MESOSOME Meaning and
Definition
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A mesosome is a term used in the field of microbiology to refer to a specialized structure found in certain bacteria cells. The term was originally coined by Belgian biologist Albert Charles François van Niel in the year 1950 to describe specific internal structures seen within bacterial cells.
A mesosome can best be described as an irregularly-shaped invagination or protrusion of the plasma membrane of a bacterial cell. It is not a distinct organelle, but rather a morphological feature that appears as an extension of the plasma membrane. Mesosomes are commonly observed in bacteria cells during the exponential growth phase or under certain environmental conditions.
The functions and significance of mesosomes are still not fully understood, and their presence varies among bacterial species. However, it is believed that mesosomes play two main roles in bacterial cells. Firstly, they are thought to be involved in cell division and reproduction, aiding in the formation of new cell walls and the separation of daughter cells. Secondly, mesosomes may also participate in cellular respiration and energy metabolism, as they contain enzymes and proteins involved in these processes.
Despite being extensively studied in the past, the concept of the mesosome as a distinct structure has been challenged in recent years. Modern research techniques and advancements in microscopy have led to differing opinions on the actual nature and function of mesosomes. Nevertheless, the term remains commonly used when describing the observed invaginations of bacterial plasma membranes.
Common Misspellings for MESOSOME
- Mezosome
- Mezozome
- Messosome
- Mesazome
- Mezasome
- Mesossome
- Messome
- Mesosomme
Etymology of MESOSOME
The word "mesosome" is composed of two parts: "meso-" and "-some".
1. "Meso-" originates from the Greek word "mesos", meaning "middle" or "in the middle". It often denotes something that is intermediate or located between two extremes.
2. "-Some" is a common suffix used in biology to refer to a body or a part of a structure.
Combining these two elements, "mesosome" in biology refers to a membranous structure found in certain prokaryotic cells, particularly bacteria. The term was first coined by the Belgian-born American biologist Emile van Iterson in 1953 when he observed these structures in bacterial cells. The name "mesosome" highlights their location as an intermediate structure between the inner and outer membrane of bacterial cells.
