Auxin is synthesized at the shoot tip and, when light is detected, it diffuses towards the shady side of the shoot. Concentration of auxin on the shaded side stimulates cell growth, causing the plant to bend towards the light.
How does auxin, a plant hormone, contribute to the bending of a plant towards light, as described in the paragraph?
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Auxin, a key plant hormone, facilitates phototropism, the bending of a plant towards light. In response to unilateral light exposure, auxin accumulates on the shaded side of the stem. This differential distribution triggers elongation of cells on the shaded side, promoting curvature towards the light source. The auxin redistribution is mediated by the auxin efflux carrier protein PIN3, which reorients to the shaded side, aiding in the transport of auxin. As a result, cells on the shaded side elongate more than those on the illuminated side, enabling the plant to bend and optimize light absorption for photosynthesis, a crucial adaptive response in plants.