Researchers map the reaction chain for plant growth hormone

In California, UC San Diego researchers have unraveled the complete biochemical reaction chain for the synthesis of auxin, the plant growth hormone, which regulates almost all plant growth and development.

Using genetic approaches and analytical biochemistry, the researchers identified the two step chain of tryptophan to indole-3-acetic acid in Arabidopsis, a genetic model plant.  The researchers expect that this will provide new opportunities to improve crops for farmers.