Nucleic Acid Synthesis Agents

Question 1

Which are the agents that affect nucleic acid synthesis?

Answer 1

• Quinolones and Fluoroquinolones (Nalidixic acid, Ciprofloxacin, Norfloxacin)
• Rifampin

Question 2

What are the characteristics of the Quinolones?

Answer 2

• Act on the enzymes responsible for uncoiling DNA for replication (DNA gyrase)
• Good penetration of macrophages and neutrophils (makes them a good choice for intracellular pathogens)
• Fluoroquinolones have greater activity, broader spectrum and higher potency

Question 3

What are the characteristics of Rifampin?

Answer 3

• Rifamycin drugs inhibit the initiation of transcription by acting on bacterial RNA polymerase
• Effective against Mycobacterial species
• Resistance can develop rapidly due to mutation in the RNA polymerase (so drug is used in combination)
• Turns urine, sweat, and tears orange