1. A protein substance stored in the cells of seeds and grains, serving as a nutrient reserve for the developing plant.
Usage: technical; botany

Examples

• The aleurone layer in wheat grains contains important proteins and enzymes.
• During germination, the plant breaks down aleurone to fuel growth.
• Aleurone is particularly abundant in the outer layers of cereal seeds.
• The aleurone cells release enzymes that help mobilize stored nutrients.
• Researchers study aleurone composition to improve grain quality.