Macrocyst genetics in Polysphondylium pallidum, a cellular slime mould
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Journal of General Microbiology
|August 1, 1975
Abstract:
The discovery of two mating types in the cellular slime mould Polysphondylium pallidum is reported. Two developmental mutants produced in strains of opposite mating type but which do not proceed past the aggregation stage of development are capable of producing macrocysts. These macrosysts were viable and 5 to 10% germinated after 6 weeks of storage. When the macrocyst progeny were cloned, several classes of non-parental phenotypes were recovered.
Insights
Two mating types were discovered in the cellular slime mould Polysphondylium pallidum. Developmental mutants produced viable macrocysts, yielding non-parental phenotypes upon germination.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Mycology
Background:
- Cellular slime moulds, like Polysphondylium pallidum, exhibit complex developmental cycles.
- Understanding mating types is crucial for studying genetic recombination and development in these organisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the discovery of two mating types in Polysphondylium pallidum.
- To investigate the potential for macrocyst formation in developmental mutants.
Main Methods:
- Induction of developmental mutants in strains of opposite mating types.
- Culturing and storage of macrocysts.
- Germination assays and phenotyping of macrocyst progeny.
Main Results:
- Two distinct mating types were identified in Polysphondylium pallidum.
- Developmental mutants, unable to proceed past aggregation, formed viable macrocysts.
- Macrocysts showed 5-10% germination after 6 weeks.
- Cloning of macrocyst progeny revealed several non-parental phenotypes.
Conclusions:
- The existence of two mating types in Polysphondylium pallidum is confirmed.
- Macrocyst formation is achievable in specific developmental mutants.
- The recovery of non-parental phenotypes suggests genetic recombination during macrocyst development.