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Morphogenesis in the embryo ofDrosophila melanogaster — Germ band extension

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Summary

Changes at the ultrastructural level during germ band extension in the embryo ofDrosophila melanogaster are described. Cytoplasmic connections between cells and the yolk sac are present during initial cellular movements. At this time, a continuous system of microfilaments is present adjacent to the membranes in the connections and at the periphery of the yolk sac. As germ band extension progresses, this system becomes discontinuous, and microfilaments are apparent only in the immediate vicinity of the connections. Cytoplasmic connections are disassembled at approximately the midpoint of extension; at the same time, extensive membrane associations develop between germ band cells and between these cells and adjacent yolk sac membranes. Positioning and orientation of cytoplasmic connections suggest that the yolk sac, via these connections, is actively involved in the cellular movements of early germ band extension.

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Author notes

  1. Wayne L. Rickoll

    Present address: Genetics Department, University of California, 94720, Berkeley, CA, USA

Authors and Affiliations

  1. Anatomy Department, Duke University, 27710, Durham, North Carolina, USA

    Wayne L. Rickoll & S. J. Counce

Authors
  1. Wayne L. Rickoll
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  2. S. J. Counce
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This paper is dedicated with respect and affection to Donald F. Poulson

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Rickoll, W.L., Counce, S.J. Morphogenesis in the embryo ofDrosophila melanogaster — Germ band extension. Wilhelm Roux' Archiv 188, 163–177 (1980). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00849045

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00849045

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