Histochemical Evidence for the Presence of Lysosome-like Particles in root Meristem Cells ofVicia faba

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
The lysosomes of animal cells, as defined by biochemists, are particles limited by a lipid-protein membrane and which contain hydrolytic enzymes; they are inert until the permeability of the limiting membrane has been altered. In addition, the lysosomes in animal cells have been demonstrated also by histochemical procedures. Acid phosphatase may be used as a marker for lysosomes, and can be demonstrated by a modified Gomori procedure. Thus, in controlled-temperature frozen sections of plant tissue, it has been possible to demonstrate granules which are inactive for acid phosphatase until subjected to agents that will disrupt lipid-protein structures, namely freezing and thawing, formaldehyde and heat. Whether such particles are the lysosomes is discussed.