Morphogenesis in Giant-Celled Algae

摘要: The giant-celled algae, which consist of cells reaching millimeters in size, some even centimeters, exhibit unique cell architecture and physiological characteristics. Their display a variety morphogenetic phenomena, that is, growth, division, differentiation, reproductive formation, as well wound-healing responses. Studies using immunofluorescence microscopy pharmacological approaches have shown microtubules and/or actin filaments are involved many these events through the generation intracellular movement components or entire protoplasmic contents spatial control activities specific areas giant cells. A number environmental factors including physical stimuli, such light gravity, invoke localized but also generalized cellular reactions. These been extensively investigated to understand regulation morphogenesis, particular addressing cytoskeletal endomembrane dynamics, electrophysiological elements affecting ion fluxes, synthesis mechanical properties wall. Some regulatory pathways involve signal transduction hormonal control, other organisms. unicellular green alga Acetabularia, has proven its usefulness an experimental model early amputation/grafting experiments, will potentially once again serve useful organism for studying role gene expression orchestrating morphogenesis.