Presence of xyloglucan‐like polysaccharide in <i>Spirogyra</i> and possible involvement in cell–cell attachment

Abstract

SUMMARY By methylation analysis, it was found that the cell walls of Spirogyra contained 4,6‐linked glucose, 4‐linked glucose and terminal xylose, which could be components of xyloglucan. Immunocytochemical analysis was carried out using an anti‐serum against xyloglucan. After removal of pectic substances, the cell walls of both rhizoid cells and inner cells were stained. Crude protein extract from Spirogyra had a hydrolase activity for xyloglucans. In addition, the exogenously applied xyloglucan prevented the detachment of the cell wall of the severed cell. Involvement of xyloglucan‐like polysaccharide in cell–cell attachment was discussed.