Structure/activity evaluation of the bacterial membrane constituents involved in the immune system

The Lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) are the major constituents of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria and with capsular polysaccharides (CPSs) and peptidoglycan (PGN) are involved in the interaction with immune system receptors. The chemical characterization of these molecules is fundamental for the elucidation of correlation existing between the structure and the biological activity. The present thesis deals with the structural study of Lipopolysaccharides and Capsular polysaccharides from different Gram-negative bacteria. The last part of thesis is focused on the preparation of the building block for the synthesis of new glycoconjugates with potential activity against HIV-1.