An overview of tetracyclines and related resistance mechanisms

Tetracyclines are one of the most well known antimicrobial agents. These are often prescribed against Gram-negative and Gram-positive organisms. The latest studies indicate that the resistance to tetracyclines is rising throughout the world. The aim of this study was to find out more about the reasons behind bacterial resistance to tetracycline. We performed a selective literature search by studying several articles which mentioned tetracyclines and their resistance mechanisms in various bacteria. We found that a rise in antibiotic resistance to tetracyclines is alarming. The most important mechanisms are ribosomal protection, efflux pumps, modification of the drug target and enzymatic alteration. The resistance mechanism to tigecycline is similar to the tetracycline; however, tigecycline remains partially intact from resistance.
Source: Reviews in Medical Microbiology - Category: Microbiology Tags: BACTERIOLOGY Source Type: research