Alginate exopolysaccharide of Pseudomonas aeruginosa

Alginate exopolysaccharide of Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a high molecular weight, linear copolymer of β-D-mannuronic acid and α-L-guluronic acid secreted by P. aeruginosa, especially under stress or in chronic lung infections such as those seen in cystic fibrosis patients[1][2][4][5]. It serves as the main component of the extracellular matrix in mucoid biofilms, providing a protective barrier against antibiotics, host immune defenses, and environmental challenges[4][5]. Alginate promotes strong biofilm formation and adherence to various surfaces, enabling persistence, chronic infection, and antibiotic resistance[1][2][4]. Clinical interest surrounds alginate as a therapeutic target due to its key role in chronic infections and biofilm stability; approaches such as alginate lyase enzymes are being researched to disrupt biofilms and enhance the efficacy of antimicrobial therapies[4][6]. While most environmental and early clinical isolates do not overproduce alginate, its overproduction (mucoid phenotype) is a hallmark of late-stage, difficult-to-treat P. aeruginosa infections, especially in cystic fibrosis and chronic wound patients[9].

Other names

Alginate polysaccharidePseudomonas alginateBacterial alginateExopolysaccharide alginate

Enzymatic degradation (alginate lyase disrupts the protective biofilm matrix by cleaving the exopolysaccharide, promoting bacterial clearance) Agents that inhibit alginate biosynthesis (theoretical, experimental), interfere with protective matrix formation