Auxin is signalling molecule which mediates spatial and temporal coordination of plant growth and development via formation of 'auxin gradients'. These gradients result from metabolic processes and the active directional transmembrane transport of auxin, which is catalyzed by auxin efflux carriers belonging to the PIN protein family.
Investigation of atypical member of the family - AtPIN5 revealed its localization on the membranes of endoplasmic reticulum. The overexpression of the protein results in the striking change in the profile of auxin metabolites.
These data show the so far unknown mechanism governing the availability of the key growth regulator in plant cells.