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Live Cell Imaging to Assess the Dynamics of Metaphase Timing and Cell Fate Following Mitotic Spindle Perturbations
Published on: September 20, 2019
Magnetic field effects on mitotic cycle length in Physarum
European Journal of Cell Biology
|June 1, 1982
Abstract:
Large plasmodia of Physarum polycephalum were formed from mixtures of micro-plasmodia grown in shaker cultures exposed to 2.0 G (rms), 75 Hz magnetic fields and non-exposed, control cultures. The exposed cultures had been grown continuously in the field and displayed a longer mitotic cycle than the controls. Mixed cultures display synchronous mitosis and a cycle length intermediate to the cycle lengths of exposed and control cultures. The cycle length of mixed cultures varied with the proportions of the mixture in a non-linear manner. The results are discussed in terms of several models.
Insights
Magnetic fields affect the cell cycle of Physarum polycephalum. Exposure to 75 Hz fields altered mitotic cycles, with mixed cultures showing intermediate, non-linear cycle lengths.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Biophysics
- Mycology
Background:
- Physarum polycephalum is a model organism for studying cell behavior and synchronization.
- Understanding the effects of external stimuli, like electromagnetic fields, on cellular processes is crucial.
- Previous research has explored environmental influences on plasmodial development and cell cycle dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of specific magnetic field exposure on the mitotic cycle of Physarum polycephalum.
- To analyze the cell cycle behavior of mixed cultures comprising exposed and control plasmodia.
- To determine if magnetic field exposure induces changes in cell cycle length and synchronization.
Main Methods:
- Culturing large plasmodia of Physarum polycephalum from micro-plasmodia.
- Exposing experimental cultures to a 75 Hz, 2.0 G (rms) magnetic field continuously.
- Comparing mitotic cycle lengths between exposed, control, and mixed (ratio-varied) cultures.
Main Results:
- Continuous magnetic field exposure led to a longer mitotic cycle in Physarum polycephalum compared to controls.
- Mixed cultures exhibited synchronous mitosis with cycle lengths intermediate to exposed and control groups.
- The cycle length of mixed cultures demonstrated a non-linear relationship with the proportion of exposed/control plasmodia.
Conclusions:
- Magnetic fields significantly influence the cell cycle duration and synchronization of Physarum polycephalum.
- The observed intermediate and non-linear cycle lengths in mixed cultures suggest complex interactions between exposed and unexposed cells.
- These findings provide data for modeling cellular responses to electromagnetic fields.
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