The time-dependent uptake, translocation, and metabolism of [14C]MG-191 safener and the influence of EPTC on these processes were studied using 5-d-old corn seedlings grown in nutrient solution. Plants absorbed relatively low levels of root-applied radiolabel at both 10 μM and 50 μM [14C]MG-191 rates during 6 d of exposure. Amounts of absorbed radioactivity increased with time. Addition of 50 μM EPTC, in general, did not alter amounts of [14C]MG-191 taken up. Initial translocation of radiolabel from roots to shoots was more rapid at 10 μM [14C]MG-191 treatment compared to 50 μM. EPTC had no effect on radiolabel movement at either safener rate. MG-191 was metabolized rapidly to water-soluble metabolites. Slower formation of water-soluble products was detected only during the initial 3 h in the presence of EPTC. Also, thin-layer chromatographic analyses of water- and hexane-soluble metabolite fractions confirmed rapid transformation of the parent molecule. Because addition of EPTC retarded parent MG-191 metabolism 3 h after treatment, we assume that initial availability of the MG-191 molecule may be prerequisite to its protective effect.