Lipoproteins in Gram-negative bacteria: new insights into their biogenesis, subcellular targeting and functional roles

Bacterial lipoproteins are globular proteins anchored to a membrane by a lipid moiety. By discovering new functions carried out by lipoproteins, recent research has highlighted the crucial roles played by these proteins in the cell envelope of Gram-negative bacteria. Here, after discussing the wide range of activities carried out by lipoproteins in the model bacterium Escherichia coli, we review new insights into the essential mechanisms involved in lipoprotein maturation, sorting and targeting to their final destination. A special attention will also be given to the recent identification of lipoproteins on the surface of E. coli and of other bacteria. The renewed interest in lipoproteins is driven by the need to identify novel targets for antibiotic development.

Automated summary

Bacterial lipoproteins play crucial roles in the cell envelope of Gram-negative bacteria, with recent research focusing on their diverse functions in Escherichia coli and their maturation, sorting, and targeting mechanisms. The identification of lipoproteins on the surface of E. coli and other bacteria has sparked renewed interest in these proteins as potential targets for antibiotic development.