Video - Protein synthesis inhibitors: Tetracyclines

Tetracyclines are a class of antibiotics that inhibit bacterial protein synthesis by binding to the 30s subunit of their ribosomes and preventing tRNA from binding. Tetracyclines are broad-spectrum antibiotics, effective against many common gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, as well as certain types of anaerobic and atypical bacteria. They are often used to treat respiratory and urinary tract infections, skin and soft tissue infections, and sexually transmitted diseases. Common side effects of tetracyclines include phototoxicity, tinnitus, teeth staining, bone growth delay, nephrotoxicity, and hepatotoxicity.