Microbial phospholipid cell membrane

The microbial phospholipid cell membrane is a fundamental structural component of bacteria and fungi, serving as a semi-permeable barrier that separates the cytoplasm from the external environment (Sohlenkamp & Geiger, 2016). Unlike mammalian membranes, which are rich in neutral phospholipids and cholesterol, microbial membranes often contain high concentrations of negatively charged phospholipids such as phosphatidylglycerol and cardiolipin (Epand et al., 2016). In fungi, the presence of ergosterol instead of cholesterol further distinguishes the microbial membrane from host cells (Sant et al., 2016). This biochemical distinction allows for the selective targeting of microbial membranes by various antimicrobial agents, which is crucial for maintaining a therapeutic index (Straus & Hancock, 2006). Drugs such as daptomycin and polymyxins act by binding to the membrane surface, inserting into the bilayer, and causing physical disruption or pore formation (Trimble et al., 2016). These actions lead to the rapid loss of membrane potential and the leakage of vital intracellular ions and molecules (Straus & Hancock, 2006). Because the membrane is essential for energy metabolism, including ATP synthesis via the proton motive force, its disruption is typically bactericidal or fungicidal (Sohlenkamp & Geiger, 2016). Consequently, the microbial phospholipid cell membrane remains a critical target for treating multi-drug resistant infections where traditional metabolic inhibitors may fail (Trimble et al., 2016).

Other names

Bacterial cytoplasmic membraneBacterial cell membraneProkaryotic phospholipid bilayerFungal plasma membraneMicrobial inner membrane

Disruption of membrane integrity through pore formation, depolarization of the transmembrane potential, and induction of cytoplasmic leakage.