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Intracellular membrane structures of the mycoplasma-like organisms inducing carrot yellows
Abstract:
Intracellular membrane structures from 16 to 22 nm wide were found in the mycoplasma-like organisms causing carrot yellows. These structures are composed of five layers, three electron-dense and two electron-transparent. The membrane structures are situated, as a rule, in the central nucleoid zone of the cells of the mycoplasma-like organisms and may be seen to be in direct contact with the DNA fibrils. Ribosomes may be seen around the membrane structures. In this work we show the morphological connection between the membrane structures and the external elementary membrane of the mycoplasma-like organisms and also invagination of the external membrane into the cell. It is proposed that the intracellular membrane structures arise by means of invagination of the external elementary membrane and form a single system with this. This is the first instance of discovery of intracellular membrane structures in mycoplasmata.
Insights
Researchers discovered novel intracellular membrane structures in mycoplasma-like organisms causing carrot yellows. These structures, formed by invagination of the outer membrane, are in direct contact with DNA fibrils.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Plant Pathology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Mycoplasma-like organisms (MLOs) are plant pathogens associated with various yellows diseases.
- The ultrastructure of MLOs, particularly their internal membrane systems, remains incompletely understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the morphology and origin of previously undescribed intracellular membrane structures in MLOs.
- To elucidate the relationship between these structures and the cell envelope of MLOs.
Main Methods:
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to examine ultrathin sections of MLOs from infected carrot tissues.
- Morphological analysis focused on identifying and characterizing intracellular membrane formations and their association with cellular components.
Main Results:
- Distinct intracellular membrane structures, 16-22 nm wide and composed of five layers, were observed within MLOs.
- These structures were located in the nucleoid zone, in direct contact with DNA fibrils, and surrounded by ribosomes.
- A morphological connection was established between these intracellular membranes and the external cell membrane, with evidence of invagination.
Conclusions:
- Intracellular membrane structures in MLOs likely originate from the invagination of the external cell membrane.
- These structures may form a single, continuous system with the cell envelope.
- This represents the first documented discovery of such intracellular membrane structures in mycoplasmata.