bétalaktamases

Betalactamases are a diverse group of enzymes produced by bacteria that confer resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, such as penicillins, cephalosporins, and carbapenems. These enzymes function by hydrolyzing the amide bond within the beta-lactam ring, rendering the antibiotic inactive. The genes encoding betalactamases are often located on plasmids, facilitating their rapid spread among bacterial populations through horizontal gene transfer.

There are numerous classes of betalactamases, broadly categorized by their structure and mechanism of action. The most common are Class A, C, and D enzymes, which vary in their substrate specificity and inhibition by clavulanic acid. Class A enzymes are often penicillinases and are susceptible to clavulanic acid. Class C enzymes, known as cephalosporinases, are generally not inhibited by clavulanic acid but can be by avibactam. Class D enzymes, or oxacillinases, exhibit a broad range of activity and are frequently associated with carbapenem resistance.

The emergence and widespread dissemination of betalactamase-producing bacteria pose a significant threat to public health, leading to treatment failures and limiting therapeutic options for bacterial infections. Understanding the different types of betalactamases and their mechanisms is crucial for developing new diagnostic tools and antimicrobial strategies to combat antibiotic resistance. Research efforts are focused on inhibitor development and the discovery of novel antibiotics that can evade betalactamase activity.