ISSN:
1615-6102
Keywords:
Boergesenia forbesii
;
Microfibrils
;
Microtubules
;
Plasma membrane
;
Sectioned material
;
Terminal complexes
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Summary Transmembrane linear terminal complexes considered to be involved in the synthesis of cellulose microfibrils have been described in the plasma membrane ofBoergesenia forbesii. Evidence for the existence of these structures has been obtained almost exlusively using the freeze etching technique. In the present study an attempt has been made to complete these studies using conventional fixation, staining, and sectioning procedures. In developing cells ofBoergesenia forbesii, strongly stained structures traversing the plasma membrane and averaging 598.9 nm ± 171.3 nm in length, 28.7 nm ± 4.2 nm in width, and 35.2 nm ± 6.6 nm in depth have been demonstrated. These structures are considered to be linear terminal complexes. At their distal (cell wall) surface, they appear to be closely associated with cellulose microfibrils. At the proximal (cytoplasmic) surface, they are associated with microtubules and polysomes. A model of the possible interrelation of the terminal complexes and microtubules leading to the generation of cell wall microfibrils is proposed.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01276358
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