Chloroplasts are a vital component in plant cells due to their necessary role in photosynthesis. Here, we attempt to demonstrate a phenomenon known as photo-relocation which has been observed in chloroplast containing cells. Mediated by the phytochrome photo-transduction pathway under low intensity unilateral red light conditions, the model moss Physcomitrella patens’ responses are analyzed. A model photo-relocation assay was used in which the unidirectional light vector was rotated 90° in order to isolate the chloroplast photo-movement response. Additionally, kinesins that have no involvement in cytokinesis are thought to play a major role in the regulation of chloroplast motility. This study should emphasize the mechanisms and response tendencies with respect to chloroplast motility.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Meunier, Jason A

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-012716-172635

Advisor

• Buckholt, Michael Allan
• Vidali, Luis

Year

• 2015

Date created

• 2015-12-23

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology

Rights statement

• In Copyright