Cell Wall
These β-lactam antibiotics are the classic first-line agents that inhibit transpeptidase and are especially effective against Streptococcus species
What are penicillins
Antibiotics targeting protein synthesis rely on differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic ribosomes. What are the ribosomal subunits found in bacteria that allow selective toxicity of these drugs
What are 30S and 50S subunits
This class inhibits DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV and is widely used for Gram-negative infections including UTIs.
What are quinolones?
In 1928, I discovered penicillin when I noticed bacterial growth inhibition caused by a contaminating mould on an agar plate
Who was Alexander Fleming
This multi-generation β-lactam class has progressively increased Gram-negative coverage from first to fifth generation
What are cephalosporins
This 30S inhibitor is bactericidal, works best against aerobic Gram-negative organisms, and carries risks of nephrotoxicity and ototoxicity.
What are aminoglycosides
This drug inhibits bacterial RNA polymerase and is a cornerstone of tuberculosis treatment.
What are rifamycins
This term describes antibiotics that inhibit bacterial growth without directly killing the organism.
What is bacteriostatic
These ‘last-line’ β-lactams have the broadest spectrum of activity but do not cover MRSA
What are carbapenems
This 30S inhibitor is broad-spectrum, bacteriostatic, and commonly used for intracellular organisms such as Chlamydia
What are tetracyclines
This class inhibits folate synthesis by competing with para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA).”
What are sulfonamides
On an agar plate, this clear area surrounding an antibiotic disc indicates bacterial susceptibility to that drug
What is a zone of inhibition
This non-β-lactam class inhibits cell wall synthesis and is reserved for serious Gram-positive infections including MRSA
What are glycopeptides
This 50S inhibitor is commonly used for respiratory tract infections and atypical pathogens
What are macrolides
This folate pathway inhibitor is commonly combined with sulfonamides to create a synergistic antimicrobial effect
What is trimethoprim?
This combination of antibiotics are used to treat tuberculosis
What is rifampicin, isoniazid, pyrazinamide, ethambutol