Role of poly-β-hydroxybutyrate in survival of Sphaerotilus discophorus during starvation

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Abstract
Cells of Sphaerotilus discophorus which contained large intracellular stores of poly-[beta]-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) survived longer on starvation in phosphate buffer suspensions than did cells with little or no PHB. Exponential phase cells were more resistant to death than stationary phase cells. Increased O2 supply or addition of Mg++, both of which stimulated oxidation of PHB, led to more rapid death of the cells. The data indicate that PHB provided energy and C for cell maintenance during starvation.