Waxes are long-chain fatty acids esterified to long-chain alcohols. They are hydrophobic and serve as protective coatings in various biological contexts.
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Waxes are a type of lipid characterized by their hydrophobic properties, making them water-resistant.
In microbiology, waxes play a crucial role in the cell walls of certain bacteria, such as Mycobacterium tuberculosis.
The presence of waxes contributes to the pathogenicity of some bacteria by providing a barrier against antibiotics and host immune responses.
Waxes can be found in the cuticles of plants and insects, serving as a protective layer against environmental stressors like dehydration and pathogens.
Biochemically, waxes are formed through an esterification reaction between fatty acids and long-chain alcohols.
Review Questions
What biochemical reaction forms waxes?
How do waxes contribute to the pathogenicity of certain bacteria?
What is the primary function of waxes in plant and insect cuticles?
Related terms
Lipid: A broad category of organic compounds that includes fats, oils, waxes, and other related molecules.
Mycolic Acid: A type of long-chain fatty acid found in the cell walls of Mycobacterium species, contributing to their resistance to chemicals.
Esterification: A chemical reaction where an acid reacts with an alcohol, resulting in the formation of an ester and water.