MODULATION OF CHLOROPHYLL, CAROTENE AND XANTHOPHYLL FORMATION BY PENICILLIN, BENZYLADENINE AND EMBRYONIC AXIS IN MUNG BEAN (PHASEOLUS-AUREUS L) COTYLEDONS

Penicillin stimulated the synthesis of pigments in the cotyledons of intact embryos and excised cotyledons of mung bean (Phaseolus aureus L.) and enhanced benzyladenine-induced accumulation of chloroplast pigments. The presence of the embryonic axis during light exposure proved to be beneficial for chlorophyll synthesis by the cotyledons whereas its presence in dark germination produced an adverse effect. The possible involvement of nucleic acid and protein synthesis in light-regulated chlorophyll formation is suggested. The stimulating effect on pigment synthesis provided by penicillin in this system seems to involve a maintenance of nucleic acid and protein synthesis. © 1979, Annals of Botany Company.