Cytoskeleton observation in phototropism and polarotropism of adiantum protonema

Abstract

The distribution patterns of the cytoskeleton, i.e., microtubules and actin filaments, in the apical part of protonemal cells are unique and differ from those of other apical growing cells, such as moss and liverwort protonemata, fungal hyphae, and angiosperm pollen tubes. A ring structure composed of microtubules and actin filaments exists at the basal part of the apical dome of protonemal cells. The structure may control the protonemal diameter and growth direction. Herein, the methods of staining of both microtubules and actin filaments are described.