NASA Logo

NTRS

NTRS - NASA Technical Reports Server

Back to Results
Microfilament distribution in protonemata of the moss CeratodonMicrofilaments were visualized in dark-grown protonemata of the moss Ceratodon to assess their possible role in tip growth and gravitropism. The relative effectiveness of rhodamine phalloidin (with or without m-maleimidobenzoyl-N-hydroxysuccinimide ester (MBS)) and of immunofluorescence (using the C4 antibody) was evaluated for actin localization in the same cell type. Using immunofluorescence, microfilaments were primarily in an axial orientation within the apical cell. However, a more complex network of microfilaments was observed using rhodamine phalloidin after MBS pretreatment, especially when viewed by confocal laser scanning microscopy. This method revealed a rich three dimensional network of fine microfilaments throughout the apical cell, including the extreme apex. Although there were numerous internal microfilaments, peripheral microfilaments were more abundant. No major redistribution of microfilaments was detected after gravistimulation. The combination of MBS, rhodamine phalloidin, and confocal laser scanning microscopy preserves and reveals microfilaments remarkably well and documents perhaps the most extensive F-actin network visualized to date in any tip-growing cell.
Document ID
20040089734
Acquisition Source
Kennedy Space Center
Document Type
Reprint (Version printed in journal)
External Source(s)
Authors
Walker, L. M.
(The Ohio State University Columbus, United States)
Sack, F. D.
Date Acquired
August 21, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1995
Publication Information
Publication: Protoplasma
Volume: 189
Issue: 4-Mar
ISSN: 0033-183X
Subject Category
Life Sciences (General)
Funding Number(s)
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAGW-780
CONTRACT_GRANT: NAG10-0085
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Other
Keywords
NASA Discipline Plant Biology
Non-NASA Center

Available Downloads

There are no available downloads for this record.
No Preview Available