The Versatile Role of a Plant Growth Regulator: An Overview of Indole-3-butyric Acid's Applications and Significance

Abstract

Indole-3-butyric acid, a naturally occurring plant growth regulator, holds immense importance in various horticultural and agricultural practices. This comprehensive review aims to delve into the diverse applications of it, highlighting its pivotal role in promoting root development, enhancing transplant survival, and improving overall plant growth and yield. By examining the underlying mechanisms, practical implementations, and the latest research advancements, this overview underscores the versatility, efficacy, and value of indole-3-butyric acid in modern plant cultivation.

Introduction

Plant growth regulators are indispensable tools in horticulture and agriculture, enabling precise control over plant development and significantly enhancing productivity. Among these regulators, it stands out prominently due to its specific efficacy in promoting root formation and enhancing overall plant growth. This review explores the multifaceted applications of indole-3-butyric acid, shedding light on its mechanisms of action, practical benefits, and its significance in contemporary plant cultivation practices.¹

Promoting Root Development

One of the primary and most well-known applications of indole-3-butyric acid lies in its remarkable ability to stimulate root development. When applied to cuttings or seedlings, this compound significantly enhances root initiation and growth, leading to improved establishment and survival rates. This property is particularly valuable in horticultural practices, where rapid and efficient rooting is crucial for the successful propagation and cultivation of a wide range of plant species.

Enhancing Transplant Survival

It also plays a vital role in enhancing the survival of transplanted plants. By promoting root regeneration and nutrient absorption, this compound helps transplanted plants recover more quickly from the stress of relocation, ultimately improving overall survival rates. This application is especially relevant in large-scale agricultural settings, where transplant shock can significantly impact crop yields and overall productivity.²

Improving Plant Growth and Yield

Beyond its root-promoting effects, indole-3-butyric acid has been extensively studied for its positive influence on overall plant growth and yield. By optimizing nutrient utilization, enhancing photosynthetic efficiency, and modulating plant hormone levels, this compound contributes to healthier, more vigorous plants with increased biomass and yield potential. These benefits extend to a wide range of horticultural and agricultural crops, making it a highly valued addition to any grower's toolkit.³

Mechanisms of Action

The efficacy of it is deeply rooted in its ability to interact with plant hormones and signaling pathways. By modulating the activity of auxins, a key plant hormone involved in growth and development, this compound influences cell division and expansion, ultimately leading to the observed growth responses. Understanding these mechanisms is essential for harnessing the full potential of indole-3-butyric acid in plant cultivation and for developing targeted applications to address specific agricultural challenges.

Safety information

Health hazards: Liver and kidney damage can be caused in rats, but data on specific health effects in humans are limited.

Emergency treatment: Remove contaminated clothing immediately after skin contact and rinse with running water; In case of eye contact, lift eyelids, rinse with running water or saline, and seek medical attention as soon as possible.

Storage conditions: Should be stored in a cool, ventilated warehouse, away from fire, and heat sources, storage temperature should not exceed 30°C. Avoid contact with oxidants and acids.

Preparation method

Preparation methods mainly include chemical synthesis methods, such as condensation of Indole with gamma-butylactone under specific conditions, or reaction of indole with Grignard reagent and α-chloro-propionitrile, and then hydrolysis and acidification.⁴

Latest Research and Advancements

Recent research has further expanded the understanding of indole-3-butyric acid's applications and mechanisms of action. Studies have explored its potential in biostimulant formulations, its role in stress tolerance and resilience, and its interactions with other plant growth regulators. These advancements highlight the ongoing interest and potential of indole-3-butyric acid in modern plant cultivation and agriculture.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is a versatile and invaluable plant growth regulator with a wide range of applications in horticulture and agriculture. From promoting root development to enhancing transplant survival and improving overall plant growth and yield, this compound offers numerous benefits to growers across various crop systems. As research continues to uncover new applications and mechanisms of action, the potential of indole-3-butyric acid in modern plant cultivation is poised to expand even further, revolutionizing agricultural practices and enhancing productivity worldwide.

References

[1].Damodaran, S.; Strader, L. C., Indole 3-butyric acid metabolism and transport in Arabidopsis thaliana. Frontiers in plant science 2019, 10, 851.

[2].Strader, L. C.; Bartel, B., Transport and metabolism of the endogenous auxin precursor indole-3-butyric acid. Molecular plant 2011, 4 (3), 477-486.

[3].Nordstrom, A.-C.; Jacobs, F. A.; Eliasson, L., Effect of exogenous indole-3-acetic acid and indole-3-butyric acid on internal levels of the respective auxins and their conjugation with aspartic acid during adventitious root formation in pea cuttings. Plant physiology 1991, 96 (3), 856-861.

[4].Strader, L. C.; Wheeler, D. L.; Christensen, S. E.; Berens, J. C.; Cohen, J. D.; Rampey, R. A.; Bartel, B., Multiple facets of Arabidopsis seedling development require indole-3-butyric acid–derived auxin. The Plant Cell 2011, 23 (3), 984-999.

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