Cell wall thickness and composition are involved in photosynthetic limitation
Cite this dataset
Flexas, Jaume et al. (2021). Cell wall thickness and composition are involved in photosynthetic limitation [Dataset]. Dryad. https://doi.org/10.5061/dryad.qbzkh18gs
Abstract
The key role of cell walls in setting mesophyll conductance to CO2 (gm) and, consequently, photosynthesis, is reviewed. First, the theoretical properties of cell walls that can affect gm are presented. Then, we focus on cell wall thickness (Tcw) reviewing empirical evidence showing that Tcw varies strongly among species and phylogenetic groups in a way that correlates with gm and photosynthesis i.e. the thicker the mesophyll cell walls, the lower gm and photosynthesis. Potential interplays of gm, Tcw, dehydration tolerance and hydraulic properties of leaves are also discussed. Dynamic variations of Tcw in response to the environment and their implications in the regulation of photosynthesis are discussed, and recent evidence suggesting an influence of cell wall composition on gm are presented. We then propose a hypothetical mechanism for the influence of cell walls on photosynthesis, combining the effects of thickness and composition, particularly pectins. Finally, we discuss the prospects for using biotechnology for enhancing photosynthesis by means of altering cell wall-related genes.
Funding
Ministry of Economy, Industry and Competitiveness
European Commission
European Commission, Award: BES-2015-072578
Ministerio de Educación Cultura y Deporte, Award: FPU-02054