Lecture 7: Prokaryotic cell organization II Flashcards
In gram-positives, the peptidoglycan cell wall contains […], perpendicular to the chains.
Teichoic acid and lipotechoic acid
The function of teichoic acid and lipotechoic acid is […]
Teichoic acid: to solidify the peptidoglycan structure
Lipoteichoic acid: keep it attached to the plasma membrane.
In gram-negatives, the peptidoglycan cell wall contains […]
Braun’s lipoprotein and porins
The function of Braun’s lipoprotein is […]
To anchor the peptidoglycan cell wall to the outer membrane
What is the main function of the outer membrane in gram negatives?
To serve as a selective barrier.
Explain how the outer membrane of gram negatives is selective.
It prevents the entry of toxins and antibiotics, allows water and small molecules in, and has porins for other molecules to use.
Describe the structure of the outer membrane of gram negatives.
Its inner layer is made of phospholipids and its outer layer is made of lipopolysaccharides (hydrophilic) and some phospholipids.
Describe in detail how the outer membrane in gram negatives is anchored to the cell wall.
It is anchored by lipoproteins, which have a lipid part that inserts into the inner layer of the outer membrane.
Poking out of the gram-negative envelope are […]
O-specific side chains (look hairlike)
Describe the structure of a lipopolysaccharide
From top to bottom: has an O side chain, core polysaccharide, and lipid A
Explain the function of the O side chain in lipopolysaccharides
Bacteria can change their O side chain to avoid an immune reaction.
Explain the structure of the Lipid A portion of lipopolysaccharides
They have long fatty acid tails, which are hydrophobic, and heads comprised of a glucosamine molecule with phosphates, which are hydrophilic
Explain the structure and function of porins in the outer membrane of gram-negatives.
The middle of the porins are hydrophilic so molecules can freely flow through, but the outside amino acids of the porins are hydrophobic because they interact with the membrane.
Name three structures that can be found outside of gram-negatives and gram-positives.
The capsule, slime layer, and S-layer
Name 5 possible functions of the capsule, slime layer, and/or S-layer
- Protection from phagocytes and protozoa
- Protection from desiccation, toxic compounds, ions, pH fluctuations, and destructive enzymes
- Reservoir of stored food
- Site for waste disposal
- Helps maintain shape and rigidity
- Prevent infection by bacteriophages or attack by predacious bacteria
- Aid in cell adhesion and motility
How do the capsule, slime layer, and/or S-layer serve as a waste disposal site?
They can use side products of reactions to create a shield against the environment
How to the capsule, slime layer, and S-layer use polysaccharides?
The polysaccharides that make up the capsule and slime layer can be reinternalized and used as a food source when the cell needs more energy.
The capule is also known as the […]
Virulence factor