Nocardicin

Nocardicin is a monobactam antibiotic that is produced by the bacterium Nocardia. It was first isolated in 1971 and is known for its ability to inhibit cell wall synthesis in various bacteria. Nocardicin is structurally different from other beta-lactam antibiotics, which makes it resistant to beta-lactamase enzymes that often cause antibiotic resistance.

History

Nocardicin was first isolated in 1971 from the bacterium Nocardia uniformis. The discovery of nocardicin was significant as it was the first monobactam antibiotic to be discovered. Monobactams are a class of beta-lactam antibiotics that have a unique monocyclic structure, which makes them resistant to beta-lactamase enzymes.

Mechanism of action

Nocardicin inhibits cell wall synthesis in bacteria by binding to penicillin-binding proteins (PBPs). PBPs are enzymes that play a crucial role in the synthesis of the bacterial cell wall. By binding to these enzymes, nocardicin prevents the formation of the cell wall, leading to the death of the bacteria.

Clinical use

Nocardicin has a narrow spectrum of activity and is primarily used to treat infections caused by Gram-negative bacteria. However, its clinical use is limited due to its poor oral bioavailability and short half-life.

Resistance

Resistance to nocardicin can occur through the modification of PBPs or through the production of beta-lactamase enzymes. However, due to its unique structure, nocardicin is resistant to most beta-lactamases.

See also

• Monobactam
• Beta-lactam antibiotic
• Penicillin-binding protein
• Antibiotic resistance

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