Which of the following statements is TRUE about beta-lactam antibiotics? A) They are effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. B) They target the synthesis o... Which of the following statements is TRUE about beta-lactam antibiotics? A) They are effective against both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria. B) They target the synthesis of teichoic acid in bacterial cell walls. C) They inhibit the formation of peptide cross-links in peptidoglycan. D) They are exclusively used to treat viral infections.
Understand the Problem
The question is asking to identify the correct statement regarding beta-lactam antibiotics from a list of provided options, focusing on their mechanism of action and effectiveness against bacteria.
Answer
They inhibit the formation of peptide cross-links in peptidoglycan.
The final answer is C) They inhibit the formation of peptide cross-links in peptidoglycan.
Answer for screen readers
The final answer is C) They inhibit the formation of peptide cross-links in peptidoglycan.
More Information
Beta-lactam antibiotics are known for targeting the bacterial cell wall, specifically inhibiting the synthesis of peptidoglycan by preventing the formation of peptide cross-links. Peptidoglycan provides essential structural support to bacterial cell walls.
Tips
A common mistake is confusing the mechanisms of action of different antibiotics. Beta-lactam antibiotics specifically inhibit the synthesis of peptidoglycan, not teichoic acids or viral infections.
Sources
- Constructing and deconstructing the bacterial cell wall - Fisher - 2020 - onlinelibrary.wiley.com
- Peptidoglycan: Structure, Synthesis, and Regulation | EcoSal Plus - journals.asm.org
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