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Science 30 May 1980:
Vol. 208. no. 4447, pp. 990 - 1000
DOI: 10.1126/science.208.4447.990
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Articles

Biopolyester Membranes of Plants: Cutin and Suberin

P. E. Kolattukudy 1

1 Director of the Institute of Biological Chemistry and professor of biochemistry (Biochemistry/Biophysics Progam), Washington State University, Pullman 99164

Cutin, a biopolyester composed of hydroxy and epoxy fatty acids, is the barrier between the aerial parts of higher plants and their environment. Suberin a polymer containing aromatics and polyesters, functions as a barrier in underground parts, wound surfaces, and a variety of internal organs. The composition and probable structure of these polymers are discussed. The biosynthesis of the hydroxy, epoxy, and dicarboxylic acids of the polyesters from the common cellular fatty acids is elucidated. An extracellular enzyme transfers the hydroxy and epoxyacyl moieties from their coenzyme A derivatives to the growing polyester. The enzymes acting in the biodegradation of the polyesters have been isolated from fungi, pollen, and mammals and characterized. The function and possible practical implications of these polyester barriers are briefly discussed.


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