Bacterial and fungal cell membranes and cell wall–associated proteins

Bacterial and fungal cell membranes and cell wall–associated proteins represent a broad category of structural and functional molecules essential for the survival, integrity, and pathogenesis of microorganisms [1, 2]. In bacteria, the cell wall is primarily composed of peptidoglycan, which provides mechanical strength and protects against osmotic lysis, while the cell membrane houses proteins involved in transport, energy metabolism, and signal transduction [1, 3]. Fungal cell walls are distinct, containing chitin, glucans, and mannoproteins, with membranes often featuring ergosterol instead of cholesterol [2]. These structures are critical therapeutic targets because many of their components are unique to microbes, allowing for selective toxicity in human hosts [3]. Antimicrobial agents like beta-lactams and echinocandins work by inhibiting the synthesis of these layers, whereas others like polymyxins and polyenes directly disrupt membrane integrity [3, 4]. However, the emergence of multi-drug resistant strains and potential host toxicity, such as nephrotoxicity associated with certain membrane-disrupting agents, remain significant clinical challenges [4, 5]. (Sources: [1] Silhavy et al., 2010, Cold Spring Harb Perspect Biol; [2] Gow et al., 2017, Microbiol Spectr; [3] Kohanski et al., 2010, Nat Rev Microbiol; [4] Gallis et al., 1990, Rev Infect Dis; [5] StatPearls - Antibiotics).

Other names

Microbial cell envelopeBacterial cell wallFungal cell wallCell wall-associated proteinsPlasma membrane proteinsSurface-exposed proteins

Inhibition of cell wall biosynthesis (e.g., peptidoglycan or beta-glucan synthesis), direct disruption of cytoplasmic membrane integrity, and inhibition of membrane-bound enzymes or transport systems.