Secretion of beta-glucosidase by Ochromonas danica

beta-Glucosidase released by the phytoflagellate Ochromonas danica was the result of secretion; this was adduced from the following: (1) The enzyme was released during growth, including early log phase. (2) The amount released was calculated to be much more than could be attributed to cell lysis. (3) beta-Glucosidase was released by cells during short term incubation in a dilute salt solution; this release was nearly linear for at least 24 h. (4) Release occurred while cell counts remained nearly constant and cells remained viable. (5) Control experiments excluded cell damage resulting from incubation and cell manipulation as a source of the exoenzyme. (6) No alkaline phosphatase was released and 5 times less phosphoglucose isomerase than glucosidase was released while the cells contained 7 times more phosphoglucose isomerase. (7) The kinetics of release of nonspecific protein and UV absorbing material was markedly different from glucosidase release. (8) Glucosidase release was temperature and energy dependent; anerobiosis decreased enzyme release. (9) Release was inhibited by cycloheximide. (10) Cells incubated with 3H-leucine synthesized labeled protein which was secreted linearly for at least 24 h. Cycloheximide inhibited incorporation of 3H-leucine into protein and the secretion of the labeled protein.