plasmosomes

Plasmosomes are a fascinating botanical phenomenon, essentially referring to the detached protoplasts of plant cells. The term originates from the Greek words "plasma" (meaning something molded or formed) and "soma" (meaning body). When the cell wall of a plant cell is removed or weakened, typically through enzymatic treatment or osmotic shock, the plasma membrane encloses the cytoplasm and organelles, forming a viable, cell-wall-less unit. This process is often achieved using enzymes like cellulase and pectinase to degrade the rigid cell wall.

The resulting plasmosome can be cultured and manipulated in laboratory settings. They are crucial tools in plant biotechnology, particularly for protoplast fusion, a technique used to create hybrid plant cells or genetically modified organisms. By removing the cell wall, protoplasts from different species or varieties can be induced to fuse, leading to the development of novel plant lines with desirable traits. Plasmosomes are also utilized in studies of cell membrane properties, transport mechanisms, and plant cell development due to their accessibility and lack of a rigid cell wall. Their formation and maintenance require specific osmotic conditions to prevent bursting or shrinking.