Thiamine Sparing Action of Ascorbic Acid on Lactobacillus Fermenti 36.

Abstract

Ascorbic acid (I) has a thiamine (II) sparing action on the growth of L. fermenti 36. Addition of both I and II gives a greater growth response than either alone. Addition of pyrithiamine inhibits the utilization of I for growth of L. fermenti 36 in a B1-free medium. Addition of iodoacetate, 2,4-dinitrophenol or NaF to the B1 assay medium containing either I or II shows the difference in inhibition of growth of this microorganism, These results indicate that I must function in carbohydrate metabolism in a different metabolic pathway than II. L. fermenti 36 can synthesize II when I is present. This result shows that I may function in part by stimulating the synthesis of II.