Lipopolysaccharides

Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) also known as lipoglycans and endotoxins are large molecules found on the outer membrane of gram negative bacteria. They elicit a strong immune response. LPS is an exogenous pyrogen.

One study found higher levels of serum IgA and IgM against lipopolysaccharides (LPS), a major component of the outer membrane of gram negative bacteria, indicating translocation. . Serum IgA was significantly correlated to the severity of illness.

Some LPS molecules have been implicated in autoimmune disease including multiple sclerosis and Guillain-Barré syndrome.