Question

Give the significance of glycocalyx?

Answer 1

Hint: The glycocalyx is also known as the pericellular matrix. It is a glycoprotein and glycolipid covering. It surrounds the cell membranes of some bacteria, epithelia, and other cells. It was discovered in 1970, by Martinez and Palomo in animal cells, which they referred to as the glycocalyx

Complete answer:
The glycocalyx is the outermost mucilage layer of the cell envelope. It consists of non-cellulosic polysaccharides. It could be present with or without proteins. Basically, a glycocalyx is a sugar coat.
It is of two important types: capsules and slime layers.

> Capsule glycocalyx is an organized layer located outside of the compartment wall. It is composed of polysaccharides or proteins.
> Slime Glycocalyx occurs in the form of the loose sheath. Glycocalyx gives a sticky appearance to the cell. It is not completely crucial for the survival of bacteria.

It is significant because it performs functions like Glycocalyx and has cell-adhesion molecules that enable cells to adhere to each other. This helps to guide the movement of cells during embryonic development. It also plays a major role in the regulation of endothelial vascular tissue. It also helps in the Prevention of desiccation. It also performs protective functions like Protection from phagocytes and Protection from toxic chemicals and drugs and Protection from viruses. It also helps in Attachment, Immunogenicity, and Virulence.

Hence, The correct answer is option (B).

Note: Composition of Glycocalyx involves glycosaminoglycans, proteoglycans, and other glycoproteins that bear acidic oligosaccharides and terminal sialic acids. Most proteins associated with glycocalyx are transmembrane that can be linked to the cytoskeleton.