title: Classification of beta-lactamase-producing bacteria.
abstract: The resistance of bacteria to beta-lactam antibiotics, penicillins or cephalosporins, is usually associated with the production of beta-lactamase enzymes which are capable of inactivating these compounds. A number of recent surveys have reported a significant increase in the frequency of isolation of beta-lactamase-producing strains of bacteria from infections in general practice in the United Kingdom. A wide variety of bacterial beta-lactamases with different properties have been described and it is now recognised that most bacteria produce a chromosomally-mediated beta-lactamase which is characteristic of each species. In addition, Gram-negative bacteria may acquire beta-lactamases which are mediated by plasmids which are readily transferable by cell to cell contact. Schemes for the classification of bacterial beta-lactamases are outlined.
mesh_terms: D001419:Bacteria / Q000145:classification / Q000201:enzymology*; D002876:Chromosomes, Bacterial / Q000378:metabolism; D019818:Clavulanic Acid; D002969:Clavulanic Acids / Q000494:pharmacology; D011815:R Factors; D013211:Staphylococcus aureus / Q000201:enzymology; D065093:beta-Lactamase Inhibitors; D001618:beta-Lactamases / Q000096:biosynthesis*
chemical_list: D002969:Clavulanic Acids; D065093:beta-Lactamase Inhibitors; D019818:Clavulanic Acid; D001618:beta-Lactamases