The Effect of High Concentrations of Heavy Water on Root Morphogenesis inZea mays

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Abstract
The effect of high concentrations of heavy water on young roots of Zea mays was investigated. Submersion for 24 hrs. in solutions of 80–90 per cent. D2O will temporarily stop growth of the primary root. During the treatment period the root-tip regions will swell as the result of radial cell enlargement, primarily in the cortical region. Upon removal from D2O growth will resume, initially at a slower rate than controls but ultimately at similar maximum rates. Lateral root production is inhibited in that portion of the primary root which is the region of elongation at time of treatment. However, in the swollen region lateral root formation is accentuated. The mitotic index drops sharply upon introduction of the primary roots into 80 per cent. D2O. Within 12 hrs. the index drops to zero and remains at this level until the roots are removed from the heavy water. The mitotic index then rises again, reaching control values within 24 hrs. It is suggested that the gentle, temporary inhibitory action of D2O makes this substance a useful tool in morphogenetic investigations.

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