What is a key characteristic of Gram-negative bacteria?

A key characteristic of Gram-negative bacteria is that they contain toxic components in their cell membranes, specifically in the form of lipopolysaccharides (LPS). These molecules are found in the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria and can trigger strong immune responses in humans and other animals. This feature not only contributes to the pathogenicity of some Gram-negative bacteria but also makes them distinctive in the Gram staining process, which differentiates them from Gram-positive bacteria that have a thick peptidoglycan layer without an outer membrane.

In addition to their role in pathogenicity, these toxic components play a crucial role in the overall structure and function of the bacterial cell membrane, influencing the bacteria's interaction with their environment. For instance, the presence of LPS can affect antibiotic susceptibility, making Gram-negative bacteria more resistant to certain drugs compared to their Gram-positive counterparts. Understanding these characteristics is essential for laboratory analysts when identifying and treating bacterial infections.