What is a cell wall made up of?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the composition of a cell wall, which is a structure found in plants, fungi, bacteria, and some archaea. It typically consists of polysaccharides, proteins, and other materials depending on the type of organism.
Answer
Cellulose microfibrils, cross-linking glycans, pectin polysaccharides, lignin (in secondary cell walls).
The plant cell wall is mainly composed of a network of cellulose microfibrils, cross-linking glycans, and a matrix of pectin polysaccharides. In secondary cell walls, lignin may also be present.
Answer for screen readers
The plant cell wall is mainly composed of a network of cellulose microfibrils, cross-linking glycans, and a matrix of pectin polysaccharides. In secondary cell walls, lignin may also be present.
More Information
The plant cell wall provides structural support, protection, and helps in regulating intercellular communication. Primary cell walls are more flexible while secondary cell walls, which contain lignin, provide additional strength and rigidity.
Sources
- NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
- Cell wall - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Cell wall | Description, Properties, Components, & Communication - Britannica - britannica.com
