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Multiple Choice
Which type of bacteria are most susceptible to antibiotics that target the cell wall?
A
Gram-negative bacteria
B
Gram-positive bacteria
C
Acid-fast bacteria
D
Mycoplasma
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the structure of bacterial cell walls: Gram-positive bacteria have a thick peptidoglycan layer, while Gram-negative bacteria have a thin peptidoglycan layer and an outer membrane.
Recognize that antibiotics targeting the cell wall, such as penicillin, are more effective against bacteria with a thick peptidoglycan layer.
Consider the susceptibility of different types of bacteria: Gram-positive bacteria are more susceptible to these antibiotics due to their thick peptidoglycan layer.
Note that Gram-negative bacteria have an outer membrane that provides additional protection, making them less susceptible to antibiotics targeting the cell wall.
Remember that Mycoplasma lack a cell wall entirely, and acid-fast bacteria have a waxy cell wall, making them resistant to many antibiotics targeting the cell wall.