Both LF-NMR relaxometry and LM observations highlighted shrinkage of the vacuole compartment along the OD. Intercellular space formations, observed at TEM, were in agreement with LF-NMR results. Cell walls of outer pericarp showed considerable changes in size, structure and stain uptake during OD, at both LM and TEM. Furthermore cell walls showed extensive swelling, which intensity varied from cell to cell and even within the same cell.