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Translocation of Organic Substances

Translocation is the transport of organic substances like sucrose through the phloem from sources to sinks, essential for plant growth and storage. The pressure-flow hypothesis describes the mechanism of translocation, involving loading at the source, flow through the phloem, and unloading at the sink. Factors such as source and sink strength, environmental conditions, and pathogen attacks affect translocation efficiency, which is crucial for plant development and crop yield.

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219 views2 pages

Translocation of Organic Substances

Translocation is the transport of organic substances like sucrose through the phloem from sources to sinks, essential for plant growth and storage. The pressure-flow hypothesis describes the mechanism of translocation, involving loading at the source, flow through the phloem, and unloading at the sink. Factors such as source and sink strength, environmental conditions, and pathogen attacks affect translocation efficiency, which is crucial for plant development and crop yield.

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crackssc2026
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Translocation of Organic Substances

Translocation is the transport of organic substances, primarily sucrose, through the phloem from sources (e.g., leaves) to
sinks (e.g., roots, fruits). It is essential for distributing energy and building blocks for growth and storage.

Phloem Structure

Phloem consists of:

• Sieve Tubes: Conducting cells with perforated sieve plates, lacking nuclei.

• Companion Cells: Support sieve tubes with metabolic functions.

• Phloem Parenchyma: Storage and structural cells.

• Phloem Fibers: Provide support.

Mechanism: Pressure-Flow Hypothesis

The pressure-flow hypothesis explains translocation:

1. Loading at Source:

o Sucrose is actively transported into sieve tubes at the source (e.g., mesophyll cells) via companion cells,
using proton-sucrose symporters.

o This lowers water potential, causing water to enter sieve tubes from the xylem via osmosis, increasing
turgor pressure.

2. Flow Through Phloem:

o High turgor pressure at the source drives a bulk flow of sap through sieve tubes to sinks.

3. Unloading at Sink:

o Sucrose is actively or passively unloaded at sinks (e.g., growing tissues), reducing turgor pressure.

o Water exits the phloem, returning to the xylem.

Substances Translocated

• Carbohydrates: Primarily sucrose, but also glucose and fructose.

• Amino Acids: For protein synthesis.

• Hormones: E.g., auxins, gibberellins.

• Other Metabolites: Lipids, organic acids.

Factors Affecting Translocation

1. Source Strength:

o High photosynthetic rates increase sucrose availability.

2. Sink Strength:

o Growing tissues or storage organs with high metabolic demand attract more assimilates.

3. Phloem Loading/Unloading:
o Efficiency of active transport affects translocation rates.

4. Environmental Factors:

o Temperature: Optimal at 20–30°C; extremes slow transport.

o Water Stress: Reduces turgor pressure, hindering flow.

o Light: Influences photosynthesis and sucrose production.

5. Pathogen Attack:

o Aphids or fungi can disrupt phloem function.

Significance

• Growth: Supplies sugars and amino acids to developing tissues.

• Storage: Accumulates reserves in roots, tubers, or fruits.

• Reproduction: Supports flower and seed development.

In conclusion, translocation ensures efficient resource allocation, supporting plant growth and survival. Understanding its
regulation aids in optimizing crop yield and quality.

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