Beta-lactam
Beta-lactam
Beta-lactam (pronounced: /ˈbeɪtə ˈlæk.tæm/) is a class of broad-spectrum antibiotics, including penicillin derivatives (penams), cephalosporins (cephems), monobactams, and carbapenems (carbapenems). They are so named because of their structure, which includes a beta-lactam ring.
Etymology
The term "beta-lactam" (β-lactam) comes from the structure of these compounds, which all contain a lactam ring — a cyclic amide. The prefix "beta" refers to the specific positioning of the nitrogen and carbonyl group in the ring.
Mechanism of Action
Beta-lactam antibiotics work by inhibiting the formation of peptidoglycan cross-links in the bacterial cell wall. The beta-lactam moiety (functional group) of these antibiotics binds to the enzyme that links peptidoglycan residues, which in turn inhibits the synthesis of peptidoglycan, a critical component of the bacterial cell wall.
Related Terms
- Penicillin: A group of antibiotics that are derivatives of beta-lactam, which are used in the treatment of various bacterial infections.
- Cephalosporin: A class of beta-lactam antibiotics originally derived from the fungus Acremonium, which was previously known as Cephalosporium.
- Monobactam: A type of beta-lactam antibiotic where the beta-lactam ring is alone.
- Carbapenem: A class of highly resistant beta-lactam antibiotic. They are primarily used for the treatment of severe or high-risk bacterial infections.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Beta-lactam
- Wikipedia's article - Beta-lactam
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