Microbial cell membrane (proteins and nucleic acids)

Microbial cell membranes, proteins, and nucleic acids collectively comprise the core structural and functional elements of microorganisms. The cell membrane is a lipid bilayer that acts as a selective barrier and supports functions such as transport, signal transduction, and enzymatic activity, mediated mainly by embedded or associated membrane proteins. Membrane proteins vary from integral transmembrane proteins (α-helical and β-barrel forms) that mediate transport and signal transduction, to peripheral and lipid-anchored proteins involved in cell signaling, adhesion, and structural support. Nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) store and transfer genetic information, directing protein synthesis and cell replication. In the context of antimicrobial therapy, these components are primary targets for drugs and disinfectants, but the term is too broad to refer to a single therapeutic target—standard therapeutic interventions usually focus on a specific class or molecule within these categories.

Other names

microbial membrane componentsbacterial cell envelopemicrobial proteinsmicrobial nucleic acids

Disruption of membrane integrity and permeability (e.g. detergents, polymyxins); Inhibition of protein synthesis (e.g. aminoglycosides, tetracyclines); Inhibition of nucleic acid synthesis or function (e.g. quinolones, rifampicin); Inhibition of enzymatic activity in membranes (e.g. β-lactam antibiotics inhibiting penicillin-binding proteins).