Question

Which of the following statements is accurate in explaining why Gram negative bacteria are generally more resistant to penicillins than Gram positive bacteria?

• A. Gram negative bacteria have a thicker cell wall
• B. Gram negative bacteria have an outer hydrophilic membrane that acts as an extra barrier
• C. Gram negative bacteria can concentrate $\beta$-lactamase enzymes in the periplasmic space
• D. Gram negative bacteria produce smaller quantities of transpeptidase enzyme

Answer 1

The correct option is C Gram negative bacteria can concentrate $\beta$-lactamase enzymes in the periplasmic space

Gram negative bacteria can concentrate $\beta$-lactamase enzymes in the perplasmic space between the cell wall and the outer membrane. Some Gram positive bacteria can produce $\beta$-lactamase enzyme, but these enzymes diffuse away from the cell because there is no outer membrane to trap them . Thus, they are less effective than $\beta$-lactamases produced by Gram negative bacteria.