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Related Experiment Videos

Control of cell shape by calcium in the euglenophyceae.

J M Murray

    Journal of Cell Science
    |June 1, 1981
    PubMed
    Summary

    Euglenoid flagellates change shape via calcium ions (Ca2+) controlling motor units beneath their pellicle. This calcium regulation system explains their characteristic movements and shape transformations.

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    Area of Science:

    • Cell Biology
    • Biophysics
    • Protistology

    Background:

    • Euglenoid flagellates exhibit remarkable shape-changing abilities.
    • These shape changes are linked to cellular stimuli and spontaneous events.
    • Two distinct forms, relaxed (cylindrical) and contracted (disc-like), are observed.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the mechanism behind euglenoid shape changes.
    • To identify the role of calcium ions (Ca2+) in regulating cell morphology.
    • To elucidate the structural basis of euglenoid movement in Astasia longa.

    Main Methods:

    • Altering intracellular Ca2+ concentration to induce shape changes.
    • Utilizing calcium oxalate precipitation to identify Ca2+-accumulating membranes in Astasia longa.
    • Purifying the pellicle and associated microtubules for biochemical analysis.

    Main Results:

    • Ca2+ concentration directly interconverts the relaxed and contracted cell shapes.
    • A network of endoplasmic reticulum tubes beneath the pellicle regulates Ca2+ levels.
    • The pellicle, with associated microtubules, contains Ca2+-binding sites and ATPase activity, suggesting a molecular basis for movement.

    Conclusions:

    • The euglenoid shape change is driven by localized Ca2+ activation of independent motor units (pellicular ridges).
    • This Ca2+-sequestering system allows for precise control over euglenoid movement and morphology.
    • The purified pellicle provides direct evidence for Ca2+ involvement in the motor apparatus.

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