Localization and development of β-N-acetylhexosaminidase and N, N′-diacetylchitobiase during germination of Phaseolus vulgaris L

Abstract

In germinating Phaseolus vulgaris seeds, β-N-acetylhexosaminidase was found in all parts such as cotyledon, hypocotyl, plumule, and radicle, but N, N′-diacetylchitobiase (chitobiase) was present predominantly in cotyledons. β-N-Acetylhexosaminidase activity and protein content decreased gradually during the germination process ; however, chitobiase activity in cotyledons was found to be increased. Germination in the present of some antibiotics inhibiting protein synthesis depressed the formation of chitobiase in the cotyledons, but these antibiotics did not significantly affect the formation of β-N-acetylhexosaminidase.