How can the use of antibiotics contribute to bacteria becoming resistant?

Bacterial DNA can spontaneously mutate, which means a change in the nucleotide reading frame. By chance, a mutation may cause the bacteria to prevent being killed by the antibiotic. For example, by developing a 'pump' to expel the antibiotic. Whilst the use of antibiotics does not directly cause resistance, the increased use can encourage the persistence of resistant bacteria and eventually resistant strains. Therefore, it is advised that antibiotics are only used when necessary to treat a bacterial infection, and the entire course of medication should be taken.

CW
Answered by Carolina W. Biology tutor

2552 Views

See similar Biology GCSE tutors

Related Biology GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is meant by 'metabolic rate'?


what are the seven necessary functions of a living organism


Describe the process of genetic engineering and give an example of something this can be used to produce.


Why do enzymes stop working at high temperatures?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2025 by IXL Learning