These medications exert their antimicrobial action by inhibiting the formation of peptidoglycan, a crucial component of bacterial cell walls. Specifically, they bind to and inactivate penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs), enzymes responsible for the final cross-linking steps in peptidoglycan synthesis. This disruption weakens the cell wall, leading to bacterial lysis and death. For example, penicillin targets PBPs in Streptococcus pneumoniae, disrupting its cell wall synthesis.
The development and use of these antibacterial agents have revolutionized the treatment of bacterial infections. Their selective targeting of bacterial components minimizes harm to human cells, making them generally well-tolerated. The introduction of penicillin in the mid-20th century marked a turning point in medicine, dramatically improving outcomes for previously life-threatening infections. Continued research and development have expanded this class of antibiotics, leading to broader-spectrum activity and addressing the challenge of bacterial resistance.
