Beta-lactamase
Beta-lactamase
Beta-lactamase (pronounced: BAY-tuh LAK-tuh-mayss) is an enzyme produced by some bacteria that provides resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics such as penicillin, cephalosporins, monobactams, and carbapenems.
Etymology
The term "Beta-lactamase" is derived from the chemical structure of the antibiotics it acts upon. The beta-lactam ring is a common feature in these antibiotics, and the enzyme is named for its ability to break this ring, thereby deactivating the antibiotic.
Function
Beta-lactamase provides resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics by breaking the antibiotics' structure, rendering them ineffective. This resistance can be inherent or acquired. Inherent resistance is naturally occurring, while acquired resistance develops due to genetic mutation or acquisition of resistance genes from other bacteria.
Types
There are several types of beta-lactamases, each with a different range of activity. These include:
- TEM beta-lactamase: One of the most commonly encountered beta-lactamases in Gram-negative bacteria.
- SHV beta-lactamase: Predominantly found in Klebsiella pneumoniae and Escherichia coli.
- CTX-M beta-lactamase: Named for its effectiveness against cefotaxime, a type of cephalosporin.
- OXA beta-lactamase: Has a broader range of activity, including some carbapenems.
Clinical Significance
The production of beta-lactamase is a major cause of resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics. This has significant implications for the treatment of bacterial infections, as it can limit the effectiveness of commonly used antibiotics.
See Also
- Antibiotic resistance
- Beta-lactam antibiotic
- Extended spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL)
- Metallo-beta-lactamase
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Beta-lactamase
- Wikipedia's article - Beta-lactamase
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