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Purification, characterization, and partial structure of D factor from Polysphondylium violaceum
M H Hanna1, M Fatone, C Newth-Clark
1Biology Department, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, Troy, NY 12180-3590.
Developmental Genetics
|January 1, 1988
Summary
The D factor A component (DfA), a novel C11 compound, is essential for initiating cellular aggregation in Polyspondylium violaceum. This purified DfA molecule, with unique spectral properties, plays a crucial role in slime mold development.
Area of Science:
- Cellular and Molecular Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- The D factor (Df) is a signaling molecule involved in the development of cellular slime molds.
- Understanding the specific components and functions of D factor is crucial for elucidating developmental pathways.
Purpose of the Study:
- To purify and characterize the A component of D factor (DfA) from Polyspondylium violaceum.
- To investigate the role of DfA in the induction of cellular aggregation.
Main Methods:
- Partial purification of DfA using ultrafiltration and C-18 resin chromatography.
- High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) for further purification.
- Spectroscopic analysis (UV-Vis, NMR) for structural characterization.
- Phenotypic analysis of a Df-non-producing mutant (A586) with and without DfA addition.
Main Results:
- DfA was purified to homogeneity, exhibiting a red color with specific absorbance peaks and identified as a C11 compound.
- The non-polar region of DfA was identified as a hexanone, similar to DIF from Dictyostelium discoideum.
- DfA did not affect glorin production or chemotaxis but was essential for founder cell development and aggregate formation in the A586 mutant.
Conclusions:
- Purified DfA is a key inducer of cellular aggregation in Polyspondylium violaceum.
- DfA's function appears to be specifically in initiating aggregate formation, independent of other developmental signals like glorin.