Glycocalyx is a surface layer that covers the cell membrane of many bacteria, epithelial cells or other cells. It is made up of proteoglycans, glycoproteins and glycolipids. This acts as a barrier for a cell from its surroundings and provides protection. It helps in maintaining the integrity of cells. It is involved in cell-cell interactions such as signalling, adhesion, etc. The glycocalyx layer also provides mechanical strength to tissues.
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Glycocalyx consists of proteoglycans, glycosaminoglycans, and other glycoproteins. It is made up of polysaccharide side chains of membrane proteins and lipids. The transmembrane proteins associated with glycocalyx are often linked to the cytoskeleton, which facilitates cell signalling.
Glycocalyx in Bacteria
Glycocalyx is the outermost layer of the three-layered cell envelope present in many bacterial and other prokaryotic cells. The composition and thickness of the glycocalyx layer differ in different bacteria. It may be present in the form of a slimy layer or as a thick capsule. Glycocalyx is followed by the cell wall and plasma membrane. It is a network of polysaccharides attached to the cell wall.
In a capsule, the glycocalyx layer is thick and tough. Polysaccharides of glycocalyx are tightly bound to the cell wall. In the slime layer, the glycoproteins are loosely associated with the cell wall.
Endothelial Glycocalyx
The endothelial glycocalyx is the covering of the endothelial cells present towards the lumen. It is composed of proteoglycans, glycoproteins and glycolipids. The glycocalyx layer is formed by molecules derived from both the endothelium and plasma. It is present throughout the capillaries, arteries and veins. The glycocalyx layer is involved in haemostasis, cell signalling and interaction of blood cells with the wall of blood vessels. It plays a critical role in various disease progression. A disruption in its structure is found to be associated with various diseases, such as fluid imbalance, edema, diabetes, ischemia, and atherosclerosis.
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