title: Genetics of Peptidoglycan Biosynthesis.
abstract: The complex cell envelope is a hallmark of mycobacteria and is anchored by the peptidoglycan layer, which is similar to that of Escherichia coli and a number of other bacteria but with modifications to the monomeric units and other structural complexities that are likely related to a role for the peptidoglycan in stabilizing the mycolyl-arabinogalactan-peptidoglycan complex (MAPc). In this article, we will review the genetics of several aspects of peptidoglycan biosynthesis in mycobacteria, including the production of monomeric precursors in the cytoplasm, assembly of the monomers into the mature wall, cell wall turnover, and cell division. Finally, we will touch upon the resistance of mycobacteria to β-lactam antibiotics, an important class of drugs that, until recently, have not been extensively exploited as potential antimycobacterial agents. We will also note areas of research where there are still unanswered questions.
authors.affiliation: University of Rochester Medical Center, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Rochester, NY 14642.
authors.forename: Martin S
authors.initials: MS
authors.lastname: Pavelka
authors.affiliation: Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523.
authors.forename: Sebabrata
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Mahapatra
authors.affiliation: Mycobacteria Research Laboratories, Department of Microbiology, Immunology and Pathology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523.
authors.forename: Dean C
authors.initials: DC
authors.lastname: Crick
mesh_terms: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000378:metabolism; D053898:Biosynthetic Pathways / Q000235:genetics*; D009161:Mycobacterium / Q000187:drug effects / Q000235:genetics* / Q000378:metabolism*; D010457:Peptidoglycan / Q000096:biosynthesis* / Q000235:genetics; D047090:beta-Lactams / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents; D010457:Peptidoglycan; D047090:beta-Lactams