Cell Wall Function
Below are the functions of cell wall:
Gives the cell a definite shape and structure.
Provides structural support.
Protection against infection and mechanical stress.
Separates interior of the cell from the outer environment.
It enables transport of substances and information from the cell insides to the exterior and vice versa.
Also helps in osmotic-regulation.
Prevents water loss.
The physiological and biochemical activity of the cell wall helps in cell-cell communication.
It prevents the cell from rupturing due to tugor pressure.
Aids in diffusion of gases in and out of the cell.
Also provides mechanical protection from insects and pathogens.
Cell Wall Structure
The composition of the cell wall differs from one species to the other. In bacteria the cell wall is made up of peptidoglycans. The Archean cell wall is made of glycoproteins and polysaccharides. In fungi cell walls are made of glucosamine and chitin. In algae it is composed of glycoproteins and polysaccharides. The plant cell wall is mainly composed of cellulose, hemicellulose, glycoproteins, pectins and lignin.
Plant Cell Wall
Presence of Cell wall is the major difference between plant cell and animal cell.
Plant cell wall performs essential functions like providing shape, tensile strength and protection and also helps the cell develop tugor pressure to maintain the pressure of the cell contents.
Plant cell walls are primarily made up of cellulose. cellulose is the most abundant macro-molecule on Earth.