Books /Bacterial Lipopolysaccharides

9781639898916

States Academic Press

English

2025

$ 158.95

Bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are complex molecules found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. They consist of three parts, namely, lipid A, core polysaccharide, and O antigen. LPS plays crucial roles in bacterial integrity and pathogenesis. Lipid A anchors LPS to the outer membrane and is responsible for its endotoxic properties, triggering strong immune responses in mammals. The core polysaccharide links lipid A to the O antigen, which varies among bacterial strains and contributes to antigenic diversity. LPS serves as a potent stimulator of the immune system, recognized by pattern recognition receptors like Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) on host cells. This interaction initiates inflammatory responses pivotal in combating bacterial infections but can also lead to septic shock in extreme cases. Understanding LPS structure and function is vital for developing therapies targeting bacterial infections and managing inflammatory diseases. This book explores all the important aspects of bacterial lipopolysaccharides in the present day scenario. It strives to provide a fair idea about these molecules and to help develop a better understanding of the latest advances within this area. This book will help new researchers by foregrounding their knowledge in this branch.