Multiple choice

The presence of D-amino acids in peptidoglycan layer of bacterial cell wall is because of the fact that

  1. most L-amino acids take part in protein synthesis

  2. D-amino acids fit the structure of the cell wall better than L-amino acids

  3. most peptidases can only cleave L-amino acids

  4. D-amino acids are easier to crosslink in the absence of ribosome
Reveal answer Fill a bubble to check yourself
C Correct answer
Explanation

Most peptidases can only cleave L-amino acids. Peptidases are enzymes that act on short protein chains into individual amino acids. Many bacteria secrete peptidases that act on L-amino acids and help in their nutrition. But these enzymes cannot degrade their cell walls due to the presence of D-amino acids in their cell walls.

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