functions of cell wall
Answers
*give shape to cell
*protect cell
*exchange of materials from outer surrounding sing and the cell
There are many forms of life on earth with a multitude of features and characteristics. Yet, when we look at the microscopic level, every single life on earth is composed of the same basic, structural and functional unit of life – the cell.
However, the type of cell, chemical composition and its characteristics vary depending on the type of life. One of those important characteristics is the cell wall. Let us explore more about the cell wall, its types and where it is found.
What is a Cell Wall?
A cell wall is defined as the non-living component, covering the outmost layer of a cell. Its composition varies according to the organism and is permeable in nature. The cell wall separates the interior contents of the cell from the exterior environment. It also provides shape, support and protection to the cells. However, this cellular component is present exclusively in eukaryotic plants, fungi and few prokaryotic organisms.
Cell Wall
Pictured: A cross-section of a plant cell with the cell wall highlighted
As stated above, fungi also possess cell walls, but they are made up of chitin, a derivative of glucose which is also found in the exoskeletons of arthropods. And just like the cell walls in plants, they provide structural support and prevents desiccation.
Prokaryotic organisms such as bacteria also contain cell walls. However, they are chemically different from the cell wall found in plants and fungi. The prokaryotic cell walls are composed of large polymers known as peptidoglycans. Cell walls in prokaryotes serve as a form of protection and prevent lysis (bursting of the cell and expulsion of cellular contents). Structurally, prokaryotic cell walls consist of two layers:
An inner layer that is made up of peptidoglycans
An outer layer that is composed of lipoproteins and lipopolysaccharides
Eukaryotic cells possess a definite nucleus along with a distinct nuclear membrane. It also contains membrane-bound organelles not found in prokaryotic cells. Another important point to note is that the cell wall is absent in other eukaryotic organisms such as animals, only plants possess cell walls.
Explore more: Eukaryotic cells
Cell Wall Layers
A eukaryotic plant cell has these three layers in its cell wall. Each layer has its own special function.
Primary Cell Wall
The Middle Lamella
The Secondary Cell Wall
Prokaryotic cell wall
Pictured: A plant cell showcasing the primary cell wall, middle lamella and the secondary cell wall
Primary Cell Wall
The primary cell is situated closest to the inside of the cell and is the first-formed cell wall. It is mainly made up of cellulose, allowing the wall to stretch for the purpose of growth. Several primary cells contain pectic polysaccharides and structural proteins. It is also comparatively permeable and thinner than the other layers.
Middle Lamella
The middle lamella is also the outermost layer and it acts as an interface between the other neighbouring cells and glues them together. This layer primarily consists of pectins. However, other substances such as lignin and proteins can also be found.
Secondary Cell Wall
The secondary cell wall is formed inside the primary cell wall once the cell is completely grown. Some types of cells (especially the cells of xylem tissues) consist of cellulose and lignin and these provide additional rigidity and waterproofing. Also, this layer provides the characteristic rectangular or square shape to a cell. It is also the thickest layer and permits permeability.
Middle Lamella and Primary Cell Wall
Pictured: The above illustration shows the various components of a plant cell wall
Cell Wall Function
The cell wall is an integral component of the plant cell and it performs many essential functions. Following are some of the major cell wall functions observed:
The plant cell wall provides definite shape, strength, rigidity
It also provides protection against mechanical stress and physical shocks
It helps to control cell expansion due to the intake of water
Also helps in preventing water loss from the cell
It is responsible for transporting substances between and across the cell
It acts as a barrier between the interior cellular components and the external environment
Also Read: Plant cell
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