Hemicellulose
Hemicellulose (pronunciation: /ˌhɛmiˈsɛl.jʊ.loʊs/) is a type of polysaccharide that is present in plant cell walls.
Etymology
The term "hemicellulose" is derived from the Greek words "hemi," meaning half, and "cellulose," referring to the primary structural component of plant cell walls.
Definition
Hemicellulose is a heterogeneous group of polysaccharides that are associated with cellulose in the cell walls of plants. Unlike cellulose, which is crystalline, strong, and resistant to hydrolysis, hemicellulose has a random, amorphous structure with little strength. It is easily hydrolyzed by dilute acid or base as well as a variety of hemicellulase enzymes.
Structure
Hemicellulose is composed of various sugar monomers, including glucose, mannose, galactose, xylose, and arabinose. The exact composition and structure of hemicellulose can vary between different types of plants and even between different parts of the same plant.
Function
In plant cells, hemicellulose helps to bind cellulose fibers together, contributing to the overall structure and strength of the plant. It also plays a role in water retention and transport within the plant.
Related Terms
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hemicellulose
- Wikipedia's article - Hemicellulose
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