Nucleic acid and protein content of Bact . lactis aerogenes . II. Variation during conditions of nutrient deficiency

Abstract

The variations in the size and in the RNA, DNA and protein content of cells of Bacterium lactis aero-genes (Aerobacter aerogenes) during the growth cycle under conditions of deficiency of (a) carbon, (b) nitrogen, (c) phosphorus, (d) sulphur, (e) potassium, (f) magnesium and (g) all constituents of the medium except phosphorus have been investigated by techniques in which the substance in short supply was added in one portion at the beginning of the growth cycle or was added gradually thoughout the cycle. The pattern of behavior on return immediately to the standard salts-glucose medium has also been examined. Results are discussed in terms of the degree of disorganization which takes place under conditions of deficiency.