Microbiology · Antimicrobial Resistance Mechanisms and Susceptibility Testing (ESBL, MRSA, VRE, CRE, MIC/MBC, E-test)

According to the Ambler structural classification of beta-lactamases, the New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM) enzyme belongs to which class?

  • A Class A serine beta-lactamases
  • B Class C cephalosporinases
  • C Class B metallo-beta-lactamases
  • D Class D oxacillinases
Correct answer: C. Class B metallo-beta-lactamases

Explanation

The Ambler scheme divides beta-lactamases by active site into four molecular classes. Class C enzymes are metallo-beta-lactamases that require zinc at the active site and are inhibited by chelating agents such as EDTA. NDM, IMP and VIM all fall here. Classes A, B and D use an active-site serine residue; KPC is class A, AmpC is class B, and OXA-type enzymes are class D.

Reference: Ananthanarayan and Paniker's Textbook of Microbiology, 11th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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