Question

What is the function of parenchyma?

Answer 1

Because “parenchyma” is an umbrella term for all cells that perform non-structural biological functions, the functions of parenchymal cells are many. Here are a few.

In plants, parenchymal cells with thin cell walls and the ability to reproduce fulfill functions including:

• Photosynthesis
• Gas exchange
• Food storage
• Wound repair and new growth
• Secretion of sap
• Other specialized functions in certain plants, such as buoyancy control in aquatic plants.

In animals, “parenchymal” cells refer to the functional cells in every organ. That means that almost every function performed in an animal’s body is performed by parenchymal cells. There are too many of these functions to count in total, but some examples are:

• Perception, thinking, information storage and processing (nervous system)
• Gas exchange (lungs)
• Producing immune cells (lymphatic system)
• Secreting hormones (pancreas, various reproductive organs, brains, adrenal glands)
• Filtering blood (kidneys)
• Breaking down toxins (liver)

And many more!