Cytochemical Characterization of the Synaptic Poles in Equisetum Spore Mother Cells in the Synaptic Stage of Meiosis

Two kinds of poles, the PP and the MP, are manifested just prior to and during the synaptic stage of meiosis in the SMCs of Equisetum. A spectroscopic and ultracytochemical characterization of these poles has been carried out to elucidate their functions. The former pole not only works as the intracellular center of carbohydrate metabolism in this stage, but also as a possible supply center of intermediates for protein and fat biosyntheses. In contrast, the latter pole functions as the intracellular center of ATP production in this stage. This synaptic pole formation is causally related to the “chromosome and molecular pairing” of meiosis.