The plant cuticle: A complex lipid barrier between the plant and the environment. An overview

Abstract

The cuticle is a translucent film of polymeric nature that covers the aerial parts of higher plants. It constitutes the interface between the plant and the atmosphere and therefore, plays several crucial roles. In this work we present a review on the morphology, structure, and main components (cutin and waxes) of the plant cuticle. Main physiological functions of the plant cuticle are described and special emphasis is given to its interaction with xenobiotics and air pollutants. © 2009 Springer Science + Business Media B.V.