Human Physiology Engineering
Peptidoglycan is a polymer that forms a mesh-like structure in the cell walls of bacteria, providing both rigidity and shape. It is composed of glycan chains cross-linked by short peptide fragments, making it crucial for maintaining bacterial integrity against osmotic pressure. This unique structure helps differentiate between types of bacteria, particularly between Gram-positive and Gram-negative, which is important for understanding bacterial classification and antibiotic resistance.
congrats on reading the definition of Peptidoglycan. now let's actually learn it.