Short Note on Vacuoles

Vacuoles Definition:

Vacuoles are membrane-bound cell organelles that are present in the cytoplasm and are filled with a watery fluid containing various substances.

Discovery of Vacuoles:

Vacuoles were discovered by Felix Dujardin in 1835.

Types of Vacuoles:

There are four types of vacuoles on the basis of content and functions:-

• Sap vacuoles
• Contractile vacuoles
• Food vacuoles
• Gas vacuoles

Structure of Vacuoles:

• Vacuole is a membrane bound structure found in the cytoplasmic matrix of a cell.
• The membrane that surrounds the vacuole is known as tonoplast. 
• The components of the vacuole, known as the cell sap, differ from that of the surrounding cytoplasm. 
• The membranes are composed of phospholipids. 
• The membranes are embedded with proteins that help in transporting molecules across the membrane. 
• Different combinations of these proteins help the vacuoles to hold different materials.

Function of Vacuoles:

• Stores salts, minerals, pigments and proteins within the cell.
• Turgor pressure of the vacuoles provides shape to the cell and helps it to withstand extreme conditions.
• The substances are taken in by a vacuole through endocytosis and excreted through exocytosis.

Also Check – Endocytosis -Definition, Mechanism, Types, Examples

Also Check – What is the Difference between Plant Vacuoles and Animal Vacuoles?

Also Check – What will happen to the Plant Cell without Vacuole?

Also Check – 10 Important Vacuoles Functions

Also Check – Why do Plant cells possess Large Sized Vacuoles