Question

Can someone explain pH shock's molecular pathway when discussing de-flagellation of a cell. I understand that pH shock will cause a cell to temporarily lose their flagella, however, I don't understand the in depth discussion of the molecular pathway associated. Can someone please explain? Thank you.

Answer 1

pH shock is a routinely used procedure to cause deflagellation in flagella bearing organisms like Chlamydomonas. pH shock causes deflagellation by causing the opening of Ca2+ channels resulting in the Ca2+ influx. This results in the severing of the outer doublet microtubules and pinching off of the flagellar membrane distal to the transition zone between the basal body and the beginning of the flagellar shaft. Also, Ca2+ causes contraction of stellate array of centrin fibres in the transition zone which provides the mechanical force that causes deflagellation.