Effect of Colchicine on Endosperm Development in Helianthus Annuus.
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Authors
Craig, Andrea
Date
2008-11-10T19:04:08Z
Type
thesis
Language
eng
Keyword
Cytoskeleton , Embryogenesis
Alternative Title
Abstract
Embryogenesis was observed through light and transmission electron microscopy to elucidate the role of the cytoskeleton in the cellularization of the coenocytic endosperm in Helianthus annuus. Microtubules were not seen throughout the development of the endosperm despite the fact that nuclear division occurred frequently. The positioning of organelles in the cytoplasm in close proximity to the developing cell plate as well as the crooked appearance of the growing endosperm cell wall suggests that a traditional microtubular system, in which a phragmoplast controls wall formation, is not present in this species. The growth patterns exhibited by endosperm walls, similar to that of tip growing cells, may indicate that actin filaments are controlling the cellularization of the endosperm. To further investigate the role of microtubules in the development of the endosperm of H. annuus, inhibitory studies using 100 µM, 300 µM and 1 mM colchicine were conducted on ovules both in-vivo and in-vitro. Enlarged nuclei, partial collapse of the integumentary tapetum, and loss of organelles were observed in colchicine treated cells which indicates that colchicine affected the development of the endosperm. However, since little difference was seen between the various concentrations of colchicine and the cellularization of the endosperm was still observed in treated cell, this may indicate that either colchicine did not affect the cytoskeleton controlling endosperm development or that it did not successfully penetrate the embryo sacs. The minor effect seen by the application of colchicine may support the idea that actin plays a role in the cellularization of endosperm in H. annuus.
Description
Thesis (Master, Biology) -- Queen's University, 2008-11-03 10:18:50.557
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