Induction of Deoxyribonucleic Acid Synthesis in Potato Tuber Slices

Abstract

Timing of protein synthesis which is a prerequisite to DNA synthesis induced in potato tuber tissue (Solanum tuberosum L.) by cut injury has been studied using cycloheximide. The induction of DNA synthesis which was measured by incorporation of 3H-thymidine was completely inhibited when the inhibitor was applied to the tuber discs immediately after slicing. When the application of cycloheximide was delayed for 6 hours or more after slcing, DNA synthesis was observed but its rate was reduced to 20% of control. The inhibitory effect of cycloheximide, however, rapidly decreased when the inhibitor was applied at 6 or less hours immediately prior to determination of DNA synthesis. (1,10). RNA and protein syntheses were reported to be involved in the development of wound respiration in potato tuber slices and the necessary protein was synthesized in a very