Microbial cellular components and membranes

Microbial cellular components and membranes encompass the essential structural barriers of bacteria, fungi, and parasites, including the cell wall and cytoplasmic membrane (Sarkar et al., 2021, StatPearls). These structures maintain osmotic pressure, provide mechanical strength, and facilitate the transport of ions and nutrients (Silhavy et al., 2010, Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Biology). In bacteria, the peptidoglycan layer is a primary target for beta-lactam and glycopeptide antibiotics, which disrupt its synthesis and lead to cell lysis (Bush & Bradford, 2016, Cold Spring Harbor Perspectives in Medicine). Fungal membranes are characterized by the presence of ergosterol, which is targeted by polyene and azole antifungals to compromise membrane integrity or inhibit synthesis (Odds et al., 2003, Journal of Antimicrobial Chemotherapy). Because many of these components are absent in mammalian cells, they provide a basis for selective toxicity in treating infections. However, the broad targeting of these structures can lead to the emergence of resistance and toxicity in the host, such as the nephrotoxicity associated with polymyxins (Poirel et al., 2017, Clinical Microbiology Reviews). Additionally, drugs targeting these components may disrupt the host's commensal microbiome, leading to secondary complications. The diversity of these components across different microbial species necessitates the use of specific agents tailored to the pathogen's unique structural features.

Other names

Bacterial cell wallBacterial cell membraneFungal cell wallFungal cell membraneMicrobial envelopePeptidoglycan layerErgosterol membrane

Inhibition of peptidoglycan cross-linking, binding to D-Ala-D-Ala, disruption of membrane phospholipids, and inhibition of ergosterol biosynthesis (Sarkar et al., 2021; Odds et al., 2003).