COMPANION CELL Meaning and
Definition
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A companion cell is a specialized type of plant cell that is typically found in the phloem tissue of vascular plants. It is closely associated with sieve elements, which are responsible for the transport of sugars and other organic compounds throughout the plant. Companion cells play a vital role in the efficient functioning of the phloem, as they provide metabolic support and assist in the long-distance movement of assimilates.
Companion cells are characterized by their close physical and functional connection with sieve elements. They are connected to sieve elements by numerous plasmodesmata, which allow for the exchange of substances between the two cell types. The companion cell is primarily responsible for maintaining the metabolic needs of the sieve element, ensuring the production and efficient transport of sugars and other nutrients.
These cells are rich in various organelles, such as mitochondria and ribosomes, indicating their high metabolic activity. They are involved in the synthesis and breakdown of proteins, nucleic acids, and other macromolecules, providing the necessary energy and resources for the sieve elements to perform their transport functions effectively.
Furthermore, companion cells play a crucial role in loading and unloading of assimilates into and out of the sieve elements. They actively pump sugars and other organic compounds into the sieve elements, creating a high osmotic pressure that drives the flow of nutrients along the phloem pathway.
In summary, companion cells are specialized plant cells that support and assist sieve elements in the transportation of sugars and other compounds. They provide metabolic support, regulate the loading and unloading of assimilates, and maintain the structural integrity and functionality of the phloem tissue.
Common Misspellings for COMPANION CELL
- xompanion cell
- vompanion cell
- fompanion cell
- dompanion cell
- cimpanion cell
- ckmpanion cell
- clmpanion cell
- cpmpanion cell
- c0mpanion cell
- c9mpanion cell
- conpanion cell
- cokpanion cell
- cojpanion cell
- comoanion cell
- comlanion cell
- com0anion cell
- compznion cell
- compsnion cell
- compwnion cell
- compqnion cell
Etymology of COMPANION CELL
The word "companion" originates from the Latin word "companionem", which means "one who shares bread with another" or "one who accompanies". It derives from the combination of the prefix "com-" meaning "together" and "panis" meaning "bread".
The term "cell" in this context refers to the plant cell, which is the basic structural and functional unit of plants. It comes from the Latin word "cella", meaning "small room" or "chamber".
Therefore, the term "companion cell" combines these elements, signifying a cell that is closely associated or connected with another cell, often referring to a specialized cell found in plants that is closely associated with a sieve-tube element in the phloem, assisting in the transport of nutrients and sugars throughout the plant.
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