lipopolysaccharide

chemical compound

Also known as: LPS

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Last updated

June 30, 2026

Quick Summary

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a large molecule composed of lipids and sugars linked by chemical bonds. It is a component of the outer membrane of the cell envelope in gram-negative bacteria. LPS acts as an endotoxin, meaning it is a toxic substance released when the bacterium breaks apart. While LPS itself is toxic to animals and humans, it also helps gram-negative bacteria form a barrier against harmful substances like dyes and detergents. The presence of LPS in the bloodstream can lead to fever, shock, and potentially death.123

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bacteria
The cell envelope
…contain molecules of phosphate, and lipopolysaccharides, which are complex lipids that are anchored in the outer membrane of cells by their lipid end and have a long chain of sugars extending away from the cell into the medium. Lipopolysaccharides, often called endotoxins, are toxic to animals and humans; their presence…
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…contain molecules of phosphate, and lipopolysaccharides, which are complex lipids that are anchored in the outer membrane of cells by their lipid end and have a long chain of sugars extending away from the cell into the medium. Lipopolysaccharides, often called endotoxins, are toxic to animals and humans; their presence…
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Bruce A. Beutler
…of the receptor molecule for lipopolysaccharide (LPS; sometimes also called endotoxin), which he first encountered during research as an undergraduate. The discovery provided further insight into the initial steps leading to inflammation and led to his involvement in the discovery in the late 1990s of mutations in a mouse gene…
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…of the receptor molecule for lipopolysaccharide (LPS; sometimes also called endotoxin), which he first encountered during research as an undergraduate. The discovery provided further insight into the initial steps leading to inflammation and led to his involvement in the discovery in the late 1990s of mutations in a mouse gene…
Read More