Antibiotics

Antibiotics are a diverse class of antimicrobial substances used to treat and prevent bacterial infections by killing or inhibiting the growth of bacteria [1][14]. Unlike a specific molecular target such as a receptor or enzyme, 'Antibiotics' refers to the therapeutic agents themselves, which act upon specific bacterial structures and processes [6]. Common bacterial targets include the cell wall (e.g., peptidoglycan synthesis via penicillin-binding proteins), the ribosome (30S and 50S subunits), and enzymes involved in DNA replication such as DNA gyrase [3][4][17]. Antibiotics are clinically categorized by their spectrum of activity (narrow vs. broad-spectrum) and their effect on bacteria (bactericidal vs. bacteriostatic) [8][16]. They play a vital role in modern medicine, enabling complex surgeries and the management of life-threatening conditions like sepsis and pneumonia [1][18]. However, the global emergence of antibiotic resistance, driven by the misuse and overuse of these agents, poses a significant threat to public health and requires the continuous development of novel antibacterial strategies [12][15].

Other names

AntibacterialsAntimicrobial agentsAntibacterial drugs

Inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis, protein synthesis, nucleic acid synthesis, or essential metabolic pathways