mcgraw hill microbiology test bank Related

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The enzyme that breaks down the peptidoglycan in bacterial cell walls is:

  • A. Lysozyme
  • B. Amylase
  • C. Protease
  • D. Lipase
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Lysozyme. Lysozyme is an enzyme that targets and breaks down the peptidoglycan in bacterial cell walls by cleaving the glycosidic bonds between the sugar components. This action weakens the cell wall, leading to bacterial cell lysis. Amylase (B) breaks down starch, not peptidoglycan. Protease (C) breaks down proteins, not peptidoglycan. Lipase (D) breaks down lipids, not peptidoglycan. Therefore, Lysozyme is the correct enzyme for breaking down peptidoglycan in bacterial cell walls.