Question

are granular structures first observed under ?z microscope as dense particles by \((1955)\). (a) Ribosomes, George Palade (b) Ribosomes, Perner (c) Lysosomes, de Duve (d) Peroxisomes, de Duve

Short answer

Ribosomes were first observed under a microscope as dense particles by George Palade in 1955, so the correct answer is (a) Ribosomes, George Palade.

Step-by-step solution

Identifying the Discovery

The task is to identify who first observed granular structures under a microscope as dense particles. Specifically, we need to determine whose research from the year 1955 is associated with this discovery.

Matching Historical Scientific Contribution

To find the right match, we need to recall the historical contributions of scientists to cell biology. George Palade is known for his pioneering work in electron microscopy, which led to the discovery of ribosomes. Christian de Duve discovered lysosomes and later peroxisomes, but not in the year specified.

Associating the Correct Option

Given the options, and knowing the historical context, George Palade's work in 1955, which led to the discovery of ribosomes, is the correct match for the given statement.

Key concepts

Ribosomes Discovery

The discovery of ribosomes marked a significant moment in cellular biology, shedding light on how cells synthesize proteins. Ribosomes are minute particles within a cell that serve as the site of protein synthesis. It was in 1955 when George Palade utilized the power of electron microscopy to observe these dense granular structures within cells for the first time.

Ribosomes play a critical role as they link amino acids together in the order specified by mRNA (messenger RNA) sequences, hence directly impacting the function and structure of the proteins produced. The identification of ribosomes paved the way for deeper understanding in molecular biology, influencing fields such as genetics, biochemistry, and medicine.

George Palade

George Emil Palade, a cell biologist of profound influence, was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1974 for his groundbreaking work with electron microscopy in cell biology. His research was pivotal in identifying organelles within the cytoplasm, among which ribosomes were a prominent discovery.

His meticulous approach and enhancement of electron microscopic techniques enabled the visualization of cells at unprecedented resolution, leading to insights into their complex structures and functions. Palade's dedication to understanding the inner workings of the cell has greatly enriched scientific knowledge and has contributed to various diagnostic and therapeutic practices.

Electron Microscopy

Electron microscopy has been a cornerstone in the advancement of cell biology, offering an intricate view of cellular components that are otherwise invisible under light microscopy. This powerful technique bombards a specimen with a beam of electrons and captures the image with a sensor, producing highly magnified images with exceptional detail.

Since its inception, electron microscopy has allowed scientists not only to identify new cellular structures, like ribosomes, but also to delve into their functions and alterations in pathology. Its use in Palade's work on ribosomes exemplifies its transformative impact on scientific research and our understanding of the fundamental units of life.