Escherichia coli Cell Wall (E. coli Cell Wall)

The Escherichia coli (E. coli) cell wall is a critical structural component that provides shape, rigidity, and protection to the bacterium. It is composed of a thin peptidoglycan layer sandwiched between the inner cytoplasmic membrane and the outer membrane, which contains lipopolysaccharides (LPS). The cell wall's primary functions include mechanical strength to resist osmotic lysis, maintaining cell shape, and acting as a selective barrier. Lytic enzymes, such as lytic transglycosylases (e.g., MltC, MltA, MltB, MltE, Slt70) and lysozyme, target the peptidoglycan layer, breaking down glycosidic bonds and weakening the cell wall. The unique composition and essential nature of E. coli's cell wall make it an attractive target for antibiotics, but the outer membrane provides additional protection.

Other names

E. coli PeptidoglycanE. coli Outer MembraneE. coli Cell Envelope

Inhibition of peptidoglycan synthesis or degradation.