The dynamic fungal cell

Filamentous fungi are fascinating organisms that combine technical amenability with interesting biology and economical and ecological importance. In recent years, intensive research has rapidly extended our knowledge in many of the sub-disciplines in fungal sciences. An upcoming challenge is the integration of this detailed information in a more holistic understanding of the organisation and function of the fungal cell and its interaction with the environment. Here we provide an extensive visual impression of the organisation and motility of cellular structures in hyphae and yeast-like cells of the corn pathogen Ustilago maydis. We show 3D animation of major cytoskeletal elements and organelles in yeast-like and hyphal cells and provide insight into their dynamic behaviour. Using laser-based epi-fluorescence, we also include some more specialised processes, such as the dynamics of microtubules in mitosis, F-actin patches turn-over during endocytic uptake, nuclear import in interphase and in late mitosis and diffusion within the endoplasmic reticulum and the plasma membrane. This collection of 76 previously unpublished movie clips should provide a useful source for teaching fungal cell biology, but also intends to inspire researchers in different areas of fungal science.