lignificadas

Lignificadas is a term used in botany to describe plant tissues that have undergone lignification, the deposition of lignin in their cell walls. This process strengthens and waterproofs the tissue, increasing rigidity and resistance to decay. The English equivalent is lignified, and in Spanish it is used to refer to cells or tissues that have become lignified.

Lignification occurs during the differentiation of many plant tissues, especially sclerenchyma and elements of the xylem such as fibers and vessel elements. Lignin is formed from monolignols (coniferyl, sinapyl, and p-coumaryl alcohols) through the phenylpropanoid pathway. Enzymes like peroxidases and laccases catalyze the polymerization of these compounds in the secondary cell wall, creating a rigid, hydrophobic network that limits expansion and enhances structural support.

The degree of lignification varies among species, tissues, and environmental conditions, and it often follows gradients within stems and roots. Lignificadas contribute to woodiness in many plants and play a key role in water transport efficiency, mechanical stability, and defense against pathogens.

Ecological and commercial relevance is linked to lignin content: it influences wood density, pulp and paper processing, and bioenergy potentials. Lignin content can be measured chemically or spectroscopically, and understanding lignification informs studies of plant development, ecology, and industrial applications.

See also: Lignin, secondary cell wall, sclerenchyma, xylem, wood.