XVI International Botanical Congess

New rubber biosynthesis (RB) was found to occur in bottom fraction containing Lutoid Particle (LP) & derived Lutoid Membrane (LM) of centrifuged latex. In vitro RB by inc.of 14C-IPP into newly formed rubber is verified as enzymatic process. Both intact LP and isolated LM were RB active & inhibited by IAA & EDTA. Ionic detergent (SDS) stimulated RB strongly while non-ionics (Triton X-100, Tween 20) show no effect. SDS activation at above critical micelle conc. indicated key role of membrane & micelle in RB. High temp also activated RB. Heat pretreated LM had large increased RB & was much more with SDS present. This RB study showed key role of LM in RB initiation.