True or False: The peptidoglycan consists of alternating n-acetyl muramic acid and n-acetyl glucosamine with tetrapeptide side chains.

The statement is true. Peptidoglycan, also known as murein, is a vital component of bacterial cell walls. Its structure includes alternating units of two sugar derivatives: N-acetylmuramic acid and N-acetylglucosamine. These sugars form glycan chains that are cross-linked by peptide chains, typically comprising tetrapeptides that attach to the N-acetylmuramic acid.

This cross-linking is crucial for maintaining the structural integrity of the bacterial cell wall, providing rigidity and shape to the cell. While the presence of peptidoglycan is characteristic of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, the specifics of how these tetrapeptide chains are linked can vary between the two groups. However, the basic composition of peptidoglycan remains consistent across all bacteria. Therefore, the assertion regarding the components of peptidoglycan is accurately described, making the answer true.