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🦠microbiology review

Quinolones

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Quinolones are a class of broad-spectrum antibiotics that inhibit bacterial DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, enzymes crucial for DNA replication. They are used to treat various infections by preventing bacterial cell division.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Quinolones target the bacterial enzymes DNA gyrase and topoisomerase IV, which are essential for DNA replication.
  2. They prevent the supercoiling and uncoiling of bacterial DNA, thereby halting cell division.
  3. Common quinolones include ciprofloxacin and levofloxacin.
  4. Quinolone resistance can occur through mutations in the genes encoding DNA gyrase or topoisomerase IV, or through efflux pumps.
  5. They are effective against a wide range of Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria.

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