What gives rise to antibiotic resistance?

Key pointsVARIATION: A population of bacteria aren't all identical, even having all derived from a single bacterium. Rapid genetic exchange gives rise to mutations. SELECTION PRESSURE: By adding the selectively toxic antibiotic, you select for genes which are protective against the drug (consider 'the inverse selection) (specific examples such as penicillin beta lactamase enzymes)SURVIVABILITYREPRODUCABILIY = 'pass genes on' to the next generationMain causes of antibiotic resistance?How can we mitigate the effects?How can we measure the allele frequency?

AS
Answered by Aman S. Biology tutor

3001 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

How does water travel up the stem of a plant from the roots to the leaves, wouldn't gravity prevent this?


Explain how formation of an enzyme-substrate complex increases the rate of reaction.


What is the difference between haemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis?


Why is the tertiary structure of an enzyme essential to its function?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning