9-(2,3-dihydroxypropyl) adenine (DHPA) on seedling roots ofVicia faba L. in comparison with adenine, adenosine and some cytokinins

3-day-old seedlings ofVicia faba L. were put onto a diluted Knop’s solution containing the tested substances within the intentional concentration range and left there for 7 days. In comparison with controls in plain nutrient solution, the DHPA treated plants revealed a suppression of shoot and root development. The main root growth was less sensitive than root branching. 8 h exposure was sufficient to gain a distinct effect. Microscopically the block of mitosis and/or cytokinesis, the formation of binucleate cells and local tissue damage were revealed. Under the given conditions, the cytokinins (BAP, (9R)BAP, iP, (9R)iP) proved to be much more powerful inhibitors than DHPA, whereas adenine and adenosine were less impairing.