CELL SURFACE CONTROL IN BLEPHARISMA INTERMEDIUM BHANDARY (PROTOZOA OLIATA)

Abstract

SUMMARY Gamone II binds to Blepbarisma intermedium Bhandary (Protozoa Ciliata) mating type I cells, via specific membrane receptors which are distinct from the receptors of PHA, Con-A, antitubulin antibodies, and other control ligands. Binding of PHA, Con-A and ATA induces a non- specific series of events, which, according to the dose of ligand may lead to cell immobilization, agglutination, loss of pigment and lysis. Binding of gamone II induces pair formation only via a specific activation receptor system. The finding of distinctive binding sites for different unrelated ligands on Blepharisma cell membrane will be useful in elucidating the mechanism of gamone-cell interaction.