Question

Which of the following is/are non-membrane bound inclusion bodies?

• A. Carboxysomes
• B. Cyanophycin granules
• C. Poly-\(\beta\)-hydroxybutyrate granules
• D. Polyphosphate granules

Hint:

Remember: Cyanophycin and Polyphosphate granules are classic examples of non-membrane bound storage inclusions in bacteria. PHB and carboxysomes usually have a surrounding protein or membrane-like layer.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B, D

In prokaryotes, inclusion bodies are storage granules that may or may not be membrane-bound.
- Carboxysomes are protein-bound microcompartments (not free non-membrane inclusions).
- Cyanophycin granules (reserve material in cyanobacteria) are non-membrane bound.
- Poly-\(\beta\)-hydroxybutyrate (PHB) granules are typically surrounded by a monolayer membrane of protein and lipid.
- Polyphosphate granules (volutin/metachromatic granules) are non-membrane bound.
\fbox{Thus, the correct answer is (B) and (D).}