True about bacterial capsule is following except –
**Core Concept**
The bacterial capsule, also known as a slime layer or glycocalyx, is a complex polysaccharide structure that surrounds certain bacteria and plays a crucial role in their virulence and pathogenicity. The capsule helps the bacteria evade phagocytosis by preventing the attachment of host immune cells and complement proteins.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The bacterial capsule is composed of polysaccharides, which are synthesized by enzymes such as TyV or Wzy, and are anchored to the bacterial cell wall by proteins like Cps. The capsule is essential for the virulence of encapsulated bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae, Haemophilus influenzae, and Neisseria meningitidis. It prevents the activation of the complement system and inhibits the phagocytosis of bacteria by host immune cells.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because the bacterial capsule is indeed composed of polysaccharides, which are synthesized by enzymes such as TyV or Wzy.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because the bacterial capsule is not composed of lipopolysaccharides (LPS), which are components of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria.
**Option C:** This option is incorrect because the bacterial capsule is not a component of the bacterial cell wall, but rather a separate structure that surrounds the cell.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because the bacterial capsule is not a protein structure, but rather a complex polysaccharide structure.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The bacterial capsule is a critical virulence factor for many pathogenic bacteria, and its presence or absence can be used to distinguish between different species or serotypes.
**Correct Answer:**