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Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a large molecule found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, serving as a potent endotoxin. Structurally, LPS is composed of three regions: the lipid A, core oligosaccharide, and O antigen polysaccharide. Lipid A, consisting of a phosphorylated glucosamine disaccharide with fatty acids, anchors LPS within the bacterial membrane and is largely responsible for its toxic effects. The core oligosaccharide links lipid A to the O antigen, which varies significantly among bacterial species and contributes to antigenic diversity. Functionally, LPS plays a crucial role in protecting bacteria from hostile environmental conditions while serving as a major factor in eliciting strong immune responses in host organisms. Once released into the bloodstream following bacterial cell lysis or infection, LPS activates immune cells by binding to Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4), leading to the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This interaction can result in septic shock, characterized by widespread inflammation and cardiovascular collapse. Hence, understanding the biology and effects of LPS is critical for developing strategies to combat bacterial infections and manage sepsis.
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Protein Aliases: LPS
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