Final answer:
Penicillinase and beta-lactamase are enzymes produced by bacteria that break down penicillin and other beta-lactam antibiotics by cleaving the beta-lactam ring. Some bacteria have developed resistance to penicillin by producing these enzymes, but scientists have created penicillin analogs that are not affected by them.
Step-by-step explanation:
Penicillinase and beta-lactamase are enzymes produced by bacteria that have the ability to break down beta-lactam antibiotics such as penicillin. These enzymes work by cleaving the beta-lactam ring in the antibiotic's structure, rendering it inactive. Some strains of bacteria have developed resistance to penicillin by producing penicillinase or beta-lactamase. To combat this, scientists have created penicillin analogs, like methicillin, that are not affected by these enzymes.