Beta-lactamase [Escherichia coli MS 107-1]

11-2022

An analysis of a given protein using bioinformatics and tools such as BLAST. I was provided with the nucleotide sequence and had to identify the correct reading frame and then name it. The function of this protein is to prevent the binding of antibiotics to their binding proteins within the organism. Knowing the function of the protein, I researched and found that beta-lactamase stops bacterial growth by inhibiting penicillin binding proteins, meaning antibiotics such as penicillin are less effective. I also had to analyse multiple sub-strains and identify mutations to prove which sub-strain would have the strongest antimicrobial resistance. To finish the project I researched antibiotics that work against E. coli and found that quercetin acts as a bacteriostat and carbenicillin acts as a bacteriostat or bactericide.