Uptake of Vapour Phase [14C]Dodecane by Whole Mycelia of Cladosporium resinae

SUMMARY: The kinetics of uptake of n-alkanes by a filamentous fungus, Cladosporium resinae, were shown to be similar to hydrocarbon uptake kinetics described for yeasts. Transport of n-alkanes across the cell membrane was accompanied by the partitioning of substantial amounts of hydrocarbon on to the cell surface. Metabolic inhibitors significantly reduced uptake rates. Most [14C]dodecane was taken up by dodecane-grown mycelia; slower uptake was observed with mycelia grown on other n-alkanes or glucose. Uptake of dodecane was not restricted to specific regions of the mycelium, although higher concentrations of 14C-labelled compounds were observed at the hyphal tips.