Lipopolysaccharides (LPS)

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are large molecules found on the outer surface of certain bacteria, especially gram-negative bacteria. They consist of a lipid (fat) component and a sugar (polysaccharide) part, functioning as a protective barrier. LPS plays a key role in the bacteria’s defense against host immune responses and helps maintain the bacteria’s structure. When these bacteria invade the body, LPS can trigger a strong immune response, sometimes leading to inflammation and fever. Because of this, LPS is often studied in relation to infections and inflammatory diseases.