Lycopolysaccharid

Lycopolysaccharid, also known as LPS or endotoxin, is a type of polysaccharide found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. It is composed of a lipid A moiety, a core oligosaccharide, and an O-antigen polysaccharide chain. The lipid A portion is responsible for the toxic properties of LPS, as it can activate the immune system and cause fever, shock, and even death in severe cases. LPS is a major component of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria and plays a crucial role in their survival and virulence. It is also a target for the development of vaccines and antimicrobial agents. The structure and composition of LPS can vary significantly between different bacterial species, which can influence their pathogenicity and immune response.