Microbial cell membranes and surface proteins

Microbial cell membranes and surface proteins are fundamental structures that maintain the viability and virulence of pathogens. The bacterial cytoplasmic membrane and the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria serve as critical barriers and sites for energy transduction and nutrient transport (Silhavy et al., 2010, Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology). These membranes contain unique components not found in human cells, such as lipopolysaccharides (LPS) in bacteria and ergosterol in fungi, which provide a basis for selective toxicity (Li et al., 2006, Clinical Infectious Diseases). Drugs like polymyxins and daptomycin target these membranes to cause rapid depolarization and cell death, while surface proteins like adhesins are targeted to prevent host tissue colonization (Foster et al., 2014, Nature Reviews Microbiology). Despite their clinical utility, targeting these structures can be associated with significant side effects, such as nephrotoxicity, and is increasingly complicated by the emergence of sophisticated resistance mechanisms (Brogden, 2005, Nature Reviews Microbiology).

Other names

Microbial cell envelopeBacterial cell membraneFungal cell membraneMicrobial surface componentsCytoplasmic membraneMSCRAMMsBacterial cell envelope

Antimicrobials targeting these structures typically act through physical disruption of the lipid bilayer (e.g., polymyxins binding to LPS), pore formation leading to cytoplasmic leakage (e.g., daptomycin or amphotericin B), or by blocking surface proteins involved in adhesion and host cell entry (Papo & Shai, 2005, Biochemistry; Epand & Vogel, 1999, Biochimica et Biophysica Acta).