lipopolysaccharide transport

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The directed movement of lipopolysaccharides into, out of or within a cell, or between cells, by means of some agent such as a transporter or pore. A lipopolysaccharide is any of a group of related, structurally complex components of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. Lipopolysaccharides consist three covalently linked regions, lipid A, core oligosaccharide, and an O side chain. Lipid A is responsible for the toxicity of the lipopolysaccharide. [GOC:ai]

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) transport is a complex process that involves the movement of LPS from the bacterial periplasm to the outer membrane. The first step in this process is the binding of LPS to the LptA protein in the periplasm. LptA is a periplasmic chaperone that stabilizes LPS and prevents it from aggregating. Once LPS is bound to LptA, the complex is transported to the outer membrane by the LptB-LptC-LptD complex. LptB is a periplasmic protein that acts as a bridge between LptA and LptC. LptC is a transmembrane protein that spans the periplasmic space and is anchored to the outer membrane. LptD is an outer membrane protein that is responsible for the final step in LPS transport, the insertion of LPS into the outer membrane. The transport of LPS is essential for the integrity of the bacterial outer membrane. LPS is a major component of the outer membrane and is responsible for its structural integrity and its ability to act as a barrier to antibiotics and other toxic substances. The transport of LPS is also important for the virulence of some bacteria. LPS can act as an endotoxin, which can trigger an immune response in the host. This immune response can lead to sepsis, a life-threatening condition. The process of LPS transport is highly regulated and is subject to a number of different control mechanisms. These mechanisms ensure that LPS is transported efficiently and that the outer membrane is properly assembled. The regulation of LPS transport is essential for the survival of bacteria and for their ability to cause disease.'
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Proteins (1)

Compounds (1)