ABSTRACT
Glucose catabolism through the PPP was evaluated in corn seed germination by in vitro measurements of G6PDH activity in axis and scutellum, and 14CO2 evolution from these tissues when incubated either with 14C-1 or 14C-6 glucose. The results indicate there is a significant increase in G6PDH and 14CO2 from 14C-1 glucose in the first 6 hs of seed imbibition. An G6PDH inhibitor was detected in axis of quiescent seeds. Partial purification and characterization of this inhibitor indicates that it is a protein of approximately 13,000 daltons M.W.
The above biochemical parameters were used in a field experiment designed to investigate on the nature of corn pre-harvest sprouting. The results show that the activity of both enzyme and inhibitor are altered on these varieties.
