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Updated: Aug 8, 2026
06:17
Medium Preparation for the Cultivation of Microorganisms under Strictly Anaerobic/Anoxic Conditions
Published on: August 15, 2019
Anaerobic metabolism in plants
R A Kennedy1, M E Rumpho, T C Fox
1Department of Botany and the Maryland Agricultural Experiment Station, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland 20742.
Plant Physiology
|September 1, 1992
Summary
Plants can survive oxygen deficits through more than just basic fermentation. Research reveals complex anaerobic metabolism pathways in higher plants, crucial for understanding their survival strategies.
Area of Science:
- Plant physiology
- Biochemistry
- Molecular biology
Background:
- Oxygen deficits (hypoxia/anoxia) are common in biological systems.
- Anaerobic metabolism was previously thought to be limited to simple fermentation.
- Recent research shows diverse anaerobic responses in various organisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent progress in understanding anaerobic metabolism in higher plants.
- To elucidate mechanisms of tolerance versus intolerance to anaerobic conditions.
- To highlight advancements beyond simple glycolytic metabolism.
Main Methods:
- Focus on experimental systems using seeds and seedlings.
- Integration of data from physiology, biochemistry, and molecular biology.
- Analysis of mechanisms determining anaerobic tolerance.
Main Results:
- Anaerobic metabolism in higher plants is more complex than previously understood.
- Species-specific variations in anaerobic responses are significant.
- Mechanisms for tolerance and intolerance are being elucidated.
Conclusions:
- Higher plants exhibit sophisticated anaerobic metabolic strategies.
- Understanding these mechanisms is key to plant survival in oxygen-deprived environments.
- Further research on seeds and seedlings provides critical insights.
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