Cross-linkage and cross-linking of peptidoglycan in Escherichia coli: definition, determination, and implications.
The glycan chains in peptidoglycan or murein are cross-linked by transpeptidation of the peptide side chains. To assess the fraction of side chains involved in cross-bridges, distinction has been made between cross-linkage and cross-linking. The first expression refers to the situation in unlabeled (or fully labeled) peptidoglycan, and the second refers to pulse-labeled peptidoglycan. It is argued that for the determination of the cross-linking value, the mode of insertion as denoted by the so-called acceptor/donor radioactivity ratio should be taken into account.
Driehuis
F
F
Department of Microbiology, University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
de Jonge
B
B
Nanninga
N
N
D003432:Cross-Linking Reagents; D004926:Escherichia coli / Q000737:chemistry*; D010457:Peptidoglycan / Q000737:chemistry* / Q000648:ultrastructure
D003432:Cross-Linking Reagents; D010457:Peptidoglycan