The neck constriction in plasmodesmata

Abstract

Simple plasmodesmata between mesophyll and bundle sheath cells in actively expanding leaves of Salsola kali L. and roots of Epilobium hirsutum L. are shown to possess specialized structures, called sphincters, around their neck regions. The sphineters are made visible by the combined effects of tannic acid and heavy metal staining; they are localized just outside that area of the plasmalemma, which forms the collar around the entrance to each plasmodesmos. This localization corresponds to a very active area of the plasmodesmos/olasmalemma complex (i.e. enzyme activity and/or presence of strongly reducing substances).Evidence is presented that these ring structures are structural equivalents to hypothetical sphincters performing some valve function; i.e. participating in the control of rates and directions of symplastic transport of solutes through plasmodesmata. The middle layer of the plasmalemma in the neck region is composed of closely-packed, globular subunits appearing in negative contrast. Apparently, these subunits correspond to particle clusters observed at the plasmodesmatal entrance in freeze-fracture preparations. They appear similar to particle clusters in animal tight junctions, and their possible function in providing electrical coupling via low resistance junctions between plant cells is discussed.