Answer to Question #83077 in Organic Chemistry for Tayla

Question

Some amides are reported to have antibacterial activity. Discuss the feature that is common to amides with antibacterial activity, mechanism of action and applications

Answer 1

Amongst the diverse and potent biological activities of amides is the ability to kill or inhibit the growth of bacteria. The antibacterial properties of amides are used by many organisms to defend against parasitic or pathogenic bacteria. Whilst their antibacterial mode of action is still poorly understood, the prime target of action is the cell membrane, where amides disrupt the electron transport chain and oxidative phosphorylation.