Effect of different nitrogen nutrients on the viability, protein synthesis and tannin production of Scots pine callus

Abstract

The effect of two different media on the growth, metabolism and viability of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) callus cultures was studied. Inorganic nitrogen in the culture media (modified MS) was in the form of either KNO3 or NH4NO3. The cultures were started from buds of mature Scots pine. Growth was poor on the medium with KNO3, but this compound had a noticeable effect on the metabolism of the callus, which was reflected in alterations in protein and polyphenol synthesis and the pH of the culture medium. Although the fresh mass, water content and viability of the callus decreased when KNO3 was the exclusive inorganic nitrogen nutrient, protein synthesis was more abundant. Electrophoretic analyses indicated alterations in the patterns of soluble proteins and purified glycoproteins. Phenylalanine ammonia‐lyase (EC 4.3.1.5) activities were high in all the calluses, and concentrations of condensed tannins and their precursors, catechins, were higher than in intact buds. The role of inorganic nitrogen nutrition in the deterioration of tissues is discussed on the basis of the effect of ammonium on the metabolism of pine callus.