H+- and Na+- elicited swift changes of the microtubule system in the biflagellated green alga Chlamydomonas

The microtubule cytoskeletal system is integral to diverse cellular processes. Although microtubules are known for dynamic instability, the system is tightly controlled in typical interphase animal cells. In contrast, diverse evidence suggests that the system is mercurial in the unicellular fresh water green alga, Chlamydomonas, but intense autofluorescence from photosynthesis pigments has hindered the investigation. By expressing a bright fluorescent reporter protein at the endogenous level, we demonstrate in real time discreet sweeping changes in algal microtubules elicited by fluctuation of intracellular H+ and Na+. These results suggest disparate sensitivity of this vital yet delicate system in diverse organisms; and illuminate how pH may drive crucial cellular processes; how plants respond to, and perhaps sense stresses; and how many species could be susceptible to accelerated changes in global environments.