Chapter 10.2, Problem 2BC

Summary Introduction

To determine: The role of plasmodesmata in the movement of nutrients through a plant root.

Introduction: In a multicellular organism, cells are linked to each other by specialized structures called cell junctions. Plant cells are connected to each other by middle lamella and plasmodesmata. Plasmodesmata are defined as passageways or pores between cell walls of adjacent cells that can be opened or closed. When opened, they allow the direct diffusion of ions, water and molecules between the cytosols of adjacent cells. The plasma membrane of one cell is continuous with the plasma membrane of an adjacent cell at these pores. The smooth endoplasmic reticulum from one cell is connected to that of the adjacent cell through a central tubule known as desmotubule.