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THE EFFECT OF SUDDEN CHANGES OF TEMPERATURE ON PROTOPLASMIC STREAMING.
1Division of Physiology, University of California, Berkeley.
The Journal of General Physiology
|October 30, 2009
Summary
Sudden temperature drops halt protoplasmic streaming in Nitella. Recovery time depends on temperature, suggesting a physical cause for the inhibition.
Area of Science:
- Plant physiology
- Cell biology
Background:
- Protoplasmic streaming is vital for intracellular transport in plant cells.
- Environmental factors like temperature can significantly impact cellular processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of rapid temperature decrease on protoplasmic streaming in Nitella.
- To determine the relationship between temperature and recovery time of protoplasmic streaming.
Main Methods:
- Controlled laboratory experiments involving Nitella.
- Sudden temperature reductions of 15-20 degrees Celsius were applied.
- Observation and measurement of protoplasmic streaming rate and recovery time.
Main Results:
- A temperature drop of 15-20 degrees Celsius completely stopped protoplasmic streaming.
- The rate of recovery was temperature-dependent, following a specific pattern.
- Evidence suggests the cessation of streaming is a physical phenomenon.
Conclusions:
- Rapid temperature decrease is a potent inhibitor of protoplasmic streaming in Nitella.
- The physical nature of this inhibition warrants further investigation into cellular mechanics.
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