Question

List 4 targets of antibiotics.

Answer 1

Answer: Antibiotics targets the synthesis of protein, nucleic acid, folate and cell wall.

1. Synthesis of protein; antibiotics binds to either 30s or 50s ribosomal subunits blocking the polypeptide from the exiting the tunnel thus inhibiting a full completion of protein expression or production.

2. Nucleic acid synthesis; Antibiotics also act by inhibiting genetic expression, DNA transcription and replication where DNA makes exact copies of itself, as well as RNA molecules preventing bacterial growth.

3. Cell wall synthesis; Inhibition of cell wall synthesis in microorganisms will prevent it from replication and growth.

4. Folate synthesis; Folic acid also known as vitamin B9 helps in DNA replication and cell division. Folate antagonists such as aminopterin kills bacteria by preventing folic acid production required for DNA replication.