Axial-view recording: An approach to assess the third dimension of the ciliary cycle

Abstract

High-frequency cine data of the frontal cirri of Stylonychia viewed parallel to the ciliary base ("axial view") have been geometrically analyzed so as to isolate a steady inclination of the proximal shaft during the ciliary cycle. Correction for this inclination allows assessment of the pathway of the shaft during the cycle and thereby parameters such as the directional change rate, the angular velocity, and the rate of reorientation movement of the cilium. A model is proposed which shows the implications of cyclic ciliary reorientations for the circular translocation of the activation of active sliding of axonemal doublets. © 1987 Academic Press Inc. (London) Ltd All rights reserved.