Upsurge in Respiration and Peroxide Formation in Potato Tubers as Influenced by Ethylene, Propylene, and Cyanide

Abstract

A continuous application of ethylene (10 .mu.l/l) and propylene (500 .mu.l/l) to potato tubers (Solanum tuberosum L.) resulted in an upsurge of respiration and a concomitant rise in peroxides. When applied in 100% O2, the effect of ethylene and propylene on respiration and peroxide formation was augmented. Hydrogen cyanide (500 .mu.l/l) mimicked the action of ethylene and propylene, inducing a respiratory rise and a corresponding increase in peroxides. As with ethylene, the effect of HCN was augmented in high O2 tensions. Apparently ethylene activates the cyanide-insensitive respiratory pathway.