Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 20, 2026

A New Approach for the Comparative Analysis of Multiprotein Complexes Based on 15N Metabolic Labeling and Quantitative Mass Spectrometry
Published on: March 13, 2014
Ultrastructural changes in Chlamydomonas acidophila (Chlorophyta) induced by heavy metals and polyphosphate
Kahoko Nishikawa1, Yoko Yamakoshi, Isao Uemura
1Institute of Environmental Science for Human Life, Ochanomizu University, 2-1-1 Otsuka, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo 112-8610, Japan. kaho@jk9.so-net.ne.jp
Abstract:
Ultrastructural changes induced by heavy metals (cadmium, zinc, and copper) and polyphosphate metabolism were studied in Chlamydomonas acidophila. Transmission electron microscopy indicated that cadmium led to the most drastic morphometric changes. An increase in number and volume of starch grains and vacuoles as well as the presence of electron dense deposits in vacuole and membrane whorls were observed. Energy-dispersive X-ray analysis revealed that vacuolar deposits inside cells treated with cadmium contained phosphate and cadmium. These ultrastructural changes were accompanied by a change in the intracellular polyphosphate level, as shown by in vivo (31)P-nuclear magnetic resonance. It was also observed that cadmium treatment caused polyphosphate degradation and increased vacuolar short-chains and orthophosphates.
Related Concept Videos
Metabolism of Chemolithotrophs
Channel Rhodopsins
Rhodopsins belong to the family of cell surface proteins called G-protein coupled receptors,...
Diversity of Protists I
The Anatomy of Chloroplasts
Structure of Chloroplasts
A...
Red Algae
Stringent Response in E. coli

