Comparative structural characterization of material extractable from aerial sheath of Streptomyces roseoflavus var. roseofungini.

Abstract

1. Tubular-like structures were regularly revealed in the surface sheath of the aerial mycelium of the parent strain of Streptomycetes roseoflavus var. roseofungini. In their shape and dimensions these structures were highly reminiscent of those massive accumulation of which was earlier reported to occur in cultures of dedifferentiated nocardioform “fructose” mutant of the same parent strain. 2. The tubular-like structures of the aerial mycelium sheath were shown to be markedly susceptible to brief acetone washing, undergoing almost complete desintegration. 3. On addition of water to crude acetone extract of the aerial mycelium precipitation and possible selfassembly of a spectrum of various structures occurred (folded scaly, bubble-like, spout-like). Some among structures so produced were reminiscent of those found in spectra of structures observed in reconstruction experiments with tubules from the mutant as well as of structures found in the aerial sheath of the parent strain and some other actinomycetes. Similarity in subunit structure of above materials was also noticeable.