[Campbell Biology P.398] The text states that certain antibiotic drugs, such as tetracycline... | Practice Question

The text states that certain antibiotic drugs, such as tetracycline and streptomycin, can inactivate bacterial ribosomes without affecting eukaryotic ribosomes. This differential effect is medically significant because:

  • A: It indicates that bacterial ribosomes are structurally identical to eukaryotic ribosomes, allowing broad-spectrum treatment.
  • B: It allows for the specific targeting of bacterial infections in human patients without harming human cells.
  • C: It proves that bacterial ribosomes are essential for protein synthesis, while eukaryotic ribosomes are not.
  • D: It suggests that these antibiotics are primarily metabolized by bacterial cells, preventing accumulation in human tissues.

Explanation

The distinct molecular composition and slight size differences between bacterial and eukaryotic ribosomes allow certain antibiotics to selectively bind to and inactivate bacterial ribosomes without affecting the host's human ribosomes. This specificity is crucial for effective antibacterial therapy as it minimizes harm to human cells while eliminating the bacterial infection.