Lipopolysaccharide core (LPS core)

The Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) core of Pseudomonas aeruginosa is a complex glycolipid structure located on the outer membrane of the bacterium (Scholl et al., 2009). It serves as a critical structural component, providing a permeability barrier against antibiotics and environmental stressors, and plays a significant role in the pathogen's virulence and immune system evasion (Koehler et al., 2020). MXP1001 and MXP1002 are engineered R-type pyocins, also known as tailocins, developed by AvidBiotics (now X-Biotix) that specifically recognize and bind to the LPS core of target Pseudomonas strains (Pew Charitable Trusts, 2021). Upon binding, these high-molecular-weight bacteriocins undergo a conformational change, contracting their outer sheath to drive a core tube through the bacterial cell wall and inner membrane (Scholl et al., 2009). This action causes a rapid loss of membrane potential and subsequent cell death, offering a highly specific mechanism to eliminate Pseudomonas infections without disrupting the broader microbiome (Williams et al., 2008). This target is particularly relevant for treating multi-drug resistant infections in conditions like cystic fibrosis (X-Biotix Therapeutics, 2023).

Other names

LPS core oligosaccharideOuter membrane lipopolysaccharideEndotoxin coreR-type pyocin receptorTailocin receptorPyoVance target

Binding to the LPS core followed by sheath contraction and membrane perforation (Scholl et al., 2009).