Cellular Dynamics
in Passiflora tarminiana: Insights from Histological Investigations
Sonia G.B., Sundarapandian Mahalakshmi, Ramu G. and Raman Priya
Res. J. Biotech.; Vol. 20(1); 21-28;
doi: https://doi.org/10.25303/201rjbt021028; (2025)
Abstract
The objective of the study was to investigate the visible and microscopic features
of Passiflora tarminiana fruit. The plant specimen was collected in May 2023 from
Ooty, The Nilgiris District, Tamil Nadu. The evaluation was carried out using macroscopy,
microscopy and histochemical tests. The fruit's characteristic components were identified
by dissecting it and their structures were visually documented through photographs.
Macroscopy revealed the fruit's sensory properties while microscopy showed the presence
of oil globules, stone cells, simple pitted, reticulated and spiral vessels and
cluster crystals from the seeds.
In histochemical tests, cutin, alkaloid, lignin, mucilage, oil globules and tannins
were observed in different regions of the pericarp. Cutin, aleurone grains and oil
droplets were observed in various regions of the seed. The analysis of macroscopic,
microscopic and histochemical features was found to be the first step in determining
the quality, identity and purity of plant material that will be used in formulating
a natural medicine. Additionally, the findings will be useful in distinguishing
different species of Passiflora.
