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Journal of Cell Science, Vol 87, 283-290, Copyright © 1987 by Company of Biologists

Submitted on June 9, 1986
Accepted on October 21, 1986

The origin and composition of nucleolus-like inclusions in the cytoplasm of fern egg cells

P. R. BELL 1 and R. I. PENNELL 2

1 Department of Botany and Microbiology, University College London WCIE 6BT, UK
2 Department of Botany and Microbiology, University College London WCIE 6BT, UK; John Innes Institute, Colney Lane, Norwich NR4 7UH, UK

Investigations of oogenesis in a number of leptosporangiate ferns have revealed nucleolus-like bodies in the cytoplasm of the maturing egg cells. In Pteridium and Lygodium these bodies appear to be aggregates of material secreted from protrusions of the nucleus. They are acidic in reaction, but autoradiography following feeding with [3H]uridine and the use of an RNase-gold probe, has failed to demonstrate the presence of RNA. It is concluded that the bodies consist of acidic protein. Since their appearance coincides with an amoeboid condition of the nucleus and extreme dispersal of the chromatin, it is suggested that they represent a temporary storage in the cytoplasm of non-histone structural proteins of nuclear origin.

Key words: cytoplasmic nucleoloids, fern egg cells, RNase-gold probe

Submitted on June 9, 1986
Accepted on October 21, 1986






© The Company of Biologists Ltd 1987