Definitions

1. noun

A cell or cell wall that still retains the cell membrane and other organelles, but has lost its original cell wall material; a cell that has been transformed into a cell wall-free state, but is still viable; or a cell that is the precursor to a mature cell in a multicellular organism.

“The scientists studied the protoplasts of the bacteria to understand their behavior and properties.”

2. noun

A precursor cell in a multicellular organism that differentiates into a mature cell.

“The development of the plant involved the differentiation of protoplasts into various cell types.”