Pseudopeptidoglycan

Definition

Pseudopeptidoglycan is a polymer found in the cell walls of some archaea. It is similar to peptidoglycan but has different sugar components and glycosidic linkages.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Pseudopeptidoglycan is primarily found in methanogenic archaea.
2. It consists of N-acetyltalosaminuronic acid instead of N-acetylmuramic acid found in bacterial peptidoglycan.
3. The glycosidic bonds in pseudopeptidoglycan are β(1,3) linkages, making it resistant to lysozyme.
4. Unlike bacterial cell walls, pseudopeptidoglycan does not contain D-amino acids.
5. Its structure helps archaea survive extreme environments such as high temperatures and acidic conditions.

Review Questions

• What type of organisms primarily have pseudopeptidoglycan in their cell walls?
• What sugar component distinguishes pseudopeptidoglycan from bacterial peptidoglycan?
• Why is pseudopeptidoglycan resistant to lysozyme?

Related terms

Archaea: Microorganisms that are similar to bacteria but have distinct molecular and genetic characteristics.

Peptidoglycan: A polymer that forms a mesh-like layer outside the plasma membrane of most bacteria, providing structural support.

Methanogens: A group of archaea that produce methane as a metabolic byproduct under anaerobic conditions.