Suberin is a waxy, waterproof substance deposited in the cell walls of certain plant cells. It forms a protective barrier that reduces water loss, limits the entry of pathogens, and helps regulate the movement of water and dissolved minerals through plant tissues.
Suberin is found in cork, the outer layers of roots, wound tissue, and the Casparian strip of the root endodermis. In roots, it forces water and nutrients to pass through living cells rather than flowing freely between them, allowing the plant to selectively absorb minerals before they enter the vascular system.
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