The Application of 31P Nuclear Magnetic Resonance to Higher Plant Tissue: I. DETECTION OF SPECTRA

31P nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectra are described for a variety of plant tissues, including sections of mature potato tuber (Solanum tuberosum) and sections of maize seedling (Zea mays). The experimental procedures for obtaining such spectra, using a conventional high field spectrometer, are discussed in detail. Assignments are given for the observed resonances and the results are discussed in relation to the storage forms of plant phosphate. Attention is drawn to the power of the technique to distinguish the cytoplasm and vacuole in vivo, through the well-known pH dependence of the 31P chemical shifts.