Studies on the biochemical and physiological processes of plant cell walls have yielded startling insights into what has previously been regarded as a passive component of plant structure. This text provides an account of the dynamic molecular events and structural adaptations which play a major role in cell wall physiology and in the overall life of the plant. Its coverage ranges across molecular architecture, function and processes, the role of the cell wall in intercellular transport and inter-organism interaction, degradation, and the problems of future research. A special feature of the book is the inclusion of many specially composed electron micrographs which convey a more detailed appreciation of the ultrastructural complexity of the subject. The book is aimed at all students of plant physiology and biochemistry.