RESEARCH: Β-LACTMASES
FOLDING PROJECT #14521 PROFILE

The project relates to understanding how TEM-1 beta-lactamase breaks down penicillin and similar antibiotics, allowing bacteria to become resistant. By finding pockets in the enzyme's structure that could bind to small molecules, researchers hope to develop new drugs that block its activity and help treat drug-resistant infections.

Note: This TLDR is a simplication and may not be 100% accurate.

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.

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Beta lactamases

Enzymes that break down beta-lactam antibiotics.

Beta lactamases are proteins produced by bacteria that can destroy penicillin and other antibiotics. This makes the bacteria resistant to these drugs, making infections harder to treat. Researchers are trying to understand how these enzymes work so they can develop new drugs that block their activity.

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Penicillin

A type of antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections.

Penicillin is a widely used antibiotic that kills bacteria by interfering with their cell wall formation. It's effective against many common infections but some bacteria have developed resistance to it.

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TEM-1

A type of beta-lactamase enzyme.

TEM-1 is a specific type of beta-lactamase enzyme that bacteria produce to resist penicillin and other antibiotics. Scientists are studying this enzyme to develop new drugs that can block its activity.

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Protein

Large complex molecules that are essential for all living organisms.

Proteins are the building blocks of life. They have many different functions, including building tissues, transporting molecules, and catalyzing chemical reactions.

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Bacteria

Single-celled organisms that can live in a variety of environments.

Bacteria are microscopic organisms that exist everywhere. Some bacteria are harmful and cause diseases, while others are beneficial and help us digest food.

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Pathogenic

Capable of causing disease.

Pathogenic refers to organisms or substances that can cause illness. This term is often used to describe bacteria, viruses, and other microorganisms that can infect humans.