Incorporation of DNA and Protein Precursors into Macromolecules by Bacteria at −15 o C

Abstract

DNA and protein precursors were incorporated into trichloroacetic acid-precipitated material by bacterial cell suspensions during incubation for 50 to 100 days at −15^oC. Incorporation did not occur at −70^oC and was inhibited by antibiotics. The results demonstrate that bacteria can perform macromolecular synthesis under conditions that mimic entrapment in glacial ice.