Observations on the Fine Structure of Plant Cell Walls

Abstract

Aqueous solutions of potassium and barium permanganates used as post-stains for ultra thin sections are effective in revealing the microfibrillar framework of parenchymatous walls when the tissues are extracted, prior to embedding, with macerating and clearing agents for non-cellulosic wall components. Images of the collenchymatous wall in permanganate-stained sections of Cucurbita petioles treated variously with pectinase, protease, H₂O₂-acetic acid and NaOH are presented.