Microscopy of Structures and Histochemistry of Plants

Dear Colleagues,

Microscopy is the technical field of using microscopes to examine samples/structures and objects that cannot be seen with the unaided eye. Microscopy examines the smallest structures of the body; tissues, cells, and molecules under a range of magnifications (eg. about a million times). Microscopists can link the relationships between structures and properties for a variety of materials ranging from soft to very hard and from non-living materials to living organisms by analysing their cellular composition under low, medium or high magnification. Specifically, the evaluation of cellular structures using microscopy provides scientists with fundamental information on the types of cells found within, their structure and relative function.

For several years we have relied on medicinal plants for their therapeutic or pharmaceutical value. Therapeutic properties are attributed to secondary metabolites (phytometabolites) found within certain plant species. Synthesized primary metabolites play important roles in growth and development, whilst secondary metabolites are plant-specific and are produced as part of the plant defence system against pests and pathogens. These phytometabolites are actively secreted and stored within specialized secretory structures, such as trichomes, salt glands, nectaries and laticifers (which appear internally) etc. The secondary metabolites secreted by secretory structures vary and so do their functions which range from defence mechanisms, pollination, seed dispersal, or digestion of prey. The variation amongst morphology, exudate and function of secretory structures are used to classify and distinguish between the types and classes found. In order to determine the chemical composition, mode of secretion, and possible pharmaceutical properties of secondary metabolites within secretory structures it is necessary to conduct a histochemical analysis. Histochemistry combines the techniques of biochemistry, histology and microscopy in the study of the chemical constitution of cells and tissues. This analysis involves the use of various chemical reagents and stains which are applied to thin sections of biological material. These sections are then viewed using a microscope. This analysis aims to provide colour and contrast to microscopic images by highlighting the presence and localisation of chemical compounds found within and between biological cells. Considering the increased interest in medicinal plants and their secondary metabolites, researchers must be able to understand the biochemical, physiological, and structural effects of biochemical compounds on the structures of plants. Thus, the results obtained from the emanating analysis will provide fundamental information regarding phytometabolites of medicinal interest and their localisation.

Prof. Dr. Yougasphree Naidoo
Guest Editor

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• medicinal plant
• secretory structures
• histochemistry
• plant structures
• microscopy
• secondary metabolites