Regulators of Cell Division in Plant Tissues XII. A Cytokinin Bioassay Using Excised Radish Cotyledons

A rapid bioassay for cytokinins is described. This is based on the ability of these compounds to promote markedly the expansion of radish cotyledons excised soon after seed germination. The response, which is due largely to a promotion of cell enlargement, is inhibited by abscisic acid. Gibberellins, certain amino acids and calcium salts, naturally occurring substances without cytokinin activity, induce small growth increments in the assay. Cytokinin structure-activity relationships observed for the assay are very similar to those which apply in the tobacco-pith tissue culture assay.