Distribution of lignin and lignin precursors in differentiating xylem of Japanese cypress and poplar

Abstract

Lignin is an integral component of the cell wall of vascular plants. The mechanism of supply of lignin precursors from the cytosol into the cell wall of differentiating xylem has not yet been elucidated. The present study showed that a certain amount of coniferyl alcohol glucoside (coniferin) occurred in the differentiating xylem of Japanese cypress (Chamaecyparis obtusa), as previously reported in gymnosperms. Coniferin content peaked in the early stages of secondary wall formation and decreased during lignification. In contrast to gymnosperms, coniferin content was limited in the differentiating xylem of poplar (Populus sieboldii × Populus grandidentata). Moreover, coniferyl alcohol was not detected in all specimens. In the differentiating xylem of poplar, a higher amount of sinapyl alcohol occurred than glucoside (syringin). However, the phloem contained syringin and not sinapyl alcohol. The sinapyl alcohol content in the xylem peaked in the cells with ceasing cell wall formation, and decreased gradually towards the boundary of the annual ring, where the lignin content kept increasing. Sinapyl alcohol in the differentiating xylem of poplar may be used for the lignification of the xylem.