Exopolisacáridos

Exopolisacáridos, often abbreviated as EPS, are complex carbohydrate polymers secreted by microorganisms like bacteria and fungi. These substances are typically found outside the cell wall, forming a protective layer or matrix. EPS are highly diverse in their structure, composed of repeating monosaccharide units that can vary in type and arrangement. This variability contributes to their wide range of properties and functions. They are often gel-like in consistency and can be hydrophilic, meaning they attract and retain water.

The production of exopolisacáridos by microbes is a common survival strategy. This extracellular slime can aid in cell adhesion to surfaces, allowing for the formation of biofilms. Biofilms are communities of microorganisms encased in a self-produced matrix, which provides protection from environmental stresses such as desiccation, antibiotics, and predation. EPS can also play a role in nutrient acquisition, trapping essential molecules from the surrounding environment. In some cases, EPS can contribute to virulence in pathogenic bacteria by shielding them from the host's immune system. Conversely, EPS produced by beneficial microbes can have positive impacts, such as in soil aggregation, water retention, and the development of symbiotic relationships. The study of exopolisacáridos is important in fields ranging from microbiology and medicine to environmental science and biotechnology due to their multifaceted roles.