The Presence of Ornithine Cycle Amino Acids in Some Higher Plants.

Abstract

The concentrations of ornithine, citrulline, and arginine in wheat, barley, and watermelon seedlings are compared with those of other amino acids, utilizing chromatographic methods for separation and identification. Although ornithine and citrulline were found in both wheat and barley their level in these plants was only about 1-2% that of arginine, whereas in watermelon seedlings appreciable quantities were found. Asparagine was not found in watermelon seedlings. Relationship of these amino acids to each other and to metabolism of the plant is discussed.