Changes in protease and α-amylase activity in germinating seeds of groundnut

A study was undertaken on the changes in protease and α-amylase activity under normal and cycloheximide inhibited conditions during germination of groundnut seeds. The activity of enzymes as well as protein, sugar and amino acid content showed two peaks during seven day period of germination. Soaking the seeds in cycloheximide caused an inhibition of germination but failed to show inhibition of initial peak in enzyme activity and initial growth of embryo. However, cycloheximide inhibited the second peak as well as the later growth of the embryo. It appears that the initial increase in enzyme activity is independent of protein synthesis. However to continue further growth in the later phase of germination synthesis of new enzymes is required which is inhibited by cycloheximide.