Published online by Cambridge University Press: 06 April 2009
An attempt to differentiate by means of the electron microscope between particles of the top and bottom components of the turnip yellow mosaic virus is described. Since the particles of the top component are thought to be hollow spheres, it might be expected that they would collapse after drying and thus throw a smaller shadow than the particles of the bottom component which are thought to have a more solid centre. No difference could be perceived between the two types of particle, so that the apparently hollow particles can withstand the effect of drying without collapsing.
Sections were cut of leaves of Chinese cabbage (Brassica chinensis) and particles were observed inside the cells which could conceivably be virus particles.