Beta-lactams
Beta-lactams interfere with synthesis of the peptidoglycan layer of the
cell wall.
– More specifically,
beta-lactams bind transpeptidases, which are bacterial enzymes required for peptidoglycan crosslinking.
– It's helpful to know that, because they are the targets of penicillins and other beta-lactams, the
transpeptidases are also called Penicillin-Binding Proteins!
–
Penicillinase is a bacterial enzyme that renders penicillin ineffective.
Penicillins
Penicillins that are Sensitive to penicillinase:
- Penicillin G
- Penicillin V
- Ampicillin
- Amoxicillin.
Penicillins that are Resistant to penicillinase
- Oxacillin
- Nafillin
- Dicloxacillin.
Non-Penicillin Beta-lactams
– Imipenem
– Menopenem
– Ertapenem
– Doripenem
- A monobactam called aztreonam