The primary objective of this U.S.-Hungary cooperative research project between Dr. Bob B. Buchanan of the University of California, Berkeley, and Dr. Arpad Balogh of Gyorgy Bessenyei College, Nyiregyhaza, is to study cytosolic carbohydrate metabolism in uncellular algae. Specifically, the researchers will examine sucrose synthesis and breakdown in green alga, Chlorella pyrenoidosa, with the intent of characterizing three enzymes that function as catalysts in this interconversion process. Characterization of the enzymes envolves determination of their physical properties, including molecular weight and kinetic constants. Knowledge of metabolic mechanisms yielded by this study of algae will also contribute to our understanding of enzyme regulation in higher plants. This project in metabolic biology fulfills the program objective of advancing scientific knowledge by enabling experts in the United States and Eastern Europe to combine complementary talents and share research resources in areas of strong mutual interest and competence.
