Which of these can contribute to this toxicity of the lipopolysaccharide?
Lipopolysaccharide can act as an endotoxin, and cause some of the symptoms that arise in gram negative bacterial infections.
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Core polysaccharide
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Braun's lipoprotein
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O antigen
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Lipid A
D
Correct answer
Explanation
It is a major constituent of the outer membrane and is often toxic. The outer leaflet of the membrane comprises of a complex lipopolysaccharide whose lipid portion acts as an endotoxin. If the endotoxin enters the circulatory system, it causes a toxic reaction resulting in high temperature, high respiration rate and low blood pressure. This may lead to endotoxic shock which may be fatal.