The genetic basis for antibody binding patterns in Prorocentrum lima (Dinophyceae)

Despite the wide nse of antibodies as probes to identify microalgal species , the genetic basis of antibody binding sites is unknown. Crosses of parent s having a different antibody binding pattern were carried out and the anti body binding patterns of the offspring cells were compared with those of th e parents, to analyse the inheritance of antibody binding sites. Results sh ow that in dinoflagellates: the antibody binding pattern is not affected by environmental conditions; the asexual cell division cycle has no influence on the binding activity of antibodies; and the genes for antibody binding sites lie in the nucleus.