Mycobacterial cell wall and membrane

The mycobacterial cell wall and membrane (often referred to as the mycobacterial envelope) is a multi-layered structure that distinguishes Mycobacterium species, including Mycobacterium tuberculosis, from other bacteria. This envelope consists of a cytoplasmic (plasma) membrane, a peptidoglycan layer covalently linked to arabinogalactan, an outer membrane (mycomembrane) rich in mycolic acids, glycolipids (such as lipoarabinomannan and trehalose dimycolate), and an outer capsule composed mainly of polysaccharides[1][2][6][7]. The unique composition and architecture create a highly hydrophobic, low-permeability barrier that protects the bacterium from environmental damage, contributes significantly to its resistance to antibiotics and host immune responses, and is integral for pathogen survival and virulence. Drugs targeting this structure interfere with biosynthetic steps essential for cell wall or membrane integrity, explaining why these molecules are major therapeutic targets in treating tuberculosis and related infections[1][4][7][9].

Other names

Mycobacterial cell envelopeMycobacterium tuberculosis cell wallMycobacterial cell membraneMycobacterial envelope

Inhibition of mycolic acid synthesis (isoniazid, ethionamide) Disruption of arabinogalactan and peptidoglycan synthesis (ethambutol, cycloserine) Inhibition of cell wall crosslinking (beta-lactams, carbapenems) Disruption of plasma membrane potential (bedaquiline) Inhibition of fatty acid synthesis (pyrazinamide)