Photosynthesis by Intact Isolated Chloroplasts on Solid Support

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Abstract
A new approch to measurements of photosynthesis by isolated chloroplasts has been devised. Intact isolated [spinach] chloroplasts were trapped in the cavities of membrane filters. The thin layers of chloroplasts so obtained were assayed for O2 evolution and CO2 assimilation in leaf chambers. Photosynthetic gas exchange could be demonstrated to take place either in a closed or a flow-through system. The chloroplasts were morphologically intact as shown by light or scanning electron microscopy and displayed stable rates of photosynthesis in the presence of phosphate and alkaline phosphatase. The methods described open the way to in vitro measurement of photosynthesis, by chloroplasts under conditions more closely resembling those in leaves.