Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 24, 2026

Nanomechanics of Drug-target Interactions and Antibacterial Resistance Detection
Published on: October 25, 2013
Mechanisms of resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics
Abstract:
The complex mechanism of resistance towards beta-lactam antibiotics in Gram-negative bacteria can be described by a simple equation in which the hydrolytic activity of the enzyme, the affinity to the penicillin binding protein in competition to the affinity to the beta-lactamase, the quantity of the enzyme and the ability of the drug to penetrate the outer membrane are considered. Depending on the characteristics of the drug, the beta-lactamase, and the microorganisms, the hydrolysis of the drug, its binding, or the reduced penetration can be the predominant factors.
Related Concept Videos
Antibiotic Selection
Defense Against Bacterial Pathogens
Phagocytes
Phagocytes are the frontline soldiers of the immune system. They include neutrophils and macrophages. Neutrophils are the most abundant type of white blood cell and are quickly mobilized to the site of infection. Macrophages are larger cells that patrol...
Development of Antibiotic Resistance
Mechanism of Antibiotic Resistance in MRSA
Inhibitors of Gram-positive Cell Wall Synthesis
Clinical Significance of Antibiotic Resistance

