ON INTERACTION BETWEEN LIGHT EMITTING SYSTEM AND METABOLISM IN LUMINOUS BACTERIA

Reaction kinetics of the light-emitting system of luminous bacteria (Achromobacter fischeri) in vivo show different behaviour from that observed in in vitro systems because of the participation of the system in the metabolism of the bacterial cell. Changes in the process of light production through physical or chemical influence (external or internal) should be investigated in connection with the total metabolic scheme. Anoxia at different ages of the bacterial population and reaeration after a period of time causes more or less damped oscillating adjustment of the disturbed equilibrium. Irradiation with UV-light has affected this system directly, and indirectly through the nutritious environment, but only in the presence of oxygen. The results are discussed with the conception that the luminous system is a bypass in metabolism. © 1969 Springer-Verlag.