On the Streptomyces albus G DD Carboxypeptidase Mechanism of Action of Penicillin, Vancomycin, and Ristocetin

The activity of the D-alanyl-D carboxypeptidase from the penicillin-resistant Streptomyces albus G is not or very little affected by penicillins and related antibiotics. The molecular basis for the mechanism of action of penicillin is discussed. The Streptomyces albus G D-alanyl-D carboxypeptidase appears as a model for the study of a mechanism of penicillin resistance that does not involve the enzymatic degradation of the antibiotic. Vancomycin and ristocetin are shown to inhibit the hydrolysis of sensitive peptides by the Streptomyces albus G D-alanyl-D carboxypeptidase and the mechanism of inhibition is discussed.