Molecular Cross-Talk between Gravity- and Light-Sensing Mechanisms in <i>Euglena gracilis</i>

Abstract

Euglena gracilis is a photosynthetic flagellate. To acquire a suitable position in its surrounding aquatic environment, it exploits light and gravity primarily as environmental cues. Several physiological studies have indicated a fine-tuned relationship between gravity sensing (gravitaxis) and light sensing in E. gracilis. However, the underlying molecular mechanism is largely unknown. The photoreceptor photoactivated adenylyl cyclase (PAC) has been studied for over a decade. Nevertheless, no direct/indirect interaction partner (upstream/downstream) has been reported for PAC. It has been shown that a specific protein, kinase A (PKA), showed to be involved in phototaxis and gravitaxis. The current study reports the localization of the specific PKA and its relationship with PAC.

Keywords

• <i>Euglena gracilis</i>
• phototaxis
• gravitaxis
• photoactivated adenylyl cyclase
• protein kinase A
• RNA interference