Abstract
In this chapter, the learner is exposed to the history, structures and molecular mechanism of action of the major classes of clinically-used antibiotics. This includes those antibiotics which inhibit cell wall, DNA, and/or protein synthesis, as well as those that disrupt membrane function. The creative ways in which bacteria counter the action of antibiotics, including efflux, modification of target, or destruction of drug, are discussed. Future avenues for the development of new anti-bacterial measures are highlighted. The learner will be well-versed in the arms race between pathogenic bacteria and chemical antibiotics and the steps to be taken in the future for humanity to stay ahead.
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Maresso, A.W. (2019). Antibiotics … and Their Destruction. In: Bacterial Virulence. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-20464-8_16
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-20464-8_16
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