Alteration in the surface morphology of synchronized B-16 melanoma cell during the cell cycle

Abstract

B-16 melanoma cells were synchronized for G1-S periods by mitotic shake-off and S-G2 periods by thymidine block. The surface morphology of the B-16 melanoma at low density partially confluent culures revealed that, as in other cell systems investigated, the surface morphology could be correlated with four periods to cell cycle: G1, S, G2 and M. G1 cells were rounded and possessed microvilli, blebs and ruffles (late G1). During S period, blebs and microvilli diminished and disappeared, but ruffles were more evident. Late G2 cells acquired microvilli, surface blebs, and extended filopodia and began to thicken and round themselves for mitosis.