Question

Which of the following options describes the development of antimicrobial resistances through spontaneous mutation or acquisition of new genetic information?

1) The development of antimicrobial resistances through spontaneous mutation or acquisition of new genetic information
2) A chemical produced by certain molds and bacteria that kills or inhibits the growth of other organisms
3) A chemical used to treat microbial infections; also called antimicrobial
4) Plasmids that encode resistance to one or more antimicrobial medications and heavy metals
5) A measure of the relative toxicity of a medication, defined as the ratio of minimum toxic dose to minimum effective dose
6) Enzyme that breaks the β-lactam ring of a β-lactam drug, thereby inactivating the medication

Answer 1

The development of antimicrobial resistances through spontaneous mutation or acquisition of new genetic information is known as drug resistance. This can occur through various mechanisms such as alteration of drug targets or enzymatic modification of antimicrobial drugs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The development of antimicrobial resistances through spontaneous mutation or acquisition of new genetic information is known as drug resistance. This occurs when pathogenic bacteria evolve and become resistant to antimicrobial agents such as antibiotics. The resistance can be acquired through vertical transfer of resistance genes, spontaneous mutations, or horizontal gene transfer between microbes.

One example of this mechanism is the alteration of drug targets in bacteria. Spontaneous mutations in the genes encoding antibacterial drug targets can prevent drug binding, making the drug ineffective. Another mechanism is the enzymatic modification or inactivation of antimicrobial drugs, where resistance genes code for enzymes that chemically modify or destroy the drug.

Overall, antimicrobial resistance is a serious global health threat and can impact the effectiveness of treatments for bacterial infections.