ISSN:
1432-2048
Keywords:
Anaerobiosis
;
Carbon dioxide fixation (heterotrophic)
;
Euglena
;
Fatty acid (odd numbered)
;
Methylmalonyl-CoA pathway
;
Waxmonoester fermentation
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Abstract Waxmonoester fermentation at the expense of endogenous paramylon was followed in the dark in autotrophically grown Euglena gracilis. With reduced oxygen tension and decreasing O2-consumption rates the proportion of odd-numbered fatty acids and alcohols increased up to a molar ratio of nearly 1:1 under strictly anaerobic conditions. Labelled 14CO2, succinate and propionate were incorporated into odd-numbered fatty acids and alcohols 11 to 33 times faster than in even-numbered chains. The electron-flow inhibitor rotenone diminished waxester formation in total, but especially CO2 fixation and the synthesis of odd-numbered chains, without impeding anaerobic carbohydrate breakdown. These findings are indicative for propionyl-CoA as an intermediate in the synthesis of odd-numbered chains. Its probable synthesis in the methylmalonyl-CoA pathway is discussed with regard to energetics.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00397387
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