Final answer:
Beta-lactam antibiotics disrupt the synthesis of peptidoglycan in bacterial cell walls, causing them to become weak and susceptible to lysis by osmotic pressure and attack by the human immune system.
Step-by-step explanation:
Beta-lactam antibiotics target the bacterial cell wall by interfering with the synthesis of peptidoglycan, a crucial component for the structural integrity of bacterial cell walls. This interference leads to a weakening of the cell wall and consequently makes the bacteria more susceptible to osmotic pressure, ultimately leading to cell lysis. In humans, peptidoglycan is recognized by certain immune cells, which then act to destroy the bacterial cells.
It is the presence of D-amino acids in the peptidoglycans that allows beta-lactam antibiotics to be effective, as they mimic these amino acids and inhibit proper cell wall formation. By disrupting the formation of peptidoglycan, Beta-lactam antibiotics inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria.