Development of a measuring system for bioelectric potential distribution in plant surface

In order to investigate the behavior of the bioelectric potential distribution on the surface of callus, leaf or root under stimulus, a multichannel biological potential measuring system was developed. The system comprises grid-patterned multielectrode made by sputtered silver, gold or platinum onto the plate glass, the 64 channel-bioelectric amplifier, a constant temperature box, callus cultivating capsules containing magnetic stimulator, and a computer to collect and store data. This system is indispensable to study sensing or transferring information in plant, providing the morphogenetic field forming around plants. Consequently, spike potential frequently induced by the stimulus, and spontaneous spike potential often dispersed by the stimulus can be obtained. In addition, the bioelectric potential distribution fluctuates along the root approximate every 30 minutes. It is, therefore, the potential distribution is related to morphogenetic field. Accordingly, it is expected that the presently developed system will enable to examine interrelationships among electric field and development, differentiation and growth in plant.