ISSN:
1615-6102
Keywords:
Neck cell proliferation
;
Binucleate
;
Douglas fir
;
Conifers
;
Genetic instability
;
Ultrastructure
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Biology
Notes:
Summary To study the effect of culturing on megagametophytes of Douglas fir (Pseudotsuga menziesii) and hybrid larch (Larix × eurolepis), cones were collected at the time of fertilization and the megagametophytes were removed, then placed on medium. We used a modified Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 5% lactose and 10% polyethylene glycol 4000. A variety of cell types proliferated including prothallial, neck, and jacket cells. Some of these multiplying cells showed a binucleate condition. The prothallial cells of the apex divided and expanded. The neck cells formed clusters composed of more cells than normally found in situ; though otherwise they showed ultrastructural similarity to neck cells in situ. These neck cells had large numbers of active Golgi complexes, numerous large and small vacuoles, coated vesicles, smooth vesicles, a well-developed endoplasmic reticulum, and thickened cell walls. These are the first reports of neck cell multiplication and induction of a binucleate state for gymnosperm megagametophyte cells in vitro.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF01280325
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