Cutin (from the Latin Cut Is, meaning skin) is a waxy substance that coats the surface of leaves and wood of plants. This important biological structure plays a key role in protecting plants from water loss.
Cutin has waterproof properties, which allows it to create a barrier between the inside of the plant and the environment. This is especially important for plants living in water-scarce environments, such as deserts and steppes, where water is a limited resource.
In addition, cutin also protects plants from pests and diseases by preventing harmful substances from entering the plant.
Chemically, cutin is a complex polymeric material consisting of waxes and other lipid compounds. It has a different structure depending on the type of plant and its environment.
Kutin was discovered in the 1830s and has been the subject of much research since then. Today it is widely used in various fields including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and agriculture.
In general, cutin is an important element of plant biological protection. Its unique properties allow plants to survive in the most extreme conditions and provide them with protection from external influences.