The molecular basis of penicillin resistance in S.Pneumoniae is:: (A) Alteration of penicillin-binding protein, (B) Alteration in cell membranes, (C) Alteration in the cell wall, (D) None of the above
Answer is A. The molecular basis of penicillin resistance in S. pneumoniae is the alteration of penicillin-binding protein (PBP) genes which result in lower affinity for penicillins. Penicillin G is the drug of choice for disease caused by susceptible organisms, including community-acquired pneumonia. Ref: Harisson, Edition - 18, Page 1156