Cytoskeleton-related proteins in tobacco mycorrhizal cells: gamma-tubulin and clathrin localisation

Plant cytoskeletal components respond to the penetration of both pathogenic and symbiotic fungi with a new organization of microtubules and microfilam ents. To determine the origin and potential role of microtubule arrays previously observed in tobacco cells colonised by an arbuscular mycorrhizal fungus, w e have investigated the patterns of gamma-tubulin and clathrin in uninfecte d and mycorrhizal cells with immunofluorescence techniques. Antibody agains t gamma-tubulin revealed microtubule organising centers (MTOC) along the nu clear envelope and along the host membrane that surrounds the plant/fungus interface, while clathrin was observed along the peripheral and perifungal membranes, as well as along a tubular system of endomembranes.