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volutin
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volutin

biology
Also known as: metachromatic granule
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Quick Summary

Volutin is a granular substance found in the cytoplasm of microorganisms, particularly bacteria. It contains nucleic acids and is considered a type of inclusion body, meaning it is not enclosed by a membrane and serves as a storage vessel.12

Volutin is composed of polymerized phosphate and acts as a storage form for inorganic phosphate and energy within the cell. These storage granules are produced when growth conditions are favorable and are utilized by the bacteria once the nutrients in their environment are depleted. The term "volutin" originates from the bacterium Spirillum volutans, where it was first identified.21

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. volutin
  2. bacteria - Cytoplasmic structures

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