Biochemical characterization of mutants in cyclic nucleotide metabolism showing rhythmic conidiation in Neurospora.

Mutants, cpd-1, cpd-2, and bd, which have reduced concentrations of orthophosphate-repressible cyclic phosphodiesterase (cPDase), show reduced concentrations of cyclic 3',5'-AMP and exhibit rhythmic oscillations of cyclic 3',5'-AMP with about 24-hr period length. These mutants have either reduced concentrations of adenylate cyclase or enhanced concentrations of Mg-stimulated cyclic phosphodiesterase. These mutations changed the ability to activate heat-activated cyclic phosphodiesterase. White light reduced the concentration of cyclic 3',5'-GMP in mycelia.