Write the characteristics of cells which are proximal to the meristematic zone.

Answer

### Step-by-Step Text Solution

1. **Definition of Meristematic Zone**: The meristematic zone is a region in plants where actively dividing cells are located. These cells are crucial for growth and development.

2. **Location**: Meristematic cells are primarily found at the tips of roots and shoots. This positioning allows for the elongation and growth of these structures.

3. **Characteristics of Proximal Cells**:
- **Active Cell Division**: Cells proximal to the meristematic zone are actively dividing, contributing to the growth of the plant.
- **Lack of Intercellular Spaces**: These cells do not have intercellular spaces, which allows for a dense arrangement of cells.
- **Absence of Vacuoles**: Vacuoles, which typically store nutrients and waste products, are absent in these cells. This absence is significant because it allows the cells to remain small and maintain their ability to divide.
- **No Food Storage**: Since vacuoles are absent, these cells do not store food. Instead, they focus on division and growth.
- **Absence of Plasmodesmata**: Plasmodesmata, which are channels that allow for communication and transport between plant cells, are also absent in these cells. This feature helps prevent the spread of viruses, as infections cannot easily move from one cell to another.

4. **Importance in Biotechnology**: The characteristics of these cells make them valuable in biotechnology, particularly in tissue culture. By using meristematic cells, scientists can produce disease-free plants. When meristems from infected plants are cultured in a lab, they can grow into healthy, disease-free plants.

5. **Conclusion**: The cells proximal to the meristematic zone are specialized for growth and division, lacking structures that would impede their function or allow for disease spread. Their unique characteristics make them essential for plant development and biotechnological applications.