Amyloplasts cell fractionation

Examination of the root apex showed much the same effects as reported above (Fig. 15.6a-d). The calyptra was a particularly sensitive tissue, showing dramatic mitochondrial swelling at all dilutions tested (Fig. 15.6b-d). A conspicuous effect of the treatment with the RO fraction on the root apex was the inhibition of amyloplast development as statoliths in the columella cells of the calyptra (Fig. 15.6b-c). The almost complete lack of starch and of lipid-associated microbodies in... 

Electron microscopy of radish radicle. Details of columella cells from 16 h-control seed (a) and seed treated with 1/14-diluted reverse osmosis fraction (b-d). (a) Columella cells in the control are distinctly polarized and contain large amyloplasts (arrows). Nucleus (N). (b) Columella cells in treated roots are not polarized and contain no amyloplasts. The numerous electron-transparent vesicles are swollen mitochondria (M). (c) Detail showing swollen mitochondria (M) and starch-less plastids (P). (d) High magnification of swollen mitochondria showing the two-membrane envelope (arrows). 

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