Light reception and signal modulation during photoorientation of flagellate green algae

Kreimer G (2001)


Publication Type: Book chapter / Article in edited volumes

Publication year: 2001

Publisher: Elsevier

Edited Volumes: Photomovement

Series: Comprehensive Series in Photosciences

City/Town: Amsterdam, London, New York, Oxford, Paris, Shannon, Tokyo

Book Volume: 1

Pages Range: 193-227

Edition: 1

ISBN: 0-444-50706-X

DOI: 10.1016/S1568-461X(01)80011-9

Abstract

Many flagellate green algae possess a single specialized optical device, the eyespot apparatus, for detecting light direction and intensity. Despite the great variety in movement patterns and cell shapes observed in green algae, the design principles of their eyespot apparatuses are similar and produce a highly directional photoreceptor. In conjunction with helical motion the eyespot functions as a combined absorbance screen/interference reflector producing a modulated signal at the location of the retinal-based photoreceptor. It carries information about the orientation of the cell relative to the stimulus direction and the light intensity. Molecular dissection of the different components of this system has recently started. However, compared to other visual systems, little is yet known about structural components and the signaling cascade(s) initiated upon photoreceptor excitation. This review covers general aspects (location, ultrastructure, interaction with microtubular flagellar roots, phylogeny) and discusses functions of the eyespot apparatus in signal perception and modulation. Additionally, recent progress in identification of putative signaling and structural elements will be summarized.

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How to cite

APA:

Kreimer, G. (2001). Light reception and signal modulation during photoorientation of flagellate green algae. In Donat-P. Häder and A.M. Breure (Eds.), Photomovement. (pp. 193-227). Amsterdam, London, New York, Oxford, Paris, Shannon, Tokyo: Elsevier.

MLA:

Kreimer, Georg. "Light reception and signal modulation during photoorientation of flagellate green algae." Photomovement. Ed. Donat-P. Häder and A.M. Breure, Amsterdam, London, New York, Oxford, Paris, Shannon, Tokyo: Elsevier, 2001. 193-227.

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