Thrombocytogenesis by megakaryocyte; Interpretation by protoplatelet hypothesis

Serial transmission electron microscopy of human megakaryocytes (MKs) revealed their polyploidization and gradual maturation through consecutive transition in characteristics of various organelles and others. At the beginning of differentiation, MK with ploidy 32N, e.g., has 16 centrosomes in the cell center surrounded by 32N nucleus. Each bundle of microtubules (MTs) emanated from the respective centrosome supports and organizes 16 equally volumed cytoplasmic compartments which together compose one single 32N MK. During the differentiation, single centriole separated from the centriole pair, i.e., centrosome, migrates to the most periphery of the cell through MT bundle, corresponding to a half of the interphase array originated from one centrosome, supporting one "putative cytoplasmic compartment" (PCC). Platelet demarcation membrane (DM) is constructed on the boundary surface between neighbouring PCCs. Matured PCC, composing of a tandem array of platelet territories covered by a sheet of DM is designated as protoplatelet. Eventually, the rupture of MK results in release of platelets from protoplatelets. (Communicated by Tadamitsu Kishimoto, M.J.A.).     

Synthesis of (22S, 23S)-homobrassinolide and brassinolide from stigmasterol

(22S, 23S)-Homobrassinolide (2α, 3α, 22S, 23S-tetrahydroxy-24S-etyl-B-homo-7-oxa-5α-cholestan-6-one) and brassinolide (2α, 3α 22R, 23R-tetrahydroxy-24S-methyl-B-homo-7-oxa-5α-cholestan-6-one) were synthesized from stigmasterol and shown to promote plant growth.