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High resolution scanning electron microscopy of plasmodesmata.

Sarah Brecknock1, Teresa P Dibbayawan, Maret Vesk

  • 1School of Biological Sciences, University of Sydney, Macleay Building, A12, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia.

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|June 1, 2011
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Summary

High-resolution scanning electron microscopy reveals the 3D structure of plasmodesmata (PD) in plants and algae. This study details PD morphology, including external spokes and internal desmotubule-like structures, advancing our understanding of cell-to-cell transport.

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Area of Science:

  • Plant Biology
  • Cell Biology
  • Microscopy

Background:

  • Symplastic transport facilitates communication between plant cells via plasmodesmata (PD).
  • Limited knowledge exists regarding PD composition and molecular transport mechanisms.
  • Traditional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) offers limited 3D structural insights into PD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the 3D morphology of plasmodesmata (PD) using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM).
  • To explore the structural components and arrangement of PD in various plant and algal species.
  • To compare the structure of PD in the giant alga Chara with those in higher plants.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM) to visualize PD in 3D.
  • Examined PD in cell walls of algae, ferns, and higher plants.
  • Performed enzymatic digestions to identify cell wall components associated with PD structures.
  • Fractured Chara cell walls to reveal internal PD morphology.

Main Results:

  • Observed diverse PD distribution patterns, including individual pores and clusters.
  • Identified external structures like spokes, spirals, and mesh surrounding PD.
  • Enzymatic digestion suggested cellulose or pectin involvement in stabilizing external spokes.
  • Fractured PD revealed desmotubule-like structures and particles within their central regions.
  • Chara PD exhibited morphological similarities to higher plant PD, including desmotubules.

Conclusions:

  • HRSEM provides valuable 3D morphological data for plasmodesmata (PD).
  • External and internal structures of PD have been characterized in various species.
  • Findings support the presence of desmotubules in Chara PD, aligning them with higher plant structures.
  • This research enhances the understanding of PD structure and its implications for intercellular transport.