Near-UV Effects on the Induction of Prophage

Effects of near-uv (320 to 400 nm) on the induction of prophage were studied for Escherichia coli K12 lambda , strains 15 and B. Gamma rays, 254-nm uv, and hydrostatic pressure were used as inducing agents. Prophage induction was assayed by observation of plaqueforming units in K12 lambda and detection of leakage, as evidenced by release of BETA -galactosidase from the cells. The results indicate that near-uv effects on lysogenic cells depend on the nature of the inducer. Some evidence that the action of near-uv can be related to modification of the envelope of the cell is presented. (auth)