Question

How are the Casparian strip and tight junctions similar (see Figure 6.30)?

Short answer

In living creatures, the casparian strip and tight junctions show similar functions. They provide an extracellular diffusion barrier and control the transport of protein across the plasma membrane. They both also prevent the movement of fluid between cells.

Step-by-step solution

Casparian strip and tight junctions

Casparian strips (found in plants) are the structure found in the root endodermis of vascular plants. Tight junctions in animals act as a watertight seal. It is located between apical and lateral membranes and regulates the passage of nutrients across the cell.

Characteristics of casparian strip and tight junctions

Casparian strips are found in the roots of higher plants. It is made up of suberin, a protein that is impermeable to water. Tight junctions are found between neighboring cells of animals. They are made up of a branching network of sealing strands.

Similarity between casparian strip and tight junction

Like the tight junction, the casparian strip provides a paracellular barrier and is important for the uptake of selective nutrients in the cell and preventing the entry of pathogens into the cell. They both prevent fluid movement between the cells.

In animal cells, a tight junction binds the plasma membrane of neighboring cells together. At the same time, the casparian strip is the water-impermeable strip that fills space between cells of the epidermis of the root. They both prevent the entry of fluid between cells.