why is e coli resistant to penicillin ?
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Esmeralda C. Hough
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The resistance of E. coli to penicillin primarily arises due to changes or mutations in its genetic makeup. Penicillin works by interfering with the formation of the bacterial cell wall, ultimately leading to the death of the bacterium. However, certain strains of E. coli have developed mechanisms to counteract the effects of penicillin. One common mechanism involves the production of beta-lactamase enzymes, which can break down penicillin and render it ineffective. This enzyme acts as a defense mechanism, allowing the bacterium to survive in the presence of penicillin. Additionally, some strains of E. coli may acquire genes encoding for efflux pumps, which are proteins that actively remove penicillin from within the bacterial cell, further reducing its effectiveness. These genetic adaptations enable E. coli to resist the effects of penicillin and contribute to the challenge of treating infections caused by this bacterium.