[Lipid peroxidation in microalgae cells under simulated microgravity].

ABSTRACT

Objective. To provide direct evidences for effects of microgravity on structure and function of plasma membrane. Method. Malondialdehyde (MDA) content was examined on the basis of quantitative reaction of both MDA and thiobarbituric acid (TBA), and electrolyte leaking was determined with conductometer model DDS-11A. Result. Experiments showed that under simulated microgravity, lipid peroxidation and the content of MDA increased. Meanwhile, the membrane permeability increased in cells of two microalgae Anabaena sp PCC7120 and Synechococcus 7942. Conclusion. Our results suggest that there is some commonness between microgravity stress and certain other environmental stresses. And cellular membrane might be the site of perception of gravity in unicells without special gravity sensitive structure, such as alga cells.