Final answer:
The three components of LPS of gram-negative outer membrane are Lipid A, Core Polysaccharide, and O side chain. Lipid A is toxic, the Core Polysaccharide serves as a link, and the O side chain is species-specific and can be used for identification.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of the outer membrane of gram-negative bacteria consists of three main components:
- Lipid A: Embedded in the outer membrane, Lipid A is the endotoxic component of LPS responsible for its toxic effects, such as fever and inflammation.
- Core Polysaccharide: Links Lipid A to the O side chain and is a component of LPS that can vary in composition.
- O side chain: Also known as O antigen, it is the outward-facing part of LPS and is composed of sugar-like molecules. The composition of the O side chain is species- and strain-specific, used for identifying pathogenic strains.
Together, these components make up the LPS, which helps in classifying bacteria and understanding the roles they play in triggering immune responses during infections.