How can the use of antibiotics contribute to bacteria becoming resistant?

Bacterial DNA can spontaneously mutate, which means a change in the nucleotide reading frame. By chance, a mutation may cause the bacteria to prevent being killed by the antibiotic. For example, by developing a 'pump' to expel the antibiotic. Whilst the use of antibiotics does not directly cause resistance, the increased use can encourage the persistence of resistant bacteria and eventually resistant strains. Therefore, it is advised that antibiotics are only used when necessary to treat a bacterial infection, and the entire course of medication should be taken.

CW
Answered by Carolina W. Biology tutor

2704 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Name the 3 structures within a plant cell that are absent from an animal cell and describe the function of these 3 structures. (6 marks)


What is Homeostasis and how does it work?


What is the basis of DNA replication?


How do I recognise the different phases of mitosis by simply looking at an image (e.g. electron micrograph)?


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