Trafficking of the cellulose synthase complex in developing xylem vessels
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 12, 2026

Using High Resolution Computed Tomography to Visualize the Three Dimensional Structure and Function of Plant Vasculature
Published on: April 5, 2013
Raymond Wightman1, Simon Turner
1Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Manchester, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9PT, U.K.
Abstract:
The potential for using cellulosic biomass as a source of fuel has renewed interest into how the large cellulose synthase complex deposits cellulose within the woody secondary walls of plants. This complex sits within the plasma membrane where it synthesizes numerous glucan chains which bond together to form the strong cellulose microfibril. The maintenance and guidance of the complex at the plasma membrane and its delivery to sites of secondary wall formation require the involvement of the cytoskeleton. In the present paper, we discuss the dynamics of the complex at the cell cortex and what is known about its assembly and trafficking.
Related Concept Videos
Xylem and Transpiration-driven Transport of Resources
Role of Microtubules in Cell Wall Deposition
Cellulose and Pectic Polysaccharides
As a cell matures, its cell wall specializes according to its type. For example, the parenchyma cells of...
Phloem and Sugar Transport
The Apoplast and Symplast
Short-distance Transport of Resources

