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Membrane protein redistribution during Xenopus first cleavage.
The Journal of Cell Biology
|June 1, 1986
Summary
Amphibian embryo cleavage requires new membrane. This study shows furrow membrane originates from both the embryo surface and internal cytoplasmic stores, with surface membrane concentrated at the furrow
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Cell Biology
- Embryogenesis
Background:
- Amphibian embryo first cleavage requires significant surface area expansion.
- The source of this additional membrane was previously thought to be solely from cytoplasmic stores.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the origin and distribution of membrane during amphibian embryo first cleavage.
- To determine if surface proteins contribute to the cleavage furrow membrane.
Main Methods:
- Radioiodination of surface proteins in Xenopus laevis embryos.
- Autoradiography to track protein redistribution during first cleavage.
- Observation of membrane-associated markers and vesicles.
Main Results:
- Membrane at the leading edge of the cleavage furrow is derived partly from the zygote surface.
- Most of the cleavage furrow membrane originates from an internal, non-surface source.
- Internal membrane, likely from cytoplasmic precursors, is inserted near the outer pigmented surface.
Conclusions:
- Cleavage furrow membrane is mosaic, with distinct origins for different regions.
- Surface-derived membrane at the furrow's leading edge may anchor the contractile ring.
- Cytoplasmic membrane insertion occurs primarily at the furrow walls, especially later in cleavage.