B-type granule containing protrusions and interconnections between amyloplasts in developing wheat endosperm revealed by transmission electron microscopy and GFP expression

Abstract

Starch granules in mature wheat endosperm show a bimodal size distribution. The formation of small starch granules in wheat endosperm cells was studied by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM) after expression and targeting of fluorescent protein into amyloplasts. Both techniques demonstrated the presence of protrusions emanating from A-type granules-containing amyloplasts and the presence of B-type starch granules in these evaginations. Moreover, CLSM recordings demonstrated the interconnection of the amyloplasts by these protrusions, suggesting a possible role of these protrusions in interplastid communication.