Callose deposition
nounPronunciation: /kəˈloʊs dɛpəˈzɪʃən/
Rapid synthesis and localized accumulation of β-1,3-glucan polymers in plant cell walls and plasmodesmata in response to pathogenic or abiotic stress. This mechanical reinforcement restricts pathogen spread and limits cell-to-cell solute leakage.
Plain English
Plants quickly build a protective polymer barrier in their cell walls to block stress and prevent damage spread.
Etymology & History
Usage
"Callose deposition at plasmodesmata restricted symplastic transport and contained viral spread within infected leaf tissues."
Style guide notes: Use 'β-1,3-glucan' notation when specifying chemical structure in formal publications.
Also known as
Related Terms
Frequently Asked Questions
What is callose made of chemically?
Callose is a β-1,3-glucan polymer, a simple glucose-based carbohydrate that forms rigid wall-like structures.
How quickly does callose form in response to stress?
Callose can form within minutes to hours of stress detection, making it a rapid plant defense response.
Why Test Candidates on This?
Tested in pathology and stress physiology contexts, particularly for disease resistance mechanisms.
Required skill level: Senior