Lecture 7. Bacterial Cell Envelope Part 2. Flashcards
What is beyond the outer membrane and cell wall ?
- Capsules, EPS and biofilms
- S-layers
- Fimbriae and pili
What does EPS stand for ?
Extra cellular polysaccharides
What do capsules, EPS and biofilms have in common ?
- Outermost layer of protection
- Common structure, biogenesis and export pathways
- Assists in adhesion and solid surfaces
- Protects against antibiotics, antimicrobial peptides and host immune responses
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Where are capsule polysaccharides retained ?
On cell surfaces
What happens to EPS ?
They are secreted
What happens to biofilms ?
Product of multiple extra cellular bacteria producing EPS
What is a capsule ?
A type of glycocalyx
What is meant by distinct, gelatinous ?
Capsule
What is meant by slime layer ?
Irregular, diffuse
What does a capsule have in terms of water ?
High water content
What is the capsule important for ?
Virulence – resists phagocytosis
What is the function of capsule ?
- Barrier to toxic hydrophobic molecules
- Protection against dessication
- Resistance to bacteriophage
- Evade host defences
What does a capsule that avoids detection do ?
Hide surface structures – resist phagocytosis
What does a capsule do to avoid destruction ?
Prevent complement-mediated lysis
Where are opsonins directed to ?
Cell envelope components are deposited beneath the capsule layer
What is an opsonin ?
Substances that bind to foreign micro-organisms making them more susceptible to phagocytosis