metallocarbapenemázok

Metallocarbapenemázok are a class of enzymes that are a significant concern in the field of infectious diseases. These enzymes are metalloenzymes, meaning they require a metal ion, typically zinc, for their catalytic activity. Their primary function is to hydrolyze, or break down, the beta-lactam ring structure of carbapenem antibiotics. Carbapenems are a broad-spectrum class of antibiotics that are often reserved for treating severe infections caused by multidrug-resistant bacteria.

The emergence of metallocarbapenemáz-producing bacteria poses a serious threat because it renders these last-resort antibiotics ineffective. Bacteria carrying genes for metallocarbapenemáz production can survive exposure to carbapenems, leading to treatment failures and the potential for the spread of resistant strains. These enzymes are categorized into different classes based on their amino acid sequence and substrate specificity, with Class A, B, and D being the most clinically relevant. Class B metallocarbapenemázok, also known as carbapenemases, are particularly concerning due to their broad substrate range, including carbapenems, penicillins, and cephalosporins.

The genes encoding metallocarbapenemázok are often located on mobile genetic elements, such as plasmids, which facilitates their rapid dissemination among different bacterial species. This horizontal gene transfer is a major driver of antimicrobial resistance. Detection of metallocarbapenemáz production in clinical isolates is crucial for guiding appropriate treatment strategies and implementing effective infection control measures to prevent further spread.