Analysis of the role of the Spitzenkörper in fungal morphogenesis by computer simulation of apical branching in Aspergillus niger

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.94.17.9096
• Publication Date: 2002-07-26T14:42:40Z
• Authors: Cristina G. Reyna...; Gerhard Gierz; Salomon Bartnicki...
• Keywords: 0301 basic medicine; 03 medical and health sciences; Morphogenesis; Computer Simulation; Aspergillus niger; Models, Biological

High-resolution video microscopy, image analysis, and computer simulation were used to study the role of Spitzenkörper (Spk) in apical branching ramosa-1 , a temperature-sensitive mutant Aspergillus niger . A shift restrictive temperature led cytoplasmic contraction that destabilized Spk, causing its disappearance. After short transition period, new Spk appeared where two incipient branches emerged. Changes cell shape, growth rate, position recorded transferred fungus simulator program test hypothesis functions as vesicle supply center (VSC). The faithfully duplicated elongation main hypha branches. Elongating hyphae exhibited pattern described by hyphoid equation. During phase, when no was visible, nonhyphoid, with consecutive periods isometric asymmetric expansion; apex became enlarged blunt before Video microscopy images suggested branch formed anew gradual condensation clouds. Simulation exercises VSC split into VSCs failed produce realistic shapes, thus supporting notion did not originate division original Spk. best morphogenesis included simulations ontogeny via This supports plays major hyphal operating VSC—i.e., regulating traffic wall-building vesicles manner predicted model.