False-colour scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of pollen grains around a split-open (dehisced) anther of the common oak,Quercus robur. Oak trees flower in May/June & produce copious quantities of pollen,which is dispersed on the wind. Oak pollen is a major cause of hay fever (medical terms Allergic rhinitis & pollenosis). Sufferers produce an antibody,immunoglobin E (IgE),which attaches to cells in the nose & eyes. It reacts with inhaled pollen to cause the release of various chemicals,including histamine. Histamine causes the mucous membranes of the nose,eyes & throat to swell & become inflamed,bringing on the hay fever attack. Magnification: x20 at 35mm size. Original is bw print B786/086 | |
Lizenzart: | Lizenzpflichtig |
Credit: | Science Photo Library / Burgess, Dr. Jeremy |
Bildgröße: | 2249 px × 3505 px |
Modell-Rechte: | nicht erforderlich |
Eigentums-Rechte: | nicht erforderlich |
Restrictions: | - |