In addition to its well-known antioxidant properties, ascorbate (ASC) is capable of influencing normal cell cycle progression in plants. In this work we demonstrate that the oxidized molecule dehydroas-corbate (DHA) is the active redox form in this respect. Our results indicate that the reduction of DHA might constitute the first step leading to this effect. During the last few years, evidence has already been accumulating, indicating the role of ASC in the regulation of cell division. For example, De Cabo et al. (1993) demonstrated a shortening of the G1 phase in dividing onion root meristem cells due to the action of monodehydroascorbate. Kerk and Feldman (1995) were able to establish a direct correlation between ASC redox status and cell proliferation rates in the maize (Zea mays) quiescent center. Also, during the growth cycle of a tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L. cv Bright Yellow-2 [BY-2]) cell suspension, a significant decrease in the endogenous ASC level was shown, accompanied by an overall decrease in redox status (De Pinto et al., 1999; Kato and Esaka, 1999).
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Potters et al. (2000) studied this question.