Synergistic and antagonistic interactions between morphogenetically deficient variants of the slime mould Dictyostelium discoideum.

SUMMARY: A group of variant strains of the slime mould, Dictyostelium discoideum, was collected, all of which cannot accomplish the complete morphogenetic cycle; instead some stop at intermediate stages. They have been termed ‘morphogenetically deficient’. In many cases a mixed population of two deficient strains can achieve synergistic development even to the production of normal fruiting structures with viable spores. The nature and intensity of the synergistic response is a function of the proportions of the partners in the mixture. No recombinant types have been found among the spores obtained from the mixtures. The comparative patterns of response have been ascertained when the deficient stocks are paired in all possible combinations. Finally, an antagonistic interaction between two deficient strains is described.