Abstract
In microorganisms, the rate of biosynthesis of antibiotics is regulated by the inorganic phosphate ion (Pi) concentration in the medium. The mechanism of the inhibitory effect of phosphate has not yet been elucidated, but an addition of external phosphate to a level exceeding that optimal for antibiotic production elevates adenylate concentrations within the cells. An elevated ATP, ADP, and AMP levels in the actinomycete chlortetracycline producer, Streptomyces aureofaciens (S. aureofaciens) were reported by Curdová et al. This elevation was associated with a decrease in antibiotic production when the Pi content was raised to 1.4 μmole/ml. In a study described in the chapter, the presence of phosphate in the exocellular glycocalyx of S. aureofaciens was demonstrated using electron-cytochemical staining and energy dispersion analysis of X-rays.
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