Cole 9507285 The goal of this research is to initiate a cellular and genetic analysis of development during Tetrahymena conjugation. To that end, we will, 1.) Determine developmental dependencies during conjugation. by a combination of isolating mutants or/and physically manipulating the mating conditions, 2.) Search for developmental checkpoints by searching for mutations that relieve the developmental dependency, and 3.) Identify and characterize the functions of gene products that participate in specific conjugal events. %%% The objective of this research is to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which Tetrahymena thermophila, a species of ciliated protozoan, controls its passage through the complex cytoplasmic and nuclear events associated with mating. Mutants relevant to this process will be isolated and characterized. Also the mating conditions will be physically manipulated. ***
