Question

The amount of murein in gram-positive bacteria is:

• A. 50-60
• B. 20-40
• C. 10-20
• D. 70-80

Hint:

Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer, which is important for structural integrity and makes them more susceptible to antibiotics that target the cell wall.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Murein, also known as peptidoglycan, is a polymer that forms the structural component of bacterial cell walls. In gram-positive bacteria, the cell wall is thick and consists of a high amount of murein, which accounts for approximately 50-60 percent of the cell wall's dry weight. This high concentration of murein contributes to the rigidity and structural integrity of the cell wall, which is a characteristic feature of gram-positive bacteria. - Gram-negative bacteria have a much thinner layer of murein (around 10-20%) and an additional outer membrane. - Gram-positive bacteria, with their thicker peptidoglycan layer, are more susceptible to certain types of antibiotics, like penicillin, which target the synthesis of this layer.