Isolated pellicles of the ciliate Tetrahymena pyriformis are produced by a new non-alcoholic procedure. Different mechanical or chemical treatments are tested on the pellicles in order to purify some cortical components. Selective solubilization by a non-ionic detergent is a promising system for purification of the basal bodies.

These results show the differential chemical liability of the main cortical structures (membranes, microtubules, etc.). The uneven solubility of the same structures, found either in entire cells or on isolated pellicles is demonstrated and discussed.