Multiple intracellular signals coordinate structural dynamics in the sea urchin egg cortex at fertilization.
Fertilization of the sea urchin egg is accompanied by a sequence of structural changes in the egg cortex that include exocytosis, endocytosis, and microvillar growth. This architectural reorganization is coordinated by two intracellular signals: a rapid, transient rise in cytosolic free calcium and a slower, longer lasting increase in cytoplasmic pH. In this report we provide ultrastructural views of these events in quick-frozen eggs and discuss their relationship to the calcium and pH signals.
Chandler
D E
DE
Department of Zoology, Arizona State University, Tempe 85287.
D000818:Animals; D002118:Calcium / Q000378:metabolism; D002450:Cell Communication; D005089:Exocytosis; D005260:Female; D005306:Fertilization; D005614:Freeze Fracturing; D006863:Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; D008871:Microvilli / Q000502:physiology / Q000648:ultrastructure; D010063:Ovum / Q000378:metabolism / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D012617:Sea Urchins / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000502:physiology
D002118:Calcium