We are now on the synthesis of the different macromolecules in a prokaryotic cell. Our teacher gave us a homework and now I am trying to answer the last question. But I can't seem to find anything on the internet or on the microbiology and biochemistry books I went through.

 

Describe the process by which capsule is synthesized in a bacterial cell.

 

I tried to key in "capsule synthesis", "glycocalyx synthesis", and "synthesis of...". But all I got were abstracts that didn't really explain anything about the process.

 

I would appreciate any help.

Edited December 3, 200817 yr by carol
have to change explained into explain

http://gsbs.utmb.edu/microbook/

 

the above link is an on-line microbiology textbook - you may have more luck finding what you need from books than the net but an on-line book like the one above should help some.

You won't find a general pathway for capsule synthesis. The reason being that capsules are a collective term for a number of chemically different outer layer formations of bacteria. Most of the time they are polysaccharides, but can also be (glyco-)peptides. As such synthesis pathways will vary from organism. Your best bet is either check your textbook for an example, or check the literature (especially reviews) for a specific bacterium. Your best bet would be E. coli.

You won't find a general pathway for capsule synthesis. The reason being that capsules are a collective term for a number of chemically different outer layer formations of bacteria. Most of the time they are polysaccharides, but can also be (glyco-)peptides. E. coli.

 

oh, yes. what i gave was the original question. our teacher changed it to exopolysaccharide on our last meeting.

In that case you would only have to check what is known about EPS production in the bacterium that you have in class.