ATI Pharmacology Exam Practice Related

Review ATI Pharmacology Exam Practice related questions and content

Which of the following most accurately describes the antibacterial mechanism of penicillin:

  • A. inhibits DNA synthesis
  • B. inhibits the terminal step in peptidoglycan synthesis
  • C. Inhibits protein synthesis in growing bacterial cells
  • D. disrupts the integrity of the cell membrane
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Penicillin is a type of antibiotic that works by inhibiting bacterial cell wall synthesis. Peptidoglycan is a critical component of the bacterial cell wall, providing structural support and preventing the cell from bursting. Penicillin specifically targets the final step in peptidoglycan synthesis, known as cross-linking, by binding to and inhibiting the enzyme transpeptidase. Without proper cross-linking of peptidoglycan, the bacterial cell wall becomes weak and compromised, leading to cell lysis and bacterial death. This mechanism makes penicillin highly effective in combating bacterial infections.