Parameters of the ciliary cycle under membrane voltage control

Abstract

Abstract Axial views of depolarization‐ and hyperpolarization‐dependent activation of the frontal cirri of Stylonychia were cinematically recorded at high rate (250 frames/s) under voltage‐clamp. Images of a cirrus performing the cycle were processed by using computer assistance. In responding to the polarity and amplitude of the voltage signal, a cirrus inclines proximally with a particular angle and orientation. The ciliary cycle–always counterclockwise–is superimposing upon steady inclination. Correction for inclination allowed the assessment of the directional change rate and, after inclusion of the amplitude data, the determination of the ciliary angular velocity during the cycle. The method serves to isolate a new ciliary parameter: inclination, and to register precisely parameters of the cycle which may be meaningful for the understanding of the sliding mechanism.