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    Cell wall synthesis

    The cell wall of bacteria contains a network of peptidoglycans. At the inner side of the cell membrane the components are assembled (5 amino acids, N-acetylglucosamine and acetylmuramate) and attached to a phospholipid. Then the lipid with the attached peptidoglycan is translocated to the outside of the cell membrane.

    The cross-linking of the peptidoglycan to the existing network is performed by enzymes called penicillin binding proteins and consists of two processes: transglycosylation (carboxypeptidases) and transpeptidation (transpeptidases).

    1

    In general, Gram-negative bacteria are susceptible to cephalosporins. 

    2

    Hydrolysis of the B-lactam ring by B-lactamases is necessary for penicillin action.