Distribution of fibronectin, microtubules and microfilaments in the melanophore of the medaka, Oryzias latipes.

Distributions of fibronectin, microtubules and microfilaments in the melanophore of the medaka, Oryzias latipes, were studied using immunofluorescence. We found fluorescent fibers of fibronectin running from the central region to the periphery of the melanophore, but patterns differed depending on whether melanophores had been treated with methanol. Fibrous structures were present in methanol-treated melanophores, whereas only diffuse fluorescence was seen in untreated ones. These fibrous structures, thought to be microtubules, were arranged radially. Actin fibers also showed a radial arrangement, but were not as well organized. In addition, granules with actin immunofluorescence were present.