The Mycobacterial Cell Envelope

The first comprehensive volume on the unique attributes of the mycobacterial cell envelope
Mycobacteria are responsible for many high-profile diseases in both humans and animals including leprosy, Buruli ulcer, Johne’s disease, and most notably, tuberculosis. The Mycobacterial Cell Envelope explains the unique characteristics that cause this large group of bacteria to function differently. The envelope, a complex arrangement of lipids, proteins and carbohydrates, is the interface between the pathogen and its human host. The cell envelope’s low permeability, along with a chemical structure capable of resisting lysis by host cell enzymes, seems to be responsible for the resistance of the mycobacterial cell to destruction by the host. Additionally, envelope components are involved in the uptake of the mycobacterium by the cell and also in modifying the responses of the cell and of the host’s immune system.