What is the Difference Between Kinetin and Zeatin?

Kinetin and zeatin are both adenine-type cytokinins, which are plant hormones that promote cell division or cytokinesis in shoots and roots, as well as other physiological processes. The main difference between kinetin and zeatin is their origin:

• Kinetin:
• Synthetic form of cytokinin hormone.
• Precursor is furfural.
• Promotes cell division in shoots and roots.
• Considerably more effective in retarding the senescence of leaf disks of several species.
• Zeatin:
• Naturally occurring form of cytokinin hormone.
• Precursor is 6-(γ,γ-Dimethylallylamino)purine.
• Promotes cell division, lateral bud growth, and leaf senescence.
• More active than kinetin in increasing frond and callus formation.

In summary, kinetin is a synthetic form of cytokinin, while zeatin is a naturally occurring form of cytokinin. Both compounds have similar functions in promoting cell division and other physiological processes in plants, but they differ in their origin and specific activities.

Comparative Table: Kinetin vs Zeatin

Kinetin and zeatin are both cytokinin-type plant hormones that promote cell division, but they have some key differences:

• Origin: Kinetin is a synthetic form of cytokinin hormone, while zeatin is a naturally occurring form of cytokinin hormone.
• Discovery: Kinetin was discovered by Carlos O. Miller and Skoog, while zeatin was discovered in immature corn kernels from the genus Zea.
• Precursor: The precursor for kinetin is furfural, whereas the precursor for zeatin is 6-(γ,γ-Dimethylallylamino)purine.
• Function: Kinetin promotes cell division in shoots and roots, while zeatin promotes lateral bud formation in plants, allowing the growth of shoots.

Here is a table summarizing the differences between kinetin and zeatin: