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Updated: Jun 3, 2026
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Isolation and Identification of Waterborne Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria and Molecular Characterization of their Antibiotic Resistance Genes
Published on: March 3, 2023
Resistance to tetracyclines, macrolides, trimethoprim and sulfonamides
1Department of Pathobiology SC-38, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA.
Methods in Molecular Medicine
|March 11, 2011
Summary
Tetracyclines are broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents that inhibit bacterial protein synthesis. Their wide-ranging activity, safety, and affordability have led to extensive use in human and animal medicine globally.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Tetracyclines are a class of broad-spectrum antimicrobial agents.
- They function by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis through interaction with bacterial ribosomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the antimicrobial spectrum and clinical applications of tetracyclines.
- To highlight their historical significance and global usage patterns.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of tetracycline properties and applications.
- Analysis of historical and current usage data in human and veterinary medicine.
Main Results:
- Tetracyclines exhibit activity against a diverse range of bacteria, including Gram-positive, Gram-negative, and atypical organisms.
- They are effective against various protozoan parasites.
- Extensive use in treating respiratory, urogenital, periodontal, Lyme, and rickettsial diseases in humans and animals.
Conclusions:
- Tetracyclines were the first recognized broad-spectrum antibiotics.
- Their efficacy, safety profile, and cost-effectiveness contribute to their widespread global consumption, second only to penicillins.
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