RESEARCH: IMMUNOGLOBULIN
FOLDING PROJECT #17246 PROFILE

Beta-lactamases are proteins that break down penicillin and make bacteria resistant to antibiotics. This project looks at the shape of TEM-1 beta-lactamase to find places where small molecules could block its activity, potentially leading to new drugs for 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.

---

Beta lactamases

Enzymes produced by bacteria that break down beta-lactam antibiotics.

Beta lactamases are a type of protein made by some bacteria. These proteins can break down penicillin and other antibiotics that belong to the beta-lactam family. This ability allows bacteria to resist the effects of these medications, making infections harder to treat.

---

TEM-1

Transmissible Enterobacteriaceae 1

TEM-1 is a specific type of beta lactamase enzyme. It is known for being highly effective at breaking down penicillin and related antibiotics. This particular type is often found in bacteria like Escherichia coli.

---

Penicillin

A type of antibiotic that inhibits bacterial cell wall synthesis.

Penicillin is a well-known group of antibiotics used to treat various bacterial infections. It works by preventing bacteria from building their protective cell walls, ultimately leading to their death.

---

Antibiotics

Drugs that inhibit the growth or kill bacteria.

Antibiotics are medications designed to combat bacterial infections. They work by either stopping bacteria from multiplying or directly killing them. Penicillin and cephalosporins are examples of common antibiotics.

---

Bacteria

Single-celled organisms that can cause disease.

Bacteria are microscopic living things. Some types of bacteria are beneficial, while others can cause infections in humans and animals. They reproduce quickly and can spread easily through contact or contaminated food/water.

---

Drug Resistant Infections

Infections caused by microorganisms that are resistant to the effects of medications.

Drug-resistant infections occur when bacteria or other microorganisms evolve to withstand the effects of antibiotics and other treatments. This makes infections harder to treat, leading to longer illnesses and potentially serious complications.