Microbial cell membrane phospholipid bilayer

The microbial cell membrane phospholipid bilayer is a vital structural and functional component of bacteria and fungi, acting as a semi-permeable barrier that maintains the internal environment of the cell. In bacteria, the membrane is primarily composed of phospholipids such as phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylethanolamine, while fungal membranes are distinguished by the presence of ergosterol rather than cholesterol (Epand et al., 2016). This bilayer is essential for critical processes including nutrient transport, waste excretion, and the generation of the proton motive force required for ATP synthesis (Silverman et al., 2003). Because the lipid composition and electrochemical properties of microbial membranes differ significantly from those of mammalian cells, they serve as effective targets for several classes of antimicrobial agents. Drugs like daptomycin and polymyxins target bacterial membranes to cause rapid depolarization and lysis, while polyene antifungals like amphotericin B bind to ergosterol to create lethal pores (Gray et al., 2014; Landman et al., 2008). However, the relative lack of specificity in some membrane-active agents can lead to significant clinical toxicities, particularly affecting the kidneys and nervous system.

Other names

Bacterial cytoplasmic membraneFungal plasma membraneMicrobial lipid bilayerProkaryotic cell membrane

Membrane disruption and pore formation leading to loss of membrane potential, leakage of intracellular ions (e.g., K+), and cytoplasmic contents, resulting in rapid cell death.