Estimation of Nicotinamide Nucleotide Coenzymes in Etiolated Maize Seedlings

Abstract
The amounts of nicotinamide nucleotide coenzymes in etiolated maize seedlings were estimated by conventional spectrophotometry at 340 m[mu]. The amounts varied with the age of the seedlings and maximal values were reached 2-3 days after the start of germination. The maximal amounts in [mu]g per fresh weight were found to be: NADPH = 1,030, NAD = 80, NADP = 38. NADH was too low to be detected. The total amounts of these coenzymes, and the ratio NADPH/NADP, are the same order of magnitude as has been frequently reported for animal tissues. The ratio NAD/NADH could not be determined directly but is greater than unity and is in agreement with data from animal tissues.