Abstract
The cytoskeletal function of cortical microtubular structures is explored by high-pressure treatment of the ciliated protozoonColpoda cucullus. This ciliate has two regions of form asymmetry which are apparently maintained by microtubules, namely the somatic groove and the right oral lip. Pressure induced changes in cellular morphology and motility were found to be a function of the magnitude of pressure and duration of compression. Cells exposed to 5,000 psi for 25 minutes, 7,500 psi for 12 minutes, and 10,000 psi for 3 minutes are quiescent and acquire a rounded shape. Observation by electron microscopy of cells exposed to 5,000 psi for 25 minutes indicates that the disappearance of the somatic groove and eversion of the oral apparatus are coincident with the disassembly of the microtubular rootlets in the groove and the supraepiplasmic microtubules in the right oral lip. Other changes accompanying the pressure-induced disassemblies include the reduction in numbers of overlapping microtubular ribbons in the cortical ridges and the appearance of cortical granular accumulations. The essential role in form-maintenance played by microtubular components is discussed.
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