The photosynthetic capacity of pea leaves with a controlled chlorophyll formation

Abstract

The relationship between chlorophyll content and photosynthesis as measured in whole leaves by CO₂ uptake and by the component reactions of the electron transport chain of isolated chloroplasts, has been investigated. Leaves with a retarded chlorophyll formation, brought about by treatment with chloramphenicol, terramycin or by a low light intensity, were compared with control leaves (i) illuminated for a similar period of time, and (ii) with a similar chlorophyll content. There appeared to be no direct relationship between chlorophyll content and photosynthetic rate. It is suggested that CO₂ uptake in low light treated leaves was limited by lack of enzymes, which are formed as a response to the supply of photosynthetic products. With terramycin and chloramphenicol the limiting factors may also be lowered enzyme levels, caused by specific protein synthesis inhibition. It is suggested that a component of Light System II required a high light intensity stimulation, and its formation was inhibited by chloramphenicol. The synthesis of a substance linking Light Systems I and II appears to be closely associated with chlorophyll formation, and could well be plastoquinone. Structural damage to the intermediate chain between Light Systems I and II is also apparently induced by chloramphenicol.