Structure of the rigid-layer of Rhizobium cell wall. III. Electron microscopic evidence for the cellulose microfibrils association with peptidoglycan sacculi.
The morphology of peptidoglycan layer of Rhizobium cell wall was examined by transmission electron microscopy. Peptidoglycans were isolated from intact cells after treatment with sodium dodecyl sulfate, extraction with aqueous 45% phenol and then with a mixture of chloroform-methanol. Finally rigid layers were digested with trypsin and chymotrypsin. The results indicate the presence of lump or bar-like structures on the surface of the cell shaped peptidoglycan sacculi. Evidence is provided suggesting that the cellulose microfibrils arise directly from these excrescences found on the peptidoglycan surface. Digestion with cellulase removed all cellulose microfibrils whereas the lumps and bars remained as an integral part of the Rhizobium peptidoglycan.
D002473:Cell Wall / Q000032:analysis / Q000648:ultrastructure*; D002482:Cellulose / Q000032:analysis; D008854:Microscopy, Electron; D010457:Peptidoglycan / Q000032:analysis; D012231:Rhizobium / Q000032:analysis / Q000648:ultrastructure*
D010457:Peptidoglycan; D002482:Cellulose