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Pollen grain of Cocksfoot grass
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Pollen grain of Cocksfoot grass
False colour scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a pollen grain from cocksfoot grass, Dactylis glomerata, showing a germinating pore from which a pollen tube emerges. Cocksfoot pollen, a summer grass pollen dispersed by the wind, is a major cause of hay fever (medical term Allergic rhinitis & pollenosis). Sufferers produce a sensitising antibody, immunoglobin E (IgE), which attaches to cells in the nose & eyes. It reacts with inhaled pollen causing the release of various chemicals including histamine. Histamine causes the mucous membranes of the nose, eyes & throat to swell & become inflamed, bringing on the familiar symptoms of hay fever. Magnification: X 530 at 35mm size. original is bw print B786/077
Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations
Media ID 6288697
© DR JEREMY BURGESS/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY
Allergic Rhinitis Cocksfoot Grass Germination Grass Hay Fever Pollen Re Production Reproductive Type Cocks Foot
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of a pollen grain from Cocksfoot grass, captured through a false color scanning electron microscope (SEM). The image reveals a germinating pore, from which a delicate pollen tube emerges. While this may seem like an ordinary occurrence in nature, it holds significant implications for those who suffer from hay fever or allergic rhinitis. Cocksfoot grass is notorious for its wind-dispersed summer pollen, which serves as a major trigger for hay fever symptoms. Affected individuals produce immunoglobin E (IgE), a sensitizing antibody that attaches to cells in the nose and eyes. Upon inhalation of the pollen grains, IgE reacts with them and initiates the release of various chemicals including histamine. Histamine plays a crucial role in causing inflammation and swelling of mucous membranes in the nose, eyes, and throat - hallmark symptoms of hay fever. As we gaze upon this magnified view of Cocksfoot grass's reproductive mechanism at 530 times its original size, we gain insight into both the botanical wonders present around us and their impact on human health. Through scientific exploration such as this SEM image capture by Science Photo Library, we deepen our understanding of plant reproduction while also appreciating how seemingly innocuous elements can have profound effects on our well-being.
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