Rotational streaming in fiber cells and its role in translocation.

All visible protoplasmic streaming in sections of various plant stems was reversibly stopped by 2,4-dinitrophenol (DNP). Sections contained epidermal, cortical, and fiber cell types. Cells treated with DNP retained their semipermeability as evidenced by their plasmolysis in sucrose solutions. Washing out the DNP resulted in the rapid resumption of protoplasmic streaming in all 3 cell types. Both the rate of movement of sodium fluorescein and the shape of the advancing dye front were greatly altered by DNP treatment. Dye transport was decreased in the fibers and little affected in cortical cells. The results suggest that rotational streaming accelerates the translocation of soluble substances in fiber cells.