The Evolution of Plant Hormone Analysis1

Abstract

The analysis of plant extracts or diffusates for hormones has always bordered on the mysterious, and has been fraught with pitfalls for even determined investigators. Many of the problems have arisen from the exceedingly low concentrations in which hormones generally occur, and which consequently have necessitated the employment of bioassays. In recent years improved instrumentation has made it increasingly feasible to employ physical methods for detection and measurement of these substances. The options available are confusing, particularly to those new to the field. It is the purpose of this brief review to put in perspective the various methods available to an investigator, and to elaborate on the direction we seem to be moving.

Contaminants in Solvents and Chromatographic Materials

“…Among physiologists concerned with this problem, considerable recognition is due Dr. L. E. Powell for his successful efforts in expos ing the weaknesses of bioassay procedures and in the subsequent de velopment of chemical methods. Some of these considerations are discussed in a 1972 review by Powell (2).…”