Figure 4. Effect of removal of compatible osmolytes on cell growth and survival under hypertonic conditions.

Cells were seeded and cultured for 24 h in isotonic (0.3 osmol (kg H₂O)⁻¹) medium and then transferred to depleted hypertonic (0.5 osmol (kg H₂O)⁻¹) medium with or without added betaine and myo-inositol, each at 0.1 mmol l⁻¹. Culture in both media was continued for the indicated times and cell growth was estimated by measurement of cell protein. Mean values (±s.d.) of three independent measurements are given. ○, depleted of compatible osmolytes; •, with betaine and myo-inositol.