Phloem

This account examines plant translocation specifically in the phloem (the tissue that conducts the products of photosynthesis and their metabolytes). It was first published in 1973 and gives a review of the well-established facts, whilst interpreting them in the light of the author's own theory of the mechanism. Professor Canny has produced numerous summaries of published data and recast quantitative information so that material that was scattered throughout the literature and difficult to compare sits together in an easily accessible form. The author has taken care to bring to the attention of the reader important passages from classical works, as well as writings on translocation from the sixties and seventies. The author writes in a lively style that is at once informative and provocative, and the book will appeal to those interested in the historical development of the many exciting and often conflicting theories of phloem transport.

Phloem: Molecular Cell Biology, Systemic Communication, Biotic Interactions is a timely collection of research on the cellular and molecular biology of this plant vascular tissue. Recent advances in phloem research have revealed the centrality of this plant tissue to whole plant development and physiology. Building on advances made through developments of new analytical technologies, this book will provide readers with a current and comprehensive reference on the role of phloem in plant growth and development. Collecting the work of a global team of leading researchers, Phloem will provide the reader with a valuable synthesis of the latest research in a single volume.

Ten years ago, at the International Botanical Congress in Edinburgh, a group of us from various countries discussed the difficulty of pursuing academic problems in depth at such meetings. In particular, we were discouraged at the poverty of time for phloem transport. From long association, we were conscious of the extraordinary breadth of the problem, from developmental through anatomical, to biophysical and physiological. Only by a reasonable understanding of all these components could one hope to come to some kind of understanding. We decided to establish common plant material so that data would have a common source. Similarly, we resolved to exchange information by circulating pre-publication manuscripts. For awhile, after the meeting was a pleasant memory, the plan seemed to be working; but, as is so often the case, human infirmities and foibles played early and, subsequently, predominant roles. Some became administrators (a punishment for good behaviour); others concentrated on alternative rings in their academic circuses. The next Congress (in Seattle) proved similar to its predecessor in its neglect and, consequently, succor was sought elsewhere. A little known, but remarkably understanding group becoming visible was the Science Committee and the Division of Scientific Affairs of N. A. T. O. Its sponsorship of Advanced Study Institutes including phytochemistry and phytophysics, was unusual both in the generosity of its funding and in the requirements for academic quality.