Abstract
The effect of β-mercaptoethylamine (MEA) on the oxygen-freezing-effect observed in E. coli strains was studied. In E. coli B s − 1, a repair deficient strain, MEA reversed the increased radiation sensitivity characteristic of the oxygen-freezing-effect. MEA also affected the number and type of free radicals in frozen bacteria, including the generation of a typical “organosulfur” radical under certain conditions. MEA caused similar free radical effects in E. coli B/r which does not show an oxygen-freezing-effect. These results support the hypothesis that the oxygen-freezing effect is mediated by free radical reactions and that E. coli B/r can repair such damage. It is suggested that the enhancement of freezing damage by oxygen could play an important role in some types of cryotoxicity and that MEA or other free radical reactants would be effective cryoprotective agents under such circumstances.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
