beta-lactamases ( ec 3.5.2.6 , 'penicillinases ' ) are a family of enzymes that protect bacteria against the lethal effects of cell-wall synthesis of penicillins , cephalosporins and related antibiotic agents , by hydrolysing the beta-lactam antibiotics to biologically inactive compounds .
C0597979
beta-lactamases
C0030841
penicillinases