Bacterial Cell Wall Synthesis and Penicillin

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What is the primary function of clavulanic acid when used in combination with amoxicillin?

Targets Gram-negative bacteria
Acts as a beta-lactamase inhibitor (correct)
Enhances antibacterial activity
Reduces the spectrum of antibiotic activity

Why are glycopeptides unable to penetrate the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria?

They lack antibacterial activity
They are too small
They are not compatible with the membrane structure
They are too large (correct)

What is the spectrum of activity for glycopeptides?

Broad spectrum
Primarily against anaerobic bacteria
Limited to Gram-negative bacteria
Narrow spectrum (correct)

Which bacteria are primarily targeted by glycopeptides due to their multiple resistance to other agents?

Gram-positive cocci (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is a common mechanism of resistance against glycopeptides reported in bacteria like MRSA?

Reduced sensitivity to glycopeptides (D) Signup and view all the answers

In what bacterial strains are reports of resistance or reduced sensitivity to glycopeptides becoming more frequent?

Enterococci and staphylococci (A) Signup and view all the answers

What makes clavulanic acid useful despite its poor antibacterial activity when used alongside amoxicillin?

Functions as a beta-lactamase inhibitor (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why are glycopeptides ineffective against Gram-negative bacteria?

They are too large to penetrate the outer membrane (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of glycopeptides' activity against Gram-positive cocci with multiple resistance?

They provide a new treatment option for resistant infections (C) Signup and view all the answers

What type of bacteria exhibit increased reports of resistance or reduced sensitivity to glycopeptides?

Gram-positive cocci (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of clavulanic acid when used with amoxicillin?

Clavulanic acid is a beta-lactamase inhibitor, meaning it prevents the breakdown of amoxicillin, allowing for the antibiotic to be effective.

Why are glycopeptides unable to penetrate the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria?

Glycopeptides are large molecules that can't pass through the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria, making them ineffective against these types of bacteria.

What is the spectrum of activity for glycopeptides?

Glycopeptides have a narrow spectrum of activity, meaning they are effective against a limited range of bacterial species.

Which bacteria are primarily targeted by glycopeptides due to their multiple resistance to other agents?

Glycopeptides are often used to target Gram-positive cocci, which are bacteria shaped like spheres, because these bacteria commonly develop resistance to other antibiotics.