This compound was named kinetin because of its ability to promote cytokinesis. It was later called zeatin. It is Miller and Letham that are credited with the simultaneous discovery of zeatin. Biosynthesis and Metabolism of Cytokinins Cytokinin is generally found in higher concentrations in meristematic regions and growing tissues. They are believed to be synthesized in the roots and translocated via the xylem to shoots.
Cytokinin biosynthesis happens through the biochemical modification of adenine.
A product of the mevalonate pathway called isopentyl pyrophosphate is isomerized. This isomer can then react with adenosine monophosphate with the aid of an enzyme called isopentenyl AMP synthase. This product can then be converted to isopentenyl adenosine by removal of the phosphate by a phosphatase and further converted to isopentenyl adenine by removal of the ribose group. Isopentenyl adenine can be converted to the three major forms of naturally occurring cytokinins. Other pathways or slight alterations of this one probably lead to the other forms.