The Formation of Free Lipid Radicals During the Electromanipulation of Protoplasts (Vicia faba)

Membrane lipid degradation of plant protoplasts of Vicia faba was characterized by the determination of ethane formation after electrofusion and electropermeabilization. Incubation of protoplasts with ascorbate or α-tocopherol before electromanipulation led to a decrease in ethane production. Fusion product yield could be increased by incubation with α-tocopherol. Using a simple model system, we investigated the active species involved in lipid peroxidation under conditions typically used for electromanipulation. The formation of lipid free radicals by electric pulses could be demonstrated.