Intrinsic mechanisms of resistance are
A) those that inhibit protein synthesis and RNA transcription.
B) those that a bacterium acquires through plasmids.
C) also called inducible enzymes.
D) innate characteristics of the bacterium and transmitted to progeny.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Intrinsic mechanisms of resistance are innate characteristics of the bacterium and are transmitted to progeny via genetic code. These include factors such as cell wall permeability, efflux pumps, and target site modification, which all make it difficult for antibiotics to kill the bacteria. Therefore, option D is the correct answer. Option A is incorrect as inhibiting protein synthesis and RNA transcription is a mechanism of action of antibiotics, not intrinsic resistance. Option B is incorrect as plasmid-mediated resistance is acquired through genetic exchange and not intrinsic to the bacterium. Option C is incorrect as inducible enzymes are proteins that are produced in response to a specific stimulus, not an intrinsic mechanism of resistance.

Intrinsic Mechanisms of Resistance Are