Actinomycin-D inhibition of phytochrome-mediated responses.

Actinomycin-D inhibits phytochrome-mediated responses of etiolated plants. In the unrolling response of a barley first leaf the inhibition by act. D is greater when the antibiotic is applied 80 minutes after irradiation; earlier or later applications are less inhibitory. Inhibition is relieved by deoxyguanosine applied before or after act. D. Similar effects are found with the plumular hooks of peas and beans. These results suggest that phytochrome-mediated responses involve RNA production on a DNA template. The location of phytochrome in the cell is discussed in relation to its possible association with DNA, especially that of the plastids and mitochondria. Phytochrome may thus act as a repressor of gene sequences involved (for instance) in the removal of etiolation symptoms, red light (660 nm) causing its dissociation from DNA. Far-red radiation may reverse the effects by causing re-association of phytochrome.