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Abstract:
The bacterial envelope consists of the cytoplasmic membrane, the cell wall and, in case of Gram-negative bacteria, the outer membrane. It determines the shape, surface properties and solute permeability of bacteria and it serves as an interface by which bacteria interact and communicate with each other and the environment. Therefore, the bacterial envelope has decisive functions in bacterial physiology, morphogenesis, substance uptake and release, sensitivity or resistance toward antimicrobial agents, host infection and biotechnologically relevant processes. In pathogens, the envelope, which is primarily responsible for interaction with the host, plays an important role in infections, as it elicits immune reactions and is involved in immune evasion.
