Levels of Indol-3yl-acetic Acid and Acid Inhibitors in Green and Etiolated Bean Seedlings (Phaseolus vulgaris)

Indol-3yl-acetic acid (IAA) was identified in Phaseolus vulgaris L. Shoot tissue of seedlings, exposed to light for 5 days, had a higher level of IAA than etiolated seedlings of the same age. The content of IAA increased in green seedlings during light treatment for 5–12 days. No increase could be measured in dark-grown seedlings. Inhibitory substances appeared at different R_f-values. The main part was identical to the inhibitor-β complex and occurred in a higher amount in light-grown seedlings than in etiolated taller ones. One part of the inhibitor-complex appeared to be abscisic acid (ABA). It is suggested that both IAA and acid inhibitors may play an important role in the control of stem growth and differentiation, although light effects on other hormones and regulatory systems cannot be ignored.