Related Experiment Videos
Are membranes of the mitotic apparatus translocated by microtubules?
Abstract:
During all mitotic stages membranous structures can be found around and within the mitotic apparatus of HeLa cells. A careful ultrastructural analysis partly by means of stereo-electron microscopy of semithin (0.5 microns) sections reveals a close association of membranes and microtubules in many regions of the mitotic apparatus. The contact can be direct or via connecting structures (cross-bridges). Referring to various hypotheses concerning the translocation of membranous structures in the cytoplasm of interphase cells (see Suchard and Goode, 1982), the assumption that microtubules participate in the transport of membranous structures in the mitotic apparatus is discussed in detail.
Insights
Microtubules in HeLa cells associate with membranous structures during mitosis. This suggests microtubules may play a role in transporting these membranes within the mitotic apparatus.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Microscopy
Background:
- Membranous structures are observed within the mitotic apparatus of HeLa cells throughout all mitotic stages.
- Previous hypotheses suggest microtubules are involved in the cytoplasmic translocation of membranous structures in interphase cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between membranes and microtubules within the mitotic apparatus of HeLa cells.
- To explore the potential role of microtubules in the transport of membranous structures during mitosis.
Main Methods:
- Ultrastructural analysis of HeLa cells during mitosis.
- Stereo-electron microscopy of semithin sections (0.5 microns).
Main Results:
- Membranous structures are found in close association with microtubules in various regions of the mitotic apparatus.
- Direct contact and connections via cross-bridges between membranes and microtubules were observed.
Conclusions:
- Microtubules are closely associated with membranous structures in the mitotic apparatus.
- The findings support the hypothesis that microtubules participate in the transport of membranous structures within the mitotic apparatus.