Ratio of erythro and threo forms of beta-O-4 structures in tension wood lignin.

The ratio of erythro and threo forms of beta-O-4 structures in tension wood lignin was investigated by ozonation analysis of wood meal taken from various positions in the stem of yellow poplar (Liriodendron tulipifera). The proportion of the erythro form was higher in tension wood than in opposite wood, and the methoxyl group content showed a similar trend. The proportion of the erythro form and the methoxyl group content in the 7 positions in the stem lignin was correlated (correlation coefficient R=0.98), suggesting that the type of aromatic ring, syringyl or guaiacyl, is one of the factors which stereochemically controls the ratio of erythro and threo forms of beta-O-4 structures during lignin formation.