Multiple Choice
In prokaryotic cell architecture, what is the primary purpose of the bacterial cell wall?
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1. Overview of Cell Biology
Prokaryotic Cell Architecture
Multiple Choice
In most bacteria, the cell wall is primarily composed of which macromolecular structure?
A
Chitin, a polymer of -acetylglucosamine
B
Cellulose, a polymer of -linked glucose
C
A phospholipid bilayer with cholesterol as the main structural component
D
Peptidoglycan (murein), a polymer of sugars cross-linked by short peptides
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the main components of bacterial cell walls by recalling that most bacteria have a rigid structure outside their plasma membrane that provides shape and protection.
Recall that peptidoglycan (also called murein) is the primary macromolecular structure forming the bacterial cell wall, composed of sugar chains cross-linked by short peptide bridges.
Understand that peptidoglycan consists of repeating units of two sugar derivatives: N-acetylglucosamine (NAG) and N-acetylmuramic acid (NAM), linked together in a glycan chain.
Recognize that these glycan chains are connected by short peptide cross-links, which provide mechanical strength and rigidity to the bacterial cell wall.
Contrast peptidoglycan with other polymers such as chitin (found in fungal cell walls), cellulose (found in plant cell walls), and phospholipid bilayers (components of cell membranes), to confirm that peptidoglycan is unique to most bacterial cell walls.
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