Why does a cell die from the following antimicrobial actions?
a. Colistimethate binds to phospholipids.
b. Kanamycin binds to 70S ribosomes.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the role of phospholipids in the cell membrane and how their disruption can affect cell viability.
2. Explain how colistimethate interacts with phospholipids and the consequences of this interaction on the cell membrane integrity.
3. Discuss the function of 70S ribosomes in bacterial cells and their importance in protein synthesis.
4. Describe how kanamycin binding to 70S ribosomes interferes with protein synthesis and the impact on bacterial cell survival.
5. Summarize how the disruption of cell membrane integrity and inhibition of protein synthesis lead to cell death.

Key Concepts

Cell Membrane Structure

The cell membrane is composed of a phospholipid bilayer that serves as a barrier, controlling the entry and exit of substances. Antimicrobial agents like colistimethate disrupt this structure by binding to phospholipids, leading to increased permeability and eventual cell lysis, which can cause cell death.

Ribosome Function in Protein Synthesis

Ribosomes are essential cellular structures responsible for translating mRNA into proteins. Kanamycin targets the 70S ribosomes in prokaryotic cells, inhibiting protein synthesis. Without the ability to produce proteins, the cell cannot maintain vital functions, leading to cell death.

Mechanisms of Antimicrobial Action

Antimicrobial agents can act through various mechanisms, including disrupting cell wall synthesis, inhibiting protein synthesis, or damaging nucleic acids. Understanding these mechanisms helps explain how specific agents, like colistimethate and kanamycin, lead to cell death by targeting critical cellular processes.