A Level Biology Practice Exam

What characterizes antibiotic-resistant bacteria?

1. Bacteria that are killed by antibiotics

2. Bacteria that mutate to survive and replicate despite antibiotic treatment

3. Bacteria that do not undergo mutation

4. Bacteria that enhance the effect of antibiotics

The correct answer is: Bacteria that mutate to survive and replicate despite antibiotic treatment

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria are characterized by their ability to survive and replicate even in the presence of antibiotics that would typically be effective in killing them or inhibiting their growth. This resistance often arises through genetic mutations or the acquisition of resistance genes from other bacteria. These adaptations allow the bacteria to develop mechanisms, such as altering target sites for antibiotics, pumping out the drugs more effectively, or producing enzymes that can deactivate the antibiotics. This characteristic is critical in understanding how bacterial infections can persist despite medical treatment, leading to challenges in managing infections and necessitating the development of new therapeutic strategies. The ability of these bacteria to proliferate in adverse conditions, such as antibiotic treatment, underscores the importance of prudent antibiotic use and ongoing research in infectious diseases.