Alginate and Psl exopolysaccharide (Alginate, Psl)

Alginate and Psl exopolysaccharides are two major glycans produced by *Pseudomonas aeruginosa* that form a crucial part of the bacterial biofilm matrix[1][3][5][7]. Alginate is a high-molecular-weight polymer of mannuronic and guluronic acids, typically associated with the "mucoid" phenotype found in chronic infections (especially cystic fibrosis). Alginate provides structural integrity to mature biofilms and contributes to evasion of the immune system and antibiotic resistance[1][3][5]. Psl is a neutral polysaccharide composed mainly of mannose, rhamnose, and glucose. Psl is essential for initial attachment to surfaces and intercellular cohesion during early biofilm formation[3][5][6][7]. Both exopolysaccharides play complementary roles in biofilm architecture, communal stress resistance, and chronic infection establishment. Their synthesis is tightly regulated and involves complex genetic and protein machinery[1][3][6]. Inhibiting or degrading these exopolysaccharides is a promising, though challenging, strategy for managing persistent bacterial infections.

Other names

alginatealginate polysaccharidePslPsl polysaccharidePsl EPS

Enzymatic degradation of exopolysaccharide (e.g., alginate lyase cleaves alginate, PslG hydrolyzes Psl EPS to disrupt biofilm structure)\nBiofilm dispersal agents interfere with EPS synthesis or stability