An investigation into some aspects of the metabolic control of nitrite reductase in Neurospora crassa.

Abstract

<p> Nitrate assimilation is the process by which nitrate is converted into ammonia, and ultimately into organic nitrogenous compounds, which are then made available to organisms which require an exogenous supply of organic nitrogen. Nitrite is an intermediate in this process and the mechanism of its conversion to ammonia, which is catalyzed by the enzyme nitrite reductase, needs clarification. </p> <p> The purpose of this investigation was to find a suitable assay system for nitrite reductase in N. crassa and to examine some aspects of the metabolic control of the enzyme. A new assay system for nitrite reductase is described and evidence suggesting that the enzyme is derepressible is presented. </p>