Penicillin and other β-lactam antibiotics form a covalent bond to the enzyme glycoprotein transpeptidase. What type of bond is formed?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Penicillin and other β-lactam antibiotics contain a β-lactam ring that acts as a substrate for the glycoprotein transpeptidase enzyme. The enzyme attacks the β-lactam ring, forming a covalent bond called an amide bond. This prevents the enzyme from cross-linking peptidoglycan within the bacterial cell wall, leading to cell lysis and bacterial death.

Penicillin and Other β-Lactam Antibiotics Form a Covalent Bond to the Enzyme