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Suberin is a complex, fatty substance found primarily in the cell walls of cork. It is a biopolyester composed of fatty acids and aromatic compounds.12

In plants, suberin, along with waxes, forms a protective surface barrier, particularly in underground parts. It is also synthesized in cells near wounds to seal them off and prevent dehydration. In woody plants, cork cells have their inner walls lined with suberin, making them impermeable to gases and water, which is why cork is used for stoppers. Suberin contributes to the strengthening of cell walls and resistance to microbial attack.23

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