ISSN:
1432-072X
Keywords:
Diazepam
;
Benzodiazepines
;
Scenedesmus
;
Ultrastructure
;
Photosynthesis
;
Respiration
;
Rubidium Uptake
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Effects of diazepam (Valium) on photosynthesis, chlorophyll/photosynthesis ratios, respiration, uptake of rubidium ions, and ultrastructure of Scenedesmus obliquus synchronized by a light-dark regimen of $$14:\overline {10}$$ hrs were determined. 80 and 160 μM diazepam, added to the nutrient medium at the start of the light-dark change (i.e., start of the cell cycle) gradually reduced rates of photosynthesis below the initial rates from the beginning of the experiment. Contents of chlorophyll, however, remained nearly unaffected. Consequently, the diazepam-treated cells had a higher chlorophyll/photosynthesis ratio—also with regard to respiration in order to calculate the gross photosynthesis. The occurrence of photorespiration cannot be assumed. The net influx or rubidium was slightly reduced by 100 μM diazepam 0.5 and 2.0 hrs after the start of the cell cycle and was strongly inhibited after 5 to 14 hrs. 80 and 160 μM diazepam caused separation of thylakoids, formation of giant mitochondria and enlargement of vacuoles. The results are discussed and it is finally suggested that diazepam acts on different membrane systems. Furthermore an ATP deficiency cannot be excluded.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00428357
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