XVI International Botanical Congess

Regulation of cytoplasmic pH has been shown to be crucial for survival of many species during low oxygen stress. NMR is a valuable tool for observing intracellular pH, and also for investigating the factors responsible for the observed pH changes and regulation. We have focussed on the ability of maize root tips to adapt to low oxygen stress. After adaptation, roots exhibit improved cytoplasmic pH regulation during anoxia, and survive prolonged anoxia. So, environmental factors such as low oxygen stress lead not only to metabolic events that affect intracellular pH, but also to changes in the machinery responsible for pH regulation. We will present our results on the role that changes in gene expression play in improved intracellular pH regulation.