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Plant and Cell Physiology, 1986, Vol. 27, No. 6 1081-1089
© 1986

Article

Action Potential in Luffa cylindlica and its Effects on Elongation Growth

Takashi Shiina and Masashi Tazawa

Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, University of Tokyo Hongo, Tokyo 113, Japan

The action potential of the non-seismonastic plant, Luffa cylindrica, was studied and characterized. Single action potentials of 30 to 60 mV were evoked by electrical or cooling stimuli applied to the stem internode. Action potentials were transmitted without diminution along stimulated internodes shorter than 40 mm in length. No difference in velocity between acropetal and basipetal transmission was observed. This behavior is very similar to that of Mimosa and Biophytum. The velocity of transmission of action potentials along internodes of Luffa was dependent upon distance from the point of stimulation; 10 to 20 mm sec–1 upto 40 mm, and 70 mm sec–1 at around 50 mm from the point of stimulation. The action potential was not transmitted to the neighboring internode. Action potentials were also observed in the petiole and leaf. Beyond the threshold stimulus, the amplitude of the transmitted action potential depended on the strength of the stimulus. The absolute and relative refractory periods for the transmission of action potentials were 2 min and 2 to 5 min, respectively.

Elongation growth of the stem, recorded using a differential transformer, decreased after the generation of a single action potential in the upper most internode. This decreased growth rate continued for more than 5 min.

(Received March 10, 1986; Accepted June 11, 1986)
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