What is the mechanism of action of inhibitors of bacterial metabolism? Competitive inhibitors that act on folic acid synthesis: - Sulfonamides - T...

The mechanism of action of inhibitors of bacterial metabolism, specifically competitive inhibitors that act on folic acid synthesis like sulfonamides and trimethoprim, involves interfering with the production of essential metabolites needed for bacterial growth. Sulfonamides work by inhibiting the enzyme dihydropteroate synthase, which is involved in the synthesis of folic acid. By blocking this enzyme, sulfonamides prevent the formation of folic acid, which is necessary for the synthesis of DNA, RNA, and proteins in bacteria. Without folic acid, bacterial growth and reproduction are impaired. Trimethoprim, on the other hand, inhibits the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase, which is responsible for converting dihydrofolic acid to tetrahydrofolic acid, an active form of folic acid. By inhibiting this enzyme, trimethoprim disrupts the production of tetrahydrofolic acid, leading to a depletion of folic acid in bacterial cells. This, in turn, hampers the synthesis of essential cellular components and inhibits bacterial growth. In summary, both sulfonamides and trimethoprim act as competitive inhibitors of folic acid synthesis in bacteria, ultimately disrupting their metabolism and inhibiting their growth.