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Molecular insights into the complex mechanics of plant epidermal cell walls

Journal Article · · Science
 [1];  [2];  [2];  [2];  [3];  [2]
  1. Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.; OSTI
  2. Department of Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
  3. Department of Engineering Science and Mechanics and Department of Biomedical Engineering, Pennsylvania State University, University Park, PA 16802, USA.
Computational analysis of cell walls

Layers of intertwined fibers make up plant cell walls. The various types of fibers respond differently to deformation. Cellulose microfibrils, for example, can stretch or curve, changing their end-to-end length, and can also slide past each other, reorient relative directions, and bundle with neighboring microfibrils. Zhanget al.developed a computational model based on observations of onion skin epidermis that describes how these complex changes in space govern cell wall mechanics. The results inform ways to engineer multifunctional fibrous materials.

Science, this issue p.706

Research Organization:
Pennsylvania State Univ., University Park, PA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Science (SC)
DOE Contract Number:
SC0001090;
OSTI ID:
1850710
Journal Information:
Science, Journal Name: Science Journal Issue: 6543 Vol. 372; ISSN 0036-8075
Publisher:
AAAS
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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