Lipid A (None)

Lipid A is a lipid component of the lipopolysaccharide (LPS) layer found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. It is primarily responsible for the endotoxic effects associated with these bacteria and plays a crucial role in both bacterial survival and host immune response. Lipid A serves as the hydrophobic anchor that secures LPS to the bacterial outer membrane. It is recognized by Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) on host cells, triggering strong innate immune responses including inflammation. Some pathogens modify their lipid A structure to evade detection or resist antimicrobial peptides from hosts.

Other names

Diphosphoryl hexaacyl lipid AE. coli lipid ALipid-A

N/A