suberins

Suberins are complex biopolyesters found in the cell walls of cork tissues in plants, primarily in the periderm layer. They are also present in root endodermis and other specialized protective tissues. Suberins are composed of a wide variety of aliphatic and aromatic components, including fatty acids, fatty alcohols, diols, and phenolic compounds. These components are linked together through ester and ether bonds, forming a highly cross-linked network.

The primary function of suberin is to provide a barrier against water and gas diffusion. This waterproofing property is crucial for plants, especially in aerial organs like bark, where it prevents excessive water loss and protects against desiccation. In roots, suberin in the endodermis regulates the uptake of water and minerals by controlling their movement into the vascular cylinder. The hydrophobic nature of suberin also contributes to the resistance of plant tissues to pathogen invasion and mechanical damage.

The deposition of suberin, known as suberization, is a dynamic process that occurs in response to various stimuli, including wounding, environmental stress, and developmental cues. The composition and structure of suberin can vary depending on the plant species, tissue type, and environmental conditions. Research into suberin continues to explore its potential applications in areas such as biomaterials, drug delivery, and sustainable packaging due to its protective and barrier properties.