The incorporation of carbon-14 labeled fatty acids into cellular components of Bacillus thuringiensis and Escherichia coli

Bacillus thuringiensis and .:scherichia coli were grown in submerged cultures in the presence of 1-014 labeled decanoic, palmitic and oleic acids and 2-C14 labeled malonic acid. The bacteria were harvested by centrifugation and fractionated by published methods. Cellular constituents were separated and identified by chromatographic techniques. Radioactivity was determined by liquid scintillation spectrometry and through the use of a radiochromatogram scanner.The bacteria incorporated all the fatty acids added to the medium but showed a preference for the longer chained compounds. The organisms incorporated 1-014 palmitic acid into mostly phospholipids and also into free fatty acids and neutral lipids. At least 90% of the incorporated palmitate remained as palmitic acid. Elongation to stearic acid was demonstrated by B. thuringiensis. The label from 1-014 palmitic acid was retained over several generations by both test organisms.Ball State UniversityMuncie, IN 47306Thesis (M.S.)--Ball State University, 1970