Alterations in endogenous polyamines in bulbs of tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) during dormancy

Changes in the levels of endogenous polyamines were determined in tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa L.) bulbs during their dormant periods. High free putrescine and low spermine and spermidine levels were associated during initial stages of dormancy. In contrast, high spermine and spermidine levels were related with dormancy release. The conjugated putrescine level increased during the period with an increase in conjugated spermine and spermidine levels. An inverse relationship between free and conjugated polyamines was noticed only for putrescine. The possible role of polyamines is discussed in relation to dormancy.