[Dormant cells in the developmental cycle of Blakeslea trispora: distinct patterns of the lipid and carbohydrate composition].

We revealed differences in the lipid and carbohydrate composition between cells of mucorous fungi during endogenous and exogenous dormancy. Endogenous dormancy (zygospores) is characterized by high contents of phosphatidylcholine (about 70% of total phospholipids) and triacylglycerol (over 90% of total neutral lipids). By contrast, exogenous dormancy (sporangiospores) is accompanied by elevated amounts of sterols, sterol esters, and free fatty acids, which account for over 70% of total neutral lipids. We established for the first time significant differences in the phospholipid composition between sporangiospores obtained from stylosporangia and sporangioles. Based on the data obtained, we regard the retardation of life-sustaining activities as a biochemical adaptation based on the dormancy state. We also discuss the taxonomical position of B. trispora.