Changes in cyclic nucleotide levels correlated with growth, division, and morphology in [formula omitted] chemostat culture

Abstract

To explore the possibility that cyclic nucleotides control green algal growth and division, Chlamydomonas chemostat cultures were assayed for cyclic nucleotides. Substantial qualities of cAMP were found in cells and in extracellular millieu. Most cGMP molecules were extracellular. Slowing cell growth by slowing chemostat dilution caused reversible changes in cellular morphology and cyclic nucleotide levels. During slowed growth cAMP level increased dramatically; cGMP level decreased. New cells resulting from division were not released from original cell wall.