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Abscisic acid

Abscisic acid is a naturally occurring hormone in plants.

Chemical Formula: C₁₅H₂₀O₄

Other names: DL-2-cis-4-trans-abscisic acid

Layman's explanation: Abscisic acid (ABA) was first identified and characterized by Frederick Addicott in 1963. ABA is a naturally occurring compound in plants synthesized partially in the chloroplasts. It is a phytohormone that plays an important role in regulating transpiration, stress responses, germination of seeds and embryogenesis in plants. Abscisic acid influences most aspects of plant growth and development to some level, in part due to interactions with other phytohormones. Abscisic acid also promotes abscission of leaves and fruits, and for this reason the name abscisic is given. This plant hormone is the key factor in the adaptation of the plant to environmental stresses such as salinity, drought or water loss, and freezing temperatures. Abscisic acid promotes dormancy and helps the plant tolerate stressful conditions by suspending primary and secondary growth.

Keywords: plant hormone, abscission

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