Analysis of heterotrophy in Cyanidioschyzon merolae

Abstract

Cyacidioschyzon merolae grows photoautotrophyaclly but not heterotrophycally. Previous studies indicate possibility of utilizing organic compounds. For example, glycerol is known to promote cell growth. We measured effects of addition of organic compounds on the respiration. The respiration rate increased by 30% after adding 0.5% (60 mM) glycerol and 8% after adding 10 mM glucose. Upon addition of 0.5 mM acetic acid, the respiration rates increased temporarily by 50% and then decreased. We will analyze uptake an metabolism of these organic compounds.