Microbial cell membrane and cellular envelope

The microbial cell membrane and cellular envelope are essential structural components that define the boundary and maintain the viability of bacteria and fungi (Silhavy et al., 2010). In bacteria, the envelope typically consists of an inner cytoplasmic membrane and a peptidoglycan cell wall, while Gram-negative bacteria also possess an outer membrane containing lipopolysaccharides (Silhavy et al., 2010). Fungal envelopes are characterized by a plasma membrane rich in ergosterol and a complex cell wall made of chitin, glucans, and mannoproteins (Gow et al., 2017). These structures provide osmotic protection, facilitate nutrient acquisition, and serve as scaffolds for vital enzymatic processes (Kohanski et al., 2010). Because many of these components, such as peptidoglycan and ergosterol, are absent in human cells, they are highly effective targets for selective toxicity (Odds et al., 2003). Antibiotics like penicillins and vancomycin target cell wall synthesis, whereas polymyxins and polyene antifungals like amphotericin B disrupt membrane integrity (StatPearls, 2023). Despite their success, targeting the microbial envelope faces challenges from emerging resistance, such as modified peptidoglycan precursors or altered membrane charge (NIH, 2023). Overall, the microbial envelope remains a primary focus for developing new antimicrobial agents to combat multi-drug resistant pathogens.

Other names

Bacterial cell wallFungal cell wallCytoplasmic membranePlasma membranePeptidoglycan layerOuter membraneErgosterol-containing membraneBacterial cell envelopeFungal cell envelope

Inhibition of peptidoglycan synthesis, disruption of membrane integrity, pore formation, and inhibition of cell wall component biosynthesis.