Microbial cell membrane integrity pathway (null)

The microbial cell membrane integrity pathway refers to the complex network of molecular mechanisms and protective responses that maintain the structure, function, and selective permeability of microbial cell membranes, particularly in bacteria and fungi[1][3][6]. Key components include essential phospholipids, membrane proteins, cell envelope stress sensors, and effector proteins (e.g., phage-shock proteins like PspA) that repair or reinforce membranes under stress[1][3][6]. This pathway is a validated target for several classes of antibiotics and antimicrobial peptides that act by disrupting membrane integrity, leading to cell death, but is not itself a singular, druggable molecular entity. Targeting the pathway can be therapeutically effective but poses selectivity and toxicity challenges due to potential off-target effects on host (mammalian) membranes[3][6].

Other names

Bacterial membrane integrity pathwayCell envelope stress response (in bacteria)Cell wall integrity pathway (often used in fungi for a related but distinct process)

Direct disruption of membrane lipid bilayer integrity Dissipation of the proton motive force Inhibition or inactivation of membrane-bound proteins Induction of membrane permeability/leakage, leading to cell death