Pharmacology · single question

What is the mechanism of action of Penicillin VK?

  1. Inhibits bacterial protein synthesis at the 30S ribosomal subunit
  2. Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by blocking peptidoglycan cross-linking
  3. Disrupts the bacterial cell membrane
  4. Inhibits bacterial DNA gyrase
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Correct answer: B. Inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis by blocking peptidoglycan cross-linking

Penicillin VK (phenoxymethylpenicillin) is a beta-lactam antibiotic that works by binding covalently to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs) - bacterial enzymes called transpeptidases that catalyze the cross-linking of peptidoglycan strands in the bacterial cell wall. By inhibiting transpeptidase, penicillin prevents cell wall synthesis, causing cell wall weakening and eventual lysis (bactericidal). Beta-lactam antibiotics are most effective against actively dividing bacteria. Bacterial resistance occurs through beta-lactamase production, modified PBPs (MRSA), and reduced membrane permeability.

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