Aminoglycoside resistance

Definition

Aminoglycoside resistance is the ability of bacteria to survive and proliferate despite the presence of aminoglycoside antibiotics. This resistance can occur through various mechanisms such as enzymatic modification, efflux pumps, or target site mutations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aminoglycoside resistance often involves enzymes like acetyltransferases that modify and inactivate the drug.
2. Efflux pumps can remove aminoglycosides from bacterial cells, decreasing their intracellular concentrations.
3. Mutations in ribosomal RNA or ribosomal proteins can prevent aminoglycosides from binding effectively to their target sites.
4. Resistance genes for aminoglycosides are frequently found on plasmids, facilitating horizontal gene transfer among bacteria.
5. Monitoring and minimizing the use of aminoglycosides in clinical settings is crucial to controlling the spread of resistant strains.

Review Questions

• What role do acetyltransferases play in aminoglycoside resistance?
• How do efflux pumps contribute to bacterial resistance against aminoglycosides?
• Why is it significant that resistance genes for aminoglycosides are often located on plasmids?

Related terms

Antimicrobial Resistance:

The ability of microorganisms to withstand the effects of drugs designed to kill them.

Horizontal Gene Transfer:

The movement of genetic material between organisms other than by vertical transmission (from parent to offspring).

Efflux Pump: A protein that transports various molecules, including antibiotics, out of cells.