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Updated: May 19, 2026
Measurement of Vacuolar and Cytosolic pH In Vivo in Yeast Cell Suspensions
Published on: April 19, 2013
Identification of vacuole defects in fungi
Andrea Richards1, Neil A R Gow, Veronica Veses
1The Aberdeen Fungal Group, School of Medical Sciences, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, United Kingdom.
Abstract:
Fungal vacuoles are involved in a diverse range of cellular functions, participating in cellular homeostasis, degradation of intracellular components, and storage of ions and molecules. In recent years there has been a significant increase in the number of studies linking these organelles with the regulation of growth and control of cellular morphology, particularly in those fungal species able to undergo yeast-hypha morphogenetic transitions. This has contributed to the refinement of previously published protocols and the development of new techniques, particularly in the area of live-cell imaging of membrane trafficking events and vacuolar dynamics. The current review outlines recent advances in the imaging of fungal vacuoles and assays for characterization of trafficking pathways, and other physiological activities of this important cell organelle.
Insights
Fungal vacuoles are crucial for cell functions like homeostasis and growth regulation. Recent imaging techniques enhance our understanding of vacuolar dynamics and trafficking in fungi, especially during shape changes.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Mycology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Fungal vacuoles perform vital cellular roles including homeostasis, degradation, and storage.
- These organelles are increasingly linked to growth regulation and morphological control in fungi, particularly during yeast-to-hypha transitions.
- Research has spurred advancements in imaging and techniques for studying vacuolar dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent progress in the imaging of fungal vacuoles.
- To outline new assays for characterizing vacuolar trafficking pathways and physiological activities.
- To highlight the importance of fungal vacuoles in cellular processes.
Main Methods:
- Live-cell imaging techniques for membrane trafficking.
- Development of novel assays for vacuolar function analysis.
- Review of current literature on fungal vacuole research.
Main Results:
- Significant advances have been made in visualizing vacuolar dynamics in live fungal cells.
- New methods allow for detailed characterization of trafficking pathways.
- Understanding of vacuole's role in fungal morphology and growth is refined.
Conclusions:
- Fungal vacuoles are dynamic organelles critical for cellular functions and morphogenesis.
- Advanced imaging and assay techniques are key to studying vacuolar activities.
- Continued research will further elucidate the complex roles of fungal vacuoles.
