Which ribosome type is found in bacteria and is a common target of many antibiotics?

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Prepare for the WGU NURS1010 Microbiology Exam with engaging study materials, flashcards, and multiple choice questions. Enhance your understanding with detailed explanations and insights. Get exam-ready today!

Multiple Choice

Which ribosome type is found in bacteria and is a common target of many antibiotics?

Explanation:
Bacteria use ribosomes that are smaller than human ones: 70S, made of a large 50S subunit and a small 30S subunit. Many antibiotics kill bacteria by binding to these ribosomal subunits and blocking protein synthesis, so the 70S ribosome is a common antibiotic target. In humans, cytoplasmic ribosomes are 80S (60S and 40S), which helps explain why these drugs can affect bacteria more than our cells. Some antibiotics act on the 50S subunit, others on the 30S subunit, all disrupting bacterial translation. Therefore, the ribosome type found in bacteria and commonly targeted by antibiotics is the 70S ribosome (50S and 30S).

Bacteria use ribosomes that are smaller than human ones: 70S, made of a large 50S subunit and a small 30S subunit. Many antibiotics kill bacteria by binding to these ribosomal subunits and blocking protein synthesis, so the 70S ribosome is a common antibiotic target. In humans, cytoplasmic ribosomes are 80S (60S and 40S), which helps explain why these drugs can affect bacteria more than our cells. Some antibiotics act on the 50S subunit, others on the 30S subunit, all disrupting bacterial translation. Therefore, the ribosome type found in bacteria and commonly targeted by antibiotics is the 70S ribosome (50S and 30S).

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