Effect of the fluorescent brightener Rylux BSU on the cell wall chitin content in Basidiobolus ranarum

In Basidiobolus ranarum an artificial cell dimorphism was found if cultivated in presence of Rylux BSU previously. We have found an increase of glucosamine content in purified cell walls of Basidiobolus ranarum grown in presence of Rylux BSU in SGA. The relative increase in glucosamine content did correspond with the increase of Rylux BSU present in SGA. The results are discussed with the conclusion that not only the chitin synthesis but also the mechanisms of polarized growth are influenced if Basidiobolus ranarum is cultivated in presence of Rylux BSU.