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
Metachromatic granules are often found in species like Corynebacterium diphtheriae.
They serve as phosphate reserves for the cell's metabolic needs.
These granules exhibit metachromasia, meaning they change color when stained with certain dyes such as methylene blue.
They are also known as volutin granules or Babes-Ernst bodies.
Their presence can be an important diagnostic feature in identifying certain bacterial species.
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Related terms
Polyphosphate: A type of polymer consisting of multiple phosphate units, stored within metachromatic granules.