BIOCHEMISTRY OF LIGNIFICATION OF XYLEMATICS CELLS

ABSTRACT

Lignification is a biochemical process that comprise the monolignols formation and precursors polymerization in the cell wall. Besides physical and chemical reinforce properties it contribute to water transport in the xylem cells. The biossíntese involves PAL, C4H, 4CL, C3H, OMT, F5H, CCR and CAD enzymes, which are responsible for all lignin precursors formation in the cytoplasmatic compartment. During the precursors formation some enzymes promote hydroxylations as well as methylations, while others act on aliphatic chain. Studies show that enzymes could modify the lignin molecular architecture and polymerization degree. At present transgenic techniques are available to regulate the enzyme activity during lignin formation, resulting in several benefits to the forest area, agriculture and environment.

Keywords:
lignin; lignification; wood