Chemical Composition of Cell Wall in Plants and Fungi

The cell wall is an essential component of plant and fungal cells. It provides structural support to the cell and protects it from external damage. The cell wall is composed of various macromolecules, including polysaccharides, proteins, and lignin. Here, we will discuss the chemical composition of the cell wall in plants and fungi.

Polysaccharides

Polysaccharides are the primary component of the cell wall in plants and fungi. They are long chains of sugar molecules that provide structural support to the cell wall. The most common polysaccharides found in plant cell walls are cellulose, hemicellulose, and pectin. Cellulose is the main component of the cell wall in plants, and it is made up of glucose molecules. Hemicellulose is a branched chain of various sugars, including xylose, mannose, and galactose. Pectin is a complex polysaccharide that consists of galacturonic acid and other sugars.

Proteins

Proteins are also an essential component of the cell wall in plants and fungi. They are involved in various functions, including cell wall expansion, cell adhesion, and defense against pathogens. The most common proteins found in plant cell walls are extensins, hydroxyproline-rich glycoproteins (HRGPs), and arabinogalactan proteins (AGPs). Fungal cell walls also contain proteins, such as chitinases, glucanases, and hydrophobins.

Lignin

Lignin is a complex polymer that is found in the secondary cell wall of plants. It provides additional structural support to the cell wall and makes it more rigid. Lignin is composed of various phenolic compounds, including coniferyl alcohol, sinapyl alcohol, and p-coumaryl alcohol.

In conclusion, the chemical composition of the cell wall in plants and fungi is complex and consists of various macromolecules, including polysaccharides, proteins, and lignin. These components work together to provide structural support to the cell and protect it from external damage.