The Physiology of Giant Algal Cells

This 1975 account gives a historical background to the giant cells of certain algae which are valuable for the investigation of physiological problems.

A. B. Hope (Author), N. A. Walker (Author)

9780521279314, Cambridge University Press

Paperback, published 9 June 2011

226 pages
21.6 x 14 x 1.3 cm, 0.29 kg

The giant cells of certain algae are of especial value as experimental material for the investigation of physiological problems. This 1975 account gives a historical background to this. The authors consider water relations, ionic relations, the electrical properties of membranes, action potentials, active transport, carbon dioxide and bicarbonate ion transport and use, and protoplasmic streaming. The authors are at pains to point out the general implications of the findings for the plant kingdom and occasionally for the animal kingdom as well. Advanced students, teachers and research workers in plant physiology, cell physiology and biophysics will find this a stimulating account of an important area of research.

Preface
Symbols used
Abbreviations
1. Giant cells as experimental material
2. Two hundred years: early physiology
3. Water relations
4. Permeability to nonelectrolytes
5. Compartments and ionic concentrations
6. Ionic fluxes and kinetic models
7. Electrical properties of membranes
8. Action potentials in charophyte cells
9. Studies of active transport - cations
10. Studies of active transport - anions
11. The transport and use of carbon dioxide and bicarbonate ions
12. Protoplasmic streaming
Appendixes
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Cellular biology [cytology PSF]