Leukoplast: What are, function and types

The leukoplasts are small structures with rounded shape that are located in the cells that receive light solar. These organelles that belong to the Family of the Plastidios are characterized by their lack of color. Often, leukoplasts are located in non -photosynthetic tissues, such as roots, bulbs and seeds, where their presence is essential for the storage of substances that facilitate the growth and nutrition of the plant.

Unlike pigmented plastids, which play an active role in photosynthesis, leukoplasts are colorless and do not contribute to light capture. This means that its function focuses on the storage of essential compounds, which makes them crucial components in the structure and composition of plants. The absence of pigments in leukoplasts makes them less visible compared to other parts of the plant, although its importance should not be underestimated.

The morphology of leukoplasts is variable, they are often smaller than their pigmented counterparts. Its form can be described as ameboid, which allows them adapt to different types of cells and tissues. In general, leukoplasts represent an integral part of plants’ cell architecture, contributing to their internal organization and the maintenance of plant health through their storage capacity.

• Lipid synthesis: Leukoplasts are fundamental in lipid production, which are transported to various areas of the cell. This function is essential for the formation and maintenance of cell membranes, as well as for energy storage.
• Biosynthesis of nutrients: Although they do not act as primary storage organelles, leukoplasts are responsible for carrying out a variety of vital biosynthetic functions. They are fundamental in the production of fatty acids, such as palmitic acid, and in the synthesis of numerous amino acids. In addition, they contribute to the formation of compounds such as Hemo, which is important in various metabolic processes.
• Carbohydrate storage: The main function of leukoplasts is to produce and store vital nutrients, such as starch, proteins and lipids. They use glucose to produce starch, which serves as a carbohydrate reserve in plants, thus ensuring energy supply during critical periods.
• Starch production: Leukoplasts can transform glucose into starch, which acts as a form of energy reserve. This starch is used in different stages of plant development, providing energy resources when conditions are unfavorable for photosynthesis.
• Diversity of metabolic functions: Leukoplasts are not only limited to storage; They are also involved in the synthesis of essential compounds that support the growth and development of the plant. This includes amino acid production, which are fundamental construction blocks for proteins, and other metabolites necessary for various biological functions.

The leukoplasts are classified into three main types according to the substance they store: amyloplast, elaioplasts (or oleoplast) and proteinoplasts.

Amiloplasts

The amyloplasts are Storage storagewhich is the main form of energy reserve in plants. These structures turn glucose into starch and store it into tubers, seeds, stems and fruits. Unlike chloroplasts, which produce starch in small quantities, amyloplasts can synthesize and store large amounts of starch For long periodsfrom days to years. This storage capacity is vital for the plant, especially during periods without sunlight, since starch can be broken down to release energy. In addition, special amyloplasts, known as stratolytes, have an important role in the perception of gravity, which helps direct the growth of roots down.

Elaioplasts

Elaioplasts, also known as oleoplast, are specialized in the Lipid and oil storage synthesis and storage. These structures are smaller than amyloplast and contain numerous drops of fat inside. They are commonly found in seeds and cotyledons, where they play an important role in the development of pollen grains. Elaioplasts participate in the Pollen maturationreleasing lipids that form a protective layer on the outside of the grain. The synthesis of lipids in the elaioplasts is carried out through a prokaryotic route, which is different from the eukaryotic path that occurs in the endoplasmic reticulum.

Proteinoplastos

Proteinoplastos, also known as aleuroplast, are Protein storage responsiblealthough its existence as a type dedicated to this purpose is not completely clear. They are found mainly in cereal seeds, where high protein concentrations in crystals or amorphous material are stored. Proteinoplast function is essential in the development of seeds, providing the necessary nutrients for the initial growth of plants.

Now that you know what leukoplasts are, you may be interested in these articles on the cell wall: what is, function and structure and the plant cell: what is, parts, characteristics and functions.

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