What Is Kinetin and How Does It Delay Plant Aging While Promoting Growth?

Technical Introduction

Kinetin (C₁₀H₉N₅O, CAS No. 525-79-1) is a synthetic cytokinin, a class of plant hormones that regulate cell division, differentiation, and delay of senescence (aging).
Structurally, it is 6-furfurylaminopurine, first discovered in 1955 from DNA degradation products in herring sperm.
Kinetin influences cytokinesis and maintains chlorophyll levels, making it essential for tissue culture, plant propagation, and post-harvest preservation.

In addition to plant uses, kinetin has gained attention in cosmetics and anti-aging research due to its antioxidant and cellular repair properties.

Applications

1. Agriculture & Horticulture

• Tissue Culture: Stimulates shoot initiation and proliferation in micropropagation.

• Growth Regulation: Encourages leaf expansion and branching.

• Senescence Delay: Keeps leaves greener for longer during growth and storage.

2. Post-Harvest Preservation

• Extends shelf life of leafy vegetables and cut flowers by slowing degradation.

3. Cosmetics & Personal Care

• Incorporated into skin creams for its antioxidant and anti-aging effects on human skin cells.

Advantages

• Dual Benefits: Works as a growth promoter and anti-aging agent.

• Stable in Formulations: Retains activity in storage when kept in dry, cool conditions.

• Wide Compatibility: Effective with various plant species and in combination with other PGRs.

Typical Parameters

FAQs

Q1: Can kinetin be used alone in plant tissue culture?
A1: Yes, but often it’s combined with auxins for optimal shoot and root development.

Q2: Is kinetin natural or synthetic?
A2: Naturally occurring in some plant DNA degradation products but commercially synthesized for consistency.

Q3: Does kinetin replace fertilizers?
A3: No—it’s a hormone, not a nutrient source; it works best with adequate nutrition.

Q4: How is kinetin applied in agriculture?
A4: Via foliar sprays, seed treatments, or in vitro culture media.

Q5: Is kinetin safe for humans?
A5: At typical cosmetic concentrations, it is considered safe and non-irritating.