PhD Comprehensive Exam | Brittany Howell, The Physiological Origin of the Antagonism Between DNA Synthesis- and Protein Synthesis-Targeting Antibiotics

M3 4206

Candidate

Brittany Howell | Applied Mathematics, University of Waterloo

Title

The Physiological Origin of the Antagonism Between DNA Synthesis- and Protein Synthesis-Targeting Antibiotics

Abstract

Bacteria must constantly adapt their growth to changes in their environment, whether that be nutrient availability or antibiotic administration. These changes strongly influence the efficacy of antibiotics, yet the connection between antibiotic susceptibility and physiology remains uncertain. One of the more puzzling aspects of antibiotic efficacy is the strong antagonism between protein-synthesis and DNA-synthesis inhibitors: when these two classes are added together, the growth rate increases almost to the drug-free level. Our main objective here is to build a mathematical model in agreement with presented literature and experimental data. We are hopeful that combining these two elements, we will better understand the intrinsic coupling among protein synthesis, DNA synthesis and growth rate in bacteria. With this improved understanding of antibiotic action, we can more responsibly administer antibiotics.