Beta-lactamase Enzyme (N/A)

Molecular Classification

Enzyme, Hydrolase, Serine Beta-Lactamase, Metallo-Beta-Lactamase, Class A Beta-Lactamase, Class B Beta-Lactamase, Class C Beta-Lactamase, Class D Beta-Lactamase

Other Names

Beta-lactamases, β-lactamase, β-lactamases, TEM, SHV, CTX-M, KPC, NDM, IMP, VIM, AmpC, OXA-type

Disease Roles

InfectionAntibiotic resistanceMulti-drug resistant infections

Beta-lactamase Enzyme Overview

Beta-lactamases are enzymes produced by bacteria that confer resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics by hydrolyzing the beta-lactam ring. They are classified into four main classes (A-D) based on their molecular structure and mechanism of action. Beta-lactamase production is a major mechanism of antibiotic resistance, leading to multi-drug resistant infections worldwide. Understanding the specific types of beta-lactamases present in pathogens is crucial for guiding therapy choices and infection control measures.

Mechanism of Action

Hydrolysis of the beta-lactam ring of antibiotics, rendering them ineffective. Serine beta-lactamases form an acyl-enzyme intermediate that is subsequently hydrolyzed. Metallo-beta-lactamases utilize zinc ions to activate a water molecule that attacks the beta-lactam ring.

Biological Functions

Hydrolyzes beta-lactam ring of antibiotics

Inactivates beta-lactam antibiotics

Confers antibiotic resistance

Disease Associations

Infection

Antibiotic resistance

Multi-drug resistant infections

Safety Considerations

Spread of antibiotic resistance genes
Treatment failure in infections caused by beta-lactamase producing bacteria
Emergence of new beta-lactamase variants with increased resistance

Interacting Drugs

Penicillins

Cephalosporins

Carbapenems

Monobactams

Beta-lactamase inhibitors (e.g., clavulanate, tazobactam, sulbactam)

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
Detection of specific beta-lactamase genes (e.g., blaKPC, blaNDM) in bacterial isolates
Phenotypic assays for beta-lactamase activity