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Canadian Pharmacist Qualifying Exam Practice · Question

A new antibiotic, an oral macrolide, is being developed. In preclinical trials, it was found to bind reversibly to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria. What is the most likely mechanism of action for this antibiotic?

Macrolides (e.g., azithromycin, erythromycin) bind to the 50S ribosomal subunit, thereby inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. This prevents bacteria from pro

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Question: A new antibiotic, an oral macrolide, is being developed. In preclinical trials, it was found to bind reversibly to the 50S ribosomal subunit of susceptible bacteria. What is the most likely mechanism of action for this antibiotic?

Answer options:

  • Inhibition of bacterial cell wall synthesis
  • Inhibition of bacterial DNA replication ✅ Inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis
  • Disruption of bacterial cell membrane integrity

Correct answer: Inhibition of bacterial protein synthesis

Explanation: Macrolides (e.g., azithromycin, erythromycin) bind to the 50S ribosomal subunit, thereby inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis. This prevents bacteria from producing essential proteins required for their growth and survival.

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