Question

Mutations play a crucial role in the development of antibiotic resistance. When bacteria are exposed to antibiotics, the selective pressure encourages the survival of variants that possess genetic changes. These genetic changes, or mutations, can occur in various ways, including spontaneous alterations in the bacterial DNA. Some mutations may lead to changes in the bacterial target, rendering the antibiotic less effective. Additionally, mutations can impact the bacterial machinery responsible for drug activation or degradation. Over time, the accumulation of these mutations allows bacteria to adapt and survive in the presence of antibiotics, leading to the development of antibiotic-resistant strains. This underscores the importance of understanding how _______________ contribute to the evolution of antibiotic resistance.

A) Spontaneous alterations
B) Genetic changes
C) Mutations
D) Bacterial DNA
E) Selective pressure
F) Antibiotic-resistant strains
G) Drug activation or degradation
H) Survival variants
I) Bacterial target
J) Antibiotics
K) Evolution

Answer 1

Answer: This underscores the importance of understanding how mutations contribute to the evolution of antibiotic resistance.

Step-by-step explanation:

Mutations are changes in the genetic material of an organism, such as bacteria, that can occur spontaneously or as a result of selective pressure. In the context of antibiotic resistance, mutations play a crucial role in the development of resistance.

Here's how mutations contribute to the evolution of antibiotic resistance:

1. Spontaneous alterations: Mutations can occur spontaneously in the bacterial DNA. These alterations can affect various aspects of bacterial physiology, including the bacterial target, drug activation or degradation machinery, and other essential processes.

2. Genetic changes: Mutations result in genetic changes within the bacterial DNA. These changes can lead to alterations in the bacterial target, rendering the antibiotic less effective. For example, mutations may occur in the target site of the antibiotic, preventing it from binding effectively and inhibiting bacterial growth.

3. Selective pressure: When bacteria are exposed to antibiotics, the selective pressure encourages the survival of variants that possess genetic changes beneficial for their survival. Bacteria with mutations that confer resistance to the antibiotic have a higher chance of surviving and reproducing, while non-resistant bacteria are eliminated. This natural selection process allows antibiotic-resistant strains to emerge and proliferate.

4. Evolution of antibiotic-resistant strains: Over time, the accumulation of mutations in bacterial populations allows for the development of antibiotic-resistant strains. These strains possess genetic changes that provide them with the ability to survive and grow in the presence of antibiotics. As a result, the effectiveness of antibiotics is diminished, and new treatment strategies are required.

In summary, understanding how mutations contribute to the evolution of antibiotic resistance is crucial in combating the emergence and spread of antibiotic-resistant strains. By comprehending the mechanisms by which mutations occur and impact bacterial physiology, scientists can develop strategies to mitigate resistance and develop effective antimicrobial therapies.