Induction of Salt Sensitivity in Ophiostoma and Its Reversal by Imidazole Derivatives

Cells of the ascomycete Ophiostoma multiannulatum became sensitive to inorganic salts after a heat shock or a treatment with 2,4-dinitrophenol. The induced sensitivity to chloride and bromide ions could be largely reversed by histidine and certain other imidazole derivatives. No other organic compounds tested except imidazoles possessed this ability. The sensitization is interpreted as a consequence of an injury to cellular membranes, in particular those of the mitochondria, and to an impaired oxidative phosphorylation.