Organization of the ciliary basal apparatus in embryonic cells of the sea urchin, Lytechinus pictus

Abstract

The basal apparatus of embryonic cells of the sea urchin Lytechinus pictus was examined by transmission electron microscopy and compared with the basal apparatus of other metazoan cells. The basal apparatus in these cells is associated with a specialized region of the apical cell surface that is encircled by a ring of microvilli. The basal apparatus includes several features that are common to all ciliated cells, including a basal body, basal foot, basal foot cap, and striated rootlet. However, a component not seen in the basal apparatus of other species has been observed in these cells. This structure is continuous with the striated rootlet, and its ultrastructure indicates that it is composed of the same components as the rootlet. This structure extends from the junction of the basal body and striated rootlet to the cortical region that surrounds the basal body. Based on its morphology and position, this structure is referred to as a striated side-arm. The striated side-arm is always aligned in the plane of the basal foot. Thus, both of these structures extend from the basal body in the plane of the effective stroke. It is suggested that the striated side-arm serves to stabilize the basal apparatus against force exerted by the cilium.