Membranes
With electron microscopy, membranes appear as dark lines, due to the reaction of osmium with the membrane lipids. At much higher magnification than shown here, membranes show a trilaminar appearance. Membranes are a component of many intracellular organelles, as well as forming the unique membrane at the cell surface, called the plasma membrane. 15,000x
Plasma membrane >
The plasma membrane is the membrane at the cell surface, enclosing the cytoplasm of the cell.
Nuclei >
A portion of the nucleus of each cell is visible.
Nuclear envelope >
Two membranes surround each nucleus, forming the nuclear envelope. Arrows indicate the outer nuclear membrane. Intracellular membranes have a similar structure and appearance as the plasma membrane.
RER >
Intracellular membranes, e.g. those forming the endoplasmic reticulum, are also composed of membranes with a similar structure and appearance as the plasma membrane. Rough endoplasmic reticulum is studded with ribosomes.
Mitochondria >
Intracellular membranes, e.g., those associated with mitochondria, also possess a structure and appearance similar to the plasma membrane. Mitochondria possess two membranes.
Intercellular space >
The intercellular space contains numerous cellular extensions.
Cellular extensions >
The intercellular space contains numerous cellular extensions.
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