Metachromatic granules

Definition

Metachromatic granules are intracellular storage bodies found in some prokaryotic cells, particularly in bacteria. They are typically composed of polyphosphate and can be stained to appear a different color from the dye used.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Metachromatic granules are often found in species like Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
2. They serve as phosphate reserves for the cell's metabolic needs.
3. These granules exhibit metachromasia, meaning they change color when stained with certain dyes such as methylene blue.
4. They are also known as volutin granules or Babes-Ernst bodies.
5. Their presence can be an important diagnostic feature in identifying certain bacterial species.

Review Questions

Related terms

Polyphosphate: A type of polymer consisting of multiple phosphate units, stored within metachromatic granules.

Corynebacterium diphtheriae:

A pathogenic bacterium known for containing metachromatic granules and causing diphtheria.

Volutin Granules: Another term for metachromatic granules, emphasizing their role in storing inorganic phosphates.