Some Aspects of Growth and Metabolism of Paul's Scarlet Rose Cell Suspensions

Abstract

The growth pattern of suspension cultures of Paul’s Scarlet rose cells has been examined. No distinct phases of cell division and cell expanison could be recognized. The 2-day lag phase observed after inoculation of stationary-phase cells into fresh medium was followed by a rapid entry into exponential growth during which a mean cell-generation time of 36 h was recorded. Metabolic development assessed in terms of respiratory activity and RNA, DNA, and protein accumulation has been related to the phases of the growth cycle. A high metabolic activity develops immediately after inoculation reaching a peak by early-exponential phase. This activity sustains exponential growth until factors in the medium become limiting. The pattern of DNA accumulation is closely correlated with increase in cell number and fresh weight whereas changes in RNA levels are accompanied by similar changes in protein levels and respiratory activity. The accumulation of phenolics follows a pattern unlike those of the other parameters examined.