List the Function of lipopolysaccharides in bacterial cells?
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Apr 11
1. Structural component: Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are major components of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, providing structural integrity to the cell wall.
2. Protection: LPS acts as a barrier against harmful substances, such as antibiotics and detergents, helping to protect the bacterial cell from external threats.
3. Immune response: LPS is a potent stimulator of the immune system, triggering the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and activating the host's immune response to combat bacterial infections.
4. Adhesion: LPS can mediate the adhesion of bacteria to host cells and tissues, facilitating colonization and infection.
5. Antigenic properties: LPS contains antigenic determinants that can be recognized by the host immune system, leading to the production of antibodies against the bacteria.
6. Endotoxin activity: LPS can have toxic effects on the host, causing symptoms such as fever, shock, and organ failure in severe cases of bacterial infection.