Which of the following best describes the composition of peptidoglycan?

Peptidoglycan, an essential component of bacterial cell walls, is primarily composed of sugars and amino acids. Specifically, it consists of long chains of alternating N-acetylglucosamine (NAG) and N-acetylmuramic acid (NAM), which are types of polysaccharides. These sugar chains are cross-linked by short peptide chains made up of amino acids, contributing to the structural integrity and rigidity of the bacterial cell wall.

The correct option captures this unique combination of components that plays a crucial role in maintaining the shape and strength of bacterial cells, allowing them to withstand osmotic pressure and various environmental stresses. Understanding the composition of peptidoglycan is vital for insights into bacterial physiology and the mechanisms by which certain antibiotics, such as penicillin, disrupt bacterial cell wall synthesis.