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Multiple intracellular signals coordinate structural dynamics in the sea urchin egg cortex at fertilization
1Department of Zoology, Arizona State University, Tempe 85287.
Journal of Electron Microscopy Technique
|March 1, 1991
Summary
Sea urchin egg fertilization triggers cortical changes like exocytosis and microvillar growth. These events are regulated by intracellular calcium and pH signals, visualized through quick-frozen eggs.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Fertilization initiates significant structural remodeling in the sea urchin egg cortex.
- This reorganization involves complex cellular processes including exocytosis, endocytosis, and dynamic changes in microvilli.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide ultrastructural insights into the cortical changes during sea urchin egg fertilization.
- To correlate these structural events with key intracellular signaling molecules: calcium and pH.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing quick-freezing techniques to capture transient cellular events.
- Employing electron microscopy for high-resolution ultrastructural analysis of the egg cortex.
Main Results:
- Detailed ultrastructural observations of exocytosis, endocytosis, and microvillar elongation during fertilization.
- Evidence supporting the roles of cytosolic free calcium and cytoplasmic pH in coordinating these cortical architectural changes.
Conclusions:
- The study elucidates the spatiotemporal relationship between intracellular signals and cortical remodeling in the sea urchin egg.
- Ultrastructural visualization confirms the critical involvement of calcium and pH in fertilization-induced egg architecture reorganization.