Distribution of C-14-TNT and derivatives in different biochemical compartments of Phaseolus vulgaris

C-14-TNT was used to quantify the uptake rate and metabolic turnover of TNT in Phaseolus vulgaris. Seventeen plants were analysed by a special cell fr actionation method with polar and nonpolar solvents and enzymes. We obtaine d three cytoplasmic fractions and five cell wall derived fractions. The rec overy rate was 72% as measured by liquid scintillation counting. C-14 parti tioned almost in equal amounts with approximately 50% in the cytoplasm and in the cell wail. The majority of the TNT-metabolites are present in the cy toplasm as was shown by GC/ECD and thin layer chromatography. The C-14 in t he cell wall is bound probably resulting in long-term immobilisation of the se metabolites. We conclude that plants may also be a model for nitroaromat ic turnover and immobilisation in soil components.