Description

High resolution view of the cytoproct ridge at higher magnification. The unique system of thick fibers extends from each side of the ridge toward the center of the ridge. These thickened fibers are not found in any other part of the cell's surface. Also extending from the ridge tip are single microtubules that extend down into the cytosol. These microtubules may make contact with the surface of the approaching vacuole's membrane and help to pull the vacuole membrane and the plasma membrane together to promote their fusion. The role of the thickened fibers is unclear, they may cross link to prevent the cytoproct from an untimely opening under stress. A few vesicles get trapped in the ridge. TEM taken on 6/1/84 by R. Allen with Zeiss 10A 80kV. Neg. 19,800X. The raw film was scanned with an Epson Perfection V750 Pro. This image is best used for quantitative analysis. Standard glutaraldehyde fixation followed by osmium tetroxide, dehydrated in alcohol and embedded in an epoxy resin. Microtome sections prepared at approximately 75nm thickness. Additional information available at (http://www5.pbrc.hawaii.edu/allen/).