Influence of Chilling on Electrolyte Permeability, Oxygen Uptake and 2,4-Binitrophenol Stimulated Oxygen Uptake in Leaf Discs of the Thermophilic Cucumis sativus

The effect of chilling was studied in leaf discs from the chilling-sensitive Cucumis sativus L. by measurement of the electrolyte leakage from the discs, by oxygen uptake and by uncoupling of respiration with 2,4 dinitrophenol. Short periods of chilling are characterized by minor significant increases of electrolyte permeability, of respiration and of preserved ability to be uncoupled by 2,4-dinilrophenol. A longer period of chilling resulted in a strongly increased electrolyte permeability, in reduced oxygen uptake and in disappearance of uncoupling by 2,4 dinitrophenol. In general the induced changes in permeability and respiration were reversible within 4 days of chilling, if the discs were placed at 25°C after chilling.