Kenneth Wright

Polysaccharides of root-cap slime from five maize varieties

Abstract Radioactive root-cap slime from five maize varieties consisted of a mixture of neutral, weakly-acidic and acidic polymers. The distribution of radioactivity between monosaccharides of these components showed that the slimes were essentially the same but that preparations, even those made at different times from the same variety, contained variable proportions of glucose. Results obtained with different maize varieties can therefore be considered together.

Preparation of rat epididymal α-l-fucosidase free from other glycosidases: its action on root-cap slime from Zea mays L

Abstract Affinity chromatography has been used in a rapid method of purification of rat epididymal α- l -fucosidase free of other glycosidases. The enzyme is suitable for analytical purposes and it has been used to investigate aspects of the structure of the fucose-containing slime synthesised by the outer root-cap cells of maize; less than 17% of the radioactive l -fucose incorporated into the slime from l -fucose-l-t was released by the enzyme

Synthesis of potential inhibitors of the enzyme pantothenate synthetase

Three phosphinate salts (5), (6) and (7) were prepared as potential inhibitors of the enzyme pantothenate synthetase. The synthesis of compound (5) utilises a (diethoxymethyl)-protected phosphinate (8) as a new reagent for the formation of unsymmetrical phosphinic acids and esters. Initial P-alkylation of (8) followed by a selective deprotection sequence yields intermediate P-H phosphinates (16) and (21) which can be P-alkylated a second time. Enzyme assays have been performed with the target compound and the results are discussed.

Synthesis of potential herbicides designed to uncouple photophosphorylation

Abstract In a search for novel herbicides we attempted to make uncouplers of photophosphorylation. Good herbicides were discovered, but not all were good uncouplers and we present evidence which supports the view that their primary action is through inhibition of carotenoid biosynthesis. This paper describes the synthesis and in vivo and in vitro activities of 21 compounds of the series. The best herbicide was active enough to justify extensive field testing.