Peptidoglycan Properties
Each layer of peptidoglycan increases strength of cell wall. Strength of individual layers determined by the amount of cross-linking between NAG-NAM backbones.
- Penicillins and cephalosporins prevent peptidoglycan synthesis (lysozyme in tears)
- Most Gram + bacteria also contain teichoic acids (repeating sugars and phosphates). Give membrane negative charge.