Microbody-Like Organelles in Leaf Cells

Abstract

An organelle approximately 0.5 to 1.5 microns in diameter, limited by a single membrane, occurs abundantly in the chlorophyllous cells of leaves of several dicotyledonous and monocotyledonous plants. Its finely granular matrix frequently contains crystalline, fibrous, or amorphous inclusions. It is frequently appressed to a chloroplast or squeezed between chloroplasts so that its limiting membrane is in extensive contact with the outer membranes of the chloroplast envelopes. The organelle is probably identical with recently isolated leaf particles that contain enzymes involved in the metabolism of glycolate, a chloroplast product; it is interpreted as a form of plant microbody.