What happens when Gram positive bacteria are treated with lysozyme ?

Options

A. Their plasma membrane gets dissolved
B. Their genetic material gets dissolved
C. Their cell wall gets dissolved
D. Cell can not survive in high glucose concentration

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Lysozyme**:
- Lysozyme is an enzyme that specifically targets and degrades the peptidoglycan layer of bacterial cell walls. It is commonly found in various bodily fluids, such as saliva and tears.

2. **Structure of Gram Positive Bacteria**:
- Gram positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer in their cell wall, which is crucial for maintaining their structural integrity. This layer is responsible for the rigidity and shape of the bacteria.

3. **Action of Lysozyme on Gram Positive Bacteria**:
- When gram positive bacteria are treated with lysozyme, the enzyme breaks down the peptidoglycan layer. This leads to the weakening of the cell wall.

4. **Consequences of Cell Wall Degradation**:
- As the cell wall is compromised, the bacteria become unable to maintain their shape and structural integrity. This can result in the lysis (bursting) of the bacterial cell due to osmotic pressure, especially in a hypotonic environment.

5. **Survival of Bacteria**:
- The rapid degradation of the cell wall leads to the death of gram positive bacteria. In contrast, gram negative bacteria, which have a thinner peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane, are less affected by lysozyme.

6. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the primary effect of lysozyme on gram positive bacteria is the dissolution of their cell wall, leading to their death.

### Final Answer:
When gram positive bacteria are treated with lysozyme, their cell wall gets dissolved.

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