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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Protoplast and Protoplasm?

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The main difference between protoplast and protoplasm lies in their compositions and structures. Here are the key differences:

  • Protoplasm: Protoplasm is a complex, semifluid, translucent substance that constitutes the living matter of plant and animal cells. It includes both the contents of nucleoplasm (protoplasm of the nucleus) and cytoplasm (extranuclear protoplasm). Protoplasm provides the medium for the essential life processes of a cell and comprises proteins, fats, and other molecules suspended in water.
  • Protoplast: Protoplasts are isolated cells devoid of the cell wall, which are bounded by plasmalemma. They can be the cells of plants, fungi, or bacteria. Protoplasts are often referred to as "naked" cells. They have all the components of a cell except a cell wall.

In summary, protoplasm is the living, semifluid substance inside cells, while protoplasts are cells without a cell wall.

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  • What is the Difference Between Protoplast and Protoplasm?
  • Comparative Table: Protoplast vs Protoplasm

    • Comparative Table: Protoplast vs Protoplasm

    The main difference between protoplasm and protoplast lies in the structure and organization of the cell components. Here is a table summarizing the differences between protoplasm and protoplast:

    Feature Protoplasm Protoplast
    Definition Protoplasm is the living content inside the cell membrane, excluding the cell wall. Protoplast is a cell without its cell wall, typically referring to plant, bacterial, or fungal cells.
    Components Protoplasm consists of cytoplasm and nucleus, which contain all essential components for life processes. Protoplast consists of protoplasm and ergastic bodies (non-living components).
    Structure Protoplasm is viscous and colorless, and can be differentiated into two parts: nucleoplasm (protoplasm of the nucleus) and cytoplasm (extranuclear protoplasm). Protoplast is a naked cell, lacking a cell wall, and is enclosed by plasmalemma.
    Function Protoplasm is essential for the survival and functioning of all living organisms. Protoplasts are used for various purposes, such as plant breeding, somaclonal variation, and membrane biology.

    In summary, protoplasm is the living content inside a cell, while protoplast is a cell without a cell wall. Protoplasm is essential for the survival and functioning of living organisms, whereas protoplasts are used for specific purposes in research and breeding.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.