Bacteriologist Question: Download Bacteriologist PDF

Cell wall theory: Cell wall of Gram positive bacteria are 40 times thicker than those of Gram negative cells, hence they are thought to help retain the dye-iodine complex.
Lipid Content Theory: Cell envelope of Gram negative bacteria contains an additional membrane (outer membrane). hence containing more lipids than Gram positive bacteria. Acetone or alcohol dissolves the lipid thus forming large pores in Gram negative bacteria through which the dye-iodine complex leaks out. Alcohol/acetone dehydrates Gram positive bacteria shrinking the cell wall and the closing the pores.
Magnesium Ribonucleate Theory: A compound of magnesium ribonucleate and basic protein concentrated at the cell membrane helps Gram positive bacteria retain the primary dye. Gram negative bacteria do not possess this substance.
Cytoplasmic pH Theory: The cytoplasm of Gram positive bacteria are said to be more acidic (2) than those of Gram negative ones (3). Hence the dye is said to bind with more affinity to Gram positive cells.