Development of Statocyte Polarity under Simulated Microgravity on a 3-D Clinostat

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Abstract
The development and ultrastructure of cress root statocytes grown on the 3-D clinostat have been compared to ground controls and to roots grown under real microgravity during the Spacelab D-1 mission. Roots grown for 24 h on the clinostat develop a normal root cap. The statocytes show the typical polar organization except a random distribution of statoliths. Thus, the cell polarity of gravity-sensing cells is genetically determined and expressed on the 3-D clinostat. However, the starch content of the statoliths is significantly decreased and the total area of the ER complex is increased in clinostatted statocytes compared to ground controls. The number of enlarged lipid bodies is higher. These structural parameters are similar to results obtained under real microgravity. Thus, the 3-D clinostat has been proven as a useful device to mimic microgravity.