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FIBRILLAR DIFFERENTIATION IN MYXOMYCETE PLASMODIA

M A MCMANUS

    The Journal of Cell Biology
    |May 1, 1965
    PubMed

    Insights

    Electron microscopy revealed distinct fibrillar structures within myxomycete plasmodia. These findings support theories on protoplasmic movement involving molecular cross-bonding.

    Area of Science:

    • Cell Biology
    • Mycology
    • Biophysics

    Background:

    • Myxomycete plasmodia exhibit complex cellular organization.
    • Understanding the ultrastructure of these organisms is key to elucidating protoplasmic movement.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the presence and nature of fibrillar differentiations in various myxomycete plasmodia using electron microscopy.
    • To explore the potential implications of these fibrils for theories of protoplasmic movement.

    Main Methods:

    • Thin section electron microscopy was employed to examine plasmodia from four different myxomycete types.
    • In situ fixation techniques were utilized for protoplasmodia and phaneroplasmodia.

    Main Results:

    • Three distinct types of fibrillar differentiations were observed in Clastoderma debaryanum and Fuligo septica.
    • These fibrils resemble microtubules found in other species' mitotic apparatus.
    • Fewer and less defined fibrils were noted in larger plasmodia, with none observed in Stemonitis fusca.

    Conclusions:

    • The presence of in situ fixed fibrils supports theories of protoplasmic movement reliant on molecular cross-bonding.
    • Further research may require advanced fixation methods for improved fibril stabilization in larger plasmodia.
    Keywords:
    CELL DIFFERENTIATIONCYTOPLASMEXPERIMENTAL LAB STUDYMICROSCOPY, ELECTRONMYXOMYCETES

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