Bengi writes,
(1)<Nalidixic acid inhibits DNA gyrase. Why will this inhibit DNA
replication?> When a DNA molecule replicates, the helix is partially
"unzipped" to create a replication fork, in which the complimentary
strand is synthesized. However, this unwinding at one part of the helix
creates molecular tensions which must be reduced. DNA gyrase is one of a
class of enzymes (topoisomerases) which does this.
(2) Rifampicin inhibits RNA polymerase. Why will this stop protein
synthesis? Will nalisixic acid inhibit protein synthesis?> (DNA
dependent) RNA polymerase is needed for transcription (to synthesize
mRNA). If there is no transcription, there is no translation ( i.e.,
protein synthesis), either. I don't know if nalidixic acid inhibits RNA
polymerase or any other steps of protein synthesis, though. Sorry.
< THanks for any help you can offer!> I hope I did.
Infectionately,
Yersinia.
"Strep poker, anyone?"
