Cell walls are found throughout the tree of life (even in some animals!) and in most cases they serve similar functions of strengthening and protecting cells. Dr. Braybrook’s research focuses on cell walls found in multicellular organisms such as plants and brown algae. In her first talk, Braybrook explains that cell walls are made of cellulose which forms long strong fibers, a gel matrix such as pectin or alginate in which the cellulose is embedded, and cross-links such as hemicellulose or lignin that provide strength and hold the wall together. By improving our understanding of cell wall structure and biology, Braybrook’s research may help facilitate our use of plants and seaweed for biofuels and other products.
View the full talk with additional resources on our website
The Cell Wall
Cell walls are found across the tree of life: in plants, seaweed, bacteria and even some animals! Learn how the unique chemical and physical properties of cell walls allow plants and seaweed to attain great heights and form amazing shapes. (Talk recorded in September 2019)
- Part 1: The Cell WallAudience:
- Student
- Researcher
- Educators
- Educators of H. School / Intro Undergrad
- Educators of Adv. Undergrad / Grad
Duration: 00:27:11 - Part 2: Cell Wall Mechanics and GrowthAudience:
- Student
- Researcher
- Educators
- Educators of H. School / Intro Undergrad
- Educators of Adv. Undergrad / Grad
Duration: 00:33:35 - Part 3: Cell Wall Mechanics and Growth: Beyond PlantsAudience:
- Student
- Researcher
- Educators
- Educators of H. School / Intro Undergrad
- Educators of Adv. Undergrad / Grad
Duration: 00:25:33