cutin

views updated May 29 2018

cutin A polymer of long-chain fatty acids that forms the main constituent of the cuticle of epidermal plant cells. The cutin polymers are cross-linked forming a network, which is embedded in a matrix of waxes. The deposition of cutin (cutinization) reduces water loss by the plant and helps prevent the entry of pathogens. See also suberin.

cutin

views updated May 08 2018

cutin A complex biopolymer comprising a mixture of fatty-acid derivatives with water-proofing qualities found in the cuticle of plants.

cutin

views updated May 23 2018

cutin The complex mixture of fatty-acid derivatives with waterproofing qualities of which the cuticle of plants is composed.

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