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Lipoteichoic acids (LTAs) are amphipathic molecules found in the cell walls of Gram-positive bacteria. They are anionic polymers composed of repeating glycerol or ribitol phosphate units, esterified with fatty acids at one end and often glycosylated or acylated at the other. These fatty acid residues anchor the LTA to the cytoplasmic membrane, while the polyglycerol or polyribitol phosphate chains extend into the cell wall.

The structure of LTAs is highly variable among different bacterial species, influencing their interactions with host immune systems and bacteriophages. They play crucial roles in maintaining cell wall integrity, regulating ion transport across the membrane, and acting as recognition sites for various bacterial and host proteins. During bacterial growth and division, LTAs are involved in cell shape determination and septation.

In the context of host-pathogen interactions, LTAs are potent immunostimulants. They bind to pattern recognition receptors, such as Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2), on immune cells, triggering inflammatory responses. This interaction can contribute to the pathogenesis of Gram-positive bacterial infections by eliciting excessive inflammation. However, LTAs also play a role in bacterial adhesion to host tissues and biofilm formation. Their structural diversity and multifaceted roles make them significant targets for antimicrobial drug development and vaccine strategies.