Structural changes and aluminium distribution in maize root tissues

Growth and structural responses of primary roots of Zea mays L. to aluminium chloride were studied. The treatment of seedlings with 50 mu M AlCl3 resulted in high accumulation of Al, partial inhibition of root growth, occurrence of surface lesions in peripheral tissues, root thickening caused by expansion of inner cortical cells, reduced root cap length, extensive vacuolation, cell distortion, and increased synthesis of callose within 24 h.