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Published on: March 29, 2012
Genetics of Somatic Fusion in PHYSARUM POLYCEPHALUM: the Ppii Strain
1Department of Botany, University of California, Berkeley 94720.
Genetics
|May 1, 1972
Abstract:
Plasmodial (somatic) fusion in a strain of Physarum polycephalum, a true slime mold, is controlled by four loci, each of which displays simple dominance. Two diploid plasmodia fuse with each other only if they are phenotypically or genotypically identical for all four fusion loci.
Insights
Somatic cell fusion in Physarum polycephalum slime molds is governed by four genetic loci. Fusion occurs only when two diploid plasmodia are genetically identical at all four loci.
Area of Science:
- Cell biology
- Genetics
- Mycology
Background:
- Physarum polycephalum is a widely studied true slime mold.
- Cell fusion is a fundamental biological process.
- Genetic control of cell fusion varies across species.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the genetic basis of plasmodial fusion in Physarum polycephalum.
- To identify the genetic loci controlling somatic cell fusion.
Main Methods:
- Controlled mating experiments with different strains of Physarum polycephalum.
- Phenotypic and genotypic analysis of fused and unfused plasmodia.
Main Results:
- Plasmodial fusion in Physarum polycephalum is controlled by four distinct genetic loci.
- Each locus exhibits simple dominance.
- Fusion is strictly dependent on genotypic identity across all four loci.
Conclusions:
- The genetic control of plasmodial fusion in Physarum polycephalum is highly specific.
- This genetic system ensures fusion only occurs between genetically compatible individuals.
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