Molecular Classification
Enzyme, Class A serine β-lactamase
Other Names
TEM-1, bla_TEM, TEM beta-lactamase
Disease Roles
Beta-lactamase TEM-1 Overview
Beta-lactamase TEM-1 is a class A beta-lactamase enzyme produced by Gram-negative bacteria. It is the most prevalent plasmid-encoded beta-lactamase and plays a major role in bacterial resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, particularly penicillins and early-generation cephalosporins. It hydrolyzes the beta-lactam ring of susceptible antibiotics, rendering them ineffective. Its activity can be inhibited by mechanism-based inhibitors such as clavulanic acid; however, mutations have led to variants with extended-spectrum activity or inhibitor resistance.
Mechanism of Action
Ser70-mediated acylation/deacylation of beta-lactam antibiotics
Biological Functions
Antibiotic resistance
Beta-lactam hydrolysis
Disease Associations
Infection
Antibiotic resistance
Safety Considerations
- Emergence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL) variants
- Inhibitor resistance
Interacting Drugs
Ampicillin
Penicillin
Clavulanic acid
Early cephalosporins