Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first video
Multiple Choice
How does penicillin kill bacteria in the context of organic chemistry reactions?
A
By interfering with bacterial protein synthesis
B
By altering bacterial RNA transcription
C
By inhibiting the synthesis of bacterial cell walls
D
By disrupting bacterial DNA replication
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of penicillin: Penicillin is a β-lactam antibiotic, characterized by its β-lactam ring, which is crucial for its antibacterial activity.
Learn about bacterial cell wall synthesis: Bacteria have a cell wall composed of peptidoglycan, which provides structural integrity. The synthesis of peptidoglycan involves cross-linking peptide chains.
Explore the mechanism of action: Penicillin targets the enzyme transpeptidase, which is responsible for cross-linking the peptidoglycan chains. By binding to this enzyme, penicillin inhibits its activity.
Recognize the result of inhibition: When transpeptidase is inhibited, the bacterial cell wall cannot be properly synthesized, leading to weakened cell walls and ultimately causing the bacteria to lyse due to osmotic pressure.
Connect the concept to organic chemistry: The β-lactam ring of penicillin undergoes a nucleophilic attack by the serine residue in the active site of transpeptidase, forming a covalent bond and irreversibly inhibiting the enzyme.