Evidence for an increase in the hydrophobicity of the cell surface during sexual interactions of Paramecium.

Abstract

Attachment of the ciliate Paramecium caudatum to surfaces of polystyrene Petri dishes (Falcon 3002) was induced through the mating reaction and by treatment with conjugation-inducing chemicals. A similar induction of attachment took place when cells were treated with phenethylamine or benzylamine, compounds known to make the cell surface more hydrophobic. The possible involvement of hydrophobic interactions on the cell surface during the early stage of conjugation in Paramecium is discussed.