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Ndm-1 is a(n)______that gives bacterial cells the ability to resist beta-lactam antibiotics.

a. cell wall
b. plasma membrane
c. plasmid
d. gene
e. genome

User Ntysdd
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Final answer:

NDM-1 is a gene that provides bacteria with resistance to beta-lactam antibiotics, typically found on plasmids that can be shared among bacteria, contributing to the spread of antibiotic resistance.

Step-by-step explanation:

NDM-1 is a gene that gives bacterial cells the ability to resist beta-lactam antibiotics. This gene is often located on plasmids, which are extra-chromosomal genetic elements that can be exchanged between bacteria through processes like conjugation. Plasmids can carry multiple resistance genes, allowing bacteria to develop resistance to a wide range of antibiotics, thereby posing a significant challenge to public health.

The presence of NDM-1 has been particularly concerning in the context of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), which can be resistant to all ß-lactams, including penicillins, cephalosporins, and carbapenems. This resistance is problematic as it limits the options for treating bacterial infections, necessitating the ongoing development of new antibiotics and treatment strategies.

User Pavel Alekseev
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