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Abstract
Summary: The yeast/mould (Y/M) dimorphism of three strains of the genus Mycotypha (Zygomycetes, Mucorales) was investigated. The Y-form is most readily induced in M. africana (cbs122.64), whereas M. microspora (cbs230.32) has a strong tendency to grow as M-form. The Y-form is promoted by anaerobiosis, increased PCO2, increased temperatures, pH values between 5·8 and 6·5, and 10 % (w/v) glucose in the culture medium, as well as by the addition of certain inhibitors of the respiratory chain or mitochondrial protein synthesis. In contrast, M-form is stimulated by aerobic conditions, by temperatures below approximately 20 °C and at pH values below 4·5 and above 7·4. Ultraviolet-induced mutants with a defective respiratory system invariably grow as pure Y-form. Suppression of aerobic metabolism leads to a simultaneous suppression of mycelial growth. This correlation was confirmed by studies of fine structure with the electron microscope.
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