Synthesis of developing cotton fiber cell walls involve a glycosylated protein "glue" matrix, This "glue" matrix then appears to play a role in maintaining fiber integrity since its removal by specific enzymes results in a loss of fiber integrity. Oligosaccharides released from the "glue" matrix have been found in samples of cotton dust. In addition, soluble oligosaccharides, which play a role in fiber wall development, and endogenous enzymes which convert them have also been found in cotton dust. These results will be presented in the context of cotton fiber development and the potential problems presented by these constituents in cotton dust.