The mechanism of the formation of organic acids by mould fungi. 6. The influence of cyanide on Aspergillus niger

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Abstract
Preformed mycelial felts of A. niger treated with cyanide at four concentrations between 0.006 and 0.040 M, utilized more sugar, synthesized more mycelial substance and formed a greater total of acids (citric, oxalic and gluconic) in a given period than did controls. The most effective concentration used was 0.020 M. In presence of 0.010 or 0.020 M cyanide the yields of all products were not only actually greater than with the controls but were also greater when expressed as percentages on the weight of sugar consumed. The breakdown of citric acid by A. niger is impeded by cyanide. Possible modes of action of the cyanide are discussed.