Celleveggenes

Celleveggenes is a Norwegian term referring to the genes involved in the biosynthesis, assembly, and remodeling of the cell wall. The cell wall is a structural layer that protects cells and mediates interactions with the environment. Celleveggenes span across different life forms and include gene families responsible for building cell wall polymers, regulating their deposition, and modulating wall architecture in response to growth and stress.

In plants and algae, major families include cellulose synthases (CesA) and cellulose synthase-like proteins (Csl), which synthesize cellulose and related polysaccharides. Other genes encode enzymes for the biosynthesis of hemicelluloses and pectins, and lignin biosynthesis genes such as PAL, C4H, 4CL, CCR, and CAD contribute to secondary wall rigidity. Regulatory genes and wall-modifying proteins, including expansins and various wall-modifying enzymes, coordinate cell expansion and remodeling.

In bacteria, cell wall genes largely concern peptidoglycan synthesis and remodeling, including mur operon genes (MurA–MurF), penicillin-binding proteins, and autolysins. In fungi, chitin synthases (CHS) and beta-glucan synthases (FKS) control the synthesis of major wall components, with remodeling enzymes adjusting wall porosity and strength.

Regulation of celleveggenes integrates developmental cues and environmental signals. In plants, hormonal signals and stress responses influence wall gene expression; in microorganisms, cell wall integrity pathways monitor wall status and trigger adaptive responses. Advances in genomics, transcriptomics, and functional genomics enable mapping of gene networks, localization, and phenotypic effects of perturbations.