Apparent Release of Tobacco Mosaic Virus in Living Infected Cells

Abstract

USING a Zeiss GFL65 phase microscope with ‘Neofluar’ objectives we are attempting to record the sequence of changes produced by tobacco mosaic in living cells of Turkish tobacco. Leaves at intervals after inoculation are prepared by exhausting them of air under water with a high-vacuum pump. Hand sections are cut in a pan of water under a binocular microscope with small pieces of razor blade mounted in a handle. Most sections are paradermal, along or beside veins on the underside of leaves inoculated with tobacco mosaic virus on the upper surface, or on systemically infected leaves. One cell thickness, sometimes obtainable, is ideal; 2 cells may allow images that can be photographed, and occasional observations are possible on pieces 3 cells thick.