Structural and histochemical characterization of the cotyledon storage organelles of jojoba (Simmondsia chinensis)

Summary Jojoba cotyledon cells are isodiametric and 44 m in diameter. They contain two prominent storage organelles—wax bodies and protein bodies. Isolated and intact wax bodies react positively with several lipid histochemical stains; they are spherical and 1.5 m in diameter. Protein bodies are irregular in shape, but usually appear spherical. They range in diameter from 7–15 m, are unit membrane bound, have an irregular grainy matrix and do not contain a globoid inclusion. Protein bodies stain positively for both protein and lipid. The possible composition and role of this protein/lipid body complex is discussed.