Antimicrobials and Resistance · USMLE Step 1

Why are aminoglycosides ineffective against anaerobic bacteria?

  1. They cannot penetrate the cell wall
  2. They require oxygen-dependent uptake
  3. Anaerobes degrade the drug
  4. Anaerobes have intrinsic ribosomal protection
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Correct answer: They require oxygen-dependent uptake

Aminoglycosides require oxygen-dependent transport into bacterial cells, rendering them ineffective in anaerobic environments.

Difficulty: Medium Question 13 of 20

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