Molecular organization and structural role of outer membrane macromolecules

Robert E.W. Hancock, D. Nedra Karunaratne, Christine Bernegger-Egli

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

36 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

This chapter discusses the molecular organization and structural role of outer membrane macromolecules. The outer membrane has been the subject of intensive research over the past two decades. During this time, the image of this layer has matured from a rather simple capsule-like girdle, the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) layer, to that of a sophisticated, unique and multifunctional membrane. A representative molecular model of a section of the outer membrane based on the data presented by several researchers is discussed in this chapter. LPS is a major constituent of the bacterial cell envelope, accounting for 3-8% of the dry weight of the cell. It is an amphipathic molecule consisting of a hydrophilic portion represented by the O-antigenic polysaccharide and core oligosaccharide linked to the glycolipidic Lipid A residue. The molecular weight of individual LPS molecules can vary from about 8000 to 54000 according to the lack or presence of variable numbers of the repeating saccharide units that comprise the O-antigenic polysaccharide.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)263-279
Number of pages17
JournalNew Comprehensive Biochemistry
Volume27
Issue numberC
DOIs
Publication statusPublished or Issued - 1 Jan 1994
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Biochemistry

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