Biosynthesis Pathway and Structure Variability of Bacterial Endotoxin

Abstract:

Bacterial endotoxin,also known as lipopolysaccharide,forms the outer monolayer of the outer membrane in most Gram-negative bacteria. The biosynthesis pathway of endotoxin is complicated and evolves dozens of enzymes. The biosynthesis of endotoxin starts form the cytoplasmic surface of the inner membrane. During the process,the size of endotoxin molecule becomes bigger. Endotoxin is flipped to the outer surface of the inner membrane,crossed the periplasmic space and the outer membrane. Endotoxin could activate the innate immune system through TLR4/MD2,therefore,it could be used for developing new vaccines and adjuvants.