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Lipopolysaccharide

Meaning

Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) is a large molecule consisting of a lipid and a polysaccharide component that constitutes the major part of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria. In human physiology, LPS is a potent endotoxin; when it leaks from the gut lumen into systemic circulation, a condition known as metabolic endotoxemia, it triggers a strong inflammatory and immune response. Clinically, this gut permeability and subsequent LPS exposure can significantly impact hormonal balance and metabolic health by driving chronic low-grade inflammation.