Site of Origin and Extent of Activity of Amylases in Maize Germination

Abstract

The extent of the activities of alpha and beta amylase in the endosperm of germinating maize was followed through the germination period. Also the amount of each enzyme secreted by the scutellum and arising in situ in the endosperm during germination was followed. The results revealed Alpha amylase originates exclusively in the scutellum, is secreted during germination, and accounts for 9/10 of the amylolytic activity found in the endosperm at the peak of amylolytic activity 10 days after germination has begun. Beta amylase is the only amylase in the endosperm of the resting seed, is formed exclusively in situ in the endosperm during germination, and accounts for only 1/10 the total amylolytic activity in the endosperm at the peak of amylolytic activity during germination. The methods used in capturing the amylase secreted from the scutellum, in determining the amylase arising in situ in the endosperm, and in separately assaying for the 2 enzymes are given. The results are discussed in the light of what is known concerning the amylases in cereal germination.