Effects of osmotic stress on the kinds, forms and levels of polyamines in wheat coleoptiles.

The changes in levels and forms of polyamine (Pa) in the coleoptiles of two wheat (triticum aestivum L.) cultivars differing in drought tolerance were investigated under osmotic stress. The drought-tolerant 'Yumai 18' showed marked increases in free spermidine (Spd) and spermine (Spm) levels in coleoptiles after being treated with polyethylene glycol (PEG)-6000 for 2 d in the dark, while drought-sensitive 'Yangmai 9' showed a significant increase in free putrescine (Put) content.