Plasmolysis: new insights into an old process

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Abstract
SUMMARY: Early microscopists made detailed observations of the phenomenon of plasmolysis, many of which have passed into the historical record without comment. This review considers the significance of these observations in the light of recent cell‐biological studies which are addressing the complex relationships between the plasma membrane (PM) and the extracellular matrix, as well as the interrelationships of the PM, endomembrane system and cytoskeleton. Emphasis is placed on the relative roles of Hechtian strand formation and PM vesiculation as mechanisms allowing the conservation of PM during a plasmolysis/deplasmolysis cycle. The behaviour of plasmodesmata during plasmolysis is considered in relation to the ability of cells to resume intercellular transport following deplasmolysis. Finally, the behaviour of cells during freeze‐induced ptesmolysis is addressed. Contents Summary 571 I. Introduction 572 II. The vagaries of plasmolysia 573 III. The behaviour of the plasma membrane (PM) during plastnolysis 575 IV. Plasmodesmata 582 V. Vesiculation of the PM 584 VI. Effects of plasmolysis on wall growth 587 VII. Injury arising from plasmolysis 588 VIII. Concluding remarks 589 Acknowledgements 589 References 589