The biosynthesis of storage galactomannan in developing seeds of fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum leguminosae) - and related chemotaxonomic studies

Abstract

Introduction: The leguminous seed endosperm contains galactomannan, a cell wall reserve polysaccharide, as its main carbohydrate store. Cell wall reserve polysaccharides are of very widespread distribution in seeds and are of several distinct types. The present knowledge about their structures and metabolism is very limited indeed, in comparison with starch, the seed's plastid storage carbohydrate. This thesis is a contribution towards an understanding of the biosynthesis of reserve galactomannans and of their taxonomic value.