What is the function of lignin deposition in cell wall
What is the function of lignin deposition in cell wall
Lignin and cellulose work together to provide a structural function in plants analogous to that of epoxy resin and glass fibres in a fiberglass boat. The fibrous components, cellulose or glass fibres, are the primary load-bearing elements while the matrix, lignin or epoxy resin, provides stiffness and rigidity. Thus trees (lignin content between 20% and 30% of dry weight) grow much taller than grasses (lignin content below 20%) before they bend under their own weight.
Beyond the structural function, lignin plays several other important biological roles in plants. Because it is much less hydrophilic than cellulose and hemicellulose, it prevents the absorption of water by these polysaccharides in plant cell walls and allows the efficient transport of water in the vascular tissues. Lignin also forms an effective barrier against attack by insects and fungi.
Lignin and cellulose work together to provide a structural function in plants analogous to that of epoxy resin and glass fibres in a fiberglass boat. The fibrous components, cellulose or glass fibres, are the primary load-bearing elements while the matrix, lignin or epoxy resin, provides stiffness and rigidity. Thus trees (lignin content between 20% and 30% of dry weight) grow much taller than grasses (lignin content below 20%) before they bend under their own weight.
Beyond the structural function, lignin plays several other important biological roles in plants. Because it is much less hydrophilic than cellulose and hemicellulose, it prevents the absorption of water by these polysaccharides in plant cell walls and allows the efficient transport of water in the vascular tissues. Lignin also forms an effective barrier against attack by insects and fungi.
