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In 2017, a new strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria was discovered that was resistant to 26 different antibiotics - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 5 - 2022 - Paper 1
Question 5
In 2017, a new strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria was discovered that was resistant to 26 different antibiotics. (i) Explain how Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteri... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:In 2017, a new strain of Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria was discovered that was resistant to 26 different antibiotics - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 5 - 2022 - Paper 1
Step 1
Explain how Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria developed resistance to antibiotics.
Answer
Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria can develop resistance to antibiotics through several mechanisms. One primary method is genetic mutation, which may occur spontaneously or be induced by exposure to antibiotics. This can lead to alterations in the bacterial cell structure or function, making the drugs less effective.
Additionally, horizontal gene transfer can occur, where bacteria exchange DNA segments that confer antibiotic resistance. This may happen through transformation, transduction, or conjugation, allowing for a rapid spread of resistance within bacterial populations.
Another contributing factor is selective pressure from the overuse or misuse of antibiotics in medical and agricultural settings. When antibiotics are used extensively, they kill susceptible bacteria but allow resistant strains to survive and proliferate.
Step 2
State how the use of antibiotics could contribute to Klebsiella pneumoniae bacteria developing resistance to antibiotics.
Answer
The use of antibiotics can contribute to Klebsiella pneumoniae developing resistance by creating selective pressure in the bacterial population. When antibiotics are administered, they eliminate most of the susceptible bacteria, but any resistant strains that survive reproduce and spread. This process can lead to the predominance of resistant bacteria over time, making infections harder to treat.
Step 3