The de novo origin of the quiescent center regenerating root apices of Zea mays.

In roots from which the root cap and quiescent center have been removed new apical tissues regenerated in line with the main axis of the root. Regeneration of these tissues occurred from the region of the proximal meristem, which extends for no more than 350 μm from the cut surface. Accompanying the regeneration of new apical tissues is a change in the architecture of the root apex and initiation and enlargement of a new quiescent center. A possible "role" for the quiescent center in the establishment of pattern at the apex is considered. Regeneration of the original apex failed to occur in those roots from which the root cap, quiescent center and proximal meristem were excised.