Summary
A microdissection technique is described allowing immunocytochemical procedures in the giant coenocytic green algaCaulerpa without the necessity to enzymatically digest the cell wall. In this way, a plant cell famous for its fast, large scale organelle transport becomes available for cytoskeletal research. Using antibodies against tubulin and actin three cytoplasmic levels can be identified in the cell area of the assimilatory blade, each with a distinct cytoskeletal organization. Microtubules run axially through the cortex, form bundles with increasing complexity in the subcortex and combine to giant composite bundles in the center. Actin is detected for the first time inCaulerpa in the form of fine cortical fibers and filamentous foci. The potentials of the new technique for studies on cytskeletal functions in organelle transport, polarity, and cell differentiation inCaulerpa are emphasized.
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Menzel, D. The cytoskeleton of the giant coenocytic green algaCaulerpa visualized by immunocytochemistry. Protoplasma 139, 71–76 (1987). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01282277
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF01282277