The cytoskeleton of the giant coenocytic green algaCaulerpa visualized by immunocytochemistry

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.     

Tubular reassembly of the plastid envelope in mechanically stressed cells of a siphonous green alga (Chlorodesmis fastigiata C.Ag. Ducker,Udoteaceae)

A dramatic tubular reorganization of the plastid envelope in injury-stressed cytoplasm of the siphonous green alga Chlorodesmis fastigiata is described and discussed as a process of membrane self-assembly under drastic changes in the microenvironment of the organelle.     

Effect of 1,3,5-triazines on various bacteriophages and their hosts]

In the agar diffusion test 24 triazines were investigated with regard to their action on the mulplication of DNA phages (lambda and LPP-1) and RNA phages (M12 and Qbeta). In several cases the amount of plaques was diminished or increased depending on the kind of triazine and virus. The investigations demonstrate the triazines to be able to interfere with the formation of plaques by virulent and temperate viruses of procaryotes.     

Effects of culture conditions on glutathione content in A549 cells

The effects of varying culture conditions on glutathione content in A549 (human type II lung tumor derived) cells were examined. Parameters studied were growth time, serum concentration, and the presence or absence of a mixture of insulin, transferrin, and selenous acid. Glutathione content increased with serum concentration. When cells were grown with serum, glutathione increased sharply 24 hours after passage and decreased thereafter. Insulin, transferrin, and selenous acid had little effect on cell growth or glutathione content. Replacement of media with fresh media containing 10% serum did not prevent the growth dependent decrease in glutathione. These results demonstrate that glutathione content in A549 cells is strongly affected by culture conditions.