Scientists reveal protective layer structure of cell cilia

Scientists have made new discoveries about the protective layer found around the tiny hair-like structures called cilia on cell surfaces. These cilia play important roles, such as helping cells move and sense their surroundings. A research team from Germany and Italy has detailed the structure of this protective layer, known as the glycocalyx. This layer is made up of sugar-rich proteins called glycoproteins. Before this study, the exact structure of the glycocalyx was not understood. The researchers focused on the unicellular green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii and identified two key glycoproteins, FMG1B and a new variant called FMG1A. The study found that these glycoproteins are similar to mucin proteins in mammals, which are essential for forming protective mucus in various parts of the body. The researchers experimented by removing the glycoproteins from the alga, which made the cilia stickier. Despite this change, the algal cells could still move across surfaces. This suggests that FMG1A and FMG1B do not directly help the cilia stick to surfaces or aid in movement. Instead, they create a protective layer that controls how sticky the cilia are. Plant biotechnologist Prof. Michael Hippler noted that this research helps us understand how cells interact with their environment. Dr. Adrian Nievergelt also mentioned that this knowledge might provide insights into similar mechanisms in other organisms. The team used advanced imaging and analysis techniques for their research, including cryogenic electron tomography and genetic manipulation to study the glycoproteins.