Plant Cell Walls-3  
311 Syllabus

Cell Wall Composition

Polysaccharides (Molecules made from Sugars) constitute most of the cell wall.

Cellulose is a  Polymer of Glucose

Hemicellulose has Glucose as one of its principal components.

Pectins are principally composed of acidic sugars like galacturonic acid.

Phenolic Compounds like Lignin may be present.

Proteins constitute a small fraction of the wall.

Structural Proteins are frequently present.

Elastin is a protein which appears to function in Wall Loosening.

Extensin adds Rigidity to the wall.

A few Enzymes may be present.

Principal Function -> Regulate Cell VOLUME & SHAPE

Ecological Importance

Major Component of  Carbon Flow through Ecosystems

Helps determine Soil Structure