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An unusual cell surface modification: a double plasma membrane.

N J Lane, J B Harrison

    Journal of Cell Science
    |October 1, 1979
    PubMed
    Summary
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    Researchers discovered a unique double plasma membrane in the gut microvilli of Rhodnius prolixus insects. This specialized structure may enhance the microvillar layer

    Area of Science:

    • Cell Biology
    • Insect Physiology
    • Membrane Ultrastructure

    Background:

    • The gut microvilli of insects play a crucial role in nutrient absorption and barrier function.
    • Haematophagous insects, like Rhodnius prolixus, experience significant gut distension during feeding, requiring specialized cellular adaptations.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate an unusual double plasma membrane structure observed in the gut microvilli of Rhodnius prolixus.
    • To elucidate the morphology and potential function of this unique membrane modification.

    Main Methods:

    • Conventional thin section electron microscopy.
    • Lanthanum impregnation techniques to visualize intercellular spaces.
    • Freeze-fracture electron microscopy to analyze membrane cấu trúc.

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    Main Results:

    • A double plasma membrane (inner I membrane and outer O membrane) was identified in gut microvilli, separated by a regular 10 nm I-O space.
    • Lanthanum impregnation revealed angled columns within the I-O space, potentially maintaining membrane separation.
    • Freeze-fracturing showed spoke-like fibrils and myelin-like sheets associated with the outer membrane, possibly variants of the peritrophic membrane.
    • Microvillar membranes exhibited spiral ridges of particles (PF faces) and pits (EF faces), suggesting attachment sites for structural components.

    Conclusions:

    • The double membrane structure in Rhodnius prolixus microvilli likely serves to reinforce the gut lining.
    • This adaptation is crucial for withstanding the mechanical stress of rapid gut distension during blood meals.
    • The findings offer insights into specialized cellular adaptations in blood-feeding insects.