RESEARCH: Β-LACTMASES
FOLDING PROJECT #14520 PROFILE

This project relates to understanding how TEM-1 beta-lactamase breaks down penicillin and related antibiotics, making bacteria resistant. Researchers are studying the protein's structure to find areas that could be blocked by drugs, potentially leading to new treatments for drug-resistant infections.

Beta lactamases are proteins which degrade penicillin and related antibiotics, enabling pathogenic bacteria to resist their effects.

We are modeling the dynamics of TEM-1 beta-lactamase to look for pockets in the protein which could bind small molecules and prevent it from functioning.

Drugs which could target these pockets could therefore help to treat drug resistant infections.

Beta lactamases

Enzymes that break down beta-lactam antibiotics.

Beta lactamases are proteins produced by bacteria that can destroy penicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics. This process allows bacteria to resist the effects of these drugs, making infections harder to treat. Researchers are studying beta lactamases to develop new drugs that can block their activity and help overcome antibiotic resistance.

Penicillin

A type of antibiotic.

Penicillin is a widely used class of antibiotics that work by inhibiting the growth of bacteria. It was one of the first discovered and revolutionized the treatment of bacterial infections. However, some bacteria have evolved to produce beta-lactamases, enzymes that can break down penicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics, leading to antibiotic resistance.

TEM-1

A type of beta-lactamase enzyme.

TEM-1 is a specific type of beta-lactamase enzyme that is commonly found in bacteria. It's known for its ability to break down penicillin and related antibiotics, contributing to antibiotic resistance. Scientists are studying TEM-1 to understand how it works and develop ways to inhibit its activity.

Pockets

Specific regions on a protein surface where molecules can bind.

Pockets are cavities or depressions found on the surface of proteins. They are important for protein function as they can bind to other molecules, such as drugs. By understanding the structure and shape of these pockets, scientists can design drugs that fit into them and modulate protein activity.