Systematic review on raphide morphotype calcium oxalate crystals in angiosperms.

ABSTRACT: Calcium oxalate (CaOx) crystals are biominerals present in a wide variety of plants. Formation of these crystals is a biomineralization process occurring in vacuoles within specialized cells called crystal idioblasts. This process is dependent on two key components: deprotonated oxalic acid, and calcium ions (Ca²⁺), and can result in multiple crystal morphologies. Raphides are needle-like CaOx crystals found in various plant organs and tissues. Though their function is highly debated, they can potentially store calcium, sequester heavy metals, protect against herbivory and possibly programmed cell death. The last review of the taxonomic and anatomical distribution of raphides across the plant kingdom dates back to 1980, in a review by Franceschi and Horner, prompting an updated

SUBMITTER: Lawrie NS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10406436 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature