Plant virus-induced cell wall overgrowth and associated membrane elaboration

Abstract

Pronounced formation of paramural bodies and subsequent abnormal cell wall protrusions were induced in bean leaves in early stages of infection by bean pod mottle virus. The paramural bodies were contiguous with protruded areas of cell walls and appeared to have arisen from elaborated plasmalemma. Elements of endoplasmic reticulum were closely associated with areas of discontinuous plasmalemma bordering the paramural bodies. Wall protrusions and associated structures disappeared at later stages of infection. The possible function and fate of these structures are discussed.