Localized white light effect on root adenine nucleotides

Abstract Primary roots of Zea mays L. cv. LG 11 were illuminated in specific zones (cap, elongation part) using microbeams generated from a fibre optic system. Rapid changes in the ATP level were observed for the light- and the dark-exposed root zones. The possible control of these processes by growth inhibitors forme or released in the cap cells and by some electrical charges localized on the root surface is discussed.